As a woman in the modern world, engagement ring etiquette might be a bit confusing. Things definitely aren’t the same as they were when your grandparents or parents got engaged. In fact, a lot has changed in just the last five to ten years!
Rules of Engagement Getting engaged is a very special time in your life, and really, as long as you are happy with the experience, you are doing it right. However, there are some general guidelines that many have questions about. Can you pick out the ring? Should you chip in to pay for it? What kind of ring should I pick? The good news is, not only do we have you covered when it comes to the actual ring, but we can also help you navigate the craziness than can be engagement ring etiquette.
Picking out the Ring First thing’s first: you have to decide on what kind of ring you want. This can be the most fun part of the entire process and it is truly a way to learn a little bit about yourself and your preferences. Many women think that an engagement ring has to be diamond and platinum. While there are gorgeous rings with this combination, there are literally thousands of choices that break from this “tradition.” Opals, emeralds, and rubies are just some of the stones you can pick from to go along with your platinum band - or choose another metal like one of the many varieties of gold (yellow, rose, white). As far as engagement ring etiquette is concerned, you can be as involved as you want when it comes to picking out the ring. Make suggestions, hint at the stones, metals, and shapes that are your favorite, or pull pictures of actual rings that you have your eye on. And, while it might not be fun, if you don’t like the ring that comes with the big question, be honest about it. You will be wearing it for a lifetime, so it should be a piece that you are in love with. 
Making it Yours Once you’ve decided what ring or style of ring you want, you have to make the commitment and pay for it. Traditional engagement ring etiquette put the responsibility of the bill on the proposer, which adds an element of surprise and romanticism. But cost doesn’t have to fall on just one person. If you want to chip in or pay for half of the ring, do it! After all, you are entering into a partnership so it makes sense to take on the expense together. If you are a bit untraditional, you might even be the one to pop the question, that is quite alright and it also brings us to the next point.
Rings for Both Parties When you think of a proposal or engagement, you might only envision one ring. But, that way of thinking is in line with older engagement ring etiquette. Who says that both parties can’t have a beautiful ring to symbolize their commitment to each other and the future? Of course, you don’t have to wear a ring at all, but if you both want one, go for it!
Sharing the News Getting engaged and getting married are both exciting life events and hopefully you are able to cherish them and enjoy them to the fullest. Make sure you share the news with those you love in person or on the phone before posting the news to social media outlets. This way, you’ll be able to avoid any hurt feelings by having Grandma find out on her newsfeed! The best thing to do according to engagement ring etiquette is to wait a few days to a week and make sure all family and close friends know before posting those selfies!
Find Your Ring at Trumpet & Horn It is important to note that these aren’t hard and fast rules, more like suggestions that many people choose to follow. But, if one doesn’t make sense to you and your partner, do what does. The most important thing is that both of you are happy and excited about your engagement and the next steps to come! Begin your adventure by starting your search for the perfect ring. Trumpet & Horn has a variety of beautiful vintage and vintage inspired rings, with one that is sure to be perfect for you.