The key to getting a good deal is pretty simple and can be applied across many different types of markets. Shop around and understand your market!
It’s a fact that engagement rings cost a lot of money. Some people will always prefer to pay a premium for concierge service, and then to be able to view the diamond ring in person before making the all important purchase. The excitement and buzz of being in a jewelry store, the ability to try the ring on for size and then being made to feel extra special by the sales person is an additional price that many people are willing to pay.
Before taking the plunge, we always advise couples to visit multiple local jewelers and mall stores, don’t fall for the big sales pitch though, or you will fall in to the trap of grossly overpaying. Find out exactly what you want and learn how much it would cost. Go back home and do some further research online. Be sure to understand the differences between what you viewed while browsing locally and viewing online. Buying a diamond engagement ring can be confusing, but with a little help from Google you will some become an expert in the 5c’s.
The 4c’s are talked about a lot, but people often forget the most important “C”, the fifth “C” for Certification. Certifications from different diamond grading laboratories offer varying levels of accuracy. This is well known by the experts in the jewelry world, whereas most consumers are not aware of the differences. When comparing a GIA certified diamond to an EGL USA certified diamond, you might be amazed to learn that the color and clarity will differ by 1-2 grades.
What exactly does this mean? A diamond graded by EGL USA as color F and clarity SI1, would more than likely be graded by the GIA as color G or even H and with a SI2 clarity. When comparing an EGL USA certification to a GIA certification where both are rated as color I and clarity SI1, you are looking at two very different diamonds. Before making that all important diamond purchase, a consumer should research the key diamond labs such as the GIA, AGS, EGL USA, IGI and then now defunct EGL International. Understanding the differences in accuracy of the reports is vital step in guaranteeing that you get the best diamond possible for your money
After a buyer appreciates what they want and how much it will cost go online and check out diamond recycling sites like Have You Seen the Ring. It is highly likely that you will also find it there and you will ultimately be able to buy it 30% – 50% less than the jewelry store.
