Are you thinking about taking your relationship to the next level and proposing to your significant other? Choosing the perfect engagement ring that symbolizes a promise, commitment, and devotion is one of the most important decisions you’ll have to make. Below, we’ll walk you through a few tips on things you should consider when buying an engagement ring.

Set Your Budget

The most important factor to take into consideration when picking out an engagement ring is how much you can spend. It’s no secret that the average cost of diamond rings is high, ranging from $3,000 to $7,000 and up. Many people follow the three-month salary rule when figuring out a price range, but it ultimately depends on how much you can afford and what best fits your budget moving into this next phase of life.

If you have other bills to pay, such as student loans, a mortgage, or credit card debt, saving money ahead of time can help you purchase the perfect engagement ring. Start by taking a percentage from every paycheck and putting it into a savings account. If your savings account is combined with your significant other, consider opening a separate account so they can’t see how much you’re putting away. Try to avoid using a credit card if you can. If you’re a homeowner and your partner does not live with you, a safe way to purchase a diamond ring is by utilizing the equity you’ve built up in your home as collateral to borrow money. An equity loan provides borrowers with a lump-sum payment that can be paid back in fixed installments over a predetermined period. This is why setting your budget first is crucial so you know what you can afford and make the best decision for you.

Consider Your Partner’s Lifestyle

Now that you have a set budget in place, it’s time to take a look at your partner’s lifestyle. There’s a lot that goes into selecting the perfect engagement ring. Taste, style, job, and hobbies all play a huge role in the process. If she works in healthcare or a career that requires her to help others all day, you may want to avoid an elevated diamond setting. If she works out or plays sports regularly, consider buying a ring that isn’t as heavy or bold so that she can keep it on while enjoying her physical activity.

While determining what style and color to pick out, don’t be afraid to snoop. Look through her other jewelry to see if she wears more silver or gold. Ask her friends or family for advice (if you can trust them not to tell her) to get a better idea of what she’d like versus going into the jewelry store blindly. You might also want to explore engagement ring ideas on Pinterest for inspiration. Remember, this is something your partner will wear forever so don’t rush the process.

Educate Yourself on Diamonds

After grasping a better understanding of your partner’s lifestyle, you should also take time to learn everything there is to know about diamonds. First, you should know how to judge a diamond. Just because something is shiny and big, that may not mean it’s a quality ring. There are four aspects of diamond quality, also known as the 4Cs, you should look for: cut, color, clarity, and carat. Cut refers to the polish of a diamond coupled with balancing proportions and symmetry to maximize light return. Color is the diamond’s depth of color and how noticeable it is. Clarity refers to the purity of the diamond, and it’s based on the absence or presence of internal characteristics. Lastly, diamonds are sold by carat, which is a unit of weight, not size. The larger the carat, the more expensive the ring is. This will play a significant role in the cost of the ring you pick out!

Along with the 4Cs, you should know that diamonds come in a variety of shapes, including oval, round, emerald, pear, radiant, cushion, marquise, princess, heart, and Asscher. When selecting the shape of the diamond, this is when your partner’s lifestyle can come into play, and a Shane Co. expert jewelry consultant will assist you with finding the perfect center stone for your partner. We only offer the best ethically sourced, conflict-free natural and lab-grown diamonds for you to select from.

Whether you visit us online or find your nearest Shane Co. store, you’ll love the experience of shopping with us.

The post Buying an Engagement Ring: 3 Tips to Consider appeared first on The Loupe.

The symbolism of your ring will never change, but your ring size might. Things like weight gain, pregnancy, swelling, salt intake, and weather can change your ring size, and that’s normal. Most of us experience changes in ring size throughout our lives, and even throughout the day. 

If your ring is too tight, you may need to get it resized. Here’s how you’ll know:

• You have trouble getting it on or off
• The ring leaves an indent on your finger
• Your ring is painful or uncomfortable to wear
• Your ring won’t turn
• The skin around your ring bulges

Shane Co.’s Free Lifetime Warranty

At Shane Co., our warranty includes free ring resizing for life. No need to make an appointment. Just drop by and we’ll help you out. Learn more about our free lifetime warranty.

How to Remove a Tight Ring

• Use lotion or soap to help slip the ring off. If you do this over a sink, make sure to close the drain first!
• Use the string trick or ribbon. (Google it!) 
• Ice your finger while holding it over your head, then try to remove the ring.

Need Help Finding Your Size?

Maybe you have no idea what your ring size is. You can use our free downloadable ring sizer to find the perfect fit! Or, you can drop by the store and we’ll check your size. But don’t worry, if you’re buying a ring for someone else and you don’t know their size, we can always resize it later.

Ready to find an engagement ring? Browse All Engagement Rings and find the perfect fit. Not sure where to start? Drop by the store, chat with an online jewelry consultant, or book an in-store or virtual appointment.

The post Signs Your Ring Is Too Tight appeared first on The Loupe.

Many couples dream about what the day that one of them gets down on one knee might look like. Will it be a hot summer afternoon on the beach or a crisp autumn evening in the woods? Will it be a public spectacle for everyone to see or an intimate ritual shared by just themselves? In this survey, we sought to piece together a picture of the perfect 2021 proposal by asking our respondents all about popping the question. 

Methodology

We surveyed over 1,200 Americans across four days in December 2021 and asked them questions about their ideal proposal setting, their thoughts regarding classic proposal elements like the proposer getting down on one knee, and what parts of a proposal they could do without. Read on to see what we found out!

Setting the Scene for the Perfect Proposal

Competition among the top three proposal locations is fierce, with the beach edging out the first date spot (wherever that may be) by just 0.2%! The third most popular location, the mountains, is then behind the first date spot by just 3.8%. The least popular location is an amusement park, as just 1.7% of our respondents say it’s their first choice. So unless you’re dating the biggest rollercoaster fan in the world, probability suggests that you do not propose at your nearest Six Flags if you’re looking for a “yes.”  

The early bird does not necessarily get the worm when it comes to proposals. While 18.9% of our respondents do think the morning would be a good time to pop the question, the majority would sooner opt for a proposal later in the day. Opinions regarding seasons are a bit less divided, however. Spring and fall are the favorites, with spring beating out fall by a margin of just 1.5%, and then summer is only about 10% behind that. This leaves winter as the proposal season underdog, but with just under 25% of our respondents reporting as pro-winter, it really isn’t that unpopular! 

Americans’ Thoughts on Classic Proposal Elements

If you’ve ever wondered whether a proposal should be agreed upon ahead of time or a surprise, our results tell us that 77% of people prefer a surprise proposal to one that’s previously arranged. This probably doesn’t mean that your partner wants you to propose to them in the grocery store three weeks into the relationship, however! 

Times change, and some evidence of this lies in over half of our respondents agreeing that parental permission is no longer a requirement of engagement. Also, if you go from the oldest generation to the youngest, the opinion on time that couples should be together before marriage becomes more conservative. For example, about 85% of Gen Z thinks that a couple should be together for two years or longer before they get married, while only about 50% of baby boomers think the same. 

It might be best to avoid donning your good pants when you’re planning to pop the question. While a bit of dressing up is surely required, 69% of Americans still think the proposer should get down on one knee, and if you’re proposing in the mountains or your first date took place on a hiking trail, a dirt spot on one of your pant legs might be inevitable. 

Considerations for Planning the Perfect Proposal

There are a lot of different opinions surrounding the specifics of the ideal proposal, so let’s start with the most popular ones: 65% of our respondents think a proposal should take place in a meaningful location. This is likely why 21.7% said the first date location would be their location preference, but even if that’s not where you end up, that 65% is a good indication that the chosen location should have some sort of meaning attached to it. 

Our second highest percentage here is the 56% of our respondents that think what is said prior to the proposal is more important than the question itself, so proposer, make sure you have some choice words ready to go before popping the question! But at the same time, 44% of our respondents think that reading a pre-written speech makes a proposal worse, so just try your best to walk that line between preparation and improvisation. 

36% of our respondents say that a proposal should be seen as an event instead of just a question, which probably explains why almost a quarter also say that they’d like for there to be a party afterward. There’s also a small percentage that would like a photographer to be present (10%), and another small percentage that would want their pets nearby (11%). 

The Not-So-Perfect Proposal

You’ve now spent the last five minutes or so reading all about what people think makes a good proposal, but what do people think makes a bad one?

For starters, over 90% of our respondents are against putting the ring in any food or drink at a restaurant. Perhaps it’s the messiness of it all, or maybe it’s the potential choking hazard? But the biggest takeaway from the entire survey might actually be just how opposed many people are to public proposals. A whopping 90% of our respondents think that public proposals pressure the proposee to say yes, and 56% would hate to be proposed to publicly. And if you want to get specific about the public location, 85% of our respondents say they’d rather be proposed to in a parking lot than at someone else’s wedding. So be careful with public proposals in general, but especially if they’re going to take place at another wedding! 

Closing Thoughts

According to our survey, more than three out of every four Americans would rather propose or be proposed to without parental permission than without a ring. While we can’t guarantee that the future in-laws are going to love you, we can make sure you’ve got the perfect wedding ring for your perfect partner. Shane Co. has a variety of engagement rings in every price range and even the option to buy a ring customized to your loved one’s liking. 

The post An Analysis of the Perfect Proposal in 2021 appeared first on The Loupe.

Does size really matter? It’s an age-old question that humans have pondered for generations in a variety of contexts, including in reference to the size of one’s engagement ring diamond. In decades past, the size of the ring was the “be-all, end-all” due to societal pressures, and other engagement ring features like cut, clarity, color, and setting style took a back seat. 

However, in 2021, is it still the size that matters most or have other facets of an engagement ring like quality, brilliance, and style become most important? How do opinions about diamond size vary by gender, generation, relationship status, and even location? 

In our pursuit of answers to these burning questions and more, we asked 3,462 Americans to weigh in. Shane Co. surveyed respondents across various demographics and all 50 states to uncover how much an engagement ring’s diamond size really matters when it comes to proposals. Other questions posed include:

• What is the ideal carat size of an engagement ring?
• Would the diamond size impact your likeliness to accept a proposal from your partner?
• Would you consider upgrading your diamond’s carat size over time?

Read on to see the full survey results and where your state lands on diamond size!

The States Where Large Diamond Sizes Matter Most (and Least)

To start, we asked respondents in all 50 states to rate the significance of an engagement ring’s diamond size on a scale of 1 to 5 (where 1 = low significance and 5 = high significance). The national average rating overall was 2.47 — a bit lower than anticipated. 

With an average rating of 3.18, 28.8% above the national average, Tennessee is the state where residents care about diamond size the most, followed by New Jersey (3.16), Texas (3.14), and Connecticut (3.08). Out of the 10 states where large diamonds matter most in engagement rings, four states are located in the Northeast, and three states are located in the South.

Alternatively, certain states gave diamond size incredibly low significance when it comes to engagement rings. With an average rating of 1.90, 22.8% below the national average, Montana is the state where residents care about diamond size the least, followed by Wyoming (1.96), Iowa (1.98), and Mississippi (2.0). 

Diamond Size Significance by Gender & Relationship Status

Next, we looked at diamond size significance by demographics such as gender and relationship status. Ironically, men and proposers care more about the diamond size of an engagement ring than do women and “proposees”(i.e., the people being proposed to). 61% of men and a strong 70% of proposers think the diamond size is important when it comes to engagement rings, whereas only 47% of women and 46% of “proposees” think the diamond size is truly important. 

According to Cosmo, “women are gravitating towards smaller diamonds now” and are prioritizing features like radiance, setting style, and stone shape above simply having a big rock. New engagement ring trends like stackable rings, yellow gold bands, and vintage settings all featuring smaller stones play a role as well. Wearability in multiple social settings, theft, and security are some of the other reasons people are opting for a smaller diamond. 

What Is the Most Important Feature of an Engagement Ring?

When asking which feature of an engagement ring is most important, more people say shape than size. The largest percentage of respondents (almost 20%) say the diamond shape is most important, followed by carat size (16.6%), clarity (14.5%), and color (12.7%). 

The diamond’s shape is particularly important as it sets the tone for the style of a ring. For instance, princess and emerald cuts evoke an Art Deco vibe. Marquise cuts feel vintage, and cushion cuts are best for a classic, more traditional look. 

When asking which factor is most important while engagement ring shopping, the largest portion of respondents (32%) say beauty/style, followed by quality (29%) and durability (17%). When it comes down to it, aesthetics triumph above all else. The majority of us want to look down at a beautiful ring that matches our taste levels, personality, and sense of style. 

Engagement Ring Statistics: According to Popular Opinion

Surprisingly, 4.3 out of every 10 people say that the diamond size would impact their likeliness of saying “yes” or “no” when being proposed to. 36% of people even admit they would go as far as asking their partner to purchase a larger carat size if they felt unsatisfied. Tough crowd!

The diamond size is far less likely to deter a divorced respondent from accepting a proposal than an engaged respondent. 46% of engaged respondents say that a diamond’s carat size would impact their likeliness to accept a proposal from their partner whereas only 7% of divorced respondents would say the same.

Lastly, the largest portion of respondents say the ideal diamond is 1 to 2 carats and costs anywhere from $1,001 to $5,000 — a range that sits just below Real Simple’s estimated average price of an engagement ring, $5,600. 

Wrapping Up

That wraps up our study on diamond size significance! We’ve learned that depending on geography and demographics, diamond size can be inconsequential or it can be an ultimate deal-breaker! In 2021, we can only hope that at the end of the day Americans will place their relationships above all else.

Know your ideal diamond size and ready to start ring shopping? Shop our Perfectly Preset Engagement Rings or start designing your own!

The diamond size survey ran from January 25 – February 3, 2021.

The post Does Diamond Size Really Matter? appeared first on The Loupe.

Without a wedding band, your engagement ring just doesn’t make the same impression. But choosing just one band can often be difficult – which is why we offer women’s wedding bands in the widest variety of styles, so you can mix and match to create a stylish stack that you can wear year-round. Here’s how to get in on this trend.

Step one:  Experiment with metals

Just because your engagement ring is white gold doesn’t mean your wedding band has to be too. In fact, mixing it up with different colored metals is a great way to create contrast and draw the eye to your sparkling ring finger. Choose from platinum, white, yellow and our signature shade of rose gold to add in an element of playfulness or match perfectly with your ring. Here’s some of our favorites:

It’s true:  simplicity really can’t be beat. This Platinum Comfort Fit Wedding Band is crafted from high-quality platinum for the perfect starter to your stack.

This Knife Edge Wedding Band shines bright in 14k Yellow Gold. It’s a classic style with the on-trend twist of the outward edge, and will look great stacked with other, more intricate designs.

This slim 14k Rose Gold Wedding Band is only 1mm wide, making it just right to add depth to a ring stack. The unique blush tone adds a hint of romanticism to an already gorgeous favorite.

Want something a little different? This Vintage Wedding Band with delicate beaded milgrain detail adds a touch of elegance to a stunning silhouette.

Step two: Add some sparkle

Of course, a ring stack wouldn’t be complete without a little sparkle – this is pretty much a rule at Shane Co. The trick is to find a variety of styles that will add some extra oomph to your look without out-shining your engagement ring.

This Classic Pavé-Set Diamond Wedding Band in 14k Rose Gold holds nineteen round diamonds, offering the best in elegance and radiance.

If you love yellow gold, this Diamond Cluster Wedding Band is just the thing. We love the contemporary style elements paired with graduated diamonds for a modern look.

Sometimes, bigger really is better. Especially when we’re talking about this Round Diamond Band in 14k White Gold. 11 diamonds totaling to 1.11 carats make a splash with this sparkly stunner.

Add a vintage flair with this Vintage Round Diamond Wedding Band in everlasting platinum. Gorgeous diamonds + milgrain details = the perfect ring, in our experienced, biased opinion.

Step three: Experiment with shape

Adding some curves and textural elements to your wedding band stack is a stylish way to draw the focus to each individual ring. We love the look of a contour mixed with straight bands and, of course, your lovely engagement ring.

This Tiara Round Diamond Contour Wedding Band plays double duty with a unique swirl and contour look, mimicking the image of a crown.

Looking for a band that perfectly cradles your engagement ring? We love the look of this Contoured Diamond Wedding Band in 14k Rose Gold!

With baguette diamonds currently trending, this Baguette and Round Diamond Contour Wedding Band in 14k Yellow Gold is a no-brainer. Sparkle, please?

This Vintage Diamond Contour Wedding Band in Platinum is perfect to finish off your ring stack in style. Along with 12 round diamonds, the contoured shape layers beautifully with other rings.

No matter what your style is, you’ll find beautiful wedding bands at Shane Co. Shop all our unique wedding band styles. Don’t forget to use the “drop a hint” feature to let your sweetie know that a new band is the gift you’re dreaming of.

The post Trending: The Wedding Band Stack appeared first on The Loupe.

Whether snow fell during the holidays or not, there is always a flurry of proposals during the festive months. Generally lasting from Thanksgiving through Valentine’s Day, “engagement season” seduces more couples to affiance than any other time of year. At Shane Co., we totally get the impulse to drop to one knee and proclaim your love with a beautiful diamond amid family, friends, and festive cheer.

The holidays have a lot going for them. There’s an abundance of joy, inescapable mistletoe, that extra glass of wine, and loved ones all gathered together to share in your tender moment. Still swooning over how many engagements we’ve helped with so far this season, we decided to learn all about engagements in the United States.

We wanted to know how long people date before getting engaged, what the average engagement looks like, and what, if any, external factors contributed to the decision to propose (or to say “yes!”). Not willing to leave these important matters to speculation, we surveyed 3,100 engaged or married couples across the U.S., including at least 50 respondents from each state. 

Read on to see what we found!

We started where it all begins and asked respondents how many months had elapsed between their meet-cutes and engagements. We discovered that, on average, couples date for about 30 months or just over 2.5 years before engaging! But the national average doesn’t speak for each state individually, and that’s where the results really surprised us.

Ohioans are the slowest to get engaged, not popping the question until after a whopping 47.5 months of diligent dating. If you find yourself star-crossed with an Ohioan, you’ll have that many more romantic evenings on the shores of beautiful Lake Erie. On the opposite end of the engagement timeline spectrum sits Indiana. There must be a strong love potion in the waters of Lake Michigan, because Hoosiers are ready to commit to be betrothed after a brisk 15 months!

Expanding beyond the humble Midwest, we charted the 10 longest and shortest engagement timelines. 

See if your state makes either list in the graphic below!

But knowing where engagements take the longest is only one piece in the mosaic of love. Our next logical step was to take a deep dive into the average American engagement to find out more about the people who are locking into lifelong commitments.

Of course, engagements come in all shapes and sizes. Some are over the top, some are private, some come from seasoned romantics, and others are the product of high school love. Nevertheless, we couldn’t resist trying to map out the most common formula for engagements by the numbers, from the average age to the average number of past relationships.

Our deep dive into the average American engagement revealed that the average engaged couple is 23 to 27 years old and has been dating for an average of 13 to 18 months. The highest percentage of respondents also had two previous relationships lasting six months or longer, so they’re not total strangers to the game of love. This suggests they’ve had substantial interest in finding long-term commitment in the past. 

As for when engagements typically happen, 56% of respondents did not pop the question during the holiday season, while a whopping 44% did! So, are these magical moments as pure as the snowfall on Christmas Eve, or have they been affected by outside pressures from well-meaning family, society, and more?

Pressure from family and friends affected the engagement timelines of nearly 36% of respondents. Parents were the guiltiest party, responsible for putting pressure on 22% of respondents to engage. On the other hand, grandparents, siblings, and friends largely stayed out of the matter.

Respondents felt even more pressure from society, with more than 40% either agreeing or strongly agreeing that it contributed to their engagement timeline. This makes sense, considering how much pressure society puts on us to fit in and be successful in life, love, and relationships. Pressure to marry by a certain age and seeing friends getting engaged first were the top two pressures levied by society.

While men felt less pressure from society than women did, we think that pressure trickled down to them vicariously through their partners. A shocking 52% of men were pressured to get engaged by their romantic partner, compared to just 34% of women.

Finally, while 44% of respondents got engaged during the holidays, only 35% claimed that seasonal pressure contributed to their timeline. 

Overall, we discovered that it can be easy to fall victim to pressures brought on by society, family, and the holidays. But it’s important to remember that committing to another person for the rest of your life is one of the most important decisions you can make and should never be influenced by anyone other than yourself and your partner. 

So, whether you get engaged after six months or six years, make this important commitment only when YOU feel comfortable. And when you’re ready, Shane Co. is here to help you pick out an engagement ring that you’ll treasure forever.

The post Proposal Timelines: How Long Do American Couples Wait Before Getting Engaged? appeared first on The Loupe.

There’s no question that the holidays make for a great time to propose. Long vacations, gorgeous falling snow, extra time with your sweetie, and warm fireplace chats all make for a dreamy setting that’s just right for romance. In case you’re still looking for ideas, we put together a list of some of our favorite holiday proposals.

1. A surprise photoshoot

Planning to take some cute photos for the holidays? Take advantage of the photographer on-hand and snap your proposal instead. This one works best if you start the photoshoot off in a normal fashion, then get on one knee in between frames. Not only is it guaranteed to surprise your sweetheart, but you’ll have beautiful photos to capture the moment forever.

2. Write it in the snow

For something simple and sweet, spell out “Will you marry me?” in the snow while your partner is busy, then lead them outdoors for a special surprise. Of course, this only works if you’re having a white Christmas.

3. Make it personal

One of the best parts of this season is reminiscing on your favorite childhood and holiday moments together. Take advantage of these meaningful memories by proposing at their favorite teenage haunt, the location of your first date, or another significant spot.

4. Wrapped with bow

While it’s not completely unique, wrapping their engagement ring in a gift box with a big bow and sliding it under the tree is always a good option for a holiday proposal. There’s nothing like watching the joy reach your loved one’s eyes as they unwrap the present of forever love.

5. A sweet serenade

If you and your sweetheart are music lovers, planning a carol proposal might just be the way to go. You can hire carolers to knock on the door and end their song with the big question, or you can write your own song and get into the holiday spirit by singing it to them yourself.

