When you type ‘’engagement rings near me’’ into a web search and a list of jewelry stores with a wide selection of engagement rings pop up, you’ll probably want to visit at least a few of them in-person to compare prices, see what type of service you receive, and check on the overall value you’re getting. After that, you’ll be able to confidently choose the best engagement ring.

Deciding on the perfect engagement ring isn’t the easiest choice, but it’s best to keep in mind that all good things are worth the wait. Luckily, if you live in San Diego, you won’t have to wait long! You can stop by Leo Hamel Fine Jewelry and Engagement Ring Store on San Diego Avenue and shop a wide selection of engagement rings for all styles, preferences and budgets.

Still, even with the widest selection and helpful jewelry store staff, you could have a hard time deciding and make mistakes you will later regret. This is why you should do your research before heading out to shop at jewelry stores. Some facts might even shock you!

With that in mind, check out our guide to finding the right engagement ring!

The choice of gemstone

Diamonds are the most common choice of gemstone for most men buying the engagement ring. Besides their universal life-long appeal, a diamond is one of the hardest gemstones and ranks 10 on the Mohs 1-10 scale of hardness. This means they are extremely durable and won’t scratch like other gemstones will with daily wear.

Sapphires are the second most popular choice as engagement ring gemstones. They rank 9 on the Mohs scale, so they are only slightly less durable than diamonds. Another great thing about Sapphires is that they are available in a variety of colors, from deep blue to pink.

When choosing, take your significant other’s style into account. You could even ask her close friends for advice – if a diamond ring is what she’s always wanted, then that’s what you should get.

Gemstone shape

If you choose a diamond as the center stone, it’s useful to know that diamonds are cut into 10 standard shapes. A round cut diamond is the absolute favorite among engagement ring buyers, with princess cut following closely in popularity. Remember that an engagement ring is something your fiancée-to-be will be wearing every day, so the shape itself should compliment every outfit she wears. The neutrality of a round cut diamond makes them a popular choice.

Setting for the gemstone

Choosing the gemstone setting is mostly about stylistic preferences. Maybe you prefer a halo of diamonds on the setting so that the bigger center diamond is surrounded by sparkling diamonds? Or perhaps you would like three-stone ring settings? You could also ask jewelry stores about custom settings that they create for you.

Precious metal

Once you decide on the gemstone, the hard work’s done. The choice of metal is much easier and should be a practical one. You should choose between platinum and gold (white, yellow and rose gold) because these metals are extremely durable.

If your significant other already wears yellow gold jewelry, yellow gold would be the obvious choice. If she prefers silver-colored jewelry, she would want either platinum or white gold. Rose gold may be a tricky choice but also a perfect one if your loved one prefers it over other metals.

Ring style

There are so many engagement ring styles out there, so it’s no wonder that men have a hard time trying to make a choice. Although a modern sleek style is your safest bet, you could check out some of the more daring styles, like engagement rings with the intertwined split shank band, colorful gemstones, or even floral rings. Also, antique engagement rings are especially popular, probably because of their uniqueness and history. Wearing such a ring signifies a strong personal style.

Friendly staff at Leo Hamel Fine Jewelry and Engagement Ring Store will help you out!

Stop by Leo Hamel’s and you are sure to find the right engagement ring that both you and your chosen one will love. Our wide selection is comprised of new and vintage engagement rings of various styles. Share your initial ideas with us and we will guide you towards the purchase you will be happy about!