Engagement Rings For Thrifty Shoppers

Knowing what you can afford in engagement rings and wedding sets is an important part of making the best possible purchase. Determining what price range works for you with affordable engagement rings should be the first step, the looking at the best possible quality engagement rings in the price range is the next.

As can be imagined the most expensive part of engagement rings is going to be the dazzling diamond or diamonds. Often the settings in which the diamond will be placed can accentuate the size of the diamond, making even a smaller carat diamond look larger. Solitaire rings that focus all the attention on one diamond are elegant and beautiful and can be accentuated with a delicate band.

Smaller diamonds or diamond chips clustered or grouped either around a central diamond or gem or in a design will also make the overall diamond look bigger. Diamond chips and smaller diamonds used to create the pave style are not as expensive as a single large diamond so you may be able to afford a much larger ring staying with multiple smaller stones.

Combining semi-precious stones with diamonds adds both color and uniqueness to engagement rings. The very deep colored gems such as sapphires, rubies and emeralds are striking when combined with diamonds in any setting.

The shape or cut of the diamond can also add visual dimensions that make a ring look larger. Engagement rings featuring the elongated shapes such as oval, pear, marquis or emerald cut are going to draw the eye down the length of the diamond, adding size and dimension.

Although size is going to be important in the overall appearance of the ring it is not the most important part of getting the most out of engagement rings on a budget. The clarity of diamond, the cut, and the color, also have a big factor in how brilliant and reflective the diamond will be. This is particularly important with stand alone diamonds seen in the round or Asscher cut engagement rings. Even a small diamond that sparkles is going to look nicer than a larger diamond that is flawed or not clear.

Often selecting a smaller diamond that is of a better cut and clarity provides more options for getting the best possible engagement rings within a set price range. Jewelers should be willing to take the time to explain the different aspects of selecting a diamond to ensure you get just the one you want.

Mixing and matching settings with loose diamonds is a wonderful option when looking at engagement rings. With this type of purchase you select the diamond separate from the setting, allowing maximum flexibility in designing many kinds of engagement rings.