Things to Consider When Buying a Ring

Maybe you're thinking about adding something to your collection of rings. Maybe you're thinking about buying a ring for someone else- whatever the situation is, ring buying isn't simple. Here's a breakdown of things to consider when buying a ring.

Things to Consider Before Buying A Ring

Lifestyle:

What you do in your daily life has the greatest effect on what kind of ring you should consider purchasing. This is an item that is worn on the hand, after all, and your hands come into contact with many things each day. If you work with your hands a lot at your job, it's probably not the best idea to get a ring that's made from a soft material, like high-karat gold.

Even your wardrobe can affect what kind of ring you should get. If you live in a cold area and you're a sweater lover, getting a ring with a high prong setting would be a disaster. The design would snag all of your clothing!

That being said, let's take a look at the things to consider when buying a ring.

• Head design: The top of a ring is called the head. It's the part of the ring that stones are usually set into, and it can be high or low depending on the design. While a higher head is said to give diamonds more sparkle since it allows more light exposure, the downside is that the ring gets caught on everything. In addition, a high head can cause the ring to suffer prong or stone damage over time.

This beautiful ring has a high head that holds the blue topaz over the rubies and emeralds.

• Setting style: There are different ways to set a stone into a ring. The most common type of setting is a prong setting, which is great for enhancing the sparkle of a stone. On the flip side, the prongs catch and snag clothing easily. A bezel setting, which is a smooth strip of metal wrapped around the stone, may be more practical, but it doesn't always look as clean as a prong setting.
  

  From left to right: prong setting, bezel setting, invisible setting, and channel setting.

• Metal Type: The type of metal you decide to purchase is important. Price, durability, and appearance are all factors you should consider- for instance, a sterling silver ring is very cheap in comparison to gold and platinum, but it will tarnish and scratch over time. In contrast, stainless steel is very durable and affordable, but its toughness makes it difficult to size.
  For gold, the purer the gold the content, the softer the metal. 10 and 12k gold are hardier and cheaper, while 14k and upwards will be softer and bendable. High-karat gold has its benefits, however; it's a great option for individuals who have metal allergies because gold is naturally hypoallergenic.
• Stone Type: The type of stone you choose to get should be dependent on its durability, since it needs to withstand daily wear. If you're careful with your jewelry, then you can consider soft and fragile gems such as pearls and opals. If you want to be more careless with your rings, then harder gems such as diamonds, rubies, and sapphires are a better alternative.
  The cut of your stone is another thing to take into consideration; it's easier to break or chip a princess-cut gem than a round-cut gem, because of the corners on a princess-cut stone.
  

  This coral and opal ring isn't recommended for people who are rough with their jewelry; both stones are very easy to damage.

Where To Buy A Ring

Now that you're up to speed on what to consider, here are some suggestions as to where you can find certain ring styles.

Modern & Sleek:

If you're looking for dainty and affordable jewelry, look no further than Ashley Carson Designs. As an independent designer, Ashley uses gold-fill to create minimalist stacking rings from delicate chains and wire. Just check out her Faith chain ring below:

24k Gold & Platinum:

Menē is a jeweler that specializes in 24k gold and platinum. Their rings are ideal for those with super-sensitive skin; with 99.99% gold purity, there's zero chance of triggering an allergic reaction.

Antique & Vintage:

If you're a romantic at heart, or you're certain you were born in the wrong time period, Maejean Vintage has all of your jewelry cravings covered. Founded by two gemologist sisters in 2010, Maejean Vintage has pieces ranging from Victorian mourning jewelry to Retro wedding bands. Browse through their gemmy collections to your heart's content.

You're properly equipped to go ring hunting now that you know all the things to consider when buying a ring!

We hope you get a good one; share with us in the comments below what style you'll be aiming for.