You will get the best deal on an engagement ring at an independent jeweler, a diamond wholesaler (if you’re fortunate enough to live in New York or another major diamond market), or an online diamond retailer like James Allen or Blue Nile
Blue Nile
The Blue Nile is a river originating at Lake Tana in Ethiopia. With the White Nile, it is one of the two major tributaries of the Nile. The Blue Nile supplies about 80% of the water in the Nile during the rainy season.
Full Answer
Where can I buy the best quality diamond engagement rings?
The best way to ensure you get a high-quality diamond and engagement ring for the best price is to shop at a trusted jewelry store. Online diamond retailers like James Allen and Blue Nile not only have the best range and prices, they also provide stellar customer service to assist you on your journey.
How to get the best deal on an engagement ring?
We’re here to show you how to get the best deal on an engagement ring, so you have plenty left over for the honeymoon . Don’t let a jeweler overwhelm you with all that talk about cut, color, clarity, and carat. If you’re trying to buy the best ring your budget will allow, make your first priority the cut of the diamond.
What determines where you shop for an engagement ring?
Ever since 1947, when diamond giant, De Beers, came up with the tagline, "A Diamond is Forever," men have continued for decades to buy diamond ... (Continue reading) Your budget and comfort level with certain types of retailers may determine where you shop for an engagement ring.
What is the best stone for an engagement ring?
Decide on the Stone. Diamonds are traditionally the common stone for engagement rings, but other gems have become quite fashionable in recent years—enough to give diamonds a run for the money. Moissanite: This is one of the most brilliant alternatives to diamond. It is nearly colorless, just like most diamonds.
What is the cheapest way to buy an engagement ring?
The best place to buy an engagement ring is through a reputable online vendor like Blue Nile, James Allen or Leibish & Co (for colored gemstones). With lower overhead costs and no need to store inventory, their prices are typically 30-40% less than what you can find in a jewelry store.
What is an acceptable price for an engagement ring?
General Rule: You should spend at least 2 months salary on the engagement ring. If, for example, you are making $60,000 per year, you should spend $10,000 on the engagement ring.
Is it cheaper to buy an engagement ring online or in store?
In most cases, engagement rings are 30-40% cheaper online than they are in physical stores. Because of the way diamonds are sold and distributed, diamonds are less expensive for online vendors. By shopping online, you'll get a large selection of conflict-free diamonds and beautiful settings at competitive prices.
How do you get a good deal on a wedding ring?
Here's how to get going on that task:Search vintage. Vintage stores can be a great source for finding high-quality rings at a fraction of the price. ... Be wary of local retail jewelers. ... Don't over-focus on clarity. ... Over-focus on cut. ... Don't go into debt over a ring.
How many carats should an engagement ring be?
a day agoIn the United States, for example, the national average for an engagement ring is around one carat. In the United Kingdom, it's 0.6 carats, and in Europe it's even smaller, hovering at 0.5 carats. Age also matters.
Is 3 months salary engagement ring?
It's known as the "three months' salary" rule, and it implies that a buyer should put three months of their salary toward a sparkler for their future spouse. For context, The Knot 2021 Jewelry and Engagement study found that the average cost of an engagement ring in the US is $6,000.
Is Blue Nile legit?
Diamond Selection: Are Blue Nile Diamonds Legit? Blue Nile diamonds are absolutely legit. But because they cost less than diamonds at brick-and-mortar retailers, it's understandable how someone shopping for a diamond might be skeptical. The price difference is all in the business model.
Is James Allen a reputable company?
James Allen is a good online diamond retailer if you're looking for value. It offers a large range of diamonds and settings at fair prices. All diamonds have 360-degree videos and are certified. You can also chat 24/7 with jewelry experts for any questions.
Why are local jewelry stores so expensive?
They source jewelry that is mass-produced to keep their cost of goods as low as possible. Then they often mark up their products at exorbitant prices. It's the only way they can maintain such a massive overhead. In general, “bulk” means the quality isn't as great.
Do jewelers negotiate price?
Jewelry is a prime candidate for price negotiation, because it's expensive and the margins are fat. The way to do it is the same way you'd negotiate for anything: First, make sure you're dealing with someone who can actually make a decision.
How much of a discount can you ask for an engagement ring?
Walk into the store, point to anything, ask the price and then ask “what's the best price”. Huge immediate discount. Even if you don't deliberately ask for their best price the consultant will without fail tell you she can give you a 30% discount because of the sale they're running.
Are engagement ring prices negotiable?
