Engagement Ring FAQs

For centuries, engagement rings have been worn as symbols of everlasting marital commitment and a promise of a wedding to come. Polished bands wrought in quality precious metals represent the eternal nature of your love, while brilliant, sparkling diamonds allude to the strength and beauty of your unique relationship. However, selecting the most fitting ring for your partner can seem daunting as the sheer amount of engagement rings on the market may be overwhelming to some. Our experts at Aucoin Hart have put together a guide to some of the most frequently asked questions about engagement rings that can make choosing and maintaining your ring a breeze.

#1: Why Do We Wear Engagement Rings?

When considering an engagement ring, you may wonder where the practice of wearing engagement rings first originated and whether you want to continue this practice with your partner. The story of engagement rings is long and spans across a great many cultures. While it’s difficult to nail down where exactly the practice was first developed, Archduke Maximilian of Austria gave one of the earliest recorded engagement rings in history to Mary of Burgundy.

In the 1900s, this practice became more popular as suitors would give the rings as assurance, the idea being that if the suitor didn’t uphold his promise, at least the woman would be left with something of monetary value. Today, however, these rings have a much more romantic and sentimental purpose. They signify romantic affection, a promise of a wedding to come, and a lifelong commitment after that.

#2: What Are the Most Common Diamond Cuts?

An engagement ring’s center stone determines much of the overall aesthetic and serves as the piece's focal point. The cut refers to the shape into which the stone is carved. It also refers to the number and placement of the stone’s facets. Here are some of the most common diamond cuts.

Round: The most popular diamond cut, the classic round cut makes up around 75% of all diamonds on the market. Its perfectly rounded shape is timeless and elegant, working well with various ring settings.

Princess: A squared cut, this shape creates a wonderfully contemporary aesthetic. Crisp edges and sharp corners are modern and striking.

Cushion: Similar to the princess cut, a cushion cut is characterized by a square shape with softly rounded corners to resemble a pillow or cushion. These stones are bold and eye-catching.

Oval: Oval cut stones produce almost as much shine and brilliance as the round cut, yet their shape is softly elongated. This cut has seen a significant resurgence in popularity in recent years.

Pear Shape: Also known as the teardrop cut, this shape is characterized by one pointed and one rounded end. One of the few popular cuts that aren’t symmetrical vertically and horizontally, this shape will give your ring a unique feel.

Emerald: A rectangular cut, this shape evokes the art deco era, its parallel facets creating a hall of mirrors effect.

#3: What Are the Most Common Engagement Ring Settings?

The ring’s setting refers to everything other than the center stone. The setting and the diamond work together to create a cohesive and splendid aesthetic. Several ring-setting options cater to a broad audience, allowing each bride to have a ring that complements her style. These are some of the most common engagement ring settings.

Solitaire: A timeless and minimalistic setting, the solitaire is made up of simply an unadorned band and center stone. This setting allows the diamond to take center stage and is typically cost-effective.

Three Stone: This setting features a large center stone and two smaller accent stones flanking it on either side, typically of the same shape and arranged symmetrically. The three stones are said to represent the past, present, and future of a relationship.

Halo: The stunning halo setting is beloved for its sparkle and ability to make the center stone appear more prominent. It features a center diamond encircled by a “halo” of smaller accent stones.

Side Stone: The illustrious side stone ring features any number of diamonds or gemstones inlaid into the band of the ring via channel, pave, prong, or bezel settings.

#4: How Much Should I Spend?

This is a question that often arises when it comes to purchasing an engagement ring. You may have heard it said that you should spend the equivalent of two months’ salary on an engagement ring. For some, this may be plausible. However, paying two months’ salary may put others in a difficult position. The amount one should spend on an engagement ring differs for every couple. One should simply seek to prioritize finding rings of high quality, made with durable materials and featuring a valuable stone.

#5: How Do I Care For My Ring?

Ensuring the beauty of your ring lasts a lifetime requires diligent care. One should always make sure to avoid harsh cleaning chemicals, sunscreens, and aerosol sprays, as well as makeup and cosmetic products. Saltwater, sand, soil, and other natural elements can also dull and damage your ring. Cleaning it is simple, though. Let the ring soak in warm water with gentle dish soap, and scrub the ring with a microfiber cloth or soft-fiber toothbrush. Every once in a while, take your ring to a professional to have it cleaned with precision and care.

#6: How Do I Pick A Wedding Band to Match?

When selecting the engagement ring and wedding band, it is important to consider design elements that work well together to create a cohesive stack. Some couples opt to purchase them at the same time to ensure complementary designs. You might also bring the engagement ring in after the proposal to find a wedding band that suits it. A local jeweler will be able to help you pick a band that neither overpowers nor is overpowered by the engagement ring. You may also buy sets by bridal designers that are sold as a whole and perfectly complement each other.

Shop Engagement Rings at Aucoin Hart Jewelers

It would be our supreme honor at Aucoin Hart Jewelers to play a small role in your unique love story by providing you with the engagement ring of your dreams. Our Metairie jewelry store has many designer engagement ring collections to please even the most discerning tastes. Let our team guide you through our selection, considering your or your partner’s lifestyle, aesthetic preferences, personality, and budget. Make an appointment today for a personalized consultation with one of our team members, or feel free to browse our inventory online.

Engagement Ring FAQs