If you’re thinking about proposing, you may have more questions than answers when it comes to choosing the right ring. How much should you spend? What style would she like? Should you go custom? And, perhaps most importantly, how do you make sure the ring fits?
I’ve helped many customers through this process, and my biggest piece of advice is simple: don’t be afraid to ask for help. You don’t have to walk into a jewelry store knowing exactly what you want.
For a Christmas proposal, I recommend starting around October or November. December can be cutting it close, especially if you’re considering a custom ring. Custom pieces typically take four to eight weeks, depending on the design and how many changes are made.
Budget can vary quite a bit. The center stone, mounting, metal, and even the width of the ring all play a role. One misconception I hear is that lab-grown diamonds aren’t “real” diamonds. They have the same properties as earth-mined diamonds and are still a 10 on the Mohs hardness scale. The difference is where they come from. Lab-grown diamonds are more accessible and cost friendly, while natural diamonds are rarer and therefore more expensive. Both are great options, and I leave that decision up to the customer.
As for style, solitaire rings with hidden halos and yellow gold have been popular lately. I’d describe the current look as classic contemporary for the engagement ring paired with a more unique wedding band. If you aren’t sure what your partner likes, a friend’s input, Pinterest boards, screenshots, and her current jewelry can all provide clues. And if you truly aren’t sure, a classic solitaire is always a safe choice.
If you choose custom, we start with the center stone and build the design around it. I can order multiple stones for you to see at no charge, then create a 3D wax model so you can see the ring before anything is made in metal. I don’t begin casting until the design is approved.
I also love incorporating family jewelry into new pieces. We can often reuse old gold or stones, giving something from a parent or grandparent a new life and passing that family history to the next generation. Small details like an inside engraving, special date, nickname, location, or birthstone can make a ring even more personal.
And don’t forget the practical details. If you need to find her ring size without giving away the surprise, borrowing a ring she already wears is your best bet. It’s better to go slightly too big than too small for the proposal, and I resize rings I make or sell at no additional cost. I also provide an appraisal with engagement rings so customers can talk with their insurance provider about coverage.
One of my favorite parts of this work is getting to know customers through the process. I once had a customer who had visited my store for years to buy gifts for his girlfriend. When he eventually came in to design her engagement ring, I already knew him and his style, which made the project that much more exciting.
That’s really what I want customers to feel when they come in: comfortable and in control. Whether you have a very specific vision or absolutely no idea where to start, I’m here to help you create something you’re excited to give, without pushing you beyond your budget.
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