Don’t forget the ring! You can shop over a thousand exclusive engagement ring designs at Shane Co., or take our style finder quiz with her tastes in mind if you’re not sure where to start. You can also book a virtual or in-store appointment to speak with an expert jewelry consultant for help in finding the right ring for her. Luckily, Shane Co. is still shipping everything within 3 days, so you’ll have your ring just in time for a holiday proposal.

The post 5 Romantic Holiday Proposal Ideas appeared first on The Loupe.

Procrastination is common — there’s no need to hide the fact that, sometimes, we just need to get something done at the last minute. If the perfect moment for a proposal has suddenly come up, you’re probably beginning to sweat, wondering how you’re going to buy the ring and plan the big moment in a short amount of time.

If you’re looking to buy an engagement ring on a timeline and a budget, here are Shane Co.’s top three tips for doing it well enough to hear that “Yes!”

1. Consider a solitaire ring

If you’re rushing to plan your proposal, chances are you probably haven’t had the time to really figure out what your bride-to-be’s dream ring looks like. In this case, a solitaire ring may be perfect for you. You can still personalize the diamond by choosing a unique shape or particular size, but you don’t have to worry about the engagement ring setting being different from her idea of “perfect.” Not to mention, a diamond solitaire is an all-around favorite for most brides — she can even add a unique decorative crown later on if she so chooses!

“If you want to surprise your fiancée with a proposal,” Shane Co. experts say, “a solitaire ring is a great option. She can always trade it in and select her own setting with you later. Plus, if you’re working on a tight deadline, buying the less expensive solitaire setting first is a great way to make time for you to save up for a more expensive setting, if that’s what she wants.”

2. Look at preset rings

Our perfectly preset engagement rings are rings that you buy with the diamond already mounted in the setting, as opposed to customizing your ring by choosing the stone and setting separately.

“With a preset ring, you may not get to choose your center stone, but you can get a great quality ring with plenty of carat size in a much shorter time frame,” advises an expert. “With personalized rings, it takes more time because you have to set the stone in addition to sizing the ring, which can take up to 3-5 days.”

Psst! If you order a preset Shane Co. ring online, our 2-day shipping comes free with your purchase.

3. Be bold with a sapphire fashion ring

Does your honey love color? Working on a budget not big enough to get her the diamond of her dreams? Looking for a unique ring that will make for a standout proposal? The answer to all of these issues and more lies in a simple stone: sapphire! With royals and celebs alike sporting their very own sapphire rings, you can be sure your bride will be thrilled with this natural colored stone over a diamond.

“Sapphires are the second most popular center stones for engagement rings … and they’re less expensive than diamonds,” says a Shane Co. expert. But remember: “If you’re on a time crunch, custom sapphire rings take more time to build than preset fashion rings. Look for fashion rings with sapphire center stones that still feel ‘bridal,’ and you can have it shipped to you in a matter of days.”

Other advice for the perfect last-minute proposal

Besides buying the right ring, we have a few suggestions on how to make sure your last-minute proposal doesn’t miss a beat.

Keep it simple

Much like going with a solitaire ring, our best advice for mastering your proposal is to keep it focused on the most important part: you and your partner. You don’t need to have planes spelling out “Marry me” in the sky or an over-the-top plan to pop the question to the love of your life. Pick a comfortable setting and take some time to think about what you’re going to say — why do you want to marry them? What’s your favorite thing about them? What are you looking forward to most about married life? Speak from your heart and you can’t go wrong.

Make it personal

Does your love have a favorite movie or song? A certain spot they love to visit, or a memorable location for the two of you? Using these personal details to craft your proposal plan can make it extra special, even if you don’t have the budget for something extravagant.

Do something different

Try switching up your normal routine to add a little excitement to your proposal. If you usually go out to eat or your partner cooks you dinner, try whipping them up a meal from scratch. If you know an instrument, try writing a little song describing all the things you love about them. There are so many ways to make this night special!

The post Tips for a Last-Minute Proposal appeared first on The Loupe.

1. Find their style

An engagement ring is entirely personal. After all, it’s one of the only pieces of jewelry your partner is likely to wear everyday (and forever). So you want to make sure that you’re choosing an engagement ring they really want, rather than just whatever is popular or “in style” at the time of your proposal. Tools like Shane Co.’s engagement ring quiz can help you to figure out what they may want in a ring. But, the best way to discover their style is take hints from your sweetie themselves.

• What kind of jewelry do they wear? 
• Is their style classic, modern or eclectic? 
• Have they brought up engagement rings before?

To gather more information, asking their family and friends is always a good option. Just make sure they know to keep it quiet if you’re looking to make the proposal a surprise.

Browse engagement rings!

2. How much should you spend on an engagement ring?

First, figure out how much you can afford to spend on the engagement ring before you begin your shopping journey. That way, you won’t be presented with rings that are out of your budget so you can more accurately compare styles and stones. Remember that there’s no “rule” to how much you should spend – it relies entirely on your personal finances, priorities and wants. One thing to think about is that an engagement almost always precedes a wedding, so if you want to start saving for an extravagant wedding party, it might make sense to structure your budget accordingly. At Shane Co., you can always upgrade their ring later down the line. With our comprehensive upgrade program, you’ll get the full value of your first engagement ring purchase.

3. How much should I save for an engagement ring?

If you haven’t already begun to save up for a ring, now is the time to start. You can do this by setting a timeline for yourself, putting aside a certain amount per week/month, deciding on a particular amount and simply saving until you reach it, or taking advantage of programs like layaway or credit cards. We recommend, however, having at least half the cost of the engagement ring available at the time of purchase, even if you are able to do monthly payments in the future.

4. Do your research

One of the most important steps in making any big decision is doing your research. Unless you’re already a diamond and jewelry expert (which most of us aren’t), you probably have some questions regarding how to buy a diamond engagement ring, what the 4 C’s mean, what a semi-mount is, and what are the  differences between yellow, white and rose gold – and those are just the first questions that come to mind.

The Four C’s

The four C’s are well-known elements of choosing a diamond. They include the stone’s cut, clarity, color, and carat. Deciding which of the four C’s matter the most to you can help make the process of buying a diamond a lot simpler!

Semi-mounts

A semi-mount refers to a separate engagement ring setting and center stone, that are then put into place by a jeweler. At Shane Co., we sell both preset engagement rings (with the stone already “set” in the ring), and design-your-own semi-mounts.

Diamond shapes

The main diamond shapes include round, cushion, princess, emerald, marquise, heart, oval, pear, and radiant.

Metal types

At Shane Co., we offer engagement rings in a variety of different metals, using high-quality 14k white, yellow, and rose gold as well as durable platinum.

If this seems like a lot of ground to cover, you can just head to a Shane Co. store to speak with one of our jewelry experts. Our staff is noncommission and no-pressure, so even if you’re not ready to buy, it can help to speak with a member of our sales team to learn more about the engagement ring shopping process. You can even conduct subjectivity tests (how do you conduct subjectivity kits?) in-store and compare our diamonds with other jewelers’ to see the Shane Co. difference.

Start with a setting and design your own engagement ring!

5. Where to buy an engagement ring

With the popularity of online shopping rising more than ever, Shane Co. is excited to be able to offer a variety of ways to shop for an engagement ring. You’re always welcome to visit a Shane Co. store near you, but you also have the ability to Browse all of our engagement rings at ShaneCo.com! You can even make a virtual or in-store appointment to get help from one of our expert jewelry consultants. We want to make it as easy as possible for you to create the perfect engagement ring and proposal…because that’s what a friend would do.

6. Buy that ring!

Now that you know how to buy an engagement ring and where to get one,, it’s time to visit a jeweler and make your purchase. You may want to compare a few rings first to see which ones best match the engagement ring you’ve imagined, so it can help to bring in photos if you have a specific idea in mind. Finally, ask your salesperson about any payment plans, re-sizing and purchase timelines before you get ready to pop the question. It will usually take a little time for your engagement ring to be totally ready to go – you’ll probably be informed of this, but now’s the time to ask any questions you still have before taking the jump.

7. Take advantage of exclusive perks at Shane Co.

After purchasing the ring, a lot of scary scenarios may run through your mind:

• What is my partner doesn’t like it?
• What if we want to get a different ring in the future?
• What if it gets damaged or the diamond falls out?

At Shane Co., we offer all our customers a 60-Day Money-Back Guarantee, upgrade program, and Free Lifetime Warranty that even includes your center stone. That way, you can feel confident knowing that your engagement ring is safe. Just bring it in every six months or so for cleaning and inspection, so it can remain as perfect and sparkly as the day you bought it.

Want to start shopping today? You can see all our unique engagement ring settings online, visit us in-store, or shop all pre-set rings for an easy, enjoyable experience.

The post How to Buy an Engagement Ring: The Ultimate Guide appeared first on The Loupe.

Not sure what size diamond is right for you or your sweetheart? Luckily, choosing a diamond for an engagement ring is an entirely personal decision. Whether you’re looking for something simple and understated or something with lots of extra bling, you can find a diamond that’s right for you – and make it sparkle more with a few useful tips and tricks.

What is a good size diamond?

The average engagement ring diamond in the U.S. is between 0.8 and 1.2 carats, according to a survey done by CreditDonkey. This means that if you choose a diamond around that size, you’ll be pretty much in line with the average engaged person. At the same time, there are a lot of other factors that contribute to how big a diamond looks and feels on a person’s hand. The average size of diamonds purchased also varies between states. So while New Yorkers might favor a slightly bigger diamond, in Utah the average size comes in around 0.74 carats. You can read more about the average carat size by state in this helpful article from Shane Co.’s The Loupe.

What about the 4 C’s?

If you’ve begun your diamond buying journey, chances are you’ve heard of the 4 C’s: cut, clarity, color, and carat. Choosing which of these C’s matters most to you can also greatly impact the size of diamond you choose. For example, if you decide that sparkle is most important to you, then you should probably prioritize clarity and cut over carat and color – the less inclusions and better cut a diamond has, the more sparkle you’ll see reflected in the ring.

How to make your diamond look bigger

Of course, there are always a few tricks to make your diamond appear larger than it is.

1. Go for a halo:  Choosing a halo setting can drastically improve the appearance of your diamond, as the surrounding smaller diamonds will create a ring of sparkle that, to the naked eye, achieves the goal of a larger-looking stone.
2. Create contrast with color:  Adding colored stones to your setting can make your diamond “pop” and draw the eye further towards it.
3. Embrace yellow gold:  Much like adding in colored stones, choosing a yellow gold band can have the effect of making your diamond stand out more, creating the illusion of a bigger stone.
4. Choose the right shape:  Shapes like oval and emerald elongate the look of your diamond (and your fingers!), making them appear bigger to the naked eye.

Still want a bigger diamond?

Did you end up with a gorgeous ring but later on are wondering if it might look better with a bigger stone? Luckily, you can always upgrade your diamond at Shane Co. Our upgrade policy is the best in the business – you only pay the difference from what you originally paid. You can upgrade her engagement ring, stud earrings, and more! It’s an easy, no-fail gift she’ll always love to get.

The post What Size Diamond Should I Get? appeared first on The Loupe.

2020 has officially become the year of embracing a “new normal.” From Zoom weddings to best-selling albums created completely in isolation, people all around are embracing new traditions and ways of being. The wedding industry is particularly full of traditions and norms, many of them with a long history — including everything from wearing a veil to “something borrowed, something blue.”

Perhaps the most iconic marriage tradition occurs during the engagement: the groom-to-be getting down on one knee and asking his female partner to be his wife. This is a classic scene, likely originating back to the time of knights and dames. Of course, anybody getting engaged today could tell you that this tradition is no longer universal. Not only is there same-sex marriage equality to celebrate, but there is also evidence of some opposite-sex couples reversing the norms of these traditions as well.

According to The Atlantic, 97 percent of grooms in heterosexual couples reported proposing to their brides in 2019. But, the editors at The Knot have also reported an uptick in women proposing to male partners in the stories shared on its sister site HowTheyAsked.com. The editors attributed this to the “ongoing trend of couples riffing on or outright rejecting wedding and engagement traditions in accordance with their own desires.” 

In fact, there’s plenty of reason to believe more women are proposing to men than ever before. A 2018 Pinterest report indicated that the number of people searching for “women proposing to men ideas” jumped 336% from the year prior. 

At Shane Co., we’re all about shaking up traditions in the name of better partnerships. We also love analyzing new trends in the wedding industry, and it’s clear that women proposing to men is going to continue to be a trend! For that reason, we decided to conduct a survey of 3,160 heterosexual American men in June 2020 to ask them their thoughts on being proposed to. 

Our questions covered areas like: 

• Do men want to be proposed to?
• What do men want from their girlfriends in a proposal?
• How do men feel about the ring situation if their girlfriend were to propose to them?

Are you gathering the courage to propose to your man this year? If so, this data is something you don’t want to miss! 

Survey Findings 

Our first survey question was, “How would you feel if your girlfriend proposed to you?” 

Overall, 60.79% of men reported that they’d be thrilled! To get a glimpse at results across the United States, we analyzed the percentage of men who answered positively by state. As it turns out, the state with the most men willing to be proposed to was Washington, according to a whopping 80% of men who live there. Following Washington, the men in Nebraska (78.85%), Wyoming (74.07%), Connecticut (74.51%), Oregon (70.59%), Hawaii (71.15%), and Ohio (70.59%) are the most willing in the nation to be proposed to. 

As with any tradition, some prefer it the old way. The above map indicates the percentage of men who indicated they’d prefer not to be proposed to by state. According to our results, the states with the most men not willing to be proposed to are: Michigan (38.60%), New Hampshire (37.74%), Mississippi (33.33%), Utah (32.00%), Maryland (30.91%), Arkansas (30.77%), Arizona (30.19%), and Rhode Island (29.63%).

So, for the men who do want to be proposed to: how would they prefer the proposal to go down? As it turns out, the vast majority (94.65%) of men would prefer a private proposal over a romantic dinner instead of a public proposal, like in front of a crowd at a sporting event — which is good news for quarantine proposals! 

Speaking of the big moment, we also asked men how they feel about a complete role reversal: her getting down on one knee to pop the big question. Interestingly, 51.68% reported that it wouldn’t be a huge deal, but it might make them feel weird. 26.14% reported that they’d rather she didn’t, while 22.18% indicated that they’d love it. In this case, it might be better to err on the safe side and ask from a standing or sitting position, or another creative way you’ll know he’ll love! 

We know so much about proposals is the build-up and surprise — so how do men feel about being surprised with the big question? 

The majority of men (52.87%) are down for a surprise as long as the two of you have previously discussed marriage. 33.07% are down to be totally surprised, and only 14.06% would always prefer to know it was coming. Most men (62.38%) also don’t think they would feel pressured by a surprise proposal, which is great information to keep in mind while you’re planning your proposal!  

Now, what about the ring? Tradition calls for a man to buy his bride-to-be an engagement ring, and most men don’t wear engagement rings as a result. What about when the roles are reversed? 

According to our results, most men (60.59%) don’t find it necessary for a woman to buy them a ring if they plan on proposing, but wouldn’t mind it (compared to the 14.06% who flat out said no). On the other hand, 25.35% of men think that they should be proposed to with a ring, so if you’re considering it, check out our selection of men’s wedding and engagement bands!

And how about her ring? Well, if you ask men, 53.07% would still aim to buy their girlfriend a ring, even if she was the one doing the proposing. 41.78% said it depended on whether or not she wanted one, and 5.15% said they wouldn’t buy one for her at all. 

Finally, we analyzed some of the social standards around proposals, and asked men how they might feel about them should their girlfriend pop the question. 

The majority of men (71.88%) don’t think they would feel emasculated by a proposal from their girlfriend. However, the tradition that a man proposes to his girlfriend still looms large in their minds. 45.15% indicated that they wouldn’t feel like a big moment had been taken from them, but the majority of men think they’d feel at least a little bit bummed about not being able to propose themselves. 35.84% answered that they wouldn’t mind, but would still wish they could have proposed themselves, whereas 19.01% of men would definitely feel disappointed in not being able to propose themselves.

Wrapping Up

That wraps up our deep dive into men’s opinions about being proposed to! We aimed to gauge general opinions through this survey, and we hope that our findings are helpful in planning the perfect proposal. All in all, every proposal is unique, just like every relationship is. Ready to take the next step with your perfect partner? Check out our personalized rings to pick the perfect ring for them. 

The post Do Men Want to Be Proposed to? appeared first on The Loupe.

Getting engaged means you’re making a big commitment to another person, and that requires a lot of forethought. Whether you’ve been dating for a few months or many years, there are some questions that just may not come up in everyday conversation. It’s vital to take a moment to communicate with your partner about the future, what they want out of your potential marriage, and some important milestones that could end up shaping how your union looks for years to come.

1. How do you deal with conflict?

Is your partner the type to shut down when things get heated? Do you need time to yourself before being able to talk through a disagreement? Are you both able to let things go once it’s resolved, or does one of you hold a grudge? Even the most well-matched couples are bound to argue, so knowing your conflict communication style is incredibly important when deciding whether you’re ready to tie the knot. You don’t have to have to communicate in the exact same way, but you do have to be able to reach an understanding without completely blowing up in each other’s faces.

2. What are you willing to give up?

If your dream is to own a home, but your partner would much rather rent apartments in a city, is that something you’re willing to compromise on? What if he wants to live by the ocean, while you prefer a desert climate? Some of these things may seem trivial, but knowing what you’re both willing to give up to keep both of you happy will become more and more important down the line. Test the waters by bringing up a few silly situations first, like, “Would you give up wearing the color blue if it meant I’d get to eat my favorite food every day?” to break the ice before moving on to the tougher stuff.

3. What does trust mean to you?

Maybe you think it’s okay to flirt with strangers every once in a while, while your partner thinks even a Facebook comment is taking it too far. Or maybe they’d feel okay forgiving you after a breach of trust, while you think it’s a total deal-breaker. Even if your views change over time (which they probably will), having an idea of what you both consider appropriate and what would truly create a problem in your relationship is something you’ll want to know before getting engaged.

4. What role does religion play in your life?

This one may not seem like a big deal — perhaps you both are semi-religious without spending a lot of time in actual prayer. However, if you’re planning to have children together, you may find that your views on what role religion plays in your family’s lives are vastly different. Take a moment to discuss whether your potential future kids are going to attend Sunday school, be raised atheist, or something in between.

5. What are your long-term and short-term financial goals?

Nobody really wants to discuss money with their significant other. It can be a tricky subject, particularly if there’s a sizeable wage gap between the two of you, or if you have differing views on saving vs. spending. But financial disagreements are one of the highest causes for divorce, so make sure you find out how your partner feels about large and small purchases, how you will deal with any debt either one of you is holding on to, and what you see in your future as far as your finances go.

6. What does independence mean to you?

When you get married, do you expect your partner’s friends to become yours, too? How much alone time you require and which aspects of your life you expect to stay solitary may very well be different from what your significant other expects. Talk with them about what maintaining (or giving up) your independence will look like once you’re legally a “we.”

7. What are your deal-breakers?

Have you always wanted children, but your partner is firmly anti-kid? Love meat but have a honey who’s vegetarian? More importantly: Are any of these differences of opinion too big of a gap to bridge? If there are certain concrete goals you have in life that your potential wife or hubby is decisively against, it’s better to find out now than many years into your marriage.

8. Where do you see yourselves 10 years from now? What about 20?

Marriage is a lifelong commitment — so it makes sense to think at least a little bit about your future together. Even if you’re not entirely sure where you want life to take you, you should have some sort of idea of how you see your marriage 10 or even 20 years down the line. If your image of the future seems radically different from your partner’s, that may be a sign that there’s more to discuss before you get engaged.

What questions did you ask your partner before making it official? Let us know by messaging us on social media @ShaneCompany, or send us an email at social@shaneco.com.

The post 8 Questions to Ask Your Partner Before Getting Engaged appeared first on The Loupe.

Do you want to surprise your girlfriend with a unique ring? At Shane Co., we have countless ways to build an engagement ring that reflects who she is.

We’ve reached out to Amanda Trevizo, our lead bridal designer, for some ideas on how to make her engagement ring as special as she is.

Julie: Amanda, you and your team stay immersed in ongoing jewelry trends. What are three easy ways to make a unique engagement ring?

Amanda: Personalization is incredibly popular right now, and fantastically easy to do and its as as easy as starting with an engagement ring setting. I would recommend the following:

1. Sapphires! Add some color to her ring with one of our gorgeous hand-selected sapphires. We have over a dozen colors to choose from and a variety of shapes.

2. A decorative crown is a gorgeous point of difference for her ring. It’s not overly ornate — just a simple, sweet touch. You can opt for a halo to add a little more sparkle, or you can select a crown to enhance the setting for the center stone. Both will make her setting truly custom.

3. Another great way to create an original look is by curating a band stack to complement her engagement ring. The more the merrier!

Julie: Thanks, Amanda. What’s the best way to get started?

Amanda: Start online. We have some great online tools, like

Budget Buddy, the engagement ring calculator, and Style Finder, our engagement ring style quiz. You can also chat with our jewelry consultants if you have any questions. Have fun with it! It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

There you have it! To learn more about creating an engagement ring that’s built just for her, head over to ShaneCo.com to get started.

The post How to Make Her Engagement Ring Stand Out: Tips from Our Bridal Designer appeared first on The Loupe.

Ready to propose, but not sure how to shop engagement rings without your partner finding out? Don’t worry! Whether you live with your partner or not, it’s easy to find an engagement ring that’s perfect for them without ever leaving home.

Use your personal computer

Do you and your partner share a computer or laptop? Do you have one you use for work, and one for play? Well, it’s best to use your personal computer (if you can) to do your online shopping if you’re hoping to keep the proposal a secret. If you both use the same devices, make sure to clear your history so as not to leave any trails for your significant other.

Pick up on hints

If you’re thinking about getting engaged, chances are your partner’s been dropping hints in one way or another. Pay attention to what they say when you watch movies with engagements, jewelry, or weddings in them to get a clue of what they’re interested in. Have they been gushing nonstop about their newly engaged friend’s ring? Do they hate the look of the halo their favorite movie star is wearing? Use these comments to make sure you’re getting them a ring they’ll really love.

