How to Start Engagement Ring Shopping
Shopping for an engagement ring is one of the most exciting and meaningful purchases you'll ever make. It’s not just about finding a beautiful ring—it’s about choosing a symbol of love and commitment that will be cherished for a lifetime. But with so many options available, where do you start?
At Simone & Son, we understand that the engagement ring shopping process can feel overwhelming, especially if this is your first time. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you navigate every step of the journey, from understanding ring styles to setting a budget and choosing the perfect diamond or gemstone.
Step 1: Define Your Budget
Before exploring designs, it’s crucial to establish a realistic budget that aligns with your financial goals.
How much should you spend on an engagement ring?
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The traditional "three-month salary" rule is outdated. Today, the right budget is whatever feels comfortable for you.
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Prices vary based on factors like diamond size, quality, metal type, and setting complexity.
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Simone & Son offers special financing options to help you spread out payments while choosing the perfect ring.
Shop Smart: Explore our collection of lab-grown diamonds, which provide a larger, high-quality stone at a more accessible price.
Step 2: Learn About Diamond Quality (The 4Cs)
If you're considering a diamond engagement ring, understanding the 4Cs—Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat—is crucial in making an informed decision.
Cut: The Most Important Factor
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Brilliant Cuts (Round, Oval, Princess) maximize sparkle.
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Step Cuts (Emerald, Asscher) emphasize clarity and elegant flashes of light.
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Unique Cuts (Cushion, Pear, Marquise) offer distinctive, vintage-inspired beauty.
Our Top Pick: The Round Brilliant Cut Diamond Engagement Ring, set in platinum for maximum brilliance.
Color: How White Should Your Diamond Be?
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D-F (Colorless): The rarest and most expensive.
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G-H (Near Colorless): Excellent balance of value and beauty.
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I-J (Slightly Tinted): Great for vintage-inspired settings where warmth adds character.
Exclusive at Simone & Son: GIA-certified diamonds in various color grades to match your aesthetic preferences.
Clarity: Choosing an Eye-Clean Diamond
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VS1-VS2 (Very Slightly Included): Invisible inclusions to the naked eye.
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SI1-SI2 (Slightly Included): Great value with minimal visible flaws.
Expert Tip: Choosing a well-cut SI1 diamond can give you a larger carat size without visible imperfections.
Carat: Finding the Right Size
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A 1.50-carat diamond is a classic choice.
Explore Our Best-Sellers: The Solitaire Diamond Engagement Ring Collection at Simone & Son.
Step 3: Choose the Right Setting
The ring setting determines how your diamond is showcased.
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Solitaire – Timeless elegance with a single diamond.
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Halo – A center stone surrounded by smaller diamonds for extra sparkle.
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Three-Stone – Symbolizing past, present, and future.
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Vintage-Inspired – Intricate details like filigree and milgrain.
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Hidden Halo – A discreet sparkle visible from the side profile.
Trending Now: Oval Cut Diamonds in a Hidden Halo Setting for a delicate, romantic aesthetic.
Step 4: Select the Right Metal
The metal of your engagement ring affects its durability and appearance.
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Platinum – Hypoallergenic, durable, and naturally white.
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White Gold – A sleek, modern alternative (requires rhodium plating over time).
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Yellow Gold – A classic choice that complements warmer skin tones.
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Rose Gold – Romantic, vintage-inspired, and distinctive.
Simone & Son Exclusive: 18K White Gold Engagement Rings with Platinum Prongs for enhanced durability.
Step 5: Custom or Ready-Made? Understanding Your Options
Engagement rings come in two primary categories:
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Ready-to-Wear Rings – Pre-set designs available for immediate purchase.
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Custom Engagement Rings – Designed from scratch to match your vision.
At Simone & Son, we specialize in custom engagement rings, offering a one-on-one design consultation with our expert craftsmen. Our process includes:
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Initial Sketch & Concept – We bring your ideas to life with hand-drawn designs.
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3D CAD Model – A digital rendering of your ring before production.
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Handcrafting & Setting – Our master jewelers carefully shape and set each element.
Custom designs allow you to create a truly unique engagement ring that reflects your love story.
Step 7: What’s Next After Choosing the Perfect Ring?
After selecting your engagement ring, consider these next steps:
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Ring Insurance – Protect your investment with an appraisal from our GIA-certified gemologists.
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Warranty & Maintenance – Enjoy complimentary cleanings, prong inspections, resizing, and refinishing to keep your ring in perfect condition.
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Wedding Band Pairing – Find a seamless match with our custom wedding bands designed to complement your engagement ring.
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Future Touch-Ups & Repairs – From rhodium refinishing to expert repairs, our in-house craftsmen ensure lasting brilliance.
Pair Your Engagement Ring with a Matching Wedding Band – Explore our wedding band collection for a perfect fit.
Shop Engagement Rings at Simone & Son
For over 35 years, Simone & Son has been helping couples find or create the perfect engagement ring. Whether you’re looking for a classic solitaire, a vintage-inspired piece, or a completely custom design, our experts are here to guide you every step of the way.
Why Choose Simone & Son?
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GIA-Certified Diamonds – Ethically sourced and precision-cut.
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Custom & Handcrafted Designs – Work with master jewelers to create a ring that’s uniquely yours.
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Flexible Financing – Special financing plans available.
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Lifetime Services & Warranty – Complimentary cleaning, resizing, and refinishing.
Visit Our Huntington Beach Showroom – Try on rings, consult with experts, and bring your dream ring to life.
Book a Custom Design Consultation – Work one-on-one with our in-house designers.
Shop Engagement Rings Online – Browse our collection and start your journey today.
Ready to take the next step? Visit Simone & Son and find the perfect engagement ring!
Book an Appointment Now
Explore Our Engagement Ring Collection