It is indeed completely appropriate to negotiate the price of any piece of jewelry. Jewelers know this and will expect it. That being said, it's important to note that the commercial jewelry chain stores (and brand name jewelry stores) will almost always immediately shoot down your negotiating attempts.
How much should I spend on an engagement ring 2021?
According to The Knot 2021 Jewelry and Engagement Study, the average cost of an engagement ring is currently $6,000. If you're deciding how much to spend on an engagement ring, there are several factors to consider. While $6,000 is the national average cost of a ring, the spend per couple varies.
How much does the average engagement ring cost 2020?
What's the Average Cost? Brides' American Wedding Study found that the average couples spent on an engagement ring in 2020 was $3,756, which is less than the $7,829 average couples spent in 2018.
Is 10k too much for an engagement ring?
$10,000 is quite a generous budget for an engagement ring. It's certainly much more than the median amount spent on an engagement ring, which, according to the NY Times, is generally less than $3,000.
Is 20k a lot for an engagement ring?
A $20,000 engagement ring budget is far above the median amount spent on a diamond ring, which is around $3,000 – $5,000. When we discuss the average engagement ring cost, we note that people spending 20k are significantly above the mean.
When is the best time to buy an engagement ring?
Want the very best deal on an engagement ring? Then, you may want to avoid proposing at Christmas and Valentine’s Day. Since these are popular times to pop the question, the selection is likely to be picked over, making it less likely that you’ll find a bargain. Steer clear of that November through February shopping time frame, if you’re serious about finding a deal. The summer months are your best bet. Since it’s typically a slow sales time, you’ll find the prices are much more negotiable.
How much can you save on a diamond ring?
Buy a diamond that’s a speck smaller than the norm, and you can expect to save at least 15 to 20 percent. That’s a pretty big saving for such a tiny difference in size.
How to make a half carat diamond look bigger?
Fake the look of a big diamond by choosing a halo setting. That’s a setting where a bunch of smaller accent stones surrounds the center stone. It can make the center diamond look as much as half a carat bigger. Use this trick to make a half-carat diamond look like a one-carat diamond, and you could save $2,400 or more.
How to keep the weight down on a diamond?
All of that platinum or gold adds up, too. To keep the metal weight down, opt for a simple prong setting. It’s a timeless look that happens to be an affordable look.
When did diamonds become the engagement stone of choice?
Diamonds didn’t become the engagement stone of choice until around 1947. Before that, sapphires, emeralds, and rubies were the norms. Bring back the tradition by selecting one of these eye-catching gems as the centerpiece for your ring.
Can you get a refund for a ring you bought?
Make sure they know you intend to have the ring appraised , and will expect a full refund if the appraisal doesn’t match what you’ve been told. Then, follow through with that appraisal. The shop may try to recommend a gemologist-appraiser to you, but if you want an unbiased assessment, it’s better to choose your appraiser and to refrain from telling him or her where you bought the ring.
Can you update a family ring with a dated setting?
You can also use this trick to update a family ring with a dated setting. Just make sure your family is good with the idea before you dismantle an heirloom .
What are the 4 Cs of engagement rings?
3. The Fifth C—Compromise. You may be well versed in the Four C’s—color, cut, clarity and carat—but the secret only the best engagement ring shopper know is that you can often compromise on some characteristics—namely color and clarity—as long as the cut grade is very high. A well-cut diamond can have a clarity grade as low as SI1 without being visibly imperfect, as long as the cut grade is at least Ideal.
What is the best shape for diamonds?
6. Be flexible on shape. Since round brilliant diamonds are by far the most popular diamond shape, other, more exotic shapes can sometimes offer a better value than the traditional round shape. On the other hand, some shapes, such as emerald and cushion cut, require a higher quality diamond to get that perfect sparkle we are all looking for. Ask your sales associate to compare a few stones of different shapes, and be prepared to be flexible in order to get the best possible deal.
What is Emma Stone's engagement ring?
If you're a fan of Emma Stone, then you may know that her luminescent pearl engagement ring comes from fine jewelry brand, Kataoka. Known for his exquisite and delicate jewelry, Yoshinobu Kataoka prides himself on creating wearable works of art. Kataoka's pieces are for the bride who is looking for an engagement ring that has an heirloom vibe. Browse beautifully handcrafted rings with unique pairings like pearls nestled between gorgeous green emeralds and striking amethysts or go bold with a smokey blue sapphire ring dotted with twinkling diamonds.
Where are Katkim engagement rings made?
From core collection engagement rings (the Marquise Crescendo Ring, Duét Pear Ring, floating rings, and split duet bands are all popular styles among modern brides) to bespoke designs, every KatKim piece is handmade in Los Angeles by artisans that the label is dedicated to supporting in the local community. Every diamond used in a KatKim piece is conflict-free and adheres to The Kimberley Process, while settlings are made with recycled gold whenever possible.
