Not a Jewelry Person? 4 Engagement Ring Tips Before You Commit

Overview: This short-form guide is designed to help non-jewelry wearers confidently navigate the engagement ring process. With practical, grounded advice from a former fine jewelry insider who’s seen more wedding rings than she can count, you’ll learn how to research, test, and choose a ring that reflects your style, fits your lifestyle, and feels just right for long-term satisfaction.

Committing to someone for life may also mean committing your left finger to a shiny, expensive piece of jewelry. And before you get overwhelmed by the flood of options from every jewelry brand imaginable, take a beat. If you’re not a regular jewelry wearer, here are 4 concise tips to help you stay grounded and confident choosing an engagement ring – from a former fine jewelry brand girl who’s tried on more wedding rings than she can count!

1. DO YOUR RESEARCH

Unless your partner already knows exactly what you want, it’s on you to do some homework. Not sure where to start?

Here are a few helpful search terms:

• Diamond vs. Diamond Alternatives: Not all white stones are diamonds. Learn about options like moissanite or lab-grown stones. (Heads up: Cubic zirconia, aka CZ, is NOT what you want!)

• Gemstone Engagement Rings: Sapphires, emeralds, rubies, alexandrite – even salt and pepper diamonds. The options are endless if you’re looking for color and personality.

• Mohs Hardness Scale: This ranks how durable a stone is. If you’re hard on your hands, avoid anything under 8.

• Metal Types: Understand the difference between 14K and 18K gold, platinum, and the various gold tones (yellow, rose, white). Each has its pros in durability and color.

2. TRY SOME DUPES

Still unsure what size, shape, or color you like? Try out some dupes before making a big investment, faux engagement rings, easily found on Amazon, can help you test drive different styles without pressure. Many are made from silver, brass, and cubic zirconia to give that ‘real ring’ feel without the price tag. Bonus: You’ll have a travel ring for later. Just be mindful of returns and try to shop sustainably where you can. For the best experience, visit your local jeweler or the brand directly to try the ring on yourself.

3. PRIORITIZE DAILY WEARABILITY

That statement ring you fell in love with on Pinterest? It might not feel so great after wearing it all day, every day. Engagement rings are meant to symbolize lasting love – but they also need to be livable. Choose a design that’s both meaningful and comfortable enough for your everyday life. You should love how it looks and how it feels on your hand.

4. THINK BEYOND THE PROPOSAL

Do you want to stack bands with your engagement ring later? If so, consider a high-profile setting that allows bands to sit flush.

Also, think about long-term maintenance:

• 18K gold is richer in color but softer. If you’re rough on your hands, 14K gold is an ideal option as it promises more durability.

• White gold is popular for its bright, silvery tone, but it can yellow over time. Though rhodium plating will help maintain the shine, if you want a low-maintenance, pure-white metal, platinum may be worth the splurge.

Bottom Line:

You don’t have to be a jewelry expert – or even a jewelry lover – to find the right engagement ring. All you need is a little clarity on what works for you. Let research, comfort, and long-term practicality guide your choice. After all, this ring should be something you love just as much as the person giving it to you.

Written by: Jamie Han | www.jamiehansw.com