Log on to social media

See if your sweetheart is following certain brands or influencers on social media to get a hint on what their engagement ring style is. Do you have access to their Pinterest? Check out pinned rings for more inspiration — or even send them a link to Shane Co. with a note about our Virtual Try-On feature.

Recruit their friends and family

Even if you’re stuck at home, you can still enlist the help of those closest to them when it comes to picking out an engagement ring. Is there a family heirloom they’ve mentioned? If you feel comfortable, share your plans with family members and friends to see if they have any words of advice or suggestions to help you along your shopping journey.

Create a shortlist

Shopping for an engagement ring online can be daunting. With so many options to choose from, how do you find the right one? The best thing we can recommend is to stay organized. Favorite some styles you know she’d love, and when they start stacking up, compile a “shortlist” of your top five or 10. It’s a lot easier to choose from a few styles than thousands. You can also take advantage of tools like Budget Buddy, Shane Co.’s engagement ring calculator, to make sure you’re shopping rings within your budget.

Don’t overthink it

Here’s the kicker: If your significant other loves you, and you love them, chances are they’ll say yes no matter what ring you give them. While you’ll probably end up proposing with an engagement ring that they’ll love, you shouldn’t stress too hard over all the little details. The most important point is that you’re asking your love to spend the rest of your lives together — and there’s nothing more romantic than that.

The post 6 Tips on Secretly Shopping for An Engagement Ring appeared first on The Loupe.

Is there no one you’d rather be stuck at home with? You don’t need to leave the house to pop the question with these simple and sweet proposal ideas. Psst — you can shop our engagement rings made just for them at ShaneCo.com.

1. Be their sous chef

Taking a cooking class is the perfect way to bond with your significant other — plus, food tastes even better when you’ve made it together. Luckily, websites like Skillshare and Instructables offer tons of fun (and free) classes to help you explore your inner foodie. End a romantic at-home date night with the sweetest dessert: a proposal!

2. Take a walk down memory lane

Now is the perfect time to go back and look at all the memories you and your partner have made together. Create an album, video, or collage and pair it with cards and keepsakes you’ve collected throughout your relationship. Reminisce on your favorite times together before letting your honey know there are so many more to come (once they say yes, of course).

3. Cook them breakfast in bed

Saving time without your morning commute? Make any day a special one by letting your sweetheart sleep in while you make them a fully loaded breakfast. In between sips of mimosas is the perfect time to pop the question.

4. Plan a family reunion

If you can’t imagine proposing without the help of your family and friends, get in touch with them to help you plan a virtual party! Tell your significant other you’ll be attending a webcam dinner with all your favorite people, then surprise them when you get down on one knee for everyone to see.

5. Create an at-home spa night

Just because you can’t go out doesn’t mean you get to skip self-care. Order some face masks, bubble bath, chocolates, and fuzzy slippers to set up a cozy spa night for your honey. Once they feel totally pampered, let them know you’ll always be here to take care of them by asking them to be your spouse!

The post 5 Ways to Have an Unforgettable At-Home Proposal appeared first on The Loupe.

Deciding to get engaged is a huge step, so it’s natural to wonder if your relationship is headed on the right timeline. While there’s some data available on the success of marriages at certain times in our lives, ultimately your relationship is going to follow its own rules depending on the feelings, past experiences, and the expectations of you and your partner. There are, however, a few guidelines to consider that may help nudge you and your significant other towards the aisle.

What age should you get engaged?

There’s conflicting information on what makes a successful marriage work and how exactly age contributes to this success. One analysis of data provided by the National Survey of Family Growth suggests that getting married between the ages of 28 and 32 (and hypothetically, getting engaged about a year beforehand) offers the lowest risk of divorce.

Finding the sweet spot

The theory, which has been touted as the “Goldilocks theory of marriage,” may make sense to a lot of us. In your late twenties and early thirties, you’ve reached an age where you’ve experienced enough life and relationships to have an idea of what you’re looking for in a partner. You’ve most likely completed your education and are financially secure enough to consider having to support another person. You’re also not so much older that you’re set in your ways or can’t make the necessary adjustments that a successful marriage requires.

However, sociologist Philip Cohen reported that interpreting another set of data actually reveals that the highest rate of successful marriage occurs when one gets married in their mid-to-late 40’s, which he discusses further in this peer reviewed article. All of this is to say that there is no “right” age to get married or engaged – although tying the knot under the age of twenty tends to yield more divorces than those who wait until they’re a little older.

How education influences your relationship

A much more significant indicator of when to get engaged actually exists in level of education. Marriage and education influence each other in many different ways, particularly for women. Women (and men) may delay marriage to receive more education, postpone or stop education when they decide to have children, or go back to school when they go through a divorce.

In addition, highly educated people tend to delay marriage to a later age because they are focused on finishing school – leading to lower rates of divorce among this group. In fact, the majority of women getting married in that previously defined “sweet spot” of ages 27-32 are those who have graduated college. It’s possible that the effects we believe are related to age and engagement actually have more to do with education.

Couples are waiting longer to get engaged

So maybe there’s no right age to get married. What about within your relationship? Is there a particular amount of time a couple should stay together before deciding to tie the knot?

Much like the big age question, this is, again, entirely dependent on your personal relationship. Since the 1960’s, relationship timelines have generally spread out; meaning that couples usually want to spend more time together, often co-habitating, before deciding the buy a ring. One interpretation of data from the How Couples Meet and Stay Together survey reveals that over the past ten years, couples may wait up to five years before getting married, often living together for years before tying the knot.

Another survey conducted by Match.com asked 2,000 British men and women to map out their relationship journey and found that there are milestones that tend to repeat themselves at similar times in relationships. Most people in the study revealed that 3 months into a relationship, they were calling each other boyfriend and girlfriend, by 5 months, they were saying “I love you” for the first time, by 6 months they were introducing one another to each other’s parents, and between 2 and 2.5 years they were getting engaged.

Even if your relationship hasn’t moved along in those timelines, being able to see where other couples match up can help you determine how close or far off your relationship is from engagement. Have you already met each other’s parents? Gone on vacation together? Even if you haven’t been dating for that long, hitting these milestones may mean engagement is closer than you think. It may be time to start looking for engagement rings or discussing wedding bands for yourself and your partner.

Relationships are personal

We can’t stress enough the importance of remembering that these surveys are just that: surveys. They don’t take into consideration your own experiences or your relationship with your sweetheart. The key to figuring out how long you should wait before proposing with an engagement ring is to talk about it with your significant other. When the time is right, you’ll both know.

Shane Co. is here to provide all couples with stunning engagement and wedding rings tailored to your relationship. We’re a proud ally for LGBT wedding and engagement rings, and are happy to discuss personalized jewelry for any couple.

The post How Old Should You Be When You Get Engaged? appeared first on The Loupe.

March 20 is National Proposal Day! A day where we celebrate love of every kind — and offer a few tips to help your partner get the message that you’re totally ready for a ring.

1. Leave him clues

A surefire way to let them know what you’re thinking about without being too obvious is to plant some clues for your honey. Oh, you accidentally left your laptop open on some pretty ring photos? How forgetful of you!

2. Use media to your advantage

Putting on shows like “Say Yes to the Dress” or pointing out recently married or engaged friends on social media is a great way to start a conversation. Mention how gorgeous your bestie’s new ring is, or how much you love the look of a mermaid gown. Even talking about what you don’t like is a way to get started — if you see an extravagant proposal on TV that’s very un-you, try saying something like, “I’d be so embarrassed if someone popped the question to me in public like that!”

3. Enlist your friends

Chances are, you’ve already talked to your friends about your desires to get engaged. Luckily, they can be very helpful in nudging your sweetie in the right direction. Ask them to drop hints, or if they’re already coupled up, talk about how amazing being engaged/married has been for them.

4. Be honest

Look — if you truly feel ready to get engaged, you should also feel ready to talk to your honey about it. While giving an ultimatum is never a good idea, being honest about your feelings and wondering where your relationship is headed is totally normal. Keep the lines of communication open and let your partner know what’s on your mind.

5. Go shopping

Looking for a new piece of jewelry? Ask your sweetie to shop online with you. This way, you can “casually” point out rings you like without it seeming like a big deal. If you’ve been together for a while, they’re most likely curious about your tastes anyway!

6. Focus on the future

If you’re considering getting engaged, talking about your vision of the future is something you should already be doing with your partner. Discussing things like where you want to live, how many kids you want, and what your forever home would look like is the perfect way to get your future together on their mind without coming off as too pushy.

7. Do it yourself

It’s 2020, and there are definitely no rules when it comes to engagements! If you know your relationship is ready for the next step, maybe it’s time to take the proposal into your own hands. Check out our selection of design your own engagement rings for women and men, or opt for a simple proposal and go ring shopping together afterwards.

The post 7 Ways to Drop a Hint about Getting Engaged appeared first on The Loupe.

Getting engaged is an exciting event — one that, especially with the influence of social media, can mean you’re jumping through hoops to share the news without hurting anyone’s feelings. Here are a few things to remember when announcing your engagement.

Keep it private

Once you’ve made it official, make sure to consult with your new fiancé about how long you want to keep the news to yourselves. It’s important to take at least a few hours to celebrate this next step in your relationship without feeling stressed out or having to take in the opinions of everyone else in your life. Some couples may even prefer to keep the news quiet for a lot longer — and that’s okay. Remember, it’s your engagement we’re talking about here, not anyone else’s.

Tell those closest to you first

If you’re close to your parents, letting them know about your engagement in person or through a video or phone call should be your first priority. If your relationship with your family is strained, you may choose to let your friends in on the secret before anyone else. In any case, we highly recommend spilling the news to your besties before making it public.

Talk it through beforehand

Are you afraid some of you or your partner’s friends won’t take the news so well? Is your engagement coming right on the heels (or right before) another big event in a relative or friend’s life? Discuss any potential drama with your fiancé before you share the news, so you can make sure to diffuse any potentially awkward situations before they kill your buzz.

Find the right time to post

Once you’re ready to take your announcement public, set aside some time to decide how and when you want to share this exciting update with the world. Posting a pic with your proposal story can save you from having to retell it over and over again, but simply sharing your happy faces with a quick one-liner can do the trick just as well. Make sure you’re posting at a time when being flooded with questions, congratulations, and compliments on your new ring won’t be too much for you — that way, you can take it all in without feeling overwhelmed.

Don’t forget to live in the moment

After sharing your engagement with the world, it may be a good idea to stay off social media for a few days and just enjoy this exciting time. You’ll most likely have some unsolicited wedding advice, opinions on your proposal and ring, and even comments about your relationship once your engagement is made public. While of course much of this will be heartfelt, you may not be ready to jump into wedding planning right away or feel like answering questions when you’re still flooded with feels.

The post How to Tell Your Friends and Family You’re Engaged appeared first on The Loupe.

Part of our role as your friend in the jewelry business is providing our customers with the easiest and best ways to afford their favorite pieces. With the introduction of the new-and-improved Shane Co. Credit Card, it’s simpler than ever to take home that new pair of diamond studs, a beautiful sapphire necklace, or even the dreamiest of engagement rings.

How does it work?

With the new Shane Co. Credit Card, you’ll get:

• No annual fee^†† and no prepayment penalties
• Convenient monthly payments
• Exclusive cardholder perks
• Easy-to-use bill payment options

Finally, you can choose the financing option that’s right for you — including no interest if paid in full within 12 months.†

Interest will be charged from the purchase date if the purchase balance is not paid in full by the end of the promotional period.

^††Standard purchase APR 29.99%. Minimum interest charge $1.

Apply online today to get started or learn more on our website.

Financing guidelines

Our new credit card makes it easy to take home your perfect ring in any budget. Check out the examples below to get an idea of how it would look to take advantage of our 12 months special financing offer.

For this Pave-Set Diamond Engagement Ring in 14k White Gold set with a 1-carat cushion cut diamond, your engagement ring would cost a total of $3,120. With the Shane Co. Credit Card, payments of $260 per month for 12 months would mean you can take this ring home! Budgeting tip: If you pay down half and put the rest on your card, your payments will only be $130/month.

For this gorgeous Halo Diamond Vintage Engagement Ring in White Gold set with a 1.22-carat emerald cut diamond, the total cost of your engagement ring would be $7,425. When you buy it with the Shane Co. Credit Card, each monthly payment would be $619 when taking advantage of our 12 months special financing. By paying down half up front, your payments come down to $310/month.

This Classic Solitaire Engagement Ring in 14k Rose Gold set with a sparkling 2-carat oval diamond would cost $11,325. Using the Shane Co. Credit Card to avoid paying accrued interest, each monthly payment would be $944 for 12 months to take it home. With half of the cost used as a down payment on the ring, your monthly payments will be $472.

For this show-stopping Round Double Halo Engagement Ring set with a 5.8mm (.89 carat) round traditional blue sapphire, your engagement ring would cost a total of $3,645. By making monthly payments of $304 to your card for 12 months, it’ll be all yours! Pay down half, and your payments come out to only $152.

With this Pear-Shaped Diamond Three-Stone Engagement Ring in 14k White Gold set with a .76-carat pear diamond, the total cost for your engagement ring comes out to $4,485. With 12 monthly payments, that’s $374/month. If you pay half up front, your payments will be $187!

Budgeting made easy

Buying an engagement ring is a big purchase — it’s meaningful, sentimental, and long-lasting. Here are a few more tips to make sure you budget correctly for the perfect ring:

1. Start with a budget. Having an idea of what you’re going to spend on the ring will make it a whole lot easier to find the right one. Start by browsing online, then talk to one of our non-commissioned sales associates and let them know what your budget is before you even begin trying out rings.
2. Save up. Even if you plan on using a credit card or another financing service for the total amount, it’s recommended that you save up at least one-third to one-half the cost of your ring. This is to ensure that you’re able to make your payments on time, and will keep you from going overboard with your purchase.
3. Prioritize. Decide which aspect of the engagement ring is the most important for you or your partner — do they have their eye on a diamond-studded halo setting? Or are they looking for a larger diamond to take center stage? Knowing where you want the bulk of your budget to go can help a lot when you start your shopping journey.
4. Take your time. The ring will be worn (hopefully) forever, so there’s no need to rush! Do your research beforehand and make sure you’re getting something that will withstand the test of time. Whether that means a more classic design, a favorite colored stone, or a ring that you won’t mind upgrading later on down the line, this is a decision that merits a lot of thought.

Need some help?

Want to take advantage of your new Shane Co. Credit Card but not sure where to start? Learn all about how to buy a diamond on The Loupe, or shop some of our favorite ring styles below!

Halo engagement rings

This popular style features a ring of diamonds or another gemstone surrounding the center stone, making it appear even bigger and brighter. Shop all halo rings here.

Classic engagement rings

Solitaire, pave-set and other traditional styles make up this always in-style category of rings. Check out all of our classic engagement rings here.

Vintage engagement rings

Inspired by all our favorite eras, vintage-style engagement rings include filigree detailing and delicate curves. Shop all vintage engagement rings here.

^†Deferred Interest if Paid in Full within 12 Months: To avoid interest, you must pay the full promotional balance before the promotional period ends. If you do not, we will charge interest from the purchase date at the Standard APR. After promotional period ends, the Standard APR also applies to the remaining balance. Minimum monthly payments required, but they will not pay off the balance in time. You must make larger payments to avoid the interest. Prior purchases excluded. Account must be in good standing. Limited time offer. Other finance plans may be available. Standard account terms apply to purchases that do not qualify. New accounts: Standard Purchase APR 29.99%. Minimum interest charge $1. Existing accounts, see your credit agreement for applicable terms. Subject to credit approval. Shane Co. financing account issued by TD Bank, N.A.

The post Financing Made Easy: Introducing the New Shane Co. Credit Card appeared first on The Loupe.

With the romance of Valentine’s Day quickly approaching, you may be ready to pop the question to your favorite person. Check out these romantic proposal ideas for inspiration!

1. Give a clue

A romantic scavenger hunt will lead your honey to the ultimate surprise: a new fiancé! Start with a box of Valentine’s Day cards, then leave a clue on each one. When Valentine’s Day comes around, tell your partner to follow the trail of cards. The hunt can take them to your first date spot, their favorite coffee place, or simply lead them to different corners around your home. Just make sure the last card leads them to you, where you’ll be waiting on one knee.

2. A heart-shaped box

Use classic candy conversation hearts or chocolate hearts to leave a trail of sweets for your sweetie. When they get to the end, present them with a heart-shaped box with their dream engagement ring inside.

3. Tune in to love

If your significant other listens to the same radio station every morning, call in and ask if you can do an on-air proposal! They’ll be shocked to hear their name, but even more surprised when it’s followed by, “Will you marry me?”

4. Skiing in style

Thinking of taking advantage of the winter wonderland this February? Plan a special ski trip with your love, then pop the question on the lift as you sail over a gorgeous snowcapped landscape. For extra points, have your friends or even a photographer sit in front of you so they can snap photos of the special moment.

5. Wine and dine

There are few people who would say no to a candlelit Valentine’s Day dinner. Keep it simple and propose at the end of an amazing meal — however, we recommend not putting the ring into their champagne or dessert. You don’t want to risk a chipped tooth or lost ring!

6. The pre-trip surprise

Plan a special getaway for you and your future fiancé. Then, instead of waiting until the actual trip to propose (which they might be expecting), mention that you “almost forgot” something before leaving for the airport. After fumbling with your bag, return with the ring — now, your vacation is truly a celebration!

For more creative proposal ideas, check back on The Loupe. You can also shop for the perfect engagement rings on ShaneCo.com.

The post 6 Dreamy Valentine’s Day Proposal Ideas appeared first on The Loupe.

Justin and Heidi

Justin, originally from St. Louis, Missouri, met his now-fiancé Heidi, from northern Iowa, in Minnesota in January 2019. Justin knew he was ready to get engaged to Heidi almost immediately because of her sweet and captivating nature. Once he selected her engagement ring and diamond, he decided that popping the question at Shane Co. might just be the perfect way to make it official. He ran the idea past Bailey, their jewelry expert at the store, and they started planning.

The proposal

When Heidi and Justin showed up at Shane Co., Bailey greeted them and told Justin to go back to the financing area to check out the rings and make sure everything was correct before picking them up. Meanwhile, Heidi went over to the fashion jewelry area to look at some necklaces and stay busy.

While she was preoccupied, Bailey gave Justin the heads up – and in he came, with a bouquet of roses in his hands and his engagement band as well as her perfect ring in his pocket. After handing over the flowers and showing her his own ring, Justin took Heidi’s engagement ring out of his pocket and popped the question. Heidi happily said yes and the store staff celebrated with them, taking pictures and offering congratulations. They finished off the proposal with a kiss and a celebratory dinner.

Buying the ring

We asked Justin and Heidi how they ended up with Heidi’s beautiful ring and what their experience was like with Shane Co.

Justin: We shopped together, both for the ring and the diamond. My experience at Shane Co. is hard to put into words. From the first step into the Shane Co. store to spending quality time with Heidi and seeing her get overjoyed/excited while looking at rings, to the actual proposal experience – it was effortless, amazing, memorable and life-changing. Last but certainly not least, the service; Bailey did such an incredible job, and without her, none of this could have happened.

Heidi: Excellent customer service means a lot to me and Bailey and Shane Co. certainly displayed the highest level of service. The shopping process was easygoing, no hassle and a lot of fun.

Looking towards the future

Finally, we asked Justin and Heidi what they were looking forward to most about married life.

Justin: Spending every day with Heidi. Falling in love with her over and over every day for the rest of our lives together. Being able to have my best friend as my wife is, quite simply, living the dream – my happily ever after.

Heidi: I’m excited to watch our three kids grow up together and I am forever grateful to be able to share that experience with my soulmate.

The post Customer Stories: Justin and Heidi’s Shane Co. Proposal appeared first on The Loupe.

Engagement ring stacks

Sure, one diamond ring is gorgeous…but two is always better than one. Adding a band to your engagement ring and wedding stack can create a stand-out look that allows you to add some extra bling to your ring finger. Plus, a new band to stack is a great anniversary or birthday gift (psst – you can drop a hint on your favorite styles on ShaneCo.com!).

To create an Instagram-worth engagement ring stack, try pairing different but similar metals with different styles of rings. Check out the videos below for examples.

For our white gold stack, we paired this stunning Vintage Knife Edge Solitaire Ring featuring an emerald-cut diamond with this Baguette & Round Diamond Wedding Band and this Pavé-Set Diamond Wedding Band in 14k White Gold. The result? Sparkling, modern designs that create a cohesive look.

For our rose gold stack, we chose this stunning Solitaire Engagement Ring with an oval diamond center stone, paired with this Classic Pavé-Set Diamond Wedding Band and this Vintage Diamond Wedding Band. This creates a unique vintage-inspired stack in our signature shade of blush-toned rose gold.

Right-hand ring stacks

Of course, you don’t need to be rocking an engagement ring to pull off a sophisticated stack. The trick to pairing up right-hand rings? Get creative! Mix and match metals, styles, heights and more to create something totally original. The more contrast you can create, the more interesting the ring stack will appear on your finger.

For this stack, we paired a Diamond Cluster Wedding Band in 14k Yellow Gold with this Round Diamond Band in 14k White Gold, a Pavé-Set Baguette Diamond Wedding Band and this Oval & Round Diamond Cluster Band in 14k Rose Gold.

For a more delicate stack, try this: pair our Diamond Criss-Cross Wedding Band with this Vintage Wedding Band, this Diamond Wedding Band in Rose Gold with Pave Setting and that gorgeous Pavé-Set Baguette Diamond Wedding Band.

Multi-finger stacks

Want to add allure by wearing your rings on a few fingers? Create this contemporary look by pairing thin, similar rings in different sizes according to how you wish to wear them.

To recreate this look, pair our 14k Yellow Gold Wedding Band with this 14k Rose Gold Wedding Band. You can also stack a band with some diamonds to add a little more sparkle.

Want to try out this trend? Send your ring stacks to socialshane@gmail.com or message us on Facebook or Instagram to see if your look will be featured on our feed!

The post How to Create the Perfect Ring Stack appeared first on The Loupe.

