Buying the right shared prong diamond ring can be a daunting task, especially if you are buying it ahead of the proposal itself. But there are many ways to make it easier. Just follow these tips and you will be well on your way to buying the perfect diamond engagement ring for your future bride!
Do Not Buy The First Ring You See
This should be obvious. If you buy the first diamond ring you see in the first shop you go into, it MAY be the ring of her dreams, but it is unlikely to be. You really need to put some thought into choosing her engagement ring. After all this ring is intended to be the one she wears every day for the rest of her life. So take your time and shop around.
Do Not Buy The Biggest Diamond Ring You Can Find
Biggest is not best when it comes to diamonds. The weight/size (carat) is just one factor to consider. The fire and sparkle of the diamond come from the clarity and cut of the gemstone, and to an extent, the color too. A smaller diamond with exceptional color, good clarity and and ideal cut will be more expensive than a larger diamond with poor clarity and color. Do your research.
If you are buying designer 5 stone diamond rings, be sure to verify with the designer’s website or corporate office that the retailer is authorized to sell their rings. Beware of any retailer who offers to mark-down the price off the suggested retail price listed on the designer’s website as this could be a red-flag that the retailer isn’t authorized and therefore the designer will not likely back up any warranty claims or product defects in the future.
You should inspect the center diamond loose, out of the setting. A reputable store will show you the loose diamond under 10x magnification and point out all characteristics (including flaws) as noted on the certificate. Make sure the diamond is weighed in front of you and compare with the carat weight shown on the certificate, and also look at the diamond under proper lighting conditions. The store should offer to show you different diamonds to compare, in different price ranges, so you can select the best diamond that best fits your budget.
Only buy from a business that has been in operation for at least 10 years and can back up anything they sell with a 30 day money back guarantee and a lifetime diamond warranty. A B or better rating with the Better Business Bureau should also be considered when you are shopping around for your 5 stone ring.
Buy with your eyes, not with your ears. A salesperson should help you find the diamond and ring that is perfect for YOU and that fits into YOUR budget. If a salesperson tries to coerce you to buy a ring because it’s on sale, or tells you “this is the last one and might not be here if you don’t buy it today” exit the store immediately. When you find the ring that is exactly what you want, and the diamond sparkles just the way you imagined, you’ll know it’s the perfect ring for you.