So you’re thinking of buying that special someone in your life a piece of timeless jewelry, or more specifically, a diamond ring, but where do you even begin?
This is a question we love to simplify for potential buyers because let’s face it, diamond buying can get overwhelming. Typically speaking, having an initial meeting with your jeweler 4 months before you’d like to propose is what we would recommend. With that said, there are certain rings that need far less lead time.
Below we’ve broken down “How to Buy the Perfect Diamond” into four simple steps for consideration:
Step 1: Play Detective
It’s important to have an idea as to what style jewelry your partner typically wears. Are they into bulky style jewelry or more minimal, dainty jewelry? Do they like gold, white gold or platinum? What about diamond shape, have they ever mentioned a style or pointed to a ring they like? Having a general understanding of these answers will help you when making your decision.
When it comes to size, this can be tricky. If you want to keep everything a surprise, you can try to measure by “borrowing” a ring they typically wear and getting it sized, or having them try on one of your rings to get a general idea. Also, never underestimate their friends. Who knows, their BFF might already be prepared for this question.
Ring Design Pro tip: Search their name on Pinterest to see if they’ve pinned any engagement ring styles, as this could be your north star. Otherwise, check out our list of Engagement Rings Trends for 2021 for a little inspiration.
Step 2: Search out some reputable jewelry stores
From Yelp to Google, spending a little time finding a local store that has good reviews, (and plenty of them), is important. You want to find a jeweler you feel you can trust and ask questions to in-person or over the phone. This will likely be the most important part of your shopping experience.
Any jeweler worth your time should have no problem sitting down and educating you on the GIA and AGS grading scale of the 4 C’s, (Cut, Clarity, Color and Carat), as well as how their process typically works.
Do they custom create the ring for you or do they have rings available to buy off their display, or both? We often get asked our thoughts on buying a diamond online, you can read our full post on why we think local connections are so important.
Step 3: Start creating a plan
You definitely don’t need to have it all figured out, as a matter of fact, we hope you don’t, but it is important to have a general understanding of how much you would like to spend, and a list of questions or concerns you’d like to address. Your budget will help determine things like diamond carat size, clarity and color. Check out our Diamond Education Page for more information, specifically the 4 C’s of Diamond Buying.
Step 4: Book an Appointment
We believe the only way to truly understand what you’re looking for and provide you with the attention you deserve is through an appointment. This enables us to talk through a budget you’re comfortable with and show you some of our many designs. We see the appointment phase in 3 easy steps:
First, we sit down and get to know you. Unlike other stores, we pride ourselves on the relationships we build with our customers. Ask us any questions you may have or share any concerns that might be lingering and let us show you what being part of the La Bijouterie family is all about.
Second, we find your diamond. No matter your preference on cut, color, clarity, carat size and cost, we can find you the perfect diamond at prices that work for your budget.
Lastly, together we design your ring. From sketches and Pinterest pictures, we have seen and heard it all. Let us help guide you to create the perfect ring to last a lifetime.
Curious to get some additional questions answered right away? Check out our FAQ page. Looking to get started? Book an appointment today, we can’t wait to begin this journey with you.
Merci,
Set F.
Founder of La Bijouterie