You’ve found your person, you’ve got your ring, and your perfect proposal is already in the past. Now, it’s time to start planning the wedding. But we’ve all heard those scary stories of engagements that lasted well beyond their prime, so how do you know how long is too long?

Well, while most people are averse to still being called fiancé years after you’ve agreed to marry, according to The Knot and Brides.com, the average engagement usually lasts between 12 and 18 months. That’s time for planning, engagement parties, growing closer with your partner, finding your wedding dress, and getting everything in order before the big day. Just because the average engagement length falls within those parameters, though, it doesn’t mean that you’re destined to stay engaged forever if yours lasts longer – this is an entirely personal decision that depends completely on the needs and wants of you and your partner.

Benefits of a long engagement

Waiting until you’re totally ready to tie the knot has some its positives, including:

• Giving yourselves more time to get ready for the wedding means less stress to get things done quickly. Rather than feeling pressured to get everything in place in a matter of months, you’ll have plenty of time to find the perfect venue, save up for expenses, and possibly get better deals on wedding details when you book in advance.
• You’ll have time to get to know each other better. Even if you were cohabitating before getting engaged, taking your time throughout the engagement gives you a chance to talk through all the hard questions you may not have gotten to already. You’ll also get the opportunity to learn more about your significant other’s family, and hopefully begin to knit together into one cohesive unit, even before you make it official.
• As the saying goes, you should expect the best and prepare for the worst. Whether this means having a back-up plan in place in case your wedding doesn’t go entirely as you envisioned, taking advantage of the extra time to let the perfectionist in you shine, or preparing for the new role you’ll soon be filling in your partner’s life, having more time for reflection is always a good thing.
• A long engagement gives you and your partner the chance to catch up to each other if you are at different points in your lives. For example, if one of you is still finishing up school and the other has already started their career, extending your engagement until you’re both in a good financial position can make it a lot easier to plan out your future.

Benefits of a short engagement

Maybe a long engagement just isn’t for you. Here are some reasons why taking the shorter route may be to your advantage:

• If you’re excited to get moving on big life changes, like having children or co-habitating, but want to be married before you get started, then having a shorter engagement just might work out to your favor.
• Less time between the engagement and the wedding means the excitement will still be fresh in everyone’s mind. Waiting too long after getting engaged can make you and your friends and family lose some of the anticipation that they may have had initially about your upcoming nuptials.
• You can escape the “limbo” of engagement and get right to starting your life together – that means returning to your regular work/life balance without constantly worrying about wedding details. Not to mention, the faster you get to call them “husband” or “wife,” the more fun it is for you.
• You’ll probably experience less of a “wedding withdrawal” than you would if you spent months or even years planning for one big day. Instead, you can focus on what comes after the wedding – your amazing new life with your forever love.
• It’s easy to get caught up in the details when it comes to wedding planning. But limiting the time you have during your engagement means you won’t have to worry about the implications of every little detail. It can also force you to make decisions that you might have agonized over if you had too much time to think about them.

Stay focused

No matter how long you choose to make your engagement, the important thing to remember is that it’s yours. Talk with your partner about what the ideal timeline looks to you in addition to just discussing wedding details. And remember: the most exciting part is yet to come! After you pick out your wedding bands, read up on the benefits of marriage over on The Loupe.

The post How Long is the Average Engagement? appeared first on The Loupe.

Step one: Learn the 4 Cs

The grading criteria that jewelers use to determine the quality of a diamond. Here’s a quick tutorial just in case:

Carat:  Diamonds are measured in carats, which is a unit of weight. One carat weighs 200 milligrams, and, generally, the higher the carat amount, the more expensive the diamond will be.

Clarity:  Clarity refers to internal flaws in a diamond. The most recognized and commonly used GIA scale ranges from I3 (inclusions visible to the naked eye) to F/IF (completely flawless under 10x magnification).

Color:  At a glance, you may think all diamonds look about the same, but diamonds range in color from light yellow to colorless and are graded from a range of W (light yellow) to D (colorless).

Cut:  Diamonds are meticulously, thoughtfully and very carefully cut to produce the most sparkle. This attribute, the cut, is graded on a scale of “Poor” to “Ideal.” A cut that is too shallow or deep will make the diamond appear smaller and less sparkly than it actually is.

Step two: Choose your budget

Deciding on a budget can be helpful to do early in the engagement ring buying process so that you don’t end up choosing one that’s completely out of reach. Most people decide on a price range they’d prefer to stay in and move forward from there. Note that your budget will most likely include the loose diamond you choose in addition to the setting, which leads us to the next step…

Step three: Decide on a setting style

Whether or not you buy the setting beforehand, it’s important to at least have an idea of what you or your partner is looking for, as there may be certain settings that look better with particular diamond shapes. In addition, if you’re looking for a simple setting, you’ll have more room in your budget for the center stone – or less, if you’re looking for a more detailed setting.

Step four: Determine what you value the most

Is size a priority when searching for the perfect diamond? Or would you rather have a beautiful cut, even if it means sacrificing the carat weight? Figuring out which aspects of the 4 Cs you value the most will help you immensely on your diamond-shopping journey. Often, deciding to go for a slightly lower grade in clarity or color can give you more wiggle room when looking for a larger, well-cut diamond.

Step five: Choose a shape

Diamonds come in 10 shapes: round, cushion, princess, emerald, marquise, heart, oval, pear, asscher and radiant. They all vary in price and can create unique looking rings. Knowing which shape you or your partner is looking for beforehand can make it easier to look at options when you’re working with a jeweler. If you’re purchasing an engagement ring for your significant other and are not sure what shape she likes, a round brilliant is usually a safe bet – 53% of engagement ring sales consist of a round diamond. To learn more about diamond shapes, study up with this blog post.

Step six: Find a jeweler you can trust

Building an engagement ring is a special experience, and it should be treated as such. This is a rare purchase, one that probably has more sentimental value than financial. Finding a jeweler that will offer a personalized, easy, informative and stress-free experience will help you enjoy the journey, rather than spending any time worrying if you’ve made the right choice. Shane Co.’s non-commission staff of diamond experts will help guide you to the perfect stone, even if you’re not sure where to start.

Step seven: Compare, compare, compare

The easiest way to find out if you’ve found the perfect diamond is to compare them to others. Did you know that even diamonds within the same grade can appear quite different? At Shane Co., we offer a diamond subjectivity kit that allows you to compare diamonds – even those of the same grade – so you know exactly what you’re getting. Here’s a tip: the grade of a diamond is simply a marker of its attributes. The best way to determine how it’s going to look in an engagement ring is to inspect it in person, in natural-looking light.

Step eight: Complete your ring

Once you’ve decided on a diamond, it’s time to put together your ring! At Shane Co., you can choose a loose stone and engagement ring setting at the same time and our expert jewelers will assemble and size your ring to your specifications. You can even customize further with engravings and unique decorative crowns.

That’s it! If you have any other questions about the diamond buying process, visit us in-store or contact us to speak with one of our jewelry experts. We love providing our customers with the tools they need to make an informed decision that they’re truly satisfied with – because that’s what a friend would do.

The post How to Buy a Diamond: The Ultimate Guide appeared first on The Loupe.

Realizing you’ve found the person you want to spend the rest of your life with is, of course, totally amazing — but it can also bring on fear and anxiety as you begin to plan your proposal. After all, this is a big moment, and you want it to be special for both you and your partner. But how do you know you’re taking the steps to ensure your proposal goes off without a hitch? This helpful guide will point you in the right direction.

What to do before you propose

1. Know you’ll get a “Yes”

Although your proposal will probably be a surprise, you don’t want to ask someone to spend the rest of their life with you if you don’t have a clue how they feel about it. Ideally, you’ll already have discussed the concept of getting married with your partner, even if you haven’t been explicit about the “when” and “how.” If you haven’t actually broached the subject but feel confident you’re both on the same page, then the hardest part of your proposal should be planning it — not worrying if they’ll even want the ring.

2. Consult with their family

While this may not be the case for every relationship, many couples still consider “getting permission” from one party’s parents to be an important step in the proposal process. In modern times, it’s less of an ownership thing and more of a sign of respect to make sure that parents are okay with their son or daughter settling down. Chances are, you already know they’ll be thrilled, and it’s more of a formality than anything else.

3. Pick out a ring

Our favorite part! While the spur-of-the-moment proposal is certainly one way to go, there’s definitely a lot to be said about going the traditional route and proposing with the perfect ring. Make sure you do some research beforehand — pay close attention to her style, ask her friends and family for advice, stealthily figure out her ring size, and maybe even check out her Instagram or Pinterest favorites for ideas. If you’re still not sure what she likes, it’s best to go with a classic style, such as a solitaire or pavé setting. When choosing a stone, round diamonds are also a safe bet — they make up over three-quarters of all engagement ring purchases.

4. Start planning!

Does your fiancé(e)-to-be love a good meal? Are they crazy about the outdoors? Would they prefer to be asked in private or surrounded by their friends? These are all questions you can ask yourself while you start to plan the big moment. Every proposal is entirely personal, so it’s pretty impossible for us to say what they’ll like for sure — just remember that the more customized it is to them and your relationship, the more likely they are to love it. Think about some of your favorite times together and use that as inspiration when you go about your planning.

5. Practice your speech

This isn’t the Oscars — you don’t need to have every word of what you’re going to say planned out. In fact, you’ll most likely get carried away when the moment comes and end up going off-script. But it definitely will help to write down your thoughts, any special memories or favorite things about your partner to have in mind when you pop the question. The last thing you want is to go totally blank when it’s finally time to ask, and practicing what you’re going to say is a sure way to stop that from happening.

6. Strategize for afterward

After you’re officially engaged, we’re willing to bet you and your fiancé will be in a celebratory mood. There’s no need to plan a whole party, but having dinner and some champagne ready, or even having your friends on standby, can make the night feel extra special. You know your partner best and will be able to determine if they’d rather celebrate with just the two of you or go all-out — use your knowledge of them to guide your decisions.

What to do during the proposal

1. Find the perfect moment

Unfortunately, your well-thought-out plans may not always match up with reality. Make sure to remain a little flexible, and don’t rush your proposal just because you’re trying to stick to a strict timeline. You’ll know when it’s time to pop the question because you’ll be able to feel it. Listen to your gut!

2. Get the ring ready

Consider storing your ring in an easily accessible place, such as your coat jacket or the inside of a pair of high socks, for ultimate safekeeping. We highly recommend keeping it in the ring box to avoid any unintentional losses — this is one purchase you want to be extra careful with.

3. Take your time

This is a moment you’ll remember for the rest of your lives, so there’s no need to rush! Hug, kiss, cry, scream — whatever feels right, let yourselves feel it. You may need a while to process all the excitement before you even have a chance to put on the ring or move on to whatever else you have planned for the night. Instead of watching the clock, savor these moments while you can.

4. Be photo-ready

Maybe you hired a photographer to capture the precise moment you got engaged, or maybe you brought along some film to record it yourselves. Either way, you’re going to want some photos to look back on in the years to come. Here’s another tip: If you’re proposing to your girlfriend, you may want to book her a nail appointment that day so her hands are newly painted and exfoliated for the first shot of her engagement ring.

Still unsure of how you’re going to propose? Check out these unique proposal ideas for some inspiration. You can also start proposing with an engagement ring on ShaneCo.com!

The post How to Propose 101: The Guide to the Perfect Proposal appeared first on The Loupe.

Trending rings

This stunning Vintage Halo Diamond Engagement Ring is one of our most-loved styles on social media. We decided to show what it would look like paired with this gorgeous Vintage Filigree Contour Wedding Band, since they go so perfectly together. The gentle contour wraps around this ring beautifully, and the filigree detailing works in tandem with this engagement ring’s classic style. This wedding band will also work for the newest iteration of this popular ring.

It’s no surprise that halos are trending well – after all, who doesn’t love some extra sparkle? This Round Diamond Double Halo Engagement Ring features two layers of pave-set diamonds surrounding your center stone, for an eye-catching look that would also look gorgeous with a sapphire. We recommend adding these Diamond Wedding Bands in 14k White Gold for this ring. They are the same width as the band, and one on either side of your engagement ring will balance out your look – plus, more diamonds!

Classic styles

This Solitaire Yellow Gold Engagement Ring is absolutely perfect in its simplicity. We love the classic design, which would look beautiful with any shape of diamond, sapphire or ruby. To add a little flair to this simple style, we recommend pairing it with our Bezel-Set Diamond Wedding Band or this dazzling Round Diamond Solitaire Engagement Ring Wrap – keep in mind, this one will only work if you have a round center stone.

Did you know that a three-stone engagement ring is meant to represent the past, present, and future with your future husband or wife? That’s just one of the reasons we love this Classic Three-Stone Princess Cut Engagement Ring. This ring goes beautifully with our Round Diamond Vintage Wedding Band in 14k White Gold. The intricate details will bring out the vintage style of your three-stone stunner perfectly.

Made to match

Did you know that Shane Co. also has pre-matched engagement ring and wedding ring sets available? If you’re looking for the perfect pair, these matching styles will leave you breathless.

Add a splash of color with this Traditional Blue Sapphire and Diamond Wedding Set in 14k White Gold. This vintage-inspired design stands out with 13 round traditional blue sapphires and 76 round diamonds.

Three rings come together as one in this Vintage Diamond Wedding Set in our signature shade of 14k rose gold. Gorgeous detailing makes for a unique set in this unforgettable style.

Discover the ultimate in elegance with this Frame Halo Platinum Wedding Set with Round Diamond Accent. A center emerald cut diamond shines beautifully surrounded by intricate details and pave-set diamonds.

Want to see more wedding bands? Head over to ShaneCo.com to find the right one to match your engagement ring, or shop all wedding band and engagement ring sets.

The post Which Wedding Band Matches My Engagement Ring? appeared first on The Loupe.

1. Not setting a budget

Listen, we get it – talking about how much it’s going to cost is probably the least romantic part about buying an engagement ring. But figuring out how much you’re willing to spend is vital to finding the right ring. Take into consideration other expenses down the line – are you saving up for a big wedding? A house? Still struggling to pay off student loans? Or, conversely, do you have a nice chunk of change set aside for this once-in-a-lifetime purchase? It’s your jewelers’ job to find something amazing within your budget, not the other way around. P.S. don’t forget about financing and other options available to you when considering the cost of the ring!

2. Doing it all on your own

It’s likely that you’re still hoping your proposal will be a total surprise for your sweetheart. However, trying to tackle buying an engagement ring without the help of those that know your partner well, in addition to someone who’s an expert in all things bridal, is a common mistake that can be easily avoided. You can keep aspects of your engagement a surprise while dropping hints to your future fiancé to figure out what ring she’d like best. If you want to stay tight-lipped, try asking her friends and family what style she would be into. In addition, make sure you’re dealing with an expert jeweler that can help educate you on the ring-buying process – the salespeople at Shane Co. don’t work on commission, so you’ll be in a no-pressure environment and can ask all the questions you’re unsure about.

3. Not doing your research

What’s the first step to making any big decision? Research! In the digital age, there’s a plethora of resources available to you online to learn about diamond shapes, quality, engagement ring setting styles and more. Plus, you and your partner can use tools like our engagement ring style finder quiz and Matchmaker to figure out what style ring she really wants. Walking into a jewelry store without having done any research is like walking into battle without any weapons – you want to be as prepared as you can be.

4. Focusing too much on the paper

It’s important to know the 4 C’s before you begin your diamond buying journey, and asking for a diamond certification is definitely a smart move. But relying solely on how your ring looks “on paper” can be a major misstep. Did you know that diamonds of the same grade can still vary greatly in appearance? That’s why you should always examine your ring in-person before making a decision. A less expensive diamond with a lower clarity grade may even appear similar to a highly graded one, if the inclusions aren’t visible to the naked eye, or can be easily hidden by prongs or other elements of the setting. Ask your jeweler to compare different diamonds to see for yourself what your options are.

5. Trying to stay “trendy”

If you’re paying attention to all the latest trends, you may notice that certain styles receive a lot of attention, then seem to fizzle out after a couple of months. Even if you’re honey is a fashionista, you should probably think twice before opting for “trendy” over “classic.” Everyone’s style is different, but remember that this is one piece of jewelry your significant other isn’t just going to replace when it goes out of style.

6. Getting carried away in the moment

Shopping for an engagement ring is an emotional experience. It symbolizes the love you share with another person, a sign that represents your lifelong commitment and intent to form a beautiful family of two. That means that it can be easy to find yourself spending way more than you planned to or going for extravagance instead of thinking about what your partner really wants. We’re not saying you shouldn’t get passionate and enjoy the experience – of course you should! But keep your goals and budget in mind while you’re waxing poetic about this big decision.

7. Rushing your purchase

You most likely haven’t rushed your decision to get engaged, so why would you rush your decision to pick the perfect engagement ring? Here’s one of the best tips we can give you:  take your time. The perfect proposal will still be waiting for you whether you decide on the first ring you see or take the time to compare a few. The salespeople at Shane Co. are happy to spend their time discussing the attributes of each ring, comparing similar diamonds, showing you different shapes, and educating you on the entire ring-buying process.

8. Forgetting about the warranty

It’s easy to get caught up in price comparison when making a big purchase like a diamond. What most people forget, however, is that perks like the warranty and re-sizing can add a significant amount to your total at the end of your shopping journey. Shane Co. offers a completely free lifetime warranty that includes the center stone of your engagement ring. That means that your ring is protected – for free, for life. Most other jewelers charge additional fees for their warranty, which often does not take into account the center diamond.

The post 8 Mistakes to Avoid When Shopping for an Engagement Ring appeared first on The Loupe.

At Shane Co., we feel honored to be a part of so many engagements each year. Getting engaged is a huge milestone, and with so many components and decisions leading up to getting engaged, it’s no wonder there are so many traditions surrounding it.

Tradition helps us determine how to act in situations we might not know how to navigate otherwise. They are not set in stone (forgive the pun), however, and often have interesting, meandering histories. Did you know that men kneeling to propose might have originated in the Medieval era with men devoting themselves to their Earthly ideal, often a noblewoman? That’s why it’s so appealing for us to find out what proposals look like today. How many of these traditions have lasted and how many have changed with the times?

We decided to conduct a survey to determine what proposals and engagements look like today in the United States. We surveyed 1,376 married or engaged U.S. adults about what their proposals, from the relationship beforehand to the photos taken after looked like.

Read on to discover our findings! 

Average Relationship Timelines

First, we decided to dive into what relationships, from the first date to the wedding day, look like on a timeline. We asked our participants how long they dated their partner before they got engaged, how long they lived together before their engagement (if they did), and how long their engagement lasted. We then broke down each segment into averages by generation and by sexual orientation. 

So what does the average relationship timeline look like by generation? According to our findings, Gen Xers had the longest relationships before getting engaged, with an average of 25 months or just over 2 years. Couples of the “latchkey generation,” which is noted for its emphasis on independence and individualism, lived together the longest before getting engaged, with an average of 14 months. 

We also found it remarkable how engagement lengths have varied greatly over the generations. Baby Boomers were engaged for less than a year on average, while Gen Xers were engaged for 18 months. Millennials had engagement periods of around 16 months, which is the average overall. We suppose Gen Z will determine whether the average engagement period increases or decreases over time! 

Similarly, we observed differences between the relationship timelines of opposite-sex and same-sex couples. Same-sex couples dated for much longer before getting engaged, an average of 29 months, which, of course, must be considered in the light of marriage equality in the United States. Same-sex couples also had longer engagement periods and lived together longer than opposite-sex couples.

Of course, there are many other reasons engagements and relationships prior to marriage might look different among various couples. We also asked questions about our respondents’ lives when they got engaged; what stage of life were they in when they became affianced? 

Life Around Engagement

As engagements and proposals have changed, so have the lives of those getting engaged. More often than ever, couples may own a home together or have children together before they get engaged. After all, there isn’t one right way to get engaged!

In fact, traditions aside, 47.3% of couples moved in together before they get engaged. Although they tended to live together for a relatively short period (46.7% lived together for a year or less before getting engaged), living together is a noteworthy precursor to getting engaged.

While the majority of couples surveyed did not own a home together before getting engaged, our results indicated that opposite-sex couples (38.1%) were more likely than same-sex couples (31.5%) to close on a house before their wedding day. 

Popping the Question

Picture a proposal in your head. We’d venture to bet the image that comes to mind involves a man on one knee, a diamond ring, and a wonderfully surprised girlfriend. Of course, popping the question has a highly traditional element to it. But are people today following tradition? 

The median engagement age of our respondents was 26, close to the national average of 28 for women and 30 for men. This stat is on trend that the age at first engagement has been steadily increasing for decades. In 81% of couples, the standard picture of men doing the proposing remains accurate, as does the element of surprise, which is still the case in 73% of engagements.   

A feature of 21st-century engagements is their public setting, such as at sports games or concerts. However, the fact remains that 68% of engagements are private, with only 4% of engagements taking place in a highly public manner. 

The Ring

It’s no surprise that at Shane Co., we have a huge interest in the ring part of engagements. Not just in the most popular stone or setting chosen, but the cultural norms that surround them. Historically, it was expected for a male fiancé to purchase a ring, which he gifted to his betrothed for her to wear throughout the engagement period.

Naturally, things have changed over time. 85% of proposals still involve a ring, with 13% of couples splitting the cost of that ring. When you break it down by sexual orientation, 24.8% of same-sex couples and 11.5% of opposite-sex couples split the cost of the ring. 

Shopping for engagement rings has changed too. 60% of opposite-sex couples and 70% of same-sex couples pick the ring out together, instead of one partner choosing for the other. When it comes to getting engaged, however, 53% say the ring doesn’t matter at all, while 6% of people would turn down the proposal if they didn’t like the ring. 

Finally, we decided to take a look at how deeply some popular engagement trends of recent decades have influenced proposals. 

Engagements and Culture

Popping the question is a huge moment. It can be the culmination of months of planning and years of being together. There’s also plenty to consider when it comes to culture and trends: will you ask your partners’ parents’ permission? Will you have a photographer present? Will it be exactly how you and how you envision your partner always wanted?

