How to Find a Jewelry Store to Buy an Engagement Ring

The jeweler is sometimes just as important as the jewel. After you've figured out what your girlfriend likes in a ring, it's time to find a jewelry store to buy an engagement ring. Chances are there are many jewelers in your area so use these steps as your jewelry store buyer's guide.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• references
• phone book

1. Get references. Ask your friends where they buy jewelry from. They'll be more honest than an advertisement and they can tell you about their experiences.
2. Find a jeweler owned store. You want to work closely with people who have invested themselves into the business. The person that helps you should be passionate and knowledgeable.
   
3. Make sure employees are professionally trained. Look for certificates that show that the staff has been trained by an industry recognized association or organization.
   
4. Look for well-known names in the store. If all you see are generic products, you might want to reconsider how prestigious and qualified this jeweler is.
5. Find a store that will service and repair jewelry in store. You want someone who knows how to handle jewelry to help you purchase in the first place. Don't buy from a place that ships their jewelry off to be repaired.
   
6. Look for jeweler certification. Make sure your jeweler is certified by an industry recognized organization, such as the Gemological Institute of America or the American Society of Appraisers.
   
7. Feel comfortable with your jeweler. You'll likely be spending thousands of dollars into this store, so find an employee that knows how to explain things to you and answer all your questions clearly.
   

Tips & Warnings

• Choose a jeweler the same way you'd choose a doctor, lawyer or another professional. Look to see how long they have been in business and always, always get references and recommendations.
• A good jeweler will be able to explain the 4 C's to you and will help you understand what affects the value of a stone.
• Get a warranty on the ring--a good jeweler will include some coverage in the basic price of the ring.
• There are different merits for independent stores and larger chain stores. Larger stores will usually be able to get jewels for lower prices and have more exotic selections, but independent stores can give you more detailed information on the stones history and origins.
• The biggest, most advertised company isn't always the best. Find a jeweler that focuses on quality service, not just prolific radio adverts.
• Buy an engagement ring off the Internet at your own risk--most women find it tacky and of course, it's a less reliable method.