Are you planning a proposal but don’t know how to pick the right ring for your loved one? From choosing the precious stones to the style and metal type, finding a ring that’s both modern and timeless can be challenging.
Luckily, there are some basics you can learn before you go ring shopping, and first on the list is knowing which metals are the most common material for engagement rings.
Read on to learn how to choose the best metal for an engagement ring that’ll last forever.
Know Your Budget
There are many things included in the price of an engagement ring and the metal type is among the main factors. For example, platinum rings will always be more expensive than gold rings, even if they have the same diamond size. Know your budget before you visit shops so you have an idea of what to expect for your money.
Know Your Loved One’s Style
The second step is to know your fiance(e)’s style, i.e. the type of jewelry they like. For instance, how do they feel about moissanite rings vs diamonds? Notice which rings from their collection they love or remember the engagement rings they’ve shown you before. This will help you narrow down your choices.
Choosing Metals
Engagement rings should last forever and they have to be made from durable, strong, hypoallergenic metals. The most commonly used metals for this purpose are platinum, gold, and silver.
Below you can learn more about each metal type in more detail.
Platinum
Platinum tops the list for the best material for an engagement ring because of its rarity, strength, durability, and naturally white sheen that’s resistant to fading. This is also why it’s the most expensive metal, but one that’ll last a lifetime.
One of the reasons why platinum is becoming a popular choice for fine jewelry is because unlike white gold, it doesn’t need mixing with alloys to get its bright and shiny finish. This guarantees long durability and you don’t need to re-plate it at all.
When shopping, look for a 950 or 900 Plat mark on the ring. This indicates 95% and 90% purity respectively, as anything less than that cannot be sold as platinum jewelry.
Gold
Gold is one of nature’s most precious metals that’s been used for jewelry making for centuries. This is because of its sturdy, durable, and shiny composition, along with its resistance to tarnishing and corroding. Gold rings come in different karats, but the highest-quality rings have 14 karats.
The most popular kind is white gold, followed by yellow and rose gold. Yellow gold is the basic metal and by adding alloys and other types of metals, it can become either white or rose gold.
Silver
Silver is a great sturdy metal and a more budget-friendly option for an engagement ring. It’s slightly less durable than gold and platinum and may scratch or tarnish with time and contact with skin, water, and other metals. With proper care and regular polishing, a silver ring can also last for decades.
Now You Can Choose the Best Metal for an Engagement Ring
Now that you know how to pick the best metal for an engagement ring, it’s time to start planning a proposal and pop the question. Engagement rings are a symbol of your love and devotion, so take your time in choosing the right fit.
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