Interestingly, though only 4% of engagements are fully public, 56% of people reported that they would prefer a public proposal. Even still, only 19% of engagements have a photographer present to capture the moment, although having engagement photos taken after the fact have become increasingly popular with each generation.

Still erring on the side of traditional, 52% of people ask for parents’ permission before proposing. Unfortunately, 22% of respondents stated their proposal was not exactly what they wanted. Luckily that means more than three-quarters of people DO have the engagement of their dreams. 

What About You?

We’d love to hear your thoughts on our survey results, as well as hear about your own experiences with proposals and engagement norms. What did your engagement look like? Did you follow tradition or do something completely your own? Did you have an awesome photoshoot, or are those memories simply left in your head? We welcome your comments and pictures via email (social@shaneco.com) or on social media (@shanecompany).

The post Engagement and Proposal Traditions in the United States appeared first on The Loupe.

Still wondering if you’ve really found “the one?” Been curious about trying couples therapy but were too nervous to start? Questioned how to let your partner know that you’re ready for the next step in your relationship (engagement rings)? Well, the answers to these questions and more may surprise you.

We had the chance to interview Zach Brittle, a Gottman-certified therapist and author of Amazon’s best-selling The Relationship Alphabet: A Practical Guide to Better Connection for Couples. Zach has been counseling couples for over 12 years, using the Gottman approach of evidence-based couples therapy based on 40 years of marital research. He’s also the founder of forBetter, which offers online courses for couples, and the founder and cohost of Marriage Therapy Radio. We used our time with Zach to pick his brain about what makes a successful marriage possible, what to look for in potential partners, and how to know for sure that you’re ready to get engaged (hint: it’s complicated).

What are the most important questions couples can ask themselves before deciding to get engaged?

ZB: There are three main questions. Number one is, why get married at all? What’s your reason for getting married? Some people get married for a green card, for health insurance, for their parents’ approval, for love. The reason is not always clear right away.

Number two: Why this person? What are they that other people aren’t? What do I feel uniquely with them that I haven’t felt in other relationships? I usually recommend they write down 100-250-word concrete answers. Not just, “I love them” or, “They’re the one.” You need clarity.

Finally: Why marry this person? This one is less important than the others, but it kind of works in tandem. You can spend your whole life with somebody and not get married. So what is it that you want out of marriage with this person?

One of the things that Gottman discovered was that all couples have issues, and, actually, about 2/3 of a couple’s issues are permanent. They’re baked into the relationship — because she’s an introvert and he’s an extrovert, he’s messy and she’s neat, they speak different native languages, etc. I think it’s important for couples to know that many problems may last forever and that they begin to do some inventory on identifying those things. What is it that we know will never go away? It’s going to affect their marriage forever. Some of those things are deal breakers — and if they are, it might be better off that they don’t get married. If he wants to live by the ocean and she wants to live by the mountains, or if one wants kids and the other doesn’t, those can end up destroying the marriage. So these are things that couples need to talk about beforehand.

Are there any predictors for a healthy marriage (i.e., what qualities should we look for in relationships to ensure a healthy marriage)?

ZB: The most popular predictors that we talk about at the Gottman Institute are the predictors of divorce. We call them the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse: criticism, contempt, defensiveness and stonewalling. They don’t tend to show up real clearly early on, but you can tell. You can note when those things are inherent in your partner.

What’s really, really critical is that couples have a capacity for repair. All couples are going to have conflict, and conflict doesn’t stress me out. If they argue, fine, but if they can’t repair, that’s a red flag. Couples focusing on learning how to extend and acknowledge and receive repair attempts is a signifier of intelligence that they can sustain a relationship.

What’s your favorite piece of advice to give to couples who are thinking about getting engaged?

ZB: Have some vision for the marriage, not just the wedding. In my context, couples want premarital therapy, and I don’t really offer that — I call it “transition to marriage” therapy. You can have therapy before marriage, but you ought to commit to some therapy afterwards, too. Slow and steady wins the race, and most of the work you do to get ready for marriage is going to be in the actual marriage, not planning the wedding or honeymoon.

Evidently, the “honeymoon phase” isn’t just a saying. Limerence phase — that’s the technical word for it. It lasts about two years and is fueled by adrenaline and novelty and newness … and it always ends. There has to be an awareness that what’s fueling your romance is more than just the newness or the fun. I think it’s really different now, too. It used to be you sort of slowly meet people and then you fall for them, then build your friendship and then eventually you have sex and so forth. These days it feels like people are putting that in reverse order. But there has to be a sort of sobriety about marriage.

In addition, this idea that 50% of marriages end in divorce is actually not correct — it’s really quite a bit lower. But most marriages that end in divorce end in the first seven years. Therefore, the first seven years are the years that require the most doggedness about the fact that your life has changed. A lot of people need to understand that, yes, it’s challenging, but it’s so rewarding after you get over that hill.

What’s the best way to bring up getting engaged to your significant other?

ZB: If you’re not sure that you and your partner are entering a part of your relationship where you’re thinking about marriage, then it’s probably not time to bring it up. Unless it’s just saying, like, “Hey, I have some ideas and I was wondering how you feel about this for the future.” The best advice I can give is to say that it’s not one 60-minute conversation, it’s more like 60 one-minute conversations where you’re kind of checking in. If there’s any kind of hint where one partner really wants to get married and the other isn’t sure, I would say don’t do it. However, if they say they aren’t sure about marriage at all, then it also gives you the chance to re-evaluate and think, “Okay, is this the right relationship for me?”

Have you noticed any new trends in marriage over the past few years (i.e. couples getting married later in life, couples getting married after having kids, etc.)?

ZB: It’s kind of hard to measure trends because my practice is so diverse. But I would say I suppose couples are getting married later in life … now, they’re more likely to live together for a while before getting married. I think that maybe people are delaying it — it’s more about choice. People used to get married to show that they are an adult. They had a list of what it means to grow up: get married, have kids, etc., and were sort of checking things off that list. Now, you get married because you’re an adult.

What’s the goal of couples therapy?

ZB: My goal is to find out what their goal is. Sometimes people just want some tools, and I can go, “Hey, that’s great.” But what are you building? What tools do you already have? Which ones are broken? For me, one huge goal is to make sure the couple is not therapy-dependent. I don’t want them to waste their time with me. Couples therapy doesn’t work — couples work. If they’re interested in transitioning their relationship, I want to work with them to figure out what their goals are and how I can help them reach them. Sometimes they want to have more sex, sometimes they want to make sure they’re not ignoring red flags, sometimes they want to learn how to deal with conflict better. It really depends on the couple’s agenda, and they might not even be aware of what they want when they come into therapy.

Is there a certain amount of time you recommend a couple date or live together before getting engaged?

ZB: It really depends on the couple. You have to consider that there are couples that are in arranged marriages who have never met and they still find a way to make a successful relationship, and there are also couples that live together for a long time and never get along. I don’t think there’s a standard timeline for everyone.

It’s all about their answers to those vital questions we talked about. For example, in an arranged marriage, the answers might be pretty straightforward. Why get married? Because marriage is a cultural covenant, it’s a way of protecting our religious community. Why this person? Because I trust my community to set me up in a way that will help me and my family be active members of the culture and fulfill a purpose. So they would use those answers to leverage their relationship, to make it work for both of them.

Really, there needs to be more of a “why” than a “how” or “how long.”

How important is it to discuss finances before getting engaged?

ZB: Pretty important. The hard thing about money in a relationship is that it’s measurable. So, if I make 100k and you make 70k, do I have 30k more value than you? What does it mean in terms of who’s staying home, how much spending money you’ll have, etc. Couples need to be clear about their attitudes toward money.

It’s one of those places where you get to say, “This is mine and this is hers or his.” Any time you have an “I” instead of a “we,” it creates an opportunity for struggle. What are we going to do about the math? And how do you make meaning, how do you make sense of money? You don’t want to get on the other side of the altar and have him say, “You make this much and I make that much so I get this much spending money and you get that much,” if that’s not how you actually want things to work throughout your marriage.

How did you know you were ready to get engaged to your current wife?

ZB: I don’t think anyone’s ever asked me that question. I’ve been married for 23 years, so I was 23 when I got engaged. I was probably in the category of people who thought that this was the next thing I was “supposed” to do, that this was how I was going to become an adult. In hindsight, I don’t know if I was ready. I dated a bit, but I was fresh out of college and we got engaged after a year and a half. I guess I just kind of knew. We were talking about it a lot and it was something we did together, not just like, “Surprise!”

I always say I’ve been happily married 22 out of 23 years. Around the eighth year, we almost broke. I would say I’ve been married to my wife twice. The first seven years were fueled by fun and newness, and the last bit has really been about knowing what it is to be on the brink and come back from the brink. The quality of the choice changed. At first you say “I do” to love them for richer or for poorer, through sickness and in health, but you really have no idea what you’re saying because you haven’t experienced any of that yet. After you have, and you can still say “I do,” the bond is stronger.

In therapy, couples get to talk about those powerful vow words, like “richer and poorer,” and try to figure out what it really means. To be truly successful in marriage, you have to experience it for yourself and come out the other side together.

How have you (and your wife) benefited from getting married?

ZB: We definitely get to operate in a certain kind of way. For one thing, we’ve created children, which has been a benefit to us and our community. We’ve benefited from experiencing the culture of marriage, whether it’s through church or friends or family. And there’s a comfort in knowing that you get to share your life with somebody. Ideally, somebody is there to walk with you through life, which can be a beautiful thing.

The post Why Get Married at All? Advice from a Couples Therapist appeared first on The Loupe.

DO:

Print out inspirational photos ahead of time. It can be super helpful for your engagement ring consultant to get a general idea of what your style is and what inspires you before beginning your shopping experience — and what better way to do that than to literally show them what you like? Narrowing down your options, even to something like metal type, makes it much easier to start looking…and will be way less stressful for you in the long run.

Discuss your budget. While this may not be the most romantic thing to think about, it’s important to have an idea of what you’re able (and willing) to spend before you walk into the store. Determining things like who is paying for what and how much you can spend will ensure there are no awkward in-store conversations or confusion. Instead, you can focus on your dream ring and help your engagement ring consultant find you the biggest, brightest diamond and setting you can afford.

Create a timeline. If you find “the one,” are you planning on buying the ring that day or at a later date? Options such as financing and layaway will nearly always be on the table — or maybe you want to pick out your ring with your sweetheart, but have him come back and make the final call so your proposal will be a surprise.

Make it an experience to remember. While it can be tempting to just wander around, remember that this is a purchase that holds a lot of meaning and symbolism. You may want to plan a lunch or dinner, dress up, or schedule specific times to go ring shopping — that way, you won’t just have the ring, you’ll have an engagement ring shopping experience you can think back on and remember fondly.

DON’T:

Try to go everywhere in one day. We don’t recommend trying to see more than three stores in one day (or weekend). Simply choose your top three and visit those. Having too many options can often lead to making an impulse decision, rather than choosing what you really love most.

Set hard goals. Far too often, we see couples come into the store looking for a specific carat weight, only to find out that it’s well over their budget. It’s important to do research to determine what you’re looking for and what you can afford with your budget, but we do not recommend setting any hard goals. For example — if you said you wanted a 1.00-carat diamond, you may not have known that you could also afford a 1.50-carat stone with a lower color and clarity. You’ll miss out on a lot of gorgeous options if you come in with too many set goals in mind.

Make a decision based solely on the ring. Before purchasing your ring, be sure to ask about added benefits like warranties, returns, sizing and upgrades. Many jewelers charge after the ring purchase for these options, and you may be surprised at how much it all adds up. A jeweler who offers all of these free with purchase may be a better option, even if the ring itself is a little more expensive.

Expect to wear your ring the day of purchase. Many times, your ring will need to be resized or set before you can actually take it home. This is especially true if you’re customizing your ring by choosing the stone and setting separately. Keep this in mind when you go engagement ring shopping, so you aren’t taken by surprise when you hear there’s a waiting period.

The post Engagement Ring Shopping Dos and Don’ts appeared first on The Loupe.

The leaves are beginning to change colors, jack-o’-lanterns are being placed on people’s doorsteps, and you finally get to wear that sweater-and-boots combo you’ve been staring at since June. That’s right: Fall is here! Along with the change of the seasons and the thousands of pumpkin spice lattes, autumn brings along a sweet nostalgia and romance that sets the perfect backdrop for a proposal. Here are some of our favorite out-of-the-box fall proposal ideas.

1. S’more romance

A quiet night next to a roaring fire is the ultimate in fall experiences. But before you set your marshmallows ablaze, sticking a gorgeous ring in one and surprising your partner with a proposal is the sweetest way to end the night.

2. Pumpkin play

Carve your proposal into a pumpkin (or two) for a ghoulish way to let them know you want to spend the rest of your life with them. Setting the scene with lots of warm candlelight will ensure a seamless proposal.

3. Lost in love

A popular attraction throughout the autumn months is heading out to explore a corn maze with your sweetheart. For a surprise they’re certain to never forget, get down on one knee and ask for their hand in marriage before making your way out of the maze to celebrate.

4. Wine and dine

Fall is the peak season for many wineries, offering a fantastic opportunity to whisk your partner away for a private wine tasting — you can learn about the grapes, explore the gorgeous setting, and, finally, pop the question with a glass in their hand.

5. Engagement kickoff

For sports lovers, the change of seasons means one thing and one thing only: football season! If your honey is a diehard sports fiend, then proposing at a stadium or even a sports-related event is a fun way to begin your engagement.

6. Sweet simplicity

Doughnuts, apples, cider and more — some of our favorite indulgences are available come fall. So why not keep it simple and propose to your sweetie with the help of a delicious dessert? You can hide the ring in their favorite food or get down on one knee while they’re enjoying a treat. Either way, they’re sure to love this sweet proposal.

Love these fall proposal ideas but still looking for more? Check out The Loupe for all your engagement planning needs. Plus, find out how to know if you’re really ready to get engaged with the help of our blog.

The post 6 Fall Proposal Ideas That Will Get You a “Yes!” appeared first on The Loupe.

What is an engagement?

An engagement, also known as a betrothal or fiancer, is the period of time between a marriage proposal and the marriage. It also encompasses the relationship of the two partners. The length of an engagement may vary from a very short amount of time to many years, depending on the wishes of the couple.

Did you know?

In arranged marriages, it’s common to experience longer engagements, as some couples may be “arranged” to be married long before they are even of marrying age.

How did this tradition get started?

Engagement in European countries is typically traced back to marriage practices written in Jewish law. In this section of the Torah, marriage was composed of two separate acts: erusin, or kiddushin, and nissu’in, or chupah. The first signified what we now know as the engagement period, while the latter was the actual marriage ceremony. The idea of a pre-marriage period became popular in ancient Greece shortly afterward, including the tradition of presenting a ring at the wedding and gifts at the engagement party.

The engagement process

For better or for worse, there are a few steps that go into making a lifetime commitment to your partner, starting with making sure they’re the right person for you.

Step one: Determine if you’re ready for marriage

Before proposing, both parties in a couple should think deeply about what marriage means to them, whether they feel ready for it, and what they want their future marriage to look like. Some couples can be very much in love but not be on the same page about vital issues — or you may be going through different times of your life, causing one member of the partnership to be ready while another is not. Taking time to think about whether you’re truly ready for marriage is an important step in getting engaged.

Step two: Talk with your partner

Discuss all the things that go along with marriage before you ever decide to get engaged. This includes imagining your future life together, your family goals, parenting styles and lifestyle expectations. You will certainly have to compromise on some things — everyone is unique, and there’s very little chance that you’ll agree on everything, but make sure you both figure out what you’re willing to compromise on before entering into an engagement.

Step three: Plan the proposal

Whoever is doing the proposing in the couple should take the time to plan a proposal that means something to their partner. For example, if they hate public displays, then arranging the proposal during a baseball game probably isn’t the best move. Incorporate things that are specific and significant to your relationship, and they’ll be sure to love every moment.

Step four: Shop for a ring

This step is totally dependent on how you want to approach it. Do you already have an idea of what your partner likes? Great — then you’ll probably want to surprise them by shopping for the ring on your own. Not sure what they’ll go for? Ask their friends and family, drop clues, pay attention to what kind of clothes and jewelry they currently wear, or even go shopping together to ensure you’re getting something they’ll love saying “Yes” to.

Step five: Propose to your love!

Once everything is in place, you can finally go through with this life-changing moment. Once you get the answer you’ve been waiting for, it’s time to move on to step six.

Step six: Announce the engagement

Lastly, it’s time to share the good news with your family and friends. It’s traditional to tell the closest members of your inner circle in person (or on the phone, if you don’t live near enough to each other) first before announcing it to the rest of the world. Nowadays, it’s common to post about the engagement on social media to make it officially public.

Other engagement traditions

Asking for your hand

Many people still think it necessary to ask the bride’s parents for their blessing before officially proposing. This dates back to when marriage was less of a “romantic” event, and more of a business arrangement between the two families. This contract was sealed by having the family of the bride agree to allow her to marry.

Down on one knee

The reason why we often get down on one bended knee when proposing to our partner comes from way back in the days of knighthood, when kneeling was considered a sign of respect and loyalty. It was also used during religious ceremonies, which were heavily linked with marriage for hundreds of years. Despite no longer following these customs, the tradition stuck!

Announcing your engagement

The engagement announcement actually comes from Pope Innocent, who, in 1215, decreed that all couples who intended to marry were required to formally announce it. The idea behind this was to give those who disapproved of the marriage-to-be the chance to intervene. This is also where the “speak now or forever hold your peace” moment at the wedding comes from.

Ready to move on to step four? The experts at Shane Co. can help you find the perfect ring, with helpful tools like our MatchMaker and style finder quiz, as well as our dedicated noncommission sales associates. Start shopping for your dream engagement ring at ShaneCo.com, or begin planning the perfect proposal with these helpful proposal ideas.

The post What Does It Mean to Get Engaged? (And How to Get Started) appeared first on The Loupe.

What is shape?

The “shape” of a diamond or other precious stone is the outline of the stone, looking at it from the top down. We typically think of 10 diamond shapes — round, cushion, princess, emerald, asscher, marquise, heart, oval, pear and radiant. Each shape is carefully cut by expert diamond cutters to obtain maximum sparkle and create a specific style. Let’s take a closer look at each of our favorite diamond shapes.

Round

Round diamonds are by far the most popular diamond shape, taking up 75% of the market for all diamonds sold. They look great with any style of engagement ring setting and are considered the go-to for maximum sparkle. The mechanics of the round shape allow for the perfect reflection of light, if cut with the right quality standards. They are also the only non-fancy “traditional” shape.

Cushion

Cushion cut stones get their name from their resemblance to pillows — square with rounded corners. They tend to have an “antique” feel to them and look particularly appealing when paired with vintage-style settings. For the first century it was around, cushion cut diamonds were actually the most popular diamond shape, surpassing round cuts until the early 20th century.

Princess

Princess cut diamonds were created in 1980 and are now the most popular fancy cut, particularly for engagement rings. With a square, sometimes slightly rectangular shape, they do a beautiful job of reflecting light and creating sparkle. Like round cut diamonds, they tend to blend well with almost all engagement ring setting styles.

Emerald

Emerald cut stones are rectangular-shaped, with unique facets that produce a “hall of mirrors” effect, as opposed to the traditional sparkle of a round or similar cut. This emphasizes the dark and light areas, offering drama and elegance to this unique shape. If you’re looking to elongate the hand, emerald diamond shapes are the way to go — just remember that inclusions are often easier to see in an emerald cut, so you may need a higher clarity level for that perfect-looking stone.

Marquise

The marquise cut is similar to a football shape and was named after the Marquise of Pompadour. Their narrow shape gives off the illusion of length and size, and with the largest crown surface area of any diamond shape, they are great to maximize your budget for size. They can vary in narrowness depending on the cut and look great in many engagement ring settings, including solitaire, three-stone, and pavé.

Heart

Heart-shaped stones are exactly what they sound like — the well-known symbol of love cut from a diamond. While less popular in traditional engagement rings, they can often be found ornamenting right-hand rings, pendant necklaces and more.

Oval

Ovals combine the traditional brilliance of a round diamond with a more contemporary, standout cut. They also have an elongated shape, which can sometimes give the illusion of making them appear larger and lengthen the finger of those wearing them. They look particularly beautiful in a solitaire setting, but can easily blend into any setting because of their sophisticated shape.

Pear

As a combination of a round and marquise shape, pear-shaped diamonds offer the best of both worlds. They provide the finger-slimming effects of the marquise with the superior sparkle of the round cut. If you’re looking for a diamond shape that offers uniqueness and chic style, pear cuts are the way to go. Whether it’s partnered with baguette side stones, a gorgeous halo, or taking center stage in a solitaire setting, pear-shaped stones always make an impact.

Radiant

Radiant cut diamonds are a cross between a cushion and princess cut, with a square shape and cropped, angular corners. They provide amazing sparkle and a vibrant stone that offers a little something different. With this simple but not understated shape, solitaire or pavé settings will bring out the particular sparkle of radiant stones.

Why we sell loose stones

We aim to make it easy for our customers to create the engagement ring of their dreams — without the hefty price tag that comes along with it. Selling our diamonds, rubies and sapphires loose allows you to prioritize your budget and shop from the largest variety of stone shapes and colors to find the perfect one. You can begin your journey by choosing a setting, or pick your favorite stone first to start the process of creating your engagement ring.

High quality standards

We buy our diamonds directly from the cutters, getting rid of the middlemen and passing the savings on to you. Because of our long-standing relationships in the industry, we get first pick of all newly cut stones, and we choose to prioritize based on each stone’s particular sparkle and beauty, choosing the prettiest diamonds, rubies and sapphires in every grade. Shop all engagement rings on ShaneCo.com, or visit your nearest store to get started.

The post Everything You Wanted to Know About Diamond Shapes appeared first on The Loupe.

Many people grow up dreaming of the day they’ll find their perfect partner. Whether you’ve watched romantic movies, listened to sappy love songs or just witnessed devoted couples in everyday life, it may still surprise you to find out that entering into a lifetime partnership with someone has a plethora of emotional benefits.

