If you’re in the market for an engagement ring, it’s important to avoid some common pitfalls that could end up costing you a significant amount of money. In this article, we will share the top 10 DONTS when buying an engagement ring, along with some valuable diamond buying tips that could save you over $2000. We’ll cover important factors such as diamond clarity, color, cut, and carat. By understanding these key elements and shopping with online diamond vendors, you can ensure the best value and price for your diamond engagement ring. Plus, we offer a free quote and a price match guarantee, so you can be confident that you’re getting the best deal. Don’t miss out on these valuable tips to make your engagement ring shopping experience a success!
Don’t buy a diamond without a certification
Always ensure that the diamond you purchase comes with a certification from a reputable organization, such as GIA for earth-mined diamonds or GI for lab-grown diamonds. A certification is like a guarantee that the diamond has been evaluated and graded for its quality and authenticity. It provides important information about the diamond’s 4Cs (clarity, color, cut, and carat weight), which are crucial factors in determining its value and beauty.
Buying a diamond without certification is like buying a car without the CARFAX and title – you have no idea what you’re getting. By purchasing a certified diamond, you can have peace of mind knowing that you are getting a genuine and high-quality stone.
Don’t purchase a warranty
It may be tempting to purchase a warranty for your engagement ring, thinking that it will offer added protection and peace of mind. However, it is important to consider the cost and value of such warranties. The cost of repairing or replacing small diamonds in the setting is minimal, and it is unlikely that you will need to make use of a warranty that costs hundreds of dollars.
Before purchasing a warranty, make sure to carefully read the fine print. Some warranties may require you to have the diamond checked periodically, which can be inconvenient if you move or miss an appointment. In most cases, the cost of the warranty outweighs the benefits, making it unnecessary and not worth the money.
Don’t buy from a large corporate store
When it comes to buying an engagement ring, it is advisable to avoid purchasing from a large corporate store. These stores often have high markups, ranging from 300% to 1000%. By buying from these stores, you are essentially paying for their overhead expenses and additional costs.
The new way to buy engagement rings is online, where you can find better value and prices. Online diamond vendors offer a wide range of choices, competitive prices, and excellent customer service. By shopping online, you can compare different options and find the best-priced diamond jewelry that suits your preferences and budget.
Don’t buy a diamond below SI1 in clarity
Clarity is an important factor to consider when buying a diamond. It refers to the presence of natural imperfections, or inclusions, within the stone. To ensure a beautiful and visually appealing diamond, it is recommended to choose a stone with a clarity grade of at least SI1.
Diamonds with lower clarity grades, especially if the inclusions are black, will be more visible and may diminish the overall appearance of the diamond. By opting for a diamond with higher clarity, you can ensure that your engagement ring looks stunning and flawless.
Don’t buy a diamond below very good cut
The cut of a diamond is what determines how well it reflects light and sparkles. To have a truly dazzling and eye-catching engagement ring, it is essential to select a diamond with a cut grade of at least very good.
Poorly cut diamonds will not reflect as much light, resulting in a lackluster appearance. By choosing a well-cut diamond, you can maximize its brilliance and ensure that it catches the light in the most beautiful way.
Don’t buy a diamond below I in color
Diamonds come in a variety of colors, ranging from colorless to yellow or brown. To ensure a clear and sparkling appearance, it is best to avoid purchasing a diamond with a color grade lower than I.
Lower color grades, especially below J, may result in a yellowish tint in the diamond, which can detract from its beauty. By choosing a diamond with a higher color grade, you can ensure that your engagement ring looks bright, white, and dazzling.
Don’t chase magic numbers
In the diamond industry, there are certain carat weights that are considered “magic numbers” and are often sought after, such as 0.75, 1.25, and 1.5 carats. However, focusing solely on these specific carat weights may limit your options and potentially lead to higher costs.
Instead of chasing after these round numbers, consider choosing a slightly lower carat weight. Choosing a diamond with a carat weight slightly below the magic number can save you money without a noticeable difference in size. By being open to slightly lower carat weights, you can get more value for your money.
Don’t settle for a typical standard diamond
In the modern era, you have the opportunity to customize your engagement ring to your exact preferences. Don’t settle for an average-looking diamond when you can create and design your perfect diamond setting.
Work with a reputable jeweler who can bring your vision to life and create a unique and stunning engagement ring. By customizing your ring, you can select the perfect diamond, setting, and overall design that reflects your personality and style.
Don’t blow your budget on an engagement ring
While it’s important to choose an engagement ring that you love, it’s also essential to consider your budget. It is possible to find a beautiful and high-quality diamond within your price range.
By shopping online and comparing different options, you can find the best value for your money. Online diamond vendors often offer competitive prices and a wide range of choices, allowing you to find an engagement ring that fits your budget without compromising on quality or style.
Don’t settle for shopping at one place
When it comes to buying an engagement ring, it is beneficial to explore different options and not limit yourself to shopping at just one place. Each jeweler may have different designs, prices, and customer service.
Do your research and shop at several different retailers, both online and in-store. By exploring different options, you can compare prices, styles, and customer reviews, allowing you to make an informed decision and find the perfect engagement ring for you.
In conclusion, if you are in the market for an engagement ring, it is important to avoid these top 10 DON’Ts. By prioritizing certifications, clarity, cut, color, and your budget, you can make a wise and informed decision. Remember to shop around, explore online options, and be confident in your purchase. With these tips, you can find a beautiful and high-quality engagement ring that symbolizes your commitment and love without breaking the bank.