What is the Zales ring education?
Offering high-touch customer service, Zales provides an online "Engagement Ring Education" guide featuring the different types of settings and the five C'S (according to Zales, "care" is a crucial fifth "Z" in addition to cut, carat, color, and clarity). What's more, the fine jewelry retailer has a 24/7 online concierge service so customers can ask any additional questions before buying the ring of their dreams as well as financing options.
How long does it take to get an engagement ring back from Zales?
You can either choose to have your engagement ring shipped to a local Zales store which takes about 3 business days or to have your order shipped straight to your door which usually takes up to 2 business days. Returns and exchanges in good condition are permitted within 60 days from the purchase date and online purchases can be returned to any Zales location or returned by mail. Keep in mind that it might take up to 30 days to process any refunds.
What is the name of the diamond store?
Zales has been known as "the diamond store" since 1924, and for a good reason — the retailer carries an impressive selection of engagement rings and wedding bands to suit any taste. Plus, there are plenty of stunning options for those shopping on a budget, because while a price cannot be put on love, Zales understands that there are limits to how much one can spend on an engagement ring.
What is a Doyle and Doyle engagement ring?
If you’re in the market for an antique, estate, or vintage engagement ring, Doyle & Doyle offers a hand-selected collection of spectacular engagement rings. Based in New York City, the company was founded in 1998 by sisters Elizabeth Doyle and Irene Pamela Doyle, both of whom have worked to curate an impressive collection of rare and unique vintage gems that mix edgy elegance with glamour and beauty. The curated selection includes rings from a wide range of periods, including classic mid-century diamond solitaires, romantic Victorian cluster rings, and timeless Art Deco designs. They even carry vintage rings from famous jewelers like Tiffany & Co. and seek out rings that are a little more off the beaten path, including fancy colored and shaped diamonds, rare gemstones, and unique designs.
How long does it take for a genuine engagement ring to ship?
Genuine rings will ship approximately 3-4 weeks after the order is placed and a signature will be required upon delivery. Everyday rings can be returned within 14 days of the purchase day but fully custom engagement rings cannot be returned.
What determines where to shop for engagement rings?
Your budget and comfort level with certain types of retailers may determine where you shop for an engagement ring.
What happens when you buy an engagement ring?
Bottom Line: When you buy an engagement ring, you will have it forever. She'll wear it every day for the rest of her life.
What is a designer ring?
Designer rings offer unique, exclusive styles and expert craftsmanship, not to mention the prestige of the brand.
Does Costco have Tiffany rings?
If you really care about properly certified diamonds, you'll want to avoid those. For the higher-end buyer, Costco offers neither the presentation nor long-term servicing of a Tiffany engagement ring. It doesn't offer resizing services either, which can make finding the right ring difficult.
When did the diamond ring start?
The tradition of a diamond engagement ring began as an ad campaign by De Beers in the 1920s. De Beers' " A Diamond is Forever " marketing plan convinced the world that a diamond was the only way to prove your love. It remains perhaps the most successful ad campaign in history. What We Like.
Where did the use of engagement rings come from?
Although the use of engagement rings dates back to ancient Rome, the addition of diamonds to the ring is believed to have become popular in the ... (Continue reading)
Can you design your own engagement ring?
It's good if you want to design your own engagement ring. You can pick your own diamond and setting to create a custom ring.
How to make your engagement ring personal?
You can make it personal by getting an engagement ring with your girlfriend's birthstone. Heirloom: Before going ring shopping, check with your own and your girlfriend's family to see if they have an heirloom diamond that they would like to give her.
What percentage of weddings start with a proposal?
According to the wedding planning website theknot.com, 39 percent of weddings begin with a proposal between Thanksgiving and Valentine's Day. Everyone wants to buy the perfect ring. Being one of the most expensive purchases we make in our life, it is important to plan ahead and understand the process. It will make both the recipient and your wallet happy.
What is clarity in diamonds?
Clarity: The clarity of the diamond deals with how many imperfections can be seen in a diamond. The clarity is categorized from flawless (FL) to included (I). For most people, buying a diamond with no obvious flaws (that doesn't require a microscope to see) would be good enough.
Can you design a ring with a jeweler?
Plus you can design the ring with the jeweler to create a one-of-a-kind ring. You'll see a lot more creative designs at a store like this, too. They often don't charge for the design, and you'll just pay based on the amount of metal (gold, white gold, platinum, etc.) used, plus the cost of the stones.
