Choosing the right engagement ring is almost as important as the engagement itself and making one crucial mistake could ruin everything. Not only that, but it’s also a very important investment for many people. If that’s your first time shopping for an engagement ring, or any type of jewelry for that matter, the process might seem overwhelming. But by knowing what to look for and mistakes you should avoid, you should be able to find the right ring for you. Here are some of the most important do’s and don’ts of buying an engagement ring.
Do: Deal with a Source You Can Trust
Even if two diamonds have the same GIA grade, they can have different characteristics. That’s because they’re all formed differently and under different conditions, which gives them each their own character and inclusions. People who are not familiar with diamonds will not necessarily know what they need to look for in a good diamond. So, make sure that you work with a reputable advisor that will help you navigate through the different options.
Cities like Chicago, for instance, have some of the best jewelers in the country, and reputable jewelers like Ethan Lord are renowned for having some of the best engagement rings in Chicago. So, instead of cutting corners and looking for a deal, it’s always better to go with a proven source with a track record for quality if you want to protect your investment.
Don’t: Go by the Certificate Alone
Just looking at a diamond’s certificate won’t tell you the real quality or value of a diamond. For instance, one diamond could have an SI2 clarity grade, but be “eye clean”, meaning that you won’t be able to see any inclusions with the naked eye. Another diamond with the same clarity grade, however, could have visible imperfections. So you might end up overpaying for a lower quality diamond just by making a simple mistake.
Do: Stick to your Budget
Don’t fall prey to expectations and only spend what you can afford. There is no set price on how much you should spend on a ring, so don’t make the mistake of overspending there. Have a clear number from the get-go and stick to it. And don’t let the jeweler sweeten the deal by giving you longer repayment terms either.
Don’t: Spoil the Surprise
Buying an engagement ring as a couple is often a big mistake. Some people may like it that way, but the element of surprise is really a major part of the whole experience. So, we suggest you try to get as much intel on what she’d like in an engagement ring beforehand if you want to make a bigger impact.
Conclusion
Buying an engagement ring is an important investment, and you should take the time to do your research before you even start looking. Make sure that you follow these tips, and above all, make sure that you buy something both of you will be comfortable with as well.