1. It fights depression

Did you know that getting hitched can actually reduce your chance of developing depression? It’s true! Married couples report less depression and more support from their partners than their single counterparts, according to an article in the Journal of Health and Social Behavior. When you think about it, this makes sense — after all, having someone trustworthy to talk to about our most intense feelings and emotions can have a huge effect on how we deal with them.

2. It’s a mood enhancer

Despite the common joke that marriage is stress-inducing, studies show that married couples produce lower levels of “stress hormones” like cortisol, resulting in less anxiety and stress and, consequently, better moods for all those involved. This feel-good effect even extends to children who are being raised within married families.

3. It increases social support

If you’re worried that getting married will result in fewer friendships, think again. An article in The Journals of Gerontology discussed how older married couples actually have more of a sense of community than those who are simply cohabiting. In addition, another study concluded that married mothers receive more social support than both single and cohabiting mothers.

4. It reduces rates of addiction

A study done by Dr. Walter Forrest and Professor Carter Hay on marijuana use found that those who went on to marry were “less likely to have continued using the drug than those who remained single.” Apparently, tying the knot results in increased self-control, leading to a reduction of alcohol- and drug-related problems and dependence.

5. It leads to better intimacy

It’s no surprise that marriage promotes intimacy, but what you may not be aware of is that married couples seem to have no trouble bringing this closeness into the bedroom. The 1992 National Health and Social Life survey supports the finding that married men report more satisfaction in their sex lives than single men.

6. It makes you happier

There’s no doubt about it: Married couples report being happy far more often than unmarried or divorced people do. The National Opinion Research Center surveyed 35,000 men and women and discovered that while only 24% of single people reported they were “very happy,” 40% of those married felt ecstatic in their everyday lives.

Want to learn more about the benefits of marriage? Check back on The Loupe for more helpful blogs to get you ready for the next step in your relationship. You can also follow Shane Co. on social media (@shanecompany) or visit our website to quench your thirst for everything bridal.

The post Benefits of Marriage, Part 1: Emotional appeared first on The Loupe.

Did you know that Shane Co. has the best lifetime warranty in the business? Well, now you do! Our 100% Free Lifetime Warranty covers even the center stone of your engagement ring, as long as you stay up to date on cleaning and checkups. With our noncommission, no-pressure sales team and expert in-store jewelers, your piece will receive the love and attention it needs — even when accidents happen.

Still aren’t convinced? Well, you don’t need to hear it from us — take it straight from our customers with these warranty stories.

Lisa R. says:

“Recently my center stone fell out of the setting. GONE! I searched high and low and turned the house upside down easily 100 times. I panicked. I’ve kept up with my cleanings and inspections and my husband reminded me about the warranty and we called Shane Co. They said to come on in to see what they could do. I wasn’t very optimistic. I came in on a very busy day and went toward the back to try and find anyone available. I must’ve looked distressed, because when Michelle saw me she instantly asked what was wrong and if everything was okay. I immediately began to tear up and told her what happened. She calmly said to come with her and that we would figure it out together. After a short amount of time looking up my information, Michelle informed me that she found a comparable stone and that she’d have it mailed in to be mounted in just a few days. I was speechless. I’ve since picked up my ring and it was perfect. Although the original stone held more sentimental value for me, Shane Co. and Michelle went above and beyond to help me. The customer service, authentic compassion and caliber of professionalism that Michelle showed me was exceptional. She was so genuine and even called me a few days later to check up on me. Michelle and Shane Co.: THANK YOU. I appreciate you so much and am so grateful. My husband and I thank you from the bottom of our hearts. You have loyal customers for life. I keep telling everyone I know to ONLY buy from Shane Co. Thank you!!!”

Tucker H. says:

“My fiancée and I had her engagement ring for only three weeks when her diamond fell out (due to far more than normal wear and tear…whoops). We were absolutely terrified we would have to deal with insurance, claims, etc., but Shane Co. made it as easy as coming in and explaining what happened. Their lifetime warranty COMPLETELY covered the lost main stone and damaged band. Kat took amazing care of us and put us at ease that this would all be covered by Shane Co. and we could breathe again. We will never shop anywhere except Shane Co. for jewelry again. Best warranty in the industry.”

Carol P. says:

“We bought my ring here back in ’06. We bring it in about 2x a year for cleaning, rhodium, etc. In 13 years, I lost two accent diamonds: once at the beach, then another while wrenching on our Jeep. Because we take it in regularly, it has a lifetime warranty and both times they replaced the diamond for free. They’re very professional and helpful. I’m soooooo glad my hubby bought my ring here.”

Tanya H. says:

“My husband bought me some Tahitian pearls for Christmas of 2006, with matching earrings, and he accidentally broke them while he was helping me take them off last week. We took them back to Shane Co. in Roseville, which is where we bought them, and their customer service was amazing! Anna was so attentive and helpful and even took down our anniversary and birthdays, so they would be sure to send us a card or email! The good news is that we won’t have to pay a dime out of pocket since the pearls were under their lifetime warranty, which is standard for Shane Co. jewelry! So, if you are looking at getting your special someone a ring, necklace or any kind of jewelry and want excellent customer service, Shane Co. is your place!”

Dana J. says:

“Shane Co. went above and beyond our expectations when I managed to lose the center stone from my engagement ring at work. I was so worried and they were reassuring and stood by their warranty to replace the center stone and make my ring stronger so this wouldn’t happen again. Cannot thank them enough!”

Diana M. says:

“Just received my wedding ring in the mail after getting repair work done and I am in tears. Last week, I was devastated when I smashed my hand in a ladder, flattened my ring and lost a diamond. I called Shane Co. just to see what size the diamond was so I could begin to look for a replacement. They told me, “Oh, it’s under warranty.” Guys. I just got a diamond replacement (smaller one) and repairs FOR FREE. I’m so grateful my husband got my ring at Shane Co. and will forever sing their praises. You’re not just buying THE ring. You’re buying protection for when life happens and you damage one of the most sentimental pieces you own.”

There you have it! Besides having the most comprehensive lifetime warranty in the industry, Shane Co. creates pieces that are built to last. Learn more about our superior standards of quality.

The post Tales From the Warranty appeared first on The Loupe.

We asked and you answered. As it turns out, there are a lot of ways to know you’re ready to get engaged. Thanks for sharing your stories with us! Read below to see some of our favorite customer responses.

“You just know, that’s it :)”

– @jsssaka

“When the thought of living life without him broke my heart.”

– @camie41

“He is my person and pushes me to be the best ‘me’ possible. My teammate. My best friend.”

– @michayla_thomas

“When my husband-to-be told me that he was moving 500 miles to make sure I was never alone again.”

– @rachel.b.roberts

“When my husband and I went to Shane Co. to look at rings! A great experience!”

– @ladyjanssen14

“When we moved from Florida to Colorado together!”

– @_hillarygray

“When you are happy and more than willing to compromise on the small things.”

– @siecysdiary

“I didn’t. I was 18 and crazy! 14 years later, we’re good <3”

– @rubyslippers20

“After 6 years and a beautiful engagement ring, how could I say no?”

– @kathyworksout

“When you have gotten over the honeymoon phase and talked about the future and values.”

– @veeemwhy

“When my bf (now hubby) became as meaningful as my own family <3”

– @edenlillie

Still trying to figure out if you’re ready? Read more on how to prepare for engagement here, then find out if your partner has been dropping hints that you’ve been missing. If you’ve already decided it’s time to get engaged, you can start building your dream engagement ring on ShaneCo.com or in person at your nearest Shane Co. store. With directly and ethically sourced diamonds and the largest variety of exclusive settings, we promise it’ll be easier to find an engagement ring than it was to find the one.

The post Customer Stories: How Did You Know You Were Ready to Get Engaged? appeared first on The Loupe.

Did you know that if you went online today to compare the prices of a 1.00-carat round diamond to a sapphire of the same size, you’d end up spending nearly five times more for the diamond? Combined with the rising trend of colorful center stone engagement rings, it’s no wonder that brides-to-be are letting go of the age-old tradition of a diamond engagement ring, opting instead for budget-friendly alternatives.

“Our customers’ interest in colored stones is rapidly increasing,” says a Shane Co. jewelry expert. “Traditional blue, white and peach sapphires are three of our most requested-for engagement rings.”

A long journey to the perfect ring

According to popular wedding site The Knot, consumers are looking at 26 rings over a period of 3.5 months throughout their engagement ring shopping journey. And according to Shane Co. stores, at least part of the reason they’re doing so is because they’re on the search for the largest diamond they can afford within their budget.

“We can thank celebrities and royals like Princess Eugenie, Lady Gaga and Gwyneth Paltrow for starting this trend and giving women the confidence to consider colored center stones for their engagement rings,” says our expert. “But it’s the price and rarity of these stones that truly closes the deal.”

Durable and beautiful

Much like diamonds, sapphires make great options for engagement rings because of their hardness and ability to withstand daily wear. They also come in every fancy shape from oval to emerald, making them easily accessorized with a unique setting.

Alternatively, semiprecious gemstones, like aquamarine or emerald, don’t function as well in engagement rings because of their relative softness and low rating on the Mohs scale of hardness. This means they are more prone to damage and better suited to fashion jewelry like pendants.

Customer testimony

Don’t just take our word for it — our customers absolutely love the unique look that goes along with sapphire center stones.

Bonnie Olian, who was engaged in 2017 and married in 2018, recently traded in her diamond for a 2.00-carat colored sapphire.

“I loved my engagement ring — but I really envied the look of a larger center stone,” says Olian.

“Since Shane Co. opened over 40 years ago, diamonds have been and always will be our No. 1 seller for engagement rings,” Davis comments. “But we love how much fun these new brides are having with playing with color and sapphires as a modern twist for their rings.”

Celebrity inspiration

Here are some of our favorite engagement rings celebrities are rocking today:

• Princess Eugenie’s ring shows off a rare padparadscha sapphire, complete with a gorgeous halo of diamonds surrounding the oval stone.

• Lady Gaga favors a beautiful sapphire engagement ring in a fun floral-inspired halo design. Her 6.00-7.00-carat bright pink sapphire certainly turns heads!

• We’ve probably all fawned over Kate Middleton’s stunning blue sapphire ring. By wearing another popular halo, Kate stays on trend while evoking past traditions — the ring originally belonged to Princess Diana.

• Elizabeth Hurley’s 9.00-carat blue sapphire engagement ring is flanked by two triangular diamonds, creating an unforgettable look.

• Gwyneth Paltrow’s bling-tastic traditional blue sapphire engagement ring features a diamond-studded band that highlights her show-stopping stone.

• Penelope Cruz sports a vintage-inspired 3.00-carat blue sapphire ring framed by a flower-shaped halo of diamonds.

To find the perfect sapphire for your engagement ring, visit ShaneCo.com and start creating your dream ring when you shop by stone. You can also start by picking out your favorite setting and completing it with the sapphire, ruby or diamond of your choice. To learn more about diamond alternatives, you can read up on white sapphires and lab-created diamonds.

The post Sapphire Engagement Rings Are Trending appeared first on The Loupe.

Besides offering premounted rings for a simple way to propose, Shane Co. also allows you to customize your engagement ring in an easy three-step process:

1. Pick your favorite setting from over a thousand exclusive designs.
2. Choose the perfect diamond, ruby or sapphire center stone.
3. Make it yours with personal engravings, decorative crowns, matching bands and more.

But how can you make the most out of our customization options? Let’s take an in-depth look at building your dream ring.

Engraving

If you’re looking to make your engagement ring even more meaningful, getting a unique engraving is definitely the way to go. We offer a flat $50 fee for engraving, no matter the message, in a variety of fonts. This way, you can choose a look that’s special to you and your partner, and a message that will last as long as your love. Here are some ideas for engraving your engagement ring:

• Your names or initials
• The date you met
• The date of your wedding
• Your favorite song lyrics
• A meaningful Bible verse
• The coordinates of where you met
• “I thee wed”
• “I love you”
• “My heart is yours”
• “Always and forever”
• “To have and to hold”
• “To infinity and beyond”
• “I do”
• “Happily ever after”
• Split messages
• Sweet nicknames
• Foreign language phrases

Decorative crowns

Halo decorative crowns: A halo engagement ring contains a ring (or two, or three) of pavé-set diamonds that encircle your center stone. Besides being a unique and contemporary style, decorative crowns can also have the effect of creating a bigger-looking stone. We offer halo decorative crowns in different metals to either match your ring or introduce a chic splash of color.

Other decorative crowns: We also offer unique fashionable mountings that add a personalized touch to your center stone. Choose from options like this Diamond Decorative Crown to add vintage-style detailing to 1-carat stones, or this Diamond Alexa Head for an extra layer of sparkle on a gorgeous ring.

Add a wedding band

Did you know that you can find prematched wedding bands for your engagement ring? Click here to start shopping all prematched bands, or visit your nearest Shane Co. store to speak with a member of our no-pressure, noncommission staff about finding the perfect matching band for your dream ring. You can also add a band by browsing our selection of high-quality wedding rings and choosing the right one for you. Whether you decide on something simple, contemporary or perfectly unique, we know you’ll be able to create the perfect match when you shop the largest selection of women’s and men’s wedding bands.

Band stacking

Of course, you don’t need to stop with a wedding band. Shane Co. is also your hub for all things bridal — that means we have beautiful anniversary rings, promise rings and more. Creating a stack of bands is a great way to update your wedding jewelry without switching your ring, and our selection of anniversary rings makes the perfect gift to celebrate your years as a married couple.

Ready to find the ring you’ve been dreaming about? Start customizing your engagement ring today in person or online at ShaneCo.com.

The post How to Customize Your Engagement Ring appeared first on The Loupe.

Dreaming about getting engaged, but can’t figure out what kind of ring you want? With so many gorgeous options to choose from, it can be hard to decide on just one. Luckily, we have tools to help you find the perfect engagement ring without spending hours searching through images.

Our newest tool, MatchMaker, allows you to tap “like” or “dislike” on a wide variety of ring images and gains information about your preferences that you may not even realize yourself. Then, we’ll provide you with a personally curated list of engagement rings that we think match your style. It’s fun and easy to play — even with your partner looking on!

To try out MatchMaker for yourself, click here. If you’d rather browse all Shane Co. engagement rings, visit our website to get started.

The post It’s Time to Meet Your Match appeared first on The Loupe.

If you’ve been paying attention to all the latest fashion trends, you’ve probably seen baguette stones pop up on a pretty regular basis. In engagement rings, they complement an emerald cut center stone beautifully. With a clean and modern look, these stones make an impact whether they’re set east-west or north-south. Because of their unique facets, the quality of baguette stones must be higher in order to create a cohesive style, giving baguette bands an incredibly sparkly and elegant appearance.

The history of baguettes

The baguette stone gained popularity during the early 1900s throughout the Art Deco period, largely because of its geometric, symmetrical shape, which was extremely fashionable at the time. In this era, fine jewelry largely disobeyed conventional norms, instead leaning toward diamond shapes and metals that weren’t just the more traditional round diamond set in platinum that was popular years earlier.

Two of the most famous baguette rings in history were worn by style icons Audrey Hepburn and Marilyn Monroe in the early 1950s. Not only did they break the convention of a traditional engagement ring, but their baguette rings began to shape a new culture of unique, personalized wedding jewelry.

Emerald + baguette = a match made in heaven

Since the introduction of these uniquely shaped stones, they tend to be seen alongside each other because of their similar appearances. From a distance, one can even mistake an emerald cut for a baguette — the main difference is that while emerald cut diamonds feature polished corners, baguettes feature more angular ones. Emerald diamonds also tend to come in larger sizes than baguettes.

These diamonds are popular with celebrities because of their exquisite shape, but they are also known for the way in which they show flaws — both in clarity and color. Because of their stepped faceting, emerald cut diamonds show inclusions and yellow coloring to the naked eye much more clearly than other cuts. In order to have a great-quality emerald cut diamond, it needs to be nearly flawless, meaning graded between a VVS1/2 and F-D, thus making it more expensive for a larger carat size.

Today’s glamour

The steadily maintained trend of classic, dainty engagement rings can absolutely be attributed to the rise in popularity of baguette wedding bands. They pair especially well with stones that are similarly faceted, such as asscher, radiant and emerald cut diamonds. Because alternative diamond shapes have been steadily rising in popularity, this style is especially relevant for a vintage-style look that fits into all the latest trends.

How are brides wearing their bands?

Rather than choosing an engagement ring that speaks to their personal style, on-trend brides have begun choosing simpler engagement rings and showing off with a unique wedding band. Historically, baguette bands were only shown in white gold, but with rose gold and yellow gold growing in popularity, customers are loving the new modern appeal of these combinations. Brides are wearing their baguette bands both as a single wedding band and styled with vintage and classic pavé bands in a stylish stack.

Get the look

Try this unique style for yourself with some of our favorite picks:

This unique Baguette & Diamond Wedding Band almost gives the appearance of a band stack, with a layer of baguette diamonds sitting gracefully on top of pavé-set round diamonds in 14k white gold.

For a chic and simple look, try this Pave-Set Baguette Diamond Wedding Band. This popular style looks great with any style of engagement ring by adding a hint of Hollywood glamour.

Made with timeless 14k yellow gold, this Baguette and Round Diamond Wedding Band provides the ultimate sparkle. With seven brilliant round and six baguette diamonds, it’s the ring you’ll love to wear.

This Baguette and Round Diamond Contour Wedding Band provides the perfect resting place for your engagement ring, combining two popular trends in one beautiful ring. The round and baguette diamonds complement the sleek yellow gold band perfectly.

The post Stay On-Trend With Baguette Wedding Bands appeared first on The Loupe.

Myth #1: The three months’ salary rule

You’ve probably heard of the old adage that an engagement ring should cost the equivalent of three months’ salary. But how much should you spend on an engagement ring? The answer is more variable than you might think. A poll of 1,640 adults confirmed that the “three months rule” may be going out of style.

While the numbers vary, it’s estimated that the average spend for an engagement ring is between $5,000 and $7,000. The most important thing to remember when deciding how much to spend on an engagement ring is that this decision is entirely personal: Take into account your budget, the type of ring and stone your loved one wants, and the emotional significance of the purchase.

Myth #2: The bigger, the better

Maybe you’ve been dreaming of the giant rocks you see on the hands of celebrities, or maybe you’ve just bought into the idea that a bigger diamond is always better. Either way, this myth is simply untrue. A bigger diamond doesn’t necessarily mean it will look prettier on her hand, nor does it mean that the diamond will have all of the sparkle you’re looking for. You may find that, when looking at diamonds, a smaller one is much more brilliant than a duller, larger stone. The appearance of your diamond is much more dependent on cut, color and clarity than on carat weight, so you can stop worrying that you’re not going big enough.

Myth #3: Engagement ring shopping is a solo act

Engagement ring shopping can be complicated and even stressful, especially if you’re unsure of what your partner wants. So why make it harder on yourself? There shouldn’t be any stigma behind shopping with your significant other; instead, think about the benefits. To start, she’s the one who’s going to be wearing the ring. As well as you may know your future fiancée, we can pretty much guarantee that they know themselves better.

Remember: This and your wedding bands are probably the one purchase you’ll make that will truly last forever. For those of you worried about ruining the surprise, keep in mind that this is something she’s been thinking about for a long time — we can all but promise she’ll be glad you included her in the decision. You can also choose to window shop and save the final unveiling of the ring for the real proposal. Either way, you’ll feel much more confident knowing that she already loves her ring.

Myth #4: Yellow gold is outdated

Yellow gold is sometimes perceived as old-fashioned, but this classic metal is making a big comeback. With vintage engagement rings becoming more and more popular, yellow gold is no longer just appearing on your grandma’s ring. In fact, Meghan Markle and Emily Ratajkowski both recently sported yellow gold engagement rings that were the hit of the fashion world. Luckily, Shane Co. carries a huge variety of stunning yellow gold engagement ring settings as well as unique rose gold engagement rings that you can easily personalize with the center stone of your choice.

Myth #5: Engagement ring = diamonds

One of the biggest myths you may believe about engagement rings is that they must have a diamond as the center stone. This one makes sense — after all, diamonds are forever, right? While it’s true that diamond engagement rings are the most traditional route (74 percent of all engagement rings in 2018 highlighted a diamond), that doesn’t mean it’s your only option. Actually, it seems like alternative engagement rings are becoming more popular than ever, with celebrities like Halle Berry and Jessica Simpson jumping in on the trend with their gorgeous emerald and ruby rings. Shane Co. carries popular ruby engagement rings, pink sapphire engagement rings and more to complement your tastes.

Myth #6: Custom designing is expensive and difficult

An engagement ring is much more than just a piece of jewelry, it’s a symbol of commitment between two people who love each other. And if your love is unique, why shouldn’t your ring be, too? That’s the thought process of many hopeful couples beginning their search for a custom engagement ring. However, you may have been dissuaded from customizing your ring on the premise that it will cost more and take much longer to make than the thousands of mass-produced designs currently available on the market. This is simply not true.

At Shane Co., we make it easy to customize your engagement ring with the stone and setting of your choice. We carry over 1,000 exclusive Engagement Ring designs, the majority of which require you to pick out a center stone in a shape, color and cut that fits your personal style. We even have engravable designs to better personalize your piece, as well as customizable setting options that are sure to make your ring one of a kind.

Myth #7: Engagement rings are for women only

It’s 2019, and the traditional idea of an engagement is ever-changing. According to a survey done a few years ago by the media group responsible for The Knot, XO Group Inc., 5 percent of men were wearing engagement rings, and the trend has only grown since then. With marriages becoming more egalitarian and the idea of gender equality in all areas making its way into the mainstream, there’s no reason why engagement rings shouldn’t follow. Men’s engagement rings can come in a variety of styles. In any case, it’s certainly something to keep in mind as you prepare to begin your journey as an engaged couple.

Myth #8: A diamond can never break

Because diamonds have the highest rating of 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness, many people incorrectly assume their diamond can’t chip, crack and suffer other surface damage. Unfortunately, it’s still possible for your diamond to break if it is struck with sufficient force and in just the right way, which is why we always stress the importance of picking out a setting that works with your lifestyle. Remember to remove your ring when engaging in sports or other activities that can potentially cause harm to your stone, and make sure to inspect it for any new damage on a regular basis.

