Top 4 things to know when buying an engagement ring

When it's time to buy an engagement ring, you want to make sure you know what you're buying and feel good about the decision. That's why we put together the top 4 things you should know when buying an engagement ring.

1. Learn your 4 C's

If you've done even a few minutes of research, you should have stumbled across the four C's of diamonds: color, clarity, cut and carat. These are the standard criteria by which all diamonds are compared, so it's good to know what you're buying.

• Color: Surprise! Diamonds aren't just clear - they come in lots of colors, from yellow to pink to brown. Having a colored diamond can make your piece on of a kind, but it also comes down to personal preference.
• Clarity: One of the most overlooked aspects of a diamond is clarity, however, it is the difference between a ring that sparkles from across the room. 
• Cut: Much like color, cut comes down to personal preference, however like clarity, the additional facets of certain cuts can create more sparkle.
• Carat: Likely the best known aspect of diamonds, the carat is the weight of the diamond which affects the size. 

2. Know your diamond - and your jeweler

This is not optional. Your diamond must, must , must have a certificate stating its authenticity. No reputable jeweler will sell you one without this - otherwise it could be from conflict-zones or other illicit activity. Your jeweler should also be GIA certified, which is another great source for education on diamonds and how to know what you're buying.

3. Yes, you can get creative

There are few opportunities in life to truly make something your own. Imagine walking into a car dealership and sketching out on a piece of paper the care you want them to create for you. That is entirely possible with a diamond engagement ring.
In addition, when you create something new, you know that each element - diamond, setting, ring - are exactly what you want. With a diamond already set in a ring, there is a possibility that flaws were hidden by the setting.

4. Ring size can be fixed, but best to get it upfront

Part of the engagement experience is the element of surprise. But how do you surprise your fiance if you're getting her left ring finger sized? There's no best way to go about this, but realize that it's also a great opportunity to go look at rings to see what your fiance likes. 
Even if you don't get the size perfect, rings can be adjusted - just remember it's easier to make a ring smaller than bigger.