You’ve made the decision. You’re ready (or as ready as you’ll ever be) to pop the big question. The time has come to make an investment in a beautiful engagement ring to mark the occasion and seal the deal. Some couples will decide to secure a loan in order to afford a particular ring, while others will decide that they don’t want to immediately take on debt as part of their new life together. Some of these couples will choose to look into used engagement rings.

These rings are just as beautiful and express just as much sentiment as new rings, but often come with much smaller price tags. And, unlike other merchandise that can be bought used, diamonds are almost impervious to being chipped or scratched. So a diamond that was cut, set, and sold a hundred years ago will look just as beautiful as one that was cut yesterday. 

Some families will keep a lovely ring or two as heirlooms to pass down to new generations. A legacy gem with this kind of history behind it is absolutely priceless, and many couples are delighted by the prospect of using a ring that already has years of experience as a symbol of lasting love between those close to them.

If you don’t have a ring like this in your family, remember that when shopping for a pre-owned engagement ring, you won’t necessarily know why the pieces are on the market. It’s always best to take your business to a reputable vendor who will offer authenticated merchandise. How awful would it be to purchase a diamond ring from a shady merchant, only to have it appraised later and learn that the ring was misrepresented? It may not be a real diamond, or be made using a real precious metal. If you always work with vendors who authenticate their jewelry, you will always know exactly what you’re getting.

Saving money and getting a top-quality ring for a small price are not the only reasons to choose a pre-owned ring. Used engagement rings are a better choice for the environment than new rings, since their gems have already been mined. Many women (and men) favor vintage styles over new ones, and pre-owned rings can be a great way to express that every day.

Pre-owned rings offer many advantages, and no disadvantages. They are an ideal option when you’re choosing something as important as a symbol of love to be worn every day.