On the bright side, Shane Co. offers a Free Lifetime Warranty with all of their engagement rings, including the center stone. So even if your diamond takes a tumble, we’re here to make sure your ring remains as beautiful as the day he proposed.

Myth #9: You must know her ring size first

Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to know your loved one’s ring size before you pick out the ring. Most jewelers will be able to resize your ring after the proposal if it’s within about two sizes of her actual size. As long as you have an idea of what fits, you shouldn’t have a problem picking out the ring beforehand. At Shane Co., resizing is even included in your purchase, so you don’t have to worry about any extra fees. If you’re committed to keeping your proposal a surprise, inquiring about her ring size is a dead giveaway. Keep your cool and resize at a later date.

Myth #10: Diamond fluorescence is bad

You may have heard the phrase “diamond fluorescence” being thrown around and believed the rumors that it connotes a less valuable diamond. This is a myth. But let’s get to back to basics: What is diamond fluorescence, and how does it affect the value of your stone? Diamond fluorescence is the glow you may see when the diamond is viewed under ultraviolet light. Some diamonds emit a bluish or (rarely) yellowish light when exposed to UV rays. However, there is no grading factor for fluorescence, despite it being relatively common in gems. About 25 to 35 percent of diamonds exhibit fluorescence — it’s not unusual and it certainly doesn’t lower the grade of your diamond. In fact, some experts believe that blue fluorescence can even enhance a diamond’s appearance, making a yellowish diamond appear more colorless in UV light.

In the end, it’s really more of a personal preference than anything else. If you don’t like the look of a more fluorescent diamond, don’t take it home, and always make sure to carefully inspect the stone you’re considering before buying.

Myth #11: You get a better deal when you don’t buy retail

It may be tempting to think that purchasing a ring through an online auction or wholesaler will save you money, but there’s no hard-and-fast rule when it comes to engagement ring prices. You also have to take into consideration that this is potentially a purchase you will only make once in your lifetime — so figure out what aspects of the ring matter the most to you and make sure you are not just getting a good price, but a good value. Buying from a retailer also offers additional advantages, like working with an experienced jeweler to help you select the right stone and setting, as well as free repairs and other benefits that would otherwise end up costing you more money in the long run.

Shane Co. is dedicated to offering you the highest-quality jewelry, whatever your budget, as well as cleaning, inspection, maintenance, resizing, upgrade and trade-in policies, and more.

Myth #12: Your jeweler is trying to upsell you

Another myth people hold about retail jewelry stores is that your jeweler is always trying to get you to spend beyond your budget. At Shane Co., this is absolutely untrue. Our staff is dedicated to delivering an enjoyable and personalized experience for every customer. Because our staff doesn’t work on commission, you’ll never feel pressured into spending more than you can afford. We also use store lighting that replicates natural daylight so you can see the true color and sparkle of whatever you’re buying, without feeling disappointed in your purchase once you exit the store.

Our goal is to educate you, show you as many options as you want to see, and help you make the best decision. We make the process of buying an engagement ring something to celebrate by removing the stress from the equation. We’ll answer any questions you have and work together with you so you can leave confident in your buying decision and ready for your proposal.

The post Engagement Ring Myths Debunked appeared first on The Loupe.

A dream come true

“Jessie and I had a photoshoot planned with the sweetest photographer, who we had done a shoot with in the past. We got to the location, but the wind was blowing like crazy and it was absolutely freezing. Jessie said that his heart was pounding as we moved from location to location, fearing that he wouldn’t find the perfect spot. We finally got to this beautiful cliff overlooking the ocean and I turned around and he was down on one knee! Saying yes to marry Jessie was the best decision I’ve ever made. I can’t wait to marry my sweetheart. He had the perfect ring with the help of a Shane Co. employee and he found the perfect moment.”

Want to see the ring Jenna said yes to?

You can shop this Halo Diamond Engagement Ring with an oval diamond center stone to re-create the look that sealed the deal for Jessie. To see more fashionable halo rings, head over to ShaneCo.com and begin creating the perfect engagement ring for you!

The post Customer Stories: Jenna & Jessie’s Proposal appeared first on The Loupe.

Looking for affordable engagement ring options? You’re not alone. A recent survey conducted by TD Ameritrade revealed that younger Americans don’t think engagement rings should cost more than $3,000. At the same time, high-end fashion trends seem to be at an all-time high, popularizing expensive inspiration that may not be giving you the most bang for your buck. Cluster engagement rings may be the style we’ve all been waiting for.

As more millennials are considering taking the next big step (with smaller budgets), we can expect them to be on the search for nontraditional looks that offer a more reasonable price range but still give that classic “wow” factor. Luckily, there are now innovative engagement ring styles available that offer budget-friendly options for a standout ring.

Cluster engagement rings

Cluster engagement rings offer a big-sparkle look without the hefty price tag. Made up of a collection of smaller gems that come together to create the appearance of a bigger diamond, these rings are the perfect alternative to pricey center stones, if you’re open to a more contemporary style.

Trendy and modern

Besides offering a lower price point, cluster engagement rings have been growing in popularity over the years — even some of our favorite celebrities have been seen sporting this distinctive style:

Katy Perry showed off her engagement ring from fiancé Orlando Bloom in February, featuring a unique flower design highlighting a bright red ruby.

In her previous engagement, Scarlett Johansson wore an Art Deco-inspired cluster engagement ring that offered just the right amount of bling.

Christina Applegate combined her wedding and engagement ring for a cluster ring style worthy of an encore (or two).

Exclusive designs

Want to try out this distinctive style for yourself? Here are some of our favorites:

This Pear-Shaped Cluster Diamond Ring comes in our signature shade of 14k rose gold, giving it a unique and feminine look. With 12 round diamonds and a sweet pear-shaped design, this ring is a stunner for only $1,185.

If you’re not a fan of diamonds, our White Sapphire Cluster Ring in 14k Yellow Gold is a steal that offers superior sparkle. Twenty-one round white sapphires come together in this gorgeous cluster design paired with a classic yellow gold band. Shop now for only $680.

For an added pop of color, this Traditional Blue Sapphire and Diamond Cluster Ring is elegant and sophisticated. Sixteen round blue sapphires surround 21 brilliant round diamonds for the ultimate bling — and at $577, you don’t have to worry about going over budget.

Featuring a unique floral-like design, this diamond ring shines brightly with a diamond-encrusted face and band highlighted by 14k white gold. Not to mention, this showstopper is available for just $2,570.

For more rose gold sparkle, this Diamond Floral Ring in 14k Rose Gold has vintage-inspired details complemented by an on-trend design. Fifty-seven round diamonds create gorgeous patterns encircling five larger diamonds, which act as the focal point. You can take this ring home for $1,497.

Other affordable options

If you’re looking for other ways to ensure you and your partner will stay on budget when choosing affordable engagement rings, it can be extremely beneficial to create your own engagement ring by picking out a center stone and setting separately. Doing this allows you to prioritize your budget based on what matters most to you. For example, you may decide to choose a simpler setting, such as a white gold solitaire, so that you have more money to spend on a bigger center stone. Or you may choose to opt for a sapphire or ruby rather than a diamond, which can cut down the price of your ring significantly.

Why shop Shane Co.?

Shane Co. makes it easy to customize your engagement ring in three easy steps: 1. Choose your favorite setting. 2. Choose the perfect center stone. 3. Personalize it with engraving and more! You can even shop by price online or speak with a member of our no-pressure, noncommission staff to figure out how to create your dream ring without breaking your budget. We also offer preset rings in every price range and all our favorite styles.

Because we buy our diamonds directly from the cutters, we are able to get rid of the middlemen and pass the savings on to you. As fourth-generation jewelers, we’ve developed long-standing relationships with our cutters and jewelry vendors, allowing us to get first pick of all newly cut stones. We optimize for quality and offer fair prices that give you the best value in the business.

Still struggling to find the perfect ring? Take our ring style finder quiz to see a list of exclusive Shane Co. designs curated especially for you.

The post Now Trending: Cluster Engagement Rings appeared first on The Loupe.

Maybe you’ve been dating for a while or perhaps you’ve only just started. If engagement and marriage have been on your mind, consider what clues your sweetheart has been leaving to let you know they’re ready to get engaged.

They’re unconcerned about their exes.

Is your significant other still hung up on past relationships? Chances are, if they love talking about their ex, then they’re probably not ready to get engaged. When you start to notice that your honey seems oblivious to what’s going on in their past partners’ lives, it’s a pretty good sign they have their eyes set on a future with you.

They talk to their friends about it.

Have you noticed your partner speaking in hushed tones with their friends when you enter the room? Do you hear them bring up the topic of marriage a lot when they’re hanging out with their besties? Sharing their desire to get engaged with their friends is a surefire sign that they’re waiting for you to pop the question.

They take notice of other engagement/marriage announcements.

If your sweetheart keeps pointing out engagements on social media, they’ve probably got marriage on the mind. Take a look and see if they’re following wedding or engagement blogs, too — the more they’re looking, the more likely it is they’re really just looking forward to their own engagement.

They’ve introduced you to their family.

Getting married means you’ll officially be a part of their family, so it only makes sense that they’d want you to meet your future in-laws before taking the next big step. If you find yourself spending a lot of time with your partner’s parents, it may be time to start planning your proposal.

They point out rings when you pass by jewelry stores.

Is something sparkly constantly catching their eye? If your significant other makes a point to let you know which engagement ring styles they love, they most likely assume that their ring finger isn’t going to stay bare for long.

They talk a lot about the future.

If your honey seems to bring up the future a lot, it means they’ve been honestly considering what a life together would look like. This especially holds true if they’ve discussed topics such as where they’d want to live, whether they want to have children and their future career plans — all with you involved.

They’ve told you.

Still not sure if your partner is dropping hints? If they’re really ready for you to propose, they’ll probably have told you by now! Take their word as is and start planning your engagement … if you feel ready, too.

If your other half has been leaving you clues, find out how to know if you’re ready to get engaged with helpful advice from experts in our industry and beyond. Once you’ve decided to pop the question, Shane Co. can help you both create the engagement ring you’ve always dreamed of, with high-quality options for every style and budget.

The post 7 Hints Your Partner is Ready to Get Engaged appeared first on The Loupe.

You and your partner are very much in love and you’ve been thinking — maybe even dropping hints — about taking the next step. But how can you feel confident you’re making the right decision, and what indicators should you look for to ensure you’re really ready to get engaged? We’ve read up on interviews with psychologists and relationship experts as well as in-depth studies to figure out how to know you’re ready to pop the question (or say yes).

1. You’ve talked about your finances

It may not be romantic, but knowing where you and your partner stand when it comes to making financial decisions can make a big difference in the health of your future marriage. A poll conducted in 2018 marked money worries near the top of the list for reasons why couples split up, citing arguments over finances as the final breaking point. While money-related stress is hard to avoid completely, making sure you’re on the same page as your partner can make a lot of difference in avoiding financial arguments. What do they consider a “big” purchase? Are they saving up for a car, home or business? How will you divide financial obligations, and do you plan to have your bank accounts separate, joint or both?

Before deciding if you’re ready to get engaged, you should be comfortable with your partner’s answers to these questions and more. Remember to be honest with one another about not only your current financial state, but also your goals for the future and what you value — for example, if you love fashion, while you may think buying a $200 coat is a worthwhile purchase, your partner may not understand why it’s worth that much. Be patient, and avoid getting upset about the bigger things by making money a regular part of your conversation.

2. You know how to fight fair

Every couple fights — but do you and your partner know how to fight constructively? The Early Years of Marriage Study looked at 373 couples over a 16-year period, starting at the very first years of their marriages to discover why some couples stuck together while others broke apart. As it turns out, couples in which both parties used constructive methods of fighting (staying calm, focusing on communication, avoiding withdrawing or giving “the silent treatment” as a way of dealing with conflict) had lower divorce rates than couples who didn’t. It really comes down to this: There’s no such thing as “winning” an argument with your spouse. Having respect for your partner and remembering that even when you fight, you’re still on the same team, is incredibly important when deciding to take the next step in your relationship.

3. You have realistic expectations about your relationship skills

Understanding your partner’s and your strengths and weaknesses is a huge part of feeling confident that you will be able to build a life together. One study in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that marital satisfaction is highest in couples whose expectations matched their relationship skills — even if their skills rated higher than their expectations. Having expectations that are too high can lead to disappointment, while having low expectations can mean you never actually get to practice and appreciate the relationship skills you are best at. The idea that you know what to expect when it comes to marriage goes along with knowing your partner. Make sure you’re well aware of what areas of domestic life you both excel at, and how this will work realistically within your marriage before you decide if you are ready to get engaged.

4. You say thank you

There will be moments in your marriage, and even in your engagement, where you may not feel like your relationship is at its best. Having a partner that you know respects and appreciates you is very important when it comes to maintaining a happy life together. Research done by the University of Georgia shows that expressions of gratitude are one of the most consistent predictors of marital quality. While all relationships will face difficulty, “gratitude can help promote positive marital outcomes,” says the study’s lead author, Allen Barton. Be aware of how often you and your partner say thank you, and ensure that gratitude is flowing freely when figuring out if it’s time to buy that ring.

5. They’re your best friend

When you receive news, good or bad, is your partner the first person you wish to share it with? Marriage experts continually stress the importance of enjoying the time you spend with your spouse and considering them not just a romantic partner, but also a friend. “The foundation of a good marriage is a good friendship and sharing things with each other is a big part of that,” licensed marriage and family therapist Nicole Richardson states in an article for Elite Daily. So before you consider tying the knot, think about your relationship with your significant other. If you “look forward to waking up with your partner and seeing them at the end of day,” relationship therapist Dr. Gary Brown says, then you’re probably on the fast track to getting engaged.

6. You want it for all the right reasons

There are plenty of reasons to get engaged that don’t involve the love you share with your partner. Feeling pressure from friends and family, being together in order to give off a good “image,” seeing those around you frequently getting married, or trying to deal with problems within yourself by tying the knot can all be enticing reasons to consider marriage — but none of them is the right one. Having a genuine admiration and respect for your spouse and wanting to make your relationship more permanent should be the underlying reasons for considering marriage, even if you’re feeling left out by the plethora of engagement announcements sounding off in your periphery.

7. You speak the same “language”

One of the most popular books about relationships, discussed by psychologists and skeptics alike, is Dr. Gary Chapman’s “The Five Love Languages.” In it, he lays out a model for how we give and receive love, saying that we all have a primary love language that reflects within our relationships. These languages include gift giving, quality time, physical touch, words of affirmation, and acts of service. While it’s not necessary to have the same “language” as your partner, you should already be paying attention to what language they use to give love, as this is generally how they like to receive it, too. You and your spouse should be aware of what matters most to one another — maybe you need to hear the words “I love you” often, while they need a lot of intimacy and touch to feel wanted in the relationship. Knowing how you both give and receive love will keep you from feeling underappreciated as you move forward in your journey to engagement.

8. They make you a better person

Getting engaged means you’re pledging to spend forever with your one and only. So one of the most important questions you can ask yourself before putting on that ring is “Does my partner bring out the best in me?” Life coach Kali Rogers stated in an interview with Bustle that “it’s really not about them. It’s all about what kind of person you are, become, and feel like when you’re in their presence. Love should bring forth confidence and security.” If you feel like you are truly embracing the “real you” when you’re with your partner, then it may be time to get engaged.

The post How Do You Know When You’re Ready to Get Engaged? appeared first on The Loupe.

You finally found the one — your other half, your perfect partner, the person you want to wake up and share a coffee with. You feel ready to take your relationship to the next step, and that means a proposal is in order. But how can you keep it creative when so many amazing proposals have already been done? Try out one of these unique proposal ideas to ensure you get the “Yes” you’ve been dying to hear.

1. Make it digital

For the tech-savvy future fiancé, create a website that doubles as a proposal. This could include photos of you and your partner, videos, links to your favorite memories, and finally the big question at the center of it all. Leave a note on their desk or email them a link telling them to check out this cool site and be ready with the ring when they say yes.

2. Fridge surprise

Spell out “Will you marry me?” in refrigerator magnets for a cute but low-key unique proposal idea. The next time they go in for a snack, they’ll find something even better.

3. Be a bookworm

Does your honey love to read? Try writing a poem with a proposal at the end, or hollow out a book and hide the ring inside. When you ask them to turn to a specific page, they’ll love seeing a diamond there instead!

4. Director’s cut

Re-enact a romantic scene from their favorite movie — for example, if they love “Say Anything,” wake them up with a boom box serenade outside their window. It’s a fun and easy way to let them know you know them inside and out.

5. Artistic touch

Meet with a caricaturist before heading out for a stroll around town. Then, when you coincidentally run into them, have them draw your portrait with a speech bubble saying “Will you marry me?” coming out of your mouth, and one that says “Yes!” coming from your partner’s. When the artist turns the picture around to show them, get down on one knee and make it official.

6. Pick-up plan

If you’re in a long-distance relationship and looking to move on to the next phase, hold up a sign at the airport the next time they visit. Have your last name and “Mrs.” or “Mr.” in front, or keep it classic with a traditional “Marry me.” Either way, they won’t be expecting this warm of a welcome.

7. Spell it out

For a unique proposal idea for word lovers, challenge your sweetheart to a game of Scrabble that you finish by spelling out “Will you marry me?” on the board.

8. Snap a pic

Try a photo booth proposal. While the camera is snapping pics, take out the ring box and catch their real-time reaction in a series of photos you’ll treasure forever.

The post 8 Unique Proposal Ideas appeared first on The Loupe.

Meet our couple

Leamon is a native Georgian and lived in Savannah until he enlisted in the U.S. Army after graduating high school. Post‐military, he obtained his degree in Respiratory Therapy at Armstrong State College, and then worked for St. Joseph’s Hospital for 22 years before moving to Tampa, Florida with a previous partner. After that relationship ended, he met David and was eventually courted by the Kennestone Hospital. They moved to Georgia together and currently live with their three dogs and two cats.

David was born and raised in Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania. Growing up in the Pocono Mountains led to an outdoorsy childhood, filled with biking, skiing, canoeing and more. He attended college at the University of South Florida in Tampa. Throughout college, David worked as a bartender/waiter and volunteered with the Tampa Bay Beagle Rescue – that’s how he ended up adopting the three dogs he and Leamon live with today. Nowadays, he loves rollercoasters, hiking, and adventuring with his fiancé, both in and outside of Kennesaw.

How did you two meet?

David: Lea and I met while we were both living in the Tampa Bay area. We met online and spoke over the phone a few times before meeting on May 29, 2016. We set up a date at Buffalo Wild Wings since it was right next to my job and I was working long hours in sales over the Memorial Day weekend. I almost cancelled from being so exhausted from a tiring day, but I didn’t want to miss out on the chance to meet this great guy.

After meeting, we began talking as if we had known each other forever. We were there for over two hours when the waitress told us that the kitchen was closing soon. We were so into each other that we forgot to eat! Our adventure had begun. Over the next few months, we got to know each other better, sharing our love of rollercoasters, shopping and our mutual joy of cooking.

What is your favorite thing about him?

Lea: I would have to say that my favorite thing about Dave is his dry, smart wit and quirky ways. And that I don’t have to have a calculator out when he is around, as he is like a human calculator!

What are you looking forward to most about married life?

Lea: I’m looking forward to nourishing our marriage and standing beside one another. I know we won’t always agree, but we respect each other and still love each other and have that spark like we first did on May 29, 2016. And that when the time comes that we no longer occupy this earth, we meet again so that we can do this all over!

Were you surprised when he popped the question?

David: Lea proposed while we were out to dinner on the second anniversary of our first date. As you probably noticed by the picture we originally submitted, I was totally surprised and of course said, “Yes!”

How did you plan the proposal?

Lea: I knew I wanted to make Dave my everlasting partner many months prior to the engagement. I knew that the person who sat beside me in the emergency room and rubbed my back while I was writhing in pain from a kidney stone was the man who was seeing me at my worst, who was genuinely concerned, and who would be there for anything else. He was overwhelmed when I got down on one knee, put my hand into my pocket, took his hand and asked him to marry me.

Meanwhile, I was so nervous the entire evening leading up to then that I went several times to the bathroom because I was either checking on the ring to make sure all the diamonds were there or hoping I would stop being nauseated (nervous jitters) and not look like a scared deer in headlights all evening. I made reservations a week before at the Sun Dial Restaurant at the Westin Downtown Atlanta. They asked if it was for an occasion and I told them the entire setup for the night, including what we wanted to eat. They put us with the BEST and loveliest waitress who had been there for a generation. She made sure that we were taken care of and asked to use my phone to take pictures.

What did you like most about your wedding?

David: The original plan was to get married at the courthouse and save our money for our honeymoon in New York City. Lea’s cousin is an ordained minister, though, and she offered to marry us. Our families saw her offer on Facebook and insisted that if there was going to be a wedding, they wanted to be present for it. So, with only a couple months before our planned date of October 25, 2018, we began planning a wedding. There were no venues available that we liked, so we decided that we would hold the ceremony in our front yard, as it is beautifully landscaped.

Our special day came, our families and friends gathered and we started the next chapter of our adventure as a married couple and I took Lea’s last name as my own. Nearly eight months later, I find myself more in love with Lea than I ever could have thought was possible. He truly is my soulmate and the love of my life.

Lea: What we looked forward to most about our wedding was that it would be small with a fun party. We knew that only those that meant something to us would attend and that we would just be “us” and not be over‐dramatic and exhausted from all the work getting up to that day.

How did you tell your friends and family that you were engaged?

Lea: I told my mother ahead of time this was going to happen. I called Dave’s sister and told her that I was going to propose and I told our neighbors who are good, close friends of ours. Then, at 9:25pm, the rest of social media found out!

How did you pick out your rings?

David: When we first bought our wedding rings from Shane Co., we were on a tight budget, but Lea saw a ring that he loved. It had blue sapphires in it with a Celtic design, which represented his Scottish heritage. It wasn’t in our price range, but I saw how much he wanted it, so I got a plain comfort band and added more money to get him what he really wanted. Of course, now that I work for Shane Co., we’ve both upgraded our rings. Lea took a family diamond and had it set into a ring setting while I wore the sapphire ring for a while until I upgraded to my current diamond band.

