We recently have become apprised {and a little surprised} about how many men read our blog. Most of our posts are targeted towards the ladies in Utah, the brides to be more specific. But the grooms, well they deserve a post or two right?! And those posts could easily serve as a helping hand to the ladies in waiting! So ladies send a nondescript link to the man of your choosing, and grooms pick up some great advice here from a reputable online jeweler about that purchase your considering!
Engagement Ring Basics
Engagement rings are available in a variety of styles and price ranges. What do you need to know when shopping for one?
Metals: Gold and platinum are the most popular choices. Platinum is more dense and durable, and thus more expensive than gold. The most common shades of gold are yellow and white gold, with white gold being a popular, less expensive alternative to platinum.
The 4C’s: These are a universal grading system for rating and comparing the quality of diamonds. The 4C’s are Carat, Color, Clarity, and Cut. Keep in mind that carat size is just one aspect of a diamond and that each of the 4C’s is important. Choosing an engagement ring involves finding a balance between the four criteria. Diamonds also come in a variety of shapes—the most requested diamond shapes for engagement rings are the round cut and the princess cut.
Settings: The right ring setting will showcase a diamond or gemstone in its best light. Some settings, such as the solitaire, showcase one central stone, whereas others, like the channel setting, accommodate a row of smaller diamonds. Ring setting is a very personal choice, as the setting defines the overall look of the ring.
Acquiring an Engagement Ring
There are three basic ways a bride acquires an engagement ring:
Inherit a Ring: Some brides-to-be don’t end up buying an engagement ring at all. They inherit a beautiful family heirloom jewel from their mother, grandmother, or other relative. These rings are often of an older or antique style and symbolize family bonds and family legacy. Inherited or passed down rings offer an obvious economic advantage: you don’t have to buy a ring! Keep in mind, however, that inherited rings often need to be resized, repaired, or adjusted to properly accommodate a new wearer.
In-Store: The advantage of buying a ring at a brick-and-mortar jewelry store is you receive personal attention from a sales rep and that you can try rings on see how they look and feel right away.
Also, jewelers who have been in business for many years or decades, such as McKay Diamonds in Salt Lake City, which has been serving the community for over 60 years, usually have a solid reputation and you can feel confident buying from them.
When you purchase a ring from a retail store, it’s best to have already familiarized yourself with the basics of ring settings and diamonds and to have a budget in mind so you don’t get swayed by salespeople to go beyond your comfort zone. Keep in mind that jewelry stores offer less flexibility in letting your design your own ring and their selection is usually limited.
On-Line: A great way to buy a rings and bridal jewelry these days is to shop online. Online retailers have a much lower overhead than brick-and-mortar stores, and as a result are able to pass on the savings to their customers. Online retailers also offer a larger selection than retail stores and popular Design-Your-Own Ring features that let you customize a ring from start to finish. When ring shopping online, you can expect to pay up to 50% less than what you would in-store.
Reputable online jewelers such as James Allen and Blue Nile offer a positive and reliable shopping experience. For example, James Allen offers free shipping to Utah (and anywhere in North America), a 60 day return policy, and actual diamond photos (you see a magnified photo of the specific diamond you are purchasing, not a stock photo). Buying from a reputable online jeweler will offer you the peace of mind you would get from shopping at the best of jewelry stores. A reputable online jeweler will also provide quality customer service via phone, email, and online chat.
The ability to design your own ring to your specifications from the comfort of your own home lets you bypass having to deal with sales people. You can design a classic solitaire ring, for example, using actual diamond photos to find the perfect diamond. You can explore different types of metals, settings, and diamonds and easily stay within your budget.
It pays to do some research before your purchase an engagement ring. It’s always a good idea to ask questions. Don’t be shy! Sales people and customer service reps are there to help you. Buying an engagement ring is a journey. Once you have completed the journey, you’ll have a small treasure to cherish for years to come.
Writing credentials: Shira B. @ www.jamesallen.com
