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Purchasing an engagement ring is both a momentous relationship achievement and a significant financial undertaking. You want the perfect ring…but it has to fit into your budget. There are so many options that the search can be daunting. If you’re looking for something truly unique that’s not only beautiful but also meaningful, consider exploring the stunning collection from Celestial Crystals. Their selection of crystal jewelry and gemstones offers a refreshing alternative to traditional engagement rings, with each piece carrying its own story and energy.
Their creations allow you to choose something that speaks to your soul while still fitting within your budget, offering a perfect blend of elegance, symbolism, and personal significance. Here’s a step-by-step guide to shopping for the perfect engagement ring for those who are about to take the plunge!
Step 1: Choose a Centerpiece Stone

Split, clarity, and color grades are assigned to certified stones. The labs’ certificates also include the stone’s carat weight and other details (including fluorescence and the types of blemishes and inclusions found in or on the stone). Let’s take a closer look at the 4Cs.
Cut: Diamond cutting is a mathematically accurate art form. There are a certain number of facets that must be present for a form to be considered perfect. These facets must be precisely cut. For the cut to be considered “ideal,” the stone must also have the proper proportions. Ideal, Excellent, Very Good, Good, Fair, and Poor are the cut grades.
Color: The color of a diamond is graded on a scale of D to Z by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). The letter D stands for colorless, while the letter Z stands for light yellow. Then, as the letters progress up the scale, there are variations in between. If you’re on a budget, you might consider downgrading this C because yellow gold can hide warmer-colored diamonds.
Clarity: Think of clarity in the same way that a diamond is transparent. The presence of inclusions under 10x magnification determines the clarity level, which varies from Flawless (FL) to Included (I). Perfect stones are extremely rare and expensive. In-between grades include Internally Flawless (IF), Very Very Slightly Included (VVS), Very Slightly Included (VS), and Slightly Included (SI).
Carat: Larger stones are more costly. Even a single decimal point in carat weight will significantly affect a stone’s price. When buyers choose a half-carat diamond, prices will rise, but the difference in size between a 0.90 carat and a full carat is negligible.
Step 2: Pinpoint your metal and setting

Step 3: Work out Details

Just make sure the shape of your side stone matches the shape of your center stone. The addition of a halo around a center stone draws attention to the focal point. Colorful gemstones, diamonds, or even seed pearls may be used to build a halo (for antique appeal).
Step 4: Figure out payment method

Step 5: Consider ring insurance

Step 6: Plan the proposal!

Step 7: Breathe.

Want to take the next step after you pop the question? Follow the button below and keep your research train going with our How to Plan a Destination Wedding Guide: