Where To Start?
Engagement ring shopping may seem daunting if you’re just starting out, but don’t worry! We’ll guide you through the shopping process and help you gain the knowledge you should know so you get exactly what you’re looking for.
Budget
As with any major purchase, set a budget before you set out shopping for an engagement ring. Knowing how much you're prepared to spend will be the first step in narrowing down your ring choices. The old adage recommending the potential groom spend 2-3 months' salary on his future bride's shiny new ring can be a great starting point, but don't forget to take into account what about the ring is truly important to you.
Some couples prefer to spend less on a ring in anticipation of other big expenditures, like buying their first house, or an exotic honeymoon. Others may feel that a sizable diamond of impeccable quality is worth the splurge. There is no right or wrong amount to spend, so long as your wallet and heart can handle it!
Style
With your price range firmly in place, it's time to consider style. From contemporary to classic, art deco to Victorian, there is a ring in every style imaginable, for every possible taste. If you're not sure where to start, check out her current jewelry collection. Does she prefer gold or silver? Diamonds or colored stones? Does she shop for new pieces at vintage shops or favor edgy looks from modern designers? If you're still in doubt, her friends are a great resource. They'll remember the times she's gazed longingly at a particular ring in a magazine or jewelers case, and they will be only too happy to aid and abet you on your matrimonial mission.
Size
Once you've decided on your purchase, do your best to get it in the appropriate size. After all, you've done such a fantastic shopping job, she's going to want to wear it immediately! Borrow one of her rings (preferably for the correct corresponding finger) and have the jeweler size it. If all else fails, just guess – and keep in mind that it's easier to size a ring smaller than it is to have it enlarged.
Create the Perfect Ring - Together
One way to remove all the guesswork is to get her involved. After 20 years in the engagement ring business, Joseph Jewelry knows firsthand how much women love to participate in the process of picking out an engagement ring – even more so when they get to take part in its custom design.
With turnaround times among the fastest in Seattle, we have yet to turn down any requested delivery date. Under normal circumstances, we ask for 6 to 8 weeks from start to finish for an engagement ring. However, delivery times are largely reliant on the intricacies of the original design and any changes you might choose to make as the work progresses. In contrast, some Seattle jewelers ask for up to 3 months to finish a custom designed engagement ring and matching wedding band.
You'll also be happy to know that our rings are created on site here in Seattle. By eliminating subcontractors and keeping all our work in house, we can keep an eye on quality and craftsmanship while adhering to the timeline we've promised you. While we recommend our clients allow a full two months for completion of their custom designed engagement ring, special considerations are possible. Please call the shop to discuss your timeline and we will do whatever it takes to ensure you get the ring you want exactly when you need it. With Joseph Jewelry, you can expect reliability, flexibility, and above all, excellence.