How to Shop for Engagement Rings Online
It’s time to start searching for that special engagement ring and going online is one of the best ways to do it.
With a variety of designs, brands and choices at your fingertips, shopping online can be quick and simple. However, there are a few points and pitfalls you should be aware of first to make sure your purchasing process is a breeze.
Get your criteria
Before you go online, write down a list of ‘musts’, including anything that you definitely want your engagement ring to have.
Does it have to be an emerald cut? Will only a platinum band suffice? Is it fundamental that it’s a gemstone and not a traditional diamond? Whatever the essentials, making a note of these will come in handy when you’re browsing online.
Browse styles
Once you’ve opened your search engine, it’s time to decide where to go. The best step is to simply browse and see what’s out there. You never know what designs you might not have considered which could be perfect for your partner.
Simply type ‘engagement rings’ in Google and see what shows or narrow your search with a brand, like Verragio Rings, or a style of stone. The web has numerous choices for you to explore, so using a more niche search phrase is a good way to save time and find the perfect style fast. Landed on a good site? Now get savvy with the filters (e.g. stone, size, style, price, etc.) to quickly get rid of anything you don’t want.
The ‘four Cs’
Although you might have a clear idea of the ring you want, it’s a good idea to pull up a guide and few images of the ‘four Cs’ to be sure there’s not a more fitting design for your partner.
The ‘four Cs’ (cut, carat, colour, and clarity) are what makes a diamond special:
- Cut: impacts on how a diamond sparkles.
- Colour: stones vary between colorless to those with a yellow tinge.
- Carat: the stone’s weight.
- Clarity: includes a diamond’s imperfections.
Check for reputable sites
There’s a huge range of jewellery shops available online, which is great for finding something special and unique. However, not all of these will offer a quality purchase, so be careful!
Check that the jeweller is registered with a reputable authority, such as the National Association of Jewellers, and check out reviews to make sure previous customers have been happy with the product and service. Also, don’t forget to look for the closed padlock symbol in the corner of the browser before you buy to ensure the payment is secure.
Verify details
Another good way to verify if your chosen online jeweller is legitimate is to look at their delivery, returns and warranty policies.
Typically, a good company will let you return a product within 30 to 60 days. Similarly, it should offer you warranty and even additional protection on your ring. If not, it may not be the brand for you.
Lastly, double-check that the delivery times suit. You don’t want the ring to reach your home after you and your partner have already jetted off on the holiday you were going to propose on.
Don’t forget sizing
If you’re buying from a brand based in another country, it’s worth checking the sizing, as these can differ by country compared to how we size rings in the UK.
Have fun finding the ideal ring online.