While shopping for diamond engagement or eternity rings, many buyers are surprised by the large number of diamond ring options available. Whether you are purchasing a ring from a retailer or designing a ring to be crafted by a jeweler, a number of decisions must be made in selecting the perfect diamond ring. Besides being familiar with the 4 Cs which affect the value and appearance of a diamond—cut, color, clarity and carat weight—the following considerations may also help you in your search for the perfect diamond ring:

-What diamond shape do I prefer?
Perhaps the first decision in selecting a diamond ring is which diamond shape you are seeking. Diamond cutters craft diamonds in several shapes for diamond rings, some of which are round, princess, marquise, pear, and oval. The shape of a diamond determines its outward appearance, and you will likely realize a natural preference for a particular shape as you shop. Some rings have one central diamond, as in the traditional engagement ring, while others have several diamonds that may be the same or different shapes.

-What type of metal should I choose?
Yellow gold, white gold, platinum—there are a number of metals that are common for diamond rings. Platinum is a popular option for engagement rings and eternity rings because of its resilience, though it comes with a higher price tag than other metals. Silver, on the other hand, is prone to corrosion and thus is not the best choice for frequently worn rings such as wedding bands and eternity rings. Discuss with your jeweler the metal that is right for you, taking into consideration its color, durability and resistance to corrosion.