A Guy’s Guide to Engagement Ring Shopping
Are you ready to pop the question? For guys, buying an engagement ring can be intimidating - to say the least. What if she doesn’t like it? What if it isn’t the one she’s been dreaming about since she was a little girl? What if she doesn’t have the same reaction as the woman in the ads on TV? What if we’re not friends on Pinterest and I can’t look at her “Dream Wedding” boards to help with my decision? Or worse - what if her Pinterest boards are set to private?
As stressful as it might seem, buying an engagement ring can also be one of the most positive, memorable purchases you’ll ever make. At J.F. Kruse Jewelers, we’re with you on each step of the ring buying journey. Our staff is knowledgeable and experienced and is available to answer every question you might have about picking the perfect ring. From carats to clarity, style to financing, we’ll help you make the tough decisions to find the right ring for your soon-to-be fiance!
To help you get started, here’s our Guys Guide for Engagement Ring Shopping:
Honor Thy Budget
Before you start looking at rings, be sure to set a budget. The price of engagement rings varies greatly, so it’s perfectly okay to be realistic about what you can afford. Don’t worry, our job is not to send you spiraling into debt. Our non-commissioned staff will help you get the best bling for your buck and a ring she can’t say no to.
Learn the Lingo
Nobody expects you to become a diamond expert—that’s what WE do! But we will teach you about the four Cs—cut, clarity, color, and carat—so you can make an educated buying decision. Balancing the four C’s will allow you to handpick a beautiful, brilliant diamond based on your unique style and within your budget.
Do Some Style Recon
When it comes to rings, does she like gold or platinum? Traditional or trendy? There are many ways to figure out someone else’s style preferences. We suggest talking to her girlfriends (on the down-low, of course). They are your best allies in style recon. Don't be surprised if they show you her Pinterest boards. She might already have a board dedicated to ring styles or wedding dreams!
Browse the Bling
If the element of surprise isn’t a priority, you can always bring her into our showroom to browse rings together. Although it may sound a little unromantic, it’ll ensure you end up giving her a ring she adores. And we’ll be sure to greet you with fresh baked cookies and personal service.
Consider Custom Rings
Don’t let the word “custom” overwhelm you. At J.F. Kruse, this does not mean “expensive”. What this means is if you happen to like the stone on one ring and the setting on another, or if you have a unique design in mind, you can work with our designers to create your perfect, one-of-a-kind engagement ring.
Protect Your Investment
Since an engagement ring will be something she wears forever, you’ll want to make sure it’s protected. We offer our in-house carefree warranty to protect her ring for a lifetime. In addition, we encourage you to call your insurance company and have them add a jewelry rider to your policy—especially if you’ll be traveling with it for your proposal.
We’ll do everything we can to provide the perfect ring, but this next step is up to you. Of course, we’d love to hear how it turns out. Please send us some pics and stop in to introduce us to your future wife. As your family jeweler, we’re honored to be a part of your story!
J. F. Kruse — We take care of you for a lifetime.