Can you choose your own engagement ring? Is it rude not to ask for your partner’s input? Can you wear an engagement ring swimming? For something so universal and widely accepted, the engagement ring sure comes with many nuances. But fear not! If you have questions about engagement ring etiquette, we’ve got answers! 1. Yes, You Can Pick Your Own Let us validate this idea for you: you absolutely can pick out your own engagement ring. In fact, a third of couples now shop for engagement rings together, according to The Knot. The thing is, engagement rings are expensive, with the national average cost of an engagement ring coming in at over $6,000. There’s no point in choosing something you don’t absolutely and totally love. Other acceptable ways to buy engagement rings include getting a friend to tag along with your S.O. or sending your partner pics of styles you like. In other words, do whatever feels right, but there’s no harm in some extra communication. 2. Yes, You Need Your Spouse’s Input For all you traditional guys and gals out there, we implore you to consider your recipient when choosing an engagement ring. Even if you don’t take your partner with you while you shop or don’t outright ask for pictures, you need to make sure the ring is one that speaks to your partner and reflects their style. In other words, it’s a bad idea to design something so significant for another person based solely on your own tastes and preferences. Do your best digging and take cues from their closet, jewelry box and overall style. 3. No, You Shouldn’t Stress About Ring Size If you’re shopping for a ring for your significant other, you aren’t expected to know their ring size. Yes, in an ideal world, you could borrow a ring from their jewelry box and measure it to find their ring size, but the truth is that most jewelers will happily resize your future spouse’s ring after you propose. This way, it fits like a glove, and you don’t have to do any sneaking around or guessing. If you’re looking to size silicone rings as an alternative engagement ring or wedding band, follow these steps: -Wrap a flexible measuring tape (or string) around the base of your ring finger. You want the string or tape to be snug but not tight. -Use a pen to mark the tape where it overlaps or cut the small piece of string with scissors. -Measure the string or the measuring tape in millimeters. It’s important to shop with a jeweler that offers a flexible return or resizing policy, especially if you’re buying from an online store. For example, QALO silicone rings come backed by a relaxed refund and exchange policy, so you don’t need to stress about sizing if you’re going the silicone route. Just return it, and we’ll work to find your perfect fit. 4. No, Antiques Are Not Bad Luck Don’t listen to the naysayers who think wearing a pre-worn engagement ring brings bad juju. The truth is that traditional precious metal engagement rings were made to last, so they often stay around beyond a single marriage. Plus, antique and heirloom rings can be especially unique or one-of-a-kind. They may be a better option for the more freethinking or non-traditional bride. If you’re worried about bad vibes, you can always perform a sage cleansing ceremony to banish them and start fresh! 5. Yes, Mixing and Matching is A-OK Do your engagement ring and wedding ring have to match? Definitely not. In fact, it’s super-trendy right now for brides to mix ring materials. It’s clear that the matchy-matchy ring theme is out, at least for the time being. Many couples even pair our silicone wedding rings with traditional precious metal engagement rings to create a unique aesthetic. Go ahead and mix colors, materials and vibes if that’s what you’re all about! 6. No, You Shouldn’t Always Wear Yours The sentiment behind the engagement ring is a good one. It’s something you can wear at all times, 24 hours a day, to show your commitment and love for your partner. But in practice, traditional engagement rings don’t make a ton of sense. There are many times when it makes sense to leave your engagement ring at home, such as when you’re exercising, swimming or working with heavy machinery. But, you can always rock a silicone ring instead! One final note: For most people, engagement ring shopping and wearing is a brand-new concept and a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Don’t worry too much if you aren’t sure how to do things. As always, we’re here to help!