Picking the perfect engagement ring
When you’re planning on popping the big question, you want everything to be just right. The build-up, the setting, the weather – it all needs to hit the right notes. Not to mention of course that you get the answer you’re looking for! And at the heart of all that is the ring you choose.
The most recent data from the Office for National Statistics reveals there were almost a quarter of a million marriages in England and Wales in 2017, which means that every year thousands of people up and down the country are taking the plunge and uttering those four weighty words: will you marry me?
Of course, not all proposals are the same. Some are ingenious, some are elaborate and there are others which even take social media by storm and go viral. But those show-stoppers aren’t for everyone, and many people prefer to enjoy such a major life event in a private setting.
There’s no right or wrong answer when it comes to popping the question, just like there’s no single ring that will suit everybody. The good news is that there are a wide range of engagement rings for you to choose from. However, the bad news is that such a vast array of choice can sometimes be overwhelming.
Making a proposal is a truly life-changing moment, and no one wants to pick a piece that will have their partner turning their nose up in disgust. The ring is just one of many factors to take into consideration before getting down on one knee – along with your budget and a plan for the proposal – all of which seems like a lot to contend with.
So, just how much does the average person spend? Is finding the right ring a major concern for many? And what can you do to ensure you pick out the perfect ring for your partner? Read on to find out!
How much do we worry about finding the perfect ring?
A recent survey from Mappin & Webb has revealed that more than one-in-four (26%) worry about choosing a ring that their partner is going to like. It’s a common concern, but it seems that a similar proportion (27%) have no such doubts about their ability to pick out a piece that their loved one is destined to treasure.
Meanwhile, just less than a quarter (24%) of respondents were happy to take a tactical approach and go for a ‘holder’ ring. In that case, they’d have something to put on their partner’s finger at the proposal, but it means they can head to the jewellers together and choose one that he or she really adores.
Whichever way you do it, and whether you worry or not, the important thing to remember is that hopefully they’ll be saying yes to the question, not just the ring!
How much do people spend on engagement rings?
We’re afraid that anyone seeking a straight answer on how much they should be spending on an engagement ring is going to be disappointed. There is a view in some quarters that you ought to be forking out three months’ wages, but there’s no reasoning behind that theory and the best advice we can offer is that you should only be spending what you can afford.
After all, the important thing is that you’re vowing to spend the rest of your lives together – and that shouldn’t change regardless of the price tag. And, as you can imagine, the figures people pay for engagement rings cover a wide spectrum.
Mappin & Webb looked into the nation’s shopping habits when it came to splashing out for the big question, and the survey threw up some interesting results. For example, we often hear tales of people spending a small fortune on the right ring, but only 1% of respondents said they picked a piece with a price tag of £15,000 or more.
At the other end of the scale, 13% spent between £201-£300 while the largest proportion (16.9%) splashed out something in the region of £500 to £1,000. So, it just goes to show that every couple is different and you should not make a decision on a ring based purely on its cost. After all, it’s more about what the jewellery represents rather than its material value.
Top tips for picking the perfect ring
Your partner is a unique individual, which means it’s only right that you choose a piece that befits their style and personality. What’s perfect for one person might be completely wrong for someone else, and if they’re going to be wearing it for the rest of their lives then you want to make sure it suits them down to the ground. Here are a few simple steps you can follow to ensure they’ll be bowled over once they open that box.
Decide on your budget
We’ve already touched upon the wide range of price tags that come attached to engagement rings, so it makes sense to prepare yourself before you start browsing and set your limits and expectations. You may not have an exact cost in mind, but it certainly helps to have a rough idea of a figure that you can afford. Remember, don’t over-stretch yourself if it’s going to cause a financial headache further down the line.
Get the right size
You don’t want your perfect proposal to be ruined by a ring that won’t go on their finger, so try and do everything you can to find out their size before you make any purchase. It’s not an easy thing to slip into conversation without giving the game away, so you might want to see if their friends or family know what size they take. Alternatively, you could always take one of their other rings to a jewellers for measuring, but make sure it’s one they wear on their ring finger, as their middle, index or little digits are likely to be a different size.
Choose the right style
Will you go for a simple solitaire? An elegant halo? Perhaps a contemporary cluster ring? The truth is that there are many different styles to choose from, so it might be wise to check out your partner’s existing collection to see what they already have. Failing that, call on their closest friends and relatives for assistance – as long as you can trust them to keep a secret!
Select a suitable stone
Traditionally, engagement rings feature diamonds – but that doesn’t have to mean that you follow suit. If diamonds aren’t their thing, other options are becoming increasingly popular for betrothed couples. Emeralds, sapphires, rubies and pearls are all alternatives that could adorn your ring, but if your partner would prefer something more understated then a simple, elegant band without a stone may be perfect for them.
Shop around
It’s a major moment in your life and buying the ring is an important decision, so you don’t want to rush it. Take the time to browse various jewellers and make a shortlist of those you like the best so that you can narrow down the choice. And once you’ve set your sights on a certain piece, don’t be afraid to try and negotiate a lower price, as some jewellers may be prepared to offer you a discount.
Planning your proposal
Once you’ve got the ring, it’s time to work out exactly how you’re going to propose. Like anything else when it comes to relationships, there’s no right or wrong answer. The way you pop the question should be unique to you as a couple, and there are any number of different approaches you can take, including these three:
The big gesture
Perhaps you want to demonstrate your love and affection in a way that lets everyone know how much you appreciate your partner. It could be a public proposal in a crowded city plaza, atop a skyscraper, or you could go all out and hire a plane to carry a banner adorned with your message. If you do go down this route, make sure they’re happy to be the centre of attention!
The private proposal
On the other hand, you might feel that a private affair is more in keeping with your relationship. That could be at home over a romantic meal, on a walk through the remote countryside or even during a seaside stroll along your favourite beach. Whatever you decide, it’s sure to be a moment the two of you will cherish forever.
The meaningful moment
You may settle on something that has great meaning to both of you. It could be the destination of your first holiday together, the spot where you first declared your love, or you might arrange for your favourite song to be playing in the background. Each couple has special memories attached to certain sights, sounds, smells and noises, so pick one that’s especially significant for the two of you and, in combination with the perfect ring, they’re sure to say yes!
