Proposing on Valentine's Day

Traditionally Valentine's Day has been one of the most popular days to "pop the question." Not anymore! Men will still shower their loved ones with chocolate & roses today, but they'll save the diamonds for another day.

I've had an increase in traffic at my store these past few weeks with customers looking to purchase engagement rings for a Valentine's proposal. I noticed that the customers seem to be trying something new this year -  holding off on the wedding proposal until the day after Valentine's Day or even a week after. I think it's all about the "surprise" element.

Valentine's Day can be an exciting time of the year for couples, whether they are looking to get married or just want to buy their sweetheart a nice piece of jewelry.

If you are one of the lucky ones planning on proposing on or around Valentine's Day, here are a few things you should know before you set out to find the perfect engagement ring.

• Work with a Quality Jeweler - Make sure the store is a member of the Jewelers of America and/or accredited by America Gem Society (AGS).

• Get it in Writing - It's best to buy a diamond that has an independent diamond-grading report from GIA, AGS or European Gemological Laboratories (EGL). It should include the 4 C's of color, cut, clarity and carat, as well as as well as the shape and weight. A grading certificate should never have a dollar figure on it.  Remember that certificates provide an independent evaluation of color, clarity and the quality of the cut.  However, it is somewhat subjective and not a guarantee of beauty.
• Anyone shopping for a diamond engagement ring should first acquaint themselves with "The Four Cs" - cut, color, clarity, and caret. Some also include the fifth c, confidence in the jeweler you are dealing with.
  • Cut: Many people make the mistake of thinking that cut means the shape of the diamond. Rather, it means the way the diamond was faceted to allow light to reflect from it.  Cut can be something very difficult for a layperson to evaluate, which is why it is important to get an AGS, GIA or EGL Certificate verifying the measurements, proportions, symmetry and finish which are all important factors in determining the quality of the cut of your diamond. Make sure that you are dealing with a competent & knowledgeable jeweler to help you evaluate this information.
  • Color: With the exception of "fancy colored diamonds," the more colorless a diamond is, the more valuable it is.
  • Clarity: Diamonds frequently have inclusions, or small flaws, air bubbles, scratches, or other minerals inside the diamond. The least amount of inclusions a diamond has, the more valuable it is, and the more beautiful it is.
  • Caret: This refers to the weight of the stone.

• Custom Design – If you decide to have your ring custom designed, make sure you are working with a reputable jeweler who is capable of the complexity and the exceptional degree of craftsmanship involved in the manufacture of a diamond.
• Don’t forget to get the ring insured

If you find yourself in a time crunch, you can always purchase the diamond and have it put in a temporary setting. Then, together the two of you can design or select the setting.

There are so many interesting ways to propose on or near Valentine's Day. Remember to be selective about who you are buying jewelry from. Good luck to you!

Till next time, that is how I see the world of jewelry on Valentine's Day from Rochester, NY.

David West Nytch CGA  www.westandcompany.com

Comments

[buy valentine philippines]

I knew it, my friend propose to her girlfriend last valentine's and she said yes! and you know what this coming valentine's they getting married,that's why just want to say thank you for blogging this it shown very romantic.

by:vhie

[buy valentine philippines]

Proposing on Valentine's Day was very romantic, specially when you are in the restaurant with the sweet background music. Nice post.I've learned a lot. I will apply those tips when I buy jewelry. Thanks for sharing.