Step 1 – A Sparkling Proposal
The magic of the holiday season is in the air, and now you can begin to plan your fabulous Lake Tahoe wedding. But first things first – the proposal!
A wedding tradition that has endured the test of time together with the proposal is the diamond engagement ring. But what is the best approach to proposing – a surprise question-popping without a ring, or a not-so-unexpected proposal with the perfect engagement ring?
In either case, most proposers do not want to take on the burden of buying the engagement ring without consulting their partner first. Regardless of how you choose to approach the buying process (surprise first buy later, or spoil the surprise and go shop together) it’s important to understand your investment. Since engaged couples are older and more financially established today, according to The Knot, the average amount spent on an engagement ring is $6,351. So you need to do your research!
When searching for an engagement ring today, the most beloved cut is the round diamond because it provides the most sparkle.
While the emphasis during engagement ring shopping is rightfully placed on the stone, you can’t properly display your dazzling diamond without choosing an appropriate setting. Most couples select a prong setting to maximize the diamond’s sparkle. The most important choice in selecting a prong setting is whether to get four or six prongs. Four prongs show off more of the diamond, but six prongs hold the diamond much more securely.
The final element of your engagement ring is the ring itself. The most popular material chosen for a 2018 engagement ring is white gold. However, to others, platinum is worth the added expense, because it is an extremely hard metal and it will never tarnish. While white gold looks very similar to platinum, over time the rhodium plating in white gold will wear off and fade to a yellowish tinge. You would need to re-polish and re-plate the white gold ring to look white again.
According to The Knot’s survey data, an average of 26 rings are looked at over a period of 3½ months before the purchase is made. Although online shopping has become more popular, we recommend going to brick-and-mortar stores to buy an engagement ring. Every diamond is unique, and you should have the opportunity to see and feel a purchase this important.
Begin by identifying reputable jewelers in your area and check the Better Business Bureau and online references for 5-star reviews. Or to support the local economy in the North Lake Tahoe area, please consider these sparkling shops (listed in alphabetical order):
Regardless of where you choose to shop, never lose track of the reason why you’re buying an engagement ring. This symbol of your commitment to your future spouse is to be enjoyed together for the rest of your lives!