How to drop an engagement ring hint like a pro.

(Photo ©Kaci Baum)

The engagement ring is one of the only pieces of jewelry that you’ll wear for the rest of your life. So, if you have even the slightest inkling that your big moment could be around the corner, it’s not a bad idea to start dropping hints about the kind of bling you want. We can help. Ahead, five, mostly foolproof ways to help you get your dream engagement ring:

  1. Use Your Social Network
    Create a Pinterest board Pinterest board and leave the page open on your browser. If he’s ring shopping, he’ll take the bait. Or, use Instagram to spark a discussion about engagement rings. When a friend or a celebrity gets engaged and posts a picture of their ring (trust us, it’ll happen), offer your two cents: “Can you believe Dave and Sarah are engaged? Her ring is so beautiful – I love its square shape and the halo setting!”
  2. Go Window Shopping
    Plan an impromptu stroll past your favorite jewelry store. Casually point out some different pieces you like – they don’t all have to be rings – making sure to note the shape of the stone or the style of the setting, “Oh, that oval-shaped Christopher Designs piece is so pretty,” and then move on. There’s a good chance your guy is taking notes.
  3. Cozy Up To Salespeople
    Whether you’re going ring shopping as a couple or plan to try on a few styles solo, it’s a good idea to get to know the sales staff at your local jewelry store. Not only will they help you become familiar with the engagement ring lingo, but they can advocate for you when your partner goes in to make the final selection.
  4. Send In A Friend
    Enlist the help of your best friend. Let her know what you like (pictures are never a bad idea) so that she can help point your guy in the right direction. This approach works best if you and your guy have already had “the talk.” It makes it easier for your friend to offer help by reaching out informally via phone or text.
  5. Be Direct
    Okay, so this isn’t exactly “dropping a hint,” and it might not be the most romantic, but delivering all the details – designer, 4C wish list, ring size, etc., is a surefire way to get the engagement ring of your dreams. If you’re going this route, do a little budget research before making big demands. For instance, if having at least a one-carat ring is non-negotiable, or you simply like the look a larger diamond, scope out styles that meet your criteria. Christopher Designs is a great place to start: The L’Amour Crisscut Diamonds offers exceptional brilliance, and can look 30%-60% larger than generic cut diamonds at a more affordable price. The last thing you want to do is make this special, and often nerve-wracking moment more stressful by creating unrealistic expectations.

About the author:

Heather Levine has over 12 years of experience creating content within the women’s lifestyle space. She’s served in a wide range of roles, including fashion and beauty director of XO Group Inc (“The Knot Magazine”).Heather lives in New York with her husband and two children.

Instagram: @theheatherlevine

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