Written by Menswear Style in Tips & Advice on the 17th April 2023

Rings are an instantly recognizable representation of the bond between two people, used universally in almost every culture to show love and commitment. Because of their popularity, shopping for rings can be a chore, especially if you don’t really know what you’re looking for in the first place. To help you overcome this initial hurdle, here’s a primer on picking a ring that’s both meaningful to you and that special someone in your life, as well as being beautiful and within reach of your budget.

The Basics: What To Consider When Shopping For a Ring 

When shopping for a ring, there are several key elements to consider before you commit to a purchase. It’s particularly important to take these points onboard if you’ve never spent a significant sum on jewellery before. Firstly, it's important to be aware of the meaning and symbolism behind the type of ring that you're buying. Is it an engagement or anniversary gift? This might change which style of ring you select, and also how much you’re willing to spend. In terms of budget, the good news is that jewellers like VRAI now let you buy classic engagement rings online which use lab-grown diamonds in place of mined gems. With lab-grown diamonds, you can get more carats for less and look just as dazzling, because they are identical in every way. Secondly, think about what material will best suit your needs. Diamonds, in platinum, gold or silver settings, all have their own advantages and disadvantages, as well, on top of the shapes and cuts. These gorgeous gems need to be on your radar. Thirdly, don't forget about size! Measurement is crucial when selecting the right fit for your loved one's finger. Finally, remember to factor in cost if you are thinking about picking up a personalized piece. Customizing jewellery can sometimes come with hefty price tags, but there are solutions to make savings if you’re savvy.

Managing Mistakes: Common Pitfalls To Avoid In Jewellery Shopping

Learning from the missteps that others make is better than succumbing to them yourself, and this applies to ring shopping as it does to all aspects of life. Firstly, don't shop in haste. Instead, take the time to really explore your options and compare prices before you draw any conclusions about which ring is the right one. The more research you do, the better your chances of selecting a piece that you’re happy with for a lifetime. Secondly, don’t forget about quality. Even if something looks good on paper or online, that doesn't mean it will have the same impact when worn as intended. Trying pieces on before buying them is a good way to get around this, and of course if you’ve purchased from a reputable retailer then you can always return a ring that doesn’t cut the mustard. Thirdly, make sure you know exactly what type of metal is being used, and how this might impact not only the look of the ring, but also its longevity. For instance, gold plated jewellery won’t last nearly as long as pure gold pieces, because wear and tear will take its toll. Ask questions and check for hallmarks if necessary. Finally, read all terms and conditions carefully, especially those related to returns policies or warranties. This way there'll be no nasty surprises down the line with refunds or repairs, should they become necessary. 

Following Fashion Trends: Ensure Your Ring Design is Contemporary

A good-looking ring is a long term investment, but that doesn’t mean you need to stick with old-school styles and designs. In fact if you’re clued up on the latest jewellery trends, you’ll be able to navigate the market much more easily. The easiest way to keep your eye to the ground is to research popular designers online and follow their social media accounts for updates on what’s hot, and what’s not. This will give you an idea of what current trends look like, without having to pay top dollar. Also don’t shy away from tracking what celebrities are wearing at major events, because movie stars and music icons are trend-setters in this sphere as they are in many others. Once you’ve got a good sense of the kinds of rings that are ruling the roost right now, you can sift through the designs that are available from reputable retailers swiftly. And of course if you want to go against the grain and pick an option that stands out from the crowd, you can only do this if you are clued up on trends in the first place, so it’s a good idea no matter your stance on fashion.

Protect Your Investment: Tips for Caring For Your Ring 

Once you've found the perfect ring, it's important to take steps to ensure it lasts as long as your love. Like a relationship, it needs to be nurtured, while neglect will quickly compromise its original promise. The main thing to remember is to store your jewellery in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight or humidity. This will help retain its original lustre and shine. Better yet, having it tucked up out of sight when it’s not being worn will mean that it is not an easy target for thieves. Also, clean your piece regularly with mild, soap-free solutions. Even if a ring doesn’t look dirty to the naked eye, it can accumulate microscopic bits of dirt and detritus, so cleaning it will remove any unwanted build-up that could otherwise scratch or damage the precious materials over time. Last but not least, keep an eye out for any obvious signs of wear and tear, such as loose gems or weak settings, so these issues can be addressed before they become worse. Find a reputable jeweller you can trust to fix up minor issues so that they don’t turn into major dilemmas. 

When shopping for a ring that represents your love, remember to relax and enjoy the experience, rather than stressing too much about it. That way you’ll be able to follow your heart to a choice that resonates, rather than being tempted to rush to get it over with.

What To Consider When Shopping For a Ring, Common Pitfalls To Avoid In Jewellery Shopping, Ensure Your Ring Design is Contemporary, and Tips for Caring For Your Ring.