What to know before you go engagement ring shopping
August 6, 2020 • 6 min read
Are you thinking of proposing to your loved one? Being an exciting milestone in every couple’s relationship, an engagement is a big moment. However, you would want it to go off without a hitch. Meaning, you’ll want to get the perfect engagement ring!
Finding the right engagement rings in Sydney is not an easy task. With a wide selection of styles, gemstones and engagement ring designs on offer, it is important to have a few things in mind before you make the big decision.
Whether you are planning on proposing or have already proposed and are on the hunt for the ultimate engagement ring, there are a few things you should consider that could make a difference before you set off to the shops.
Who are Sydney’s engagement ring specialists?
Before you begin your search, we recommend you do your research. If you can afford to, don’t settle for the generic chain-store jeweller around the corner. Have a look and try to visit engagement ring specialists, like ourselves at Midas Jewellery.
This may mean you have to go out of your local area. But for the ideal engagement ring, the trek will be worth it in the end!
By going for a store that specialises in engagement rings, you will find the quality is substantially superior. You will also be pleasantly surprised by the improvement in customer service. Not only are we much more flexible to preferences, but we also have a more in-depth knowledge of engagement rings in general.
Furthermore, the different options and collections of engagement rings will be much more comprehensive, giving you a wide selection in one convenient location. At Midas Jewellery, this couldn’t be more accurate. We house a vast range of engagement rings that span across a variety of different styles, settings and coloured stones.
Think ahead and look at their wedding ring choices
Be prepared and save yourself time in advance! By looking into stores who specialise in engagement rings, there will be a good chance they also cater to wedding rings.
Have a look at their website and see if they also provide a wide selection of wedding bands. If they do, you’ll hopefully have your engagement ring and wedding band sorted in one place! Not to mention, you may be able to get a deal if you get both at the same shop!
However, just because they have engagement rings doesn’t mean it is the best place to go. There are a few things to look into: do they offer both men’s and women’s wedding rings? Or better yet, do they offer matching sets for both parties?
It is also worthwhile to see if they match wedding bands with their engagement rings. You can never go wrong with a ring set that complements each other! If they offer all this, then we certainly recommend you give them a visit!
Know that the rings on display aren’t your only option
Before you go into the store, know that the rings you see at first glance aren’t always your only choices. For example, when customers shop at one of our Midas Jewellery stores, the options go beyond what we have showcased on display.
With our experienced and skilled master jewellers, we proudly offer a customisation service. By creating bespoke engagement rings, the possibilities are endless.
When sitting down and designing a ring with our professional jewellers, you have no limitations. You could create any ring you want. From a one-of-a-kind design to a slightly altered version of an already-existing ring, you won’t run out of options!
This means you shouldn’t be discouraged if you walk into a store and can’t find the ideal ring. Beyond customisation, there may even be more rings on offer that aren’t yet on show or simply haven’t reached the store yet!
If you are visiting one of our boutiques, we encourage you to ask any of our members if you have a question on further designs.
Know your budget
Choosing your budget is essential — and it can be a little challenging to decide what the right number may be. There are plenty of old-fashioned guidelines surrounding engagement ring budgets, but you shouldn’t feel any pressure to stick to any obsolete traditions.
It is helpful if you go into the store knowing how much you ideally want to spend and what is the maximum price you are willing to pay. By knowing this, the store employee can help guide you to a collection that is suited for your price range. They can even give you further suggestions knowing what you are preparing to spend.
Don’t let yourself get pushed beyond your price range and remember that you could have the chance to upgrade the ring in the future.
Learn about the 4Cs
It is encouraged you are educated on diamonds before you go into a store! This way, you can ensure that you get the best diamond engagement ring for your budget.
For proper education, it is important to understand how each of the 4Cs – carat weight, clarity, colour and cut – impact the appearance of the diamond and its price. Depending on diamond shape, cut and setting, you may be able to save on carat weight or colour.
With the help of your jeweller and a little research before you start looking, you could find the perfect engagement ring in Australia for the best price.
Want to learn more about the 4Cs? Check out the video below.
Look at your partner’s style
This is extremely important for those shopping without their partner. Remember that your partner will wear this ring every day for the rest of their life. So, you’ll certainly want to take notes on their taste before you head into a store.
Keep an eye on the kinds of jewellery she wears and what catches her eye in-store or online. Even her taste, in general, can be a good tell. Understanding her style, whether it is glamorous and dazzling or simple and elegant, can dictate your final decision.
Deciding between traditional, modern and vintage ring styles is essential. And if you’re choosing the design without her help, consider talking to her friends or family to get a second opinion.
Not to mention, you will also want to try and get their size right the first time round. By borrowing a ring from her collection to come and show us or by tracing one of her rings at home, we can try and help you find the best size.
Keep in mind that some stores will allow exchanges or resizes. At Midas Jewellery, if the ring is in the same condition as it was when purchased, we can generally exchange it for what she wants (assuming it wasn’t custom made).
Consider their lifestyle
Diamonds may be the hardest gemstone, but in the wrong setting, they can be vulnerable to damage. This is why it is vital to consider your partner’s habits and daily lifestyle.
Some elements are more durable than others and must be considered if your partner is very active or works in a hands-on environment. If your partner is very practical, the last thing you want to give them is a delicate ring that might not be able to cope with pressure as much as other designs.
Talk to your jeweller about what settings will best protect your diamond and secure the gemstone in place regardless of activity.
Always shop around
On the last note, never settle for the first good ring you find. It’s vital to assess all your options to ensure you’ve found what you want for the best value.
If you find the right jeweller, you will be looked after for a lifetime. Just like we do, some offer complimentary cleaning and will ensure that your ring is taken care of for years to come.
Make sure you discuss insurance and warranty and understand the conditions for the future.
Midas Jewellery values every customer that works with us. We want to build lasting relationships with our clients and ensure that their precious engagement rings are as beautiful as the day they first laid eyes on them.
If you’re interested in finding a stunning engagement ring from a jeweller that is committed to giving you the best results, visit one of our boutique stores and find the perfect match.
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