4 Tips to Pick an Engagement Ring Without Her Knowing

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You are ready to propose! But you want it to be a surprise and have no clue where to start. Here are a few things to take note of when picking out her engagement ring to help make sure that it is the perfect ring for her.

Consider Her Lifestyle

One common and very beneficial way to start the engagement ring shopping process is to look at your significant other's lifestyle. What do they do for a living? Do they work at an office job or are they a doctor or a nurse? Do they have to worry about gloves or their ring snagging on anything if they work with their hands? Think about what happens in daily life that could potentially affect the ring.

For example, for someone who works at a desk or more clerical job, then you do not have to worry much about the toll that will take on the ring. But, if someone who works with their hands is probably washing them constantly, or having to take gloves off and on, then it may be a good idea to start with a more durable or simpler design. For example, rings that have lots of tiny diamonds also mean that those diamonds are held in by tiny little prongs. These prongs are durable but may wear down more quickly with all of the rubbing and wear on them. If this is absolutely the design that you want, that is fine, but be aware that the ring may require more maintenance to keep it in good shape.

If you know that the ring is going to get some wear, opt for fewer, but larger diamonds on the side with bigger prongs or set in a channel. This is a more durable design that can take a bit more wear. Another option is to choose a solitaire engagement ring. This option is not only a classic and timeless design, but it reduces the amount of maintenance needed on the ring.

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Consider Her Style

When you are getting ready to pop the question, it can really help with the ring process to start taking note of your partner's style, if you do not already. Is it trendy? Traditional and classic? Or simple and understated? If you don't know, pay more attention to daily wardrobe choices and that will give you a better idea.

If your partner takes risks with fashion, take a look at rings with a halo design around them or a less common shape of diamond.  Rings with a halo have a lot of bling; diamond shapes like the radiant or a cushion cut are less traditional. Someone with a simpler style will love a round brilliant center diamond with a few accent stones or even a classic 3-stone engagement ring. And someone who likes a more modest and clean look, a solitaire is always a beautiful way to go.

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Figure Out Her Finger Size

One very important aspect of the engagement ring process is knowing what size to pick for the ring. Some people can really stress out about this, but the reality is that you do not have to nail it right away on the first try. Since gold and platinum are metals that jewelers can size up and down, getting as close as possible typically works out just fine. But there are a few ways that you can ensure the sizing process goes smoothly.

First, take a look at whether your partner wears any sort of rings at all. If so, take note of what ring the finger is on. If your partner takes the jewelry off at the end of the day, placing the ring on one of your own fingers and taking note about how far it goes down will help out your engagement specialist quite a bit. This is a really common option for many individuals who have begun the ring shopping process..

If your partner does not wear any sort of jewelry, just try and take note of the ring finger and see if it is close to any of yours in size. Most jewelry stores will size you for free or you can order a ring sizing kit online. Size the finger you think is closest to your partner's ring finger and use that to help determine what ring size to pick out.

Also, if you are trying to decide between two sizes, opt for the larger size. That way, when you propose, your partner will at least be able to slip it on one finger. Everyone wants to wear the ring right away and it is a disappointment if you can't! To help make sure that the ring doesn't fall off, jewelry stores and even online shops sell little plastic ring sizers that look like a coil. It is a great way to adjust the size down a bit so the ring can be worn (and shown off) before you get in to see a jeweler.

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Consider Ease of Sizing

Lastly, if you are not completely sure about the size, opt for a ring that does not have stones that go all the way around the band. Rings like these are commonly referred to as "eternity" rings or bands and are not conducive to someone trying to pull off a surprise proposal. These are very difficult or sometimes impossible to size without removing stones and ruining the look you paid a premium for. If you do want stones down the band, pick one that either goes ½ or ¾ of the way down. This will give jewelers enough plain metal to work with if they need to adjust the size.

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