What does love mean to you?

Lea: Love to me is faithfulness, friendship and loyalty to the person one chooses as his partner and spouse. Love is not material wealth but wealth of helping one another and making sure our needs are being met.

When did you start working at Shane Co.?

David: Lea and I were already engaged when we came to Shane Co. to shop for our wedding rings. It was late September of 2018 and we were out running errands when we drove past the Shane Co. store. Lea noticed the sign and we both started quoting the commercials and decided to go in. We were given the full Shane Co. first‐class service. Our salesperson, Aaron, was extremely helpful and made the whole experience easy and comfortable. I had noticed a sign in the lobby saying that they were hiring when we first came in, and after we finished paying for our rings, I asked Kelly Ray what experience I would need to work here. He explained that he had worked there for over 20 years and that the company would teach me all I needed to know about jewelry.

I was so impressed with how professional the staff was, the fact that we were not pressured the way one is at other jewelry stores, and our overall experience, I told Lea this was a place I would feel proud and confident to work for. When Lea and I got home, I immediately went online and filled out an application. A couple days later, I came back to pick up our rings and spoke briefly with Neomi Love‐West about how happy Lea and I were with our rings and my desire to work there. I spoke with the recruiter, interviewed and was working here two weeks later. My first day was October 15th.

The post Customer Stories: David and Leamon’s Engagement appeared first on The Loupe.

It’s one of our favorite times of the year: Pride Month! Summer is finally here and we’re happy to have the opportunity to celebrate every kind of love. With all these warm feelings in the air, we’re more than excited to feature our next Shane Co. couple: Andrew and Brian! They have a beautiful love story that recently took its next step into engagement. What makes this story even more special for us is that Andrew is a proud Shane Co. employee — in fact, he was Salesperson of the Year at his store in Arizona. We loved hearing about their engagement and all the amazing things on the horizon for them. Congratulations, Andrew and Brian!

Let’s meet our couple

Andrew is 28 years old and co-parents three beautiful dogs named Finn, Mallie and Momo. He loves playing video games, food, and working for Shane Co. While growing up in Iowa, he never pictured himself selling diamonds, but is more than happy where he is now, living in Arizona with Brian.

Brian is also 28 years old and currently works for Best Western Hotels and Resorts. His interests include martial arts movies, Overwatch, Star Wars, fantasy novels and all things pop culture. He grew up always believing in the importance of marriage, so he’s overjoyed to be engaged and living with his fiancé, Andrew.

How did you two meet?

Andrew: Brian and I met online. Five years ago, I would have been mildly embarrassed to admit how we met. We had a fun story of telling people that we met while volunteering at a pet shelter, but as we grew more serious, it became easier because I was so proud to tell anyone how I met the love of my life! While working in the jewelry industry, I have been introduced to many love stories. And nowadays, many successful relationships have started their first page online.

Brian: Online dating. Not a spectacular origin story, but we certainly have built a relationship that is spectacular. We are fortunate to live in a time where technology has enabled us to connect with each other, even miles and miles apart.

How did you know you were ready to get engaged?

Andrew: A few months into dating Brian, we had a discussion that he would propose to me! Which was a great feeling at the time, because the pressure was off of me. I already knew Brian was my life partner. We spent our time loving each other and enjoying all the ups and downs love has to offer. The perfect timing of being engaged was never essential to us, we always knew we would get there one day, but I wanted to surprise Brian and that’s when I decided to propose to him instead. I asked friends and family for their thoughts and was overwhelmed with how supportive everyone was to the idea. That gave me the confidence to present him with a ring I knew he would love.

Brian: It wasn’t just one realization or reason. Andrew truly is my best friend and there are so many milestones, trials and aspirations that we have been able to conquer together. We have pretty much been through it all together and he has been my partner in crime since day one! This is the next step in celebrating our relationship. I was always ready to marry this man.

How did you plan your proposal?

Andrew: Let’s just say the moment went by fast! Brian and I were headed to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, and I wasn’t sure if I was actually going to propose on this vacation. However, I did have a ring ready because the feelings were present and having the option to present a ring was most important to me. I had several different ideas and everything seemed perfect. Puerto Vallarta has a beautiful little peninsula and a lovely little town, but it wasn’t intimate enough for us. It was hard for the friends traveling with us not to react beforehand, but luckily no one ruined the surprise. In fact, they helped ensure the surprise was made!

We started with a personal moment between us while walking on the beach late at night. I had a few minutes to tell him how important he is in my life and with the moonlight shining down on us, I did it. Looking back at it today, I’m lucky to have a person who makes me feel amazing every day, and that’s why I planned to propose. The pictures and videos that people tried to capture secretly were not great quality since it was very dark, but I am actually glad that the moment was not captured — it was so unbelievably magical that I will never forget that night!

Were you surprised when Andrew proposed?

Brian: I was EXTREMELY SURPRISED! In our dating phase, I had always made it a point that it would be me that would be proposing. Although, thinking back on how nervous Andrew was that night, I should’ve known something was up. I had always pictured me popping the question to Andrew and it was such an amazing surprise as it happened. It seemed unreal. We have been together for five years now and I was always looking for the best way to ask; it had to be so special and intimate. Andrew found the perfect time and place for the proposal.

What’s your favorite thing about him?

Andrew: There are so many things. Let’s first acknowledge the fact that Brian can COOK! He attempts new recipes and I get to taste-test everything — of course, I can’t lie about the flavors being good or bad because he knows me too well. He makes the evenings at home feel like a night out at a restaurant. At the same time, he’s adventurous, which keeps me on my toes. He thinks of great things to do together and amazing places to visit. He’s supportive of my friends and welcomes them when we plan adventures.

Brian: I’d have to say his magnetic personality. Andrew is such a charismatic person, it’s hard to pick just one thing. I have never met a person that didn’t love being around him. His glowing energy and positive attitude lights up the room.

How did you decide on a ring?

Andrew: I’ve worked at Shane Co. for almost five years now, and over the years I’ve asked several times what style of ring he would want. It started with a simple yellow gold band until recently, when Shane Co. introduced our Damascus steel collection. I knew he’d love it because he has a collection of swords, and his favorite swords are made of Damascus steel. I still asked him to look through our website and to my surprise he had a handful of favorites (who wouldn’t?!), but he LOVED the classic Damascus steel ring with the rose gold strip in it. So naturally, I presented to him what I knew he would love and wear forever as a symbol of our relationship.

What was your favorite part of the proposal?

Brian: I would have to say the moment Andrew got down on one knee. As he knelt, the tide came in and nearly knocked him over. Andrew stood tough and didn’t budge. I was so in shock about what he had asked me that I was speechless for a few moments. Andrew shouted out in laughter, “I need an answer before the tide takes me and the ring!” It was definitely a priceless moment.

What is your favorite thing about Shane Co.?

Andrew: The people I work with! It is so important to me that the environment I work in has a great team culture. I enjoy going to work so much that it basically seems like I am going to visit my family five days every week to sell beautiful jewelry and diamonds together! It is such a refreshing feeling to know that the company I work for cares about my mental and physical health, with an understanding of letting us have a work-life balance.

What do you love about your ring?

Brian: I absolutely love it! I’m a sword/knife collector, so I was already familiar with Damascus steel. As soon as I saw the ring I knew it was meant for me. I love that each pattern is a unique “fingerprint” on every ring and the rose gold accent is just enough flair for my taste. There were a few different rings that I had considered, but it always came back to this one.

How did it feel going from salesperson to buyer?

Andrew: Oh, my gosh. It was interesting … I would talk out loud about it at work and to myself nonstop. Every day for about two weeks before I bought the ring, I would hold onto it while I was working. Trying it on, figuring out what fingerprint of the Damascus steel I liked the most. My coworkers (the AMAZING SALESPEOPLE that they are) definitely gave me the push to purchase the ring and to just have it on hand for when the right moment came around. It was a positively emotional feeling being on the other side of the jewelry case.

What are you looking forward to most about married life?

Andrew: We look forward to having children someday; however, if that does not work out, we will look forward to many more pets, hopefully on a large lot of green land. I am grateful to be living in a time in which I am able to call Brian a husband and to be recognized legally as a married couple. I am excited to spend my life with this man and I know wherever we end up, we will be happy that the adventure will be together.

Brian: Filing our taxes together will be nice! I’m joking! Marriage is such a special commitment between two loving adults, and having our relationship validated through marriage wasn’t even a possibility until recent years. We are truly blessed to have the support of our friends and family. Marriage will allow us more opportunities to grow our family and household together — that, by far, is the most exciting.

Where do you see yourselves 10 years from now?

Andrew: Regardless of where we live, we want to be on a large lot of land. Hopefully a little greener than Arizona. We want to grow our family — maybe with children, but definitely with more animals! I still imagine I will be selling the prettiest diamonds here at Shane Co. It’s hard to imagine what will happen in a 10-year span because Brian and I are naturally spontaneous with the opportunities that come our way.

Brian: I see us living in a cozy home somewhere greener than Phoenix. Exactly where is still up for discussion, but I hope it’s somewhere cooler! Andrew is a Midwestern boy so I know he misses the green outdoors. Lots of pets and hopefully a larger family.

What does love mean to you?

Andrew: Love means knowingly choosing to take on all of the rough days and all of the rewarding days with the one you want by your side for the rest of your life. Whatever negative or positive experiences we go through together or individually, it has always been easier with Brian in my life. Everyone experiences a different kind of love, and I truly believe our love is one in a million.

Brian: Love to me is difficult to define with words, as you love different people for different reasons. Consider the deepest physical, emotional and spiritual bond you can form with another person — this is the kind of love I have for Andrew. I know he will be there to share my struggles and celebrate my triumphs, as I will do the same for him. We have the kind of love that is built through mutual respect and honesty.

The post Shane Co. Customer Stories: Andrew and Brian’s Engagement appeared first on The Loupe.

At Shane Co., we feel lucky to be a part of such a special day in so many couples’ lives. Hearing our customers’ engagement stories reminds us of the importance of love and companionship and the many meaningful moments along the way. Getting engaged is a big step, but finding the perfect ring is only the beginning, which is why we’re highlighting some of our customers’ love stories and sharing them with the world.

Karrie and Casey are an incredible couple that have had to defy long-distance odds to start planning their life together. We asked them about their journey and how they ended up at Shane Co.

Who are Karrie and Casey?

Karrie is originally from Southern California. She moved to sunny Colorado eight years ago and currently lives with their eight-year-old and four-year-old. She works in the mental health field and focuses on helping people find recovery and treatment across the nation. She’s studying to become a personal trainer, though her dream is to start a food truck company with her now-fiancée, Casey. They have two dogs: a Chihuahua named Rocky and a French bulldog named Frankie. 

Casey is an East Coaster from a small town in Connecticut. She grew up with her eccentric Italian family, working in her family’s restaurant before moving to Colorado seven years ago to finish school. Last year, she opened a private practice focusing specifically on providing mental health/addiction services to the LGBTQ+ community. She was offered a job in Thailand shortly after meeting Karrie and just couldn’t pass up the opportunity for new adventures and experiences. She is now the primary therapist at an LGBTQ+ treatment center in Chiang Mai. Karrie and Casey’s dog, Frankie (a.k.a. Meatball), lives with her, while Karrie and the kids remain in the United States. She shares Karrie’s vision of opening up a food truck and sharing her family’s recipes with the world.  

Q: How did you two meet?

Casey: It was a Friday night in July. I went to see my friend perform in a play. After the performance, he said, “I want you to meet a couple of my friends.” I met Karrie and she blasted me with information! She asked me so many questions that I left thinking, “What just happened?” On the drive home I thought, well, she’s attractive but probably off limits. My intentions were strictly business … little did I know …

Karrie: Our story is quite dreamy! Honestly, it was love at first sight for me. We had a mutual friend that was in a play, but we didn’t know each other yet. As the play began, the stage lights lit up the first row of seats and I happened to glance over and see Casey. I remember saying to myself, “Wow, she is strikingly gorgeous!” I couldn’t stop looking at her big, beautiful eyes and incredible smile. At the end of the play, she ran up and hugged our mutual friend. I began to introduce myself, talking a mile a minute with excitement. We ended up meeting for coffee a few months later and our love story began.

Q: What is your favorite thing about her?

Casey: I mean, I think I’m hilarious, but Karrie’s catching up to me. I love her humor.

Karrie: My favorite thing about Casey is she has this positive, infectious energy that I instantly felt the moment I met her. She wears a smile and loves to laugh as much as I do!

Q: What are you looking forward to most about married life?

Casey: I was trying to think of something sappy, but honestly just the little things … coffee in the mornings, cooking dinner at night, venting about work, singing in the car, traveling around the world and just laughing our asses off.

Karrie: I’m looking forward to the ordinary and simple things in everyday life. I’m really looking forward to cooking, cleaning, shopping and walking the dogs together. I can’t wait to go on weekend dates to the movies and out to dinner. Most of all, I can’t wait to fall asleep and wake up next to her.

Q: Where do you see yourselves 10 years from now?

Casey: Ten years from now, I’ll be planning Karrie a surprise 50th with all of her friends and family … and lots of tacos.

Karrie: I see us either living in Hawaii or outside of the country and traveling the world together. We’ll have our own businesses and continue to discover, grow and create an adventurous life together for us and the kids. We would like to write a book together as well.

Q: What does “love” mean to you?

Casey: To me, love is a choice and I choose Karrie every day.

Karrie: Love is when you want your partner to be joyous and free to evolve, change and discover what truly makes them happy. Love is when you respect and rely on one another for support, but you don’t lose your own identity.

Q: How did you know you were ready to get engaged?

Casey: I’ve never met anyone like Karrie. Things just fit — she sees me. And have you seen her? Fire!

Karrie: I knew I was ready to get engaged because I couldn’t imagine doing life without Casey. I knew Casey was my person when she encouraged me to truly accept and love myself. She encouraged me to be vulnerable, honest and authentic, while still unconditionally loving all the dark and bright parts of me.

Q: Were you surprised when Karrie popped the question?

Casey: Yes and no. We had talked about marriage. I was actually going to ask her to marry me, but she beat me to it.

Q: How did you plan the proposal?

Karrie: I started working on different ideas a few months before my trip to Thailand. I wanted it to be outside and captured at our favorite time of day, the “Golden Hour” just before the sun goes down. We drove up to a cute mountain town called Pai and stayed at the Quarter Boutique Hotel. I had photographers waiting in a garden and got down on one knee while she sat on a cute little bench. We had a private dinner in the garden as well. I wanted to incorporate a Thailand tradition, so I had us light up wish lanterns and release them.

Q: What was your favorite thing about the proposal?

Casey: My favorite thing was she planned everything from the other side of the world and it was flawless. Every time I turned around, there was another surprise.

Q: What are you looking forward to most about the wedding?

Casey: The endless amounts of pizza, tacos, doughnuts, dancing, karaoke and so much love in one room!

Karrie: We’ve discussed planning a private ceremony in Italy, which I’m really excited about. I’m also really looking forward to celebrating with her family in Connecticut. I can’t wait for karaoke, dancing and laughs.

Q: What advice do you have for couples that are thinking about getting engaged?

Casey: I think Karrie getting a photographer was the best idea ever. They captured everything!

Karrie: Just make sure you always do what works best for the two of you. Don’t worry about what other people think or outside opinions.

Q: What made you choose Shane Co.?

Karrie: Casey sent me a few pictures of rings she really liked. I looked up what company made her first choice and it was Shane Co. I really loved the five-stone setting and the design reminded me of Casey’s style.

Q: What was your favorite part of the shopping experience?

Karrie: My favorite part of the experience was my salesperson, Mitchell Richards! The store was super busy because it was just two days before Valentine’s Day. I walked in and people were waiting in line. I walked around and happened to find the exact ring Casey had picked out. Mitchell approached me and asked if I wanted to see the ring before beginning to explain the design, saying that my boyfriend would love it. I corrected him and said it was actually for my girlfriend. Mitchell didn’t waver or change his enthusiasm and was super supportive! He started to ask about Casey and the proposal. I explained that she lives in Thailand and I had set up an epic engagement in the mountains of Chiang Mai. He began to tell me about the owner, Tom Shane, and how he is often in Thailand and imports many of his gems from there. The connection blew my mind. Mitchell’s knowledge and passion about Shane Co. and his sincere interest in our engagement truly made the whole experience so memorable and exciting.

Q: What do you love about your ring?

Casey: I love wearing my ring, partly because I thought this day would never come. One of my favorite parts of the ring is that it’s simply me. The five diamonds represent each one of us in the family: my fiancée, Karrie; myself; daughter, Lila; son, Holden; and, of course, our dog, Frankie.

Q: Do you have any ideas about what your ring will look like?

Karrie: I’ve looked at a few styles and I’m leaning toward either a cushion or radiant halo diamond design.

Q: Are you going to shop for Karrie’s ring together?

Casey: Shop together? Of course! However, I want to surprise her.

Karrie: Right now, we can’t shop together because Casey is still in Thailand. However, I’m visiting her again in June, so maybe that’s something we can look at together to get ideas. I wish there was a Shane Co. store in Thailand!

The post Shane Co. Customer Stories: Karrie and Casey’s Engagement appeared first on The Loupe.

Getting your dream engagement ring can seem daunting, especially when you can’t seem to find a design you truly love. While many people believe customizing their engagement ring will be expensive and time-consuming, the truth is that it can actually end up helping you stick to your budget, not to mention leaving you with a ring you’re wild about. Of course, you can also shop our most popular premounted rings or take our ring finder quiz if you’re feeling overwhelmed by options. Find out the advantages of building your dream ring at Shane Co. and decide for yourself how unique you want your engagement ring to be.

Buying loose vs. prebuilt rings

Shane Co. specializes in letting you build a customized engagement ring. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the thought of having to put together a ring or are simply looking for beautiful designs that are ready to propose with, our rings already preset with center stones are the perfect option for you. Created by our world-class design team and crafted with exceptional care, our preset rings are made with high-quality metals and feature hand-picked stones in the most popular sizes and shapes. However, if you prefer to build your dream ring using our customization options, the possibilities are endless. Here are some of our favorite benefits to buying loose:

Made just for you

If you have the option to choose your setting, stone, metal type, prong setting options and more, you are actually collaborating with your jeweler in a shared vision. Knowing that your ring reflects your own personal preferences makes it all the more meaningful.

Quality you can see

By choosing your stone and setting separately, you are able to judge the quality of each component much more accurately. For example, a stone already set in a ring may have imperfections hidden by prongs you might otherwise notice if you’d been looking at it loose. When you have the ability to choose from a variety of settings and hand-picked stones, you can prioritize quality and find something you can feel good about.  

Tailored to your budget

When you design your own engagement ring, you’re not only skipping out on brand-name markups, but you can actually pick where you want to put your money. If you’d rather have a bigger, higher-graded stone, you can concentrate on that while choosing a less expensive setting, or vice versa. If you’re in love with a particular setting, you can shop many stone options within your budget to find the perfect one. This makes it easy to personalize without breaking the bank.

Skip the mass production

This is one purchase that you want to be unique. It’s one of the only things you’ll wear on a regular basis, and it should feel special every time you put it on. Mass-produced, prebuilt designs that you find at other jewelers can be trendy, but do they really show off your love story like a personalized ring?

Build an emotional connection

Because you have a part in the design process, you’ll probably end up feeling more connected to your ring if it’s customized for you. If you choose to, you can talk to your jeweler to find out exactly who is putting together your ring, making this experience as personal as can be. You also have the opportunity to engrave your ring, which can help make it even more sentimental.

Get what you really want

Whether your loved one is picking out your ring for you or you’re doing the shopping together, choosing a separate setting and stone gives you the opportunity to highlight the aspects of the engagement ring you love the most. With a prebuilt ring, you may appreciate the overall look but not love certain details and end up with a ring you’re not 100% happy with. With customized rings, we can guarantee you’ll be happy with your ring forever.

How does Shane Co. let you customize engagement rings?

With the advantages of building a personalized ring made clear, let’s talk about how you can create the ring of your dreams at Shane Co.

Start by picking a setting OR a loose stone

Choose from the largest selection of exclusive ring designs, from classic to vintage-inspired to modern. You can shop by price or style, or find settings that fit certain stone shapes. Whether you want to show off a sparkling diamond or something a little more nontraditional, our rubies, sapphires and diamonds come in a variety of shapes and sizes for you to choose from. We offer settings in high-quality 14k yellow, white or rose gold and platinum, so you can find the one that’s right for you.

Look through head/prong options

Did you know that virtually all Shane Co. engagement rings give you the option to change the prong setting to a different style? The prong setting (also sometimes called the head) is the part that holds the center stone. We offer a variety of prong setting designs to choose from to let you further personalize your ring. You can also choose how your stone sits in your ring. If there’s a ring you truly love but you’d rather have four prongs than six, no problem. Our Shane Co. jewelers can personalize the head of your engagement ring to fit your needs.

Add an engraving

After you’ve finished putting together your dream ring, you can add an engraving for an extra touch of customization. This is the perfect opportunity for your significant other to slip in a personal message, date, name or another engraving to make this ring truly yours.

Show off your new engagement ring

At Shane Co., we create jewelry that’s built to last a lifetime. The final step in our ring building process is always making sure you really love your ring. Let us know by snapping a picture and posting it on Pinterest, Instagram or Facebook, leaving a review on our website, or sharing your Shane Co. experience with friends and family. If you’re not totally happy with your purchase, we offer a 60-Day Money-Back Guarantee. You never have to worry about your ring losing its shine because of our Free Lifetime Warranty, which includes unlimited cleaning and polishing and any maintenance it may ever need.

You have your ring – what’s next?

After you’ve fallen in love with your engagement ring, you can get ready for the wedding by shopping our wide selection of women’s and men’s wedding bands. Whether you’re looking for a band that matches your ring or creates a striking contrast, we offer handcrafted designs for every style and budget. Virtually all of our wedding rings can also be personalized with an engraving. Feel confident in your choice when you shop Shane Co., your friend in the jewelry business®.

The post Build Your Dream Engagement Ring at Shane Co. appeared first on The Loupe.