Anna GionetFinding the perfect ring to propose with can be simultaneously exciting, fatiguing and a little bit frightening. Luckily, most mistakes are easily avoidable, and your friends in the diamond business are here to help. Read on to find out about missteps you can avoid when shopping for an engagement ring.
1. Not setting a budget
Listen, we get it – talking about how much it’s going to cost is probably the least romantic part about buying an engagement ring. But figuring out how much you’re willing to spend is vital to finding the right ring. Take into consideration other expenses down the line – are you saving up for a big wedding? A house? Still struggling to pay off student loans? Or, conversely, do you have a nice chunk of change set aside for this once-in-a-lifetime purchase? It’s your jewelers’ job to find something amazing within your budget, not the other way around. P.S. don’t forget about financing and other options available to you when considering the cost of the ring!
2. Doing it all on your own
It’s likely that you’re still hoping your proposal will be a total surprise for your sweetheart. However, trying to tackle buying an engagement ring without the help of those that know your partner well, in addition to someone who’s an expert in all things bridal, is a common mistake that can be easily avoided. You can keep aspects of your engagement a surprise while dropping hints to your future fiancé to figure out what ring she’d like best. If you want to stay tight-lipped, try asking her friends and family what style she would be into. In addition, make sure you’re dealing with an expert jeweler that can help educate you on the ring-buying process – the salespeople at Shane Co. don’t work on commission, so you’ll be in a no-pressure environment and can ask all the questions you’re unsure about.
3. Not doing your research
What’s the first step to making any big decision? Research! In the digital age, there’s a plethora of resources available to you online to learn about diamond shapes, quality, engagement ring setting styles and more. Plus, you and your partner can use tools like our engagement ring style finder quiz and Matchmaker to figure out what style ring she really wants. Walking into a jewelry store without having done any research is like walking into battle without any weapons – you want to be as prepared as you can be.
4. Focusing too much on the paper
It’s important to know the 4 C’s before you begin your diamond buying journey, and asking for a diamond certification is definitely a smart move. But relying solely on how your ring looks “on paper” can be a major misstep. Did you know that diamonds of the same grade can still vary greatly in appearance? That’s why you should always examine your ring in-person before making a decision. A less expensive diamond with a lower clarity grade may even appear similar to a highly graded one, if the inclusions aren’t visible to the naked eye, or can be easily hidden by prongs or other elements of the setting. Ask your jeweler to compare different diamonds to see for yourself what your options are.
5. Trying to stay “trendy”
If you’re paying attention to all the latest trends, you may notice that certain styles receive a lot of attention, then seem to fizzle out after a couple of months. Even if you’re honey is a fashionista, you should probably think twice before opting for “trendy” over “classic.” Everyone’s style is different, but remember that this is one piece of jewelry your significant other isn’t just going to replace when it goes out of style.
6. Getting carried away in the moment
Shopping for an engagement ring is an emotional experience. It symbolizes the love you share with another person, a sign that represents your lifelong commitment and intent to form a beautiful family of two. That means that it can be easy to find yourself spending way more than you planned to or going for extravagance instead of thinking about what your partner really wants. We’re not saying you shouldn’t get passionate and enjoy the experience – of course you should! But keep your goals and budget in mind while you’re waxing poetic about this big decision.
7. Rushing your purchase
You most likely haven’t rushed your decision to get engaged, so why would you rush your decision to pick the perfect engagement ring? Here’s one of the best tips we can give you: take your time. The perfect proposal will still be waiting for you whether you decide on the first ring you see or take the time to compare a few. The salespeople at Shane Co. are happy to spend their time discussing the attributes of each ring, comparing similar diamonds, showing you different shapes, and educating you on the entire ring-buying process.
8. Forgetting about the warranty
It’s easy to get caught up in price comparison when making a big purchase like a diamond. What most people forget, however, is that perks like the warranty and re-sizing can add a significant amount to your total at the end of your shopping journey. Shane Co. offers a completely free lifetime warranty that includes the center stone of your engagement ring. That means that your ring is protected – for free, for life. Most other jewelers charge additional fees for their warranty, which often does not take into account the center diamond.
Rachel Nipp
Brianna Blair
Anna Gionet