How to Buy a Graduation Ring

There are many ways to remember graduation day as you sit in your office or living room years later. Most high school and college graduates opt to frame their diplomas to show off their accomplishments to visitors. You can pay a premium price for a graduation ring to take memories of simpler times in school everywhere you go.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Tape measure

1. Measure your ring finger to get the proper size when you buy a graduation ring. Wrap a tape measure around your finger and compare the resulting measurement with the jeweler's size chart to avoid a ring that doesn't quite fit.
2. Save your money when you buy a graduation ring from a school-sponsored jeweler. Most high schools and colleges partner with a single company to centralize ring design while simplifying the order process.
3. Sketch the designs used by your school's preferred jeweler for use by an independent company. You should bring pictures and drawings of graduation designs to help another jeweler provide an accurate quote for a similar ring.
4. Place a sample ring on your finger when a jewelry representative comes to your school. The demonstration ring allows you to see how a particular style looks on your finger before you buy your final choice.
5. Choose a graduation ring with a simple style that will translate well as you grow older. You should not buy a gaudy ring with a lot of accents and colors to make this piece of jewelry a part of your wardrobe years down the road.
6. Invest additional money in a personal inscription to remember a special moment in your final year of school. An inscription should be placed on the inside of the ring to prevent wear and tear with repeated use.
7. Spend extra money to rush order your graduation ring for use at your commencement ceremony. Jewelers who send rings directly to students instead of the school's main office provide expedited services for a premium fee.
8. Arrange for your graduation ring to be given to you by your parents after you have received your diploma. You can give your parents the unopened box with the ring inside, which can be given back at a graduation party as a commemorative gift.

Tips & Warnings

• Select a jewelry warranty when you buy your graduation ring. Most jewelers who work with high schools and colleges provide special warranties for graduates who are concerned about the condition of their rings. Your warranty should feature cleaning and jewel replacement to get the best value for your money.