Engagement Ring FAQs
How much should I spend on a diamond engagement ring?
The old adage used to be ⅓ of your year’s salary, but thankfully that doesn’t ring true anymore! How much you spend on a diamond engagement ring is up to you and your partner and what you feel comfortable spending. This is a big step in your relationship and shouldn’t break the bank. Whatever amount you spend is the perfect amount. At Rare Carat, we have rings that can fit any budget. To get started browsing for options, click the chat button in the bottom right corner and you’ll be connected to a live graduate gemologist.
How many carats should an engagement ring be?
There is no right or wrong answer here, but the average size is typically a 1 carat center stone. An engagement ring is a sign of love and commitment to each other. It can be any shape, size and style as long as you and your partner love it. Plus, you can always upgrade it later on!
How do I find the right ring size?
We have a handy ring sizing guide that you can print! You can also ask your partner for their size, ask their mom or friends or even order a set of ring sizers from Amazon. This article gives other ring size tips as well!
What ring styles are popular right now?
- Vintage - everything that’s old becomes new again eventually. Vintage style rings are hot right now and we have a large selection!
- Hidden Accents - hidden halos or small, hidden bezel set diamonds are all the rage right now. It’s a fun way to give the ring a little extra something. Browse through our hidden halo selection here.
What setting style looks best with round diamonds?
Round diamonds are so versatile and literally look good in any style setting! If you want the diamond to be the star of the show? Go with a solitaire. Want the stone to look larger without upping the carat weight? Go with a halo. Want to represent the past, present and future? A three-stone is the perfect fit. Want some extra oomph added to the ring while keeping the center diamond as the main attraction? Check out a pave style.
What engagement ring style will make my center stone look larger?
Definitely a halo style ring! With this style, there is an outline of diamonds set around the center stone which gives the illusion that the diamond is larger than it really is. It also provides a lot of extra sparkle and shine!
What metals are used in engagement rings?
The most popular metals for a ring are gold and platinum. There are alternative metals that can be used like sterling silver, but for the best durability, stick with the above. At Rare Carat, we offer 14 or 18 karat white, rose or yellow gold and platinum.
What's the difference between an engagement ring and a wedding ring?
An engagement ring is worn before the couple gets married. It’s usually the bigger of the two rings, typically featuring one main center stone. A wedding ring or wedding band is the ring that is presented during the marriage ceremony to signify the couple has tied the knot. This ring is usually a band and can be plain metal or have diamonds set along it. Some popular wedding band styles include ¾ pave, eternity band or a plain metal band with engraving or other ornate details. You can opt to have the two rings soldered together or keep them separate, it’s all up to you and your style and comfort.
What hand are engagement rings worn on?
In the US, the engagement ring is worn on the left hand ring finger. Why this finger? The Ancient Romans believed that this finger had a vein that ran straight to the heart - the Vena Amoris which means ‘vein of love’. With advancements in anatomy we know that this vein doesn’t exist, but the tradition stuck!