12 Questions to Ask Your Jeweler When Buying an Engagement Ring
Choosing a Jeweler
01. How many years of experience do you have?
In the jewelry industry, experience equals skill and usually translates to higher quality. Other components to consider are their wide selection of pieces and varied array of services, showing their skill and willingness to work for the customer.
02. May I see reviews and recommendations?
You need to be able to trust your jeweler, just like you trust your doctor or a mechanic. If they were not recommended to you, make sure there is an abundance of consistent years of reviews for the jeweler so that you know others have been happy (or upset) with their experiences.
Style
03. Is the piece completely customized, or do I just pick a gem, setting, and band?
This question is important because if you want to add a custom element, you want to make sure it is entirely custom. If you were promised a custom ring, it should be made only for you, and not just different pieces of different designs matched together.
04. What are all the pros and cons of each metal, and what are the options for my budget?
Every metal has good characteristics as well as drawbacks, and the final choice is just about what suits you, your lifestyle, and your budget. Although platinum is the best for securely setting gemstones, there is no bad metal. Here’s a handy info-graphic to help with precious metal choice.
05. May I see a mockup of the ring and see the diamond under magnification?
You should be happy with the design before production so that you know you’ll love the final product! Many jewelers will create a 3D model and grow a wax version for you. For the diamond, ask the jeweler to explain what you’re seeing under magnification so you know exactly the diamond you’re purchasing.
Future Plans
06. Can I upgrade the diamond later?
If you think you may upgrade at some point in the future, make sure you know the jeweler’s policy. Many jewelers will give the first diamond’s value in credit towards the upgraded diamond.
07. Can I resize the ring later or add engraving?
This is very important! If you think you may need to resize the ring, ask to make sure there is space to do that on the band. Some eternity styles don’t always allow for this. Usually you can add engraving to a ring easily at a later date, but it is a good choice to check with your jeweler.
Logistics
08. When will the ring be ready? I need it by ____.
Most rings take around 6 weeks for the entire custom process. Make sure to mention when you need the ring by, and set the due date a few days before you actually need it in case any last minute changes need to be made.
09. How will I communicate with you (the jeweler) and keep the ring a secret?
Make it clear if the jeweler should not contact you on the phone (or email, etc) because you’re trying to keep it a surprise. Most jewelers are great at keeping the ring a secret, but make sure you and the jeweler know how you’ll be communicating through the process.
Finance
10. May I see the diamond’s certificate?
This is extremely important. If the diamond does not have a certificate from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), the American Gemological Society Laboratories (AGS), or the International Gemological Institute (IGI) do not purchase it until a certificate is obtained from one of those institutions. No other lab is acceptable. A certificate guarantees a diamond’s characteristics because it is graded by an unbiased lab, so the appraisal price can be set by these grades.
11. Will I receive an appraisal with the ring?
An appraisal is important for insuring the ring. Usually, a jeweler will appraise the piece for you, but check before you purchase to make sure they will.
12. What is the warranty and how should I insure the ring?
This is where the appraisal comes in. Contact your home owners/renters insurance provider and find out their exact policy for you. You can also find specific jewelry insurance companies. Make sure you have the jeweler’s warranty in writing, and that it makes sense for you.