5 Tips For Wedding Ring Shopping

Your wedding rings are symbols of your commitment and love. You're also going to be looking at them a lot and wearing them for years. Here are some tips for your search for wedding rings:
Tip #1: Don't Delay. Start window shopping and browsing right away. You might think you know what you want. But when you see all the beautiful styles out there, you might change your mind. You need some time to see what's out there and decide on what you really want. Once you have zeroed in on "the one" be sure to visit it a couple times to make sure it feels right before you go for the final purchase. Don't buy the first ring you see. You want to feel like you've looked around and you're confident in your final choice. No regrets.
Tip #2: How Much Can You Afford? The old rule of thumb for how much a man would spend on an engagement ring used to be one month of his salary. Many times the engagement ring was part of a set that later joined together and became the bride's wedding band. Gold bands are very popular and inexpensive. Average price is around $300. If you're eyeing platinum, you're looking at more like $1000. Precious gemstones or diamonds will add quite a bit. The main point is to discuss your budget with your future spouse so that you both have the same expectations. The bride may have high hopes for an expensive ring set that the groom cannot afford. Remember, there's always the 5 or 10 year anniversary to get lots of diamonds if that's what you require.
Tip #3: Think About Shape and Style. If you're very active with your hands, you might not want pointy edges or a center stone that sticks out too far. It might get caught on clothing. You might go for a simple band or a center stone that is recessed in. Stones and intricate designs will trap dirt and you'll be cleaning your ring every few days if you want to maximize its sparkle. If you are allergic to some gold alloy rings, you can consider platinum as it is hypoallergenic. Simple, classic looks will stand the test of time. Unusual gemstones or designs may go out of style quickly.
Tip #4: Look on the Inside. If you're purchasing an 18K gold ring, you'll want to see 18K stamped somewhere on the inside of your ring. Platinum rings are stamped PLAT. Designer rings also usually have a manufacturer's mark. This is a good sign that you have a reputable jewelry manufacturer. If you're considering having the inside of your rings engraved, take a look at how much room inside you have and how long of a message you can have engraved. At the bare minimum go for the wedding date so you don't forget your anniversary!
Tip #5: Proper Sizing. Try to do your final ring fitting in the afternoon. You want your body temperature to be normal. You don't want to be feeling cold or feel hot or sweaty. If you have a ring with a simple band or an area where part of the band is smooth, you can get it re-sized at a later date if you lose or gain weight. The final weeks of any pregnancies will cause you to retain water and you may even have to just take your wedding ring off for a few weeks for comfort. Some specialty rings may have diamonds or a design all the way around. The fitting for this kind of ring is extremely critical. Usually, you would see a sample ring, get fitted to a certain size, and then your special ring gets made to this size. There is no wiggle room for resizing.
Don't be overwhelmed with the ring shopping. You'll have many fun afternoons with your beloved shopping, walking and talking. This should be a fun, exciting time. Don't get stressed. The right ring will almost speak to you when you see it and you'll know it's the one.
Lisa Gunther is personalized gifts specialist in the wedding industry. Gunther Gifts is the perfect place to select groomsmen gifts, wedding favors, flasks, or personalized gifts for any special occasion.
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