What's In A Ring--Are You Prepared For Engagement Season

Traditionally this time of year is the highest period for engagements--November through February. We are certain the holiday season, family get-togethers, and good old fashion dinners play a major part in folks feeling warm and loving. And with all we lost the past two years--love is our priority.

We are truly excited for this year’s upcoming engagement season. We know that of all the postponements that took place during the Covid-19 era in 2020 and 2021, that is according to The Wedding Report, an independent company is indicating that 2022 is expected to have 2.5 million nuptials, which would be the most in nearly four decades. The Wedding Report, research projected that in 2021–1.93 million weddings with an average spend of $22.5k.

Therefore there are going to be lots of questions one will have to take into consideration when it is time to "Put a ring on it." What sort of ring do I want? What is the cost involved in such an investment? Am I limited only to a diamond? What if I want a colored stone? Do I have to follow traditions?

There is a wide variety of options when it comes to engagement rings: natural and lab-grown diamonds, prices range from $745 tp to $2,000,000. Natural colored diamonds are also being offered for those who want the rarest diamonds of all, from earth or space. If you are in the New York area one of the must-see places to visit is the American Museum of Natural History for an educational session on stones.

Once you and your beloved have decided that you will make the move to share your futures together--The options will seem endless with both bespoke and ready-to-wear jewelry. Don't think of the ring as a piece of jewelry. Think of it as an investment in both your future. So this priceless item should be something that can be passed on as a family heirloom. So this should definitely be a discussion even if you want the proposal to be romantic and a surprise. Therefore regardless of your personal style, we wanted to share with you some information that you might find valuable. Aside from sharing with you some of our favorite brands, you may want to look into the legacy of what each brand represents, but more importantly, the customer services, and insurance, and educational aspects these amazing brands offer such as Cartier, Tiffany's, De Beers Diamonds, Mikimoto, Harry Winston, Piaget, and Van Cleef & Arpels to name a few. Their reputation supersedes their names.

We know about the 4C's --Carats, Color, Clarity, and Cut. If you don't, that's ok. The better boutiques are eager to educate you and your beloved on what you need to know about buying an engagement ring--the symbol of your love and commitment.

Do's and Don't

Do--Research. Do your homework on each brand and make sure it represents both your style and aesthetic.

Don't buy anything because a brand is trending or to satisfy the expectations of your "friends and family."

Do--Check your finances. Create a budget and confirm what your beloved can realistically afford.

Don't go into debt to "keep up with the Jones". You may regret it later.

Do--Visit boutiques and a gemologist to learn as much as you can before deciding on "the one."

Don't buy the first thing you see. It is not a race--take your time and make sure of the ring you want. Love it. Make sure it will bring you joy every time you look at it.

So congratulations to all who are about to embark on a new life filled with marital bliss--choose wisely.