How to Choose a Jeweler

The first step toward finding the perfect diamond engagement ring is choosing a jeweler. Different jewelers offer different services, price ranges, and styles that a couple must consider. Just as the ring is a lifetime investment, the jeweler that goes with it should be one that will last for years.

Which Ring From Which Jeweler

The first consideration when choosing a jeweler is deciding what type of ring you’re interested in acquiring. Small jewelry stores may have a fine selection of classic, traditional diamond rings, but for a more exotic choice such as Pave Setting Diamond Engagement Rings or Asscher Cut Diamond Engagement Rings, you may need to find a more individualized jeweler with a larger, more carefully selected range of rings. Furthermore, if you are interested in purchasing loose diamonds to set into a customized diamond engagement ring, most small jewelers will not be able to accommodate your needs.

The best option is to visit several types of jewelers, from single-store operations to national chains, and investigate the different diamond engagement rings they each offer. Once you have decided on a basic style, you can narrow your choice of jeweler further through other considerations.

Mall Stores Vs. Independent Jewelers

Many people warn against purchasing a diamond engagement ring from a mall jewelry store, but the truth is that both mall stores and independent jewelers offer different conveniences for their customers. While an independent jeweler may have a more exotic collection, many mall stores are affiliated with large chains and can purchase their diamonds at a lower general price, potentially lowering the final price for the consumer. Independent jewelers may be able to provide more detailed information about the diamond’s origin, which is a particular concern when you wish to avoid Conflict Diamonds, but mall jewelers can often provide faster routine maintenance. Independent jewelers, on the other hand, are typically more experienced and can give more informed views of the different gems they have available.

Your future plans should also factor in to your choice of jeweler. If you are sentimental about the store and wish to purchase further pieces from them for anniversaries and other special occasions, a mall store may be a better choice. That way, if you relocate you have a better chance of being near the same chain store. While an independent jeweler may one day go out of business, a chain is unlikely to disappear completely. This can be a concern if you purchase a warranty on your engagement ring that is contingent on regular inspections – if the store closes, your warranty is lost, but if it is a chain, you can simply move it to another branch.

Consider Services When Choosing a Jeweler

Before choosing a jeweler, you should investigate what services they will provide for the life of the ring. Can they easily provide routine cleanings and general maintenance? What about more extensive repairs? What if you decide years later to reset the diamonds into a different ring? While nearly all jewelers will be able to accommodate these types of requests, they may simply be sending your jewelry out to a different location rather than completing the services on site.

Furthermore, the jeweler should be open and honest when discussing your purchase. They should be able to provide documentation about the ring’s quality, and be willing to provide you a loupe to inspect the minute details of the ring if you so desire.

Warranty: Important Part of Choosing a Jeweler

The warranty a jeweler offers should be a prime concern when dealing with such an expensive investment. Most jewelers offer a basic plan included in the price of the ring – for example, if you bring the ring in for periodic inspections (usually annually or every six months), you may qualify for discounts on repairs or free basic services. Before accepting such a policy, however, you should investigate plans that cover larger repairs, including damage to or the loss of the stone itself.