Tips on getting engaged

The Nugget congratulates you on your upcoming engagement and wedding! 

After being in the industry for over 35 years, and working with hundreds of men looking for the perfect ring, (as well as newly engaged couples looking for the engagement and wedding bands together!), I’d like to offer some advice on how to get the perfect engagement and wedding rings.  Doing just a little bit of research can make the getting engaged and finding a ring as exciting and fun as possible. 

Before you get engaged and go to a jeweler:
First and foremost, set a budget or price range in your mind.  You may change it later, but go in knowing what you are comfortable affording. Be honest and candid with your jeweler so that they can show you the best possible rings in your price range.

Once you know your price range, set up an appointment with a jeweler at a time when you aren't rushed and won't be missed.  By setting an appointment at a time you can sit down and discuss different options, the jeweler will be able to focus on you- and assist you in figuring out what type of ring you need.

Are you going to surprise her, or do you want her to come with you?  If you want her to come with you, there are still romantic ways of asking her to marry you.  Some ideas are to buy the diamond before, and propose with that- and let her pick out her setting. 

You can also set an appointment up with a jeweler ahead of time, propose, and head straight to your appointment!  If the jeweler already knows your budget, they can set out a variety of rings that fit into your budget for your new fiance to look at. 

Has your girlfriend left you any hints about what she likes?  Does she mention that she loves vintage jewelry, or prefers modern?  Does she have a job that is active, or requires her to wear gloves every day? 

Does she wear white gold or yellow gold?  If she has all white gold, a yellow gold ring is usually out of the question for her.

Does she want a diamond, or something less traditional?  Sapphires, rubies and even pearls are now popular choices for engagement rings.

If you have no clue, and all of those questions are making your head spin, is there a close friend or relative you trust enough to ask?

Another popular option is to have a custom ring made.  If you have an heirloom you’d like to incorporate into the ring, be sure to take it (or a photograph of it) with you to your appointment.

*Helpful hint- if you take one of her rings and slide it over your finger, noting where it stops, we can probably figure out her ring size.* 

At the Jeweler:
First, it is important that you like, and trust, the jeweler you will be working with.  Just because you've made an appointment doesn't mean you have to purchase something!  If you feel pressured, or just that something isn't right, you should find another jeweler you want to work with.

If you are having a custom ring made, we will listen to your ideas, offer our ideas, and collectively create something in a style that is just right for you.  The Nugget specializes in creating the perfect custom engagement ring for you.  Check out our engagement ring gallery to see some of the other rings we've made.

Whether you are having a custom engagement ring made, or purchasing a setting, you will be looking at a selection of gemstones and diamonds.  At The Nugget, we have many choices in our Gem Room, and all diamonds over one carat are sold at wholesale prices.

Other Things to Think About:
•    Insurance. Your ring will come with an appraisal, which is a must for you to get it insured.  Check with your homeowners or renters insurance to see if you are covered, as often times you can add the ring to it.  If you need independent insurance, The Nugget recommends Jewelers Mutual.  
•    Wedding bands.  Some engagement rings come with a matching wedding band.  Additionally, we create custom wedding bands, custom, matching wedding bands, and also have some wedding bands in stock in white and yellow gold, a mix of both, or in platinum for both men and women.