Everyone is so excited to get their diamond ring when they get engaged, that sometimes, little else crosses your mind about it. I mean, who could blame you? You’re blissfully in love and it’s beautiful. What more could you want?

But wearing such an expensive symbol of your man’s love comes with some responsibility. Here are some things you NEED to be aware of when owning a diamond ring.

1) Jewelers could switch out your diamond while cleaning it
Sure, it’s a rare occurrence, but the truth is– it can and does happen when unsuspecting customers leave their rings to be cleaned. How do you prevent it? By knowing your diamond. Study your diamond’s cut, color and quality. Also be aware of whether or not your diamond is laser inscribed. If it is, ask to look at it magnified before you drop it off and when you pick it up, just to make sure the numbers line up.

2) Diamonds can cut you (or someone else)
Your ring may be pretty, but it can also be a sparkly hazard. If you’re a hand talker or just plain accident prone, be more aware of your ring. It can easily scratch and even cut you, or worse– your fiance. I’m not going to lie, I have suffered some minor wounds from my own ring. My husband tries to stay clear of it when I start talking with my hands like the Italian that I am.

3) Rings should be insured
You insure your car, your house, your health and even your life– why not your engagement ring? The truth is, it probably took a lot for your honey to buy you that sparkly. If anything were to happen– loss, theft, etc– you’re going to want to be able to replace it. Nothing’s worse than losing your engagement ring and then not having anything to show on your hand other than a twist tie. Be prepared. Be smart.

Nikki