Choosing a wedding band can be overwhelming if you don't know what you're looking for. Jewelry plays a big part in our intimate, everyday lives. It is only natural that we want something that speaks to our individuality and helps us stand out in a crowd.
These days, there are endless choices in bridal jewelry for both engagement rings and wedding bands that allow brides to get creative with their forever jewelry. Choosing a wedding band is a big deal, from the ever-popular eternity ring to the classic diamond cut baguette band that will never go out of style. After all, your wedding band is not only a symbol of your love and commitment to your spouse, but it's also a piece of jewelry you'll wear every day.
So, where can you find the ring of your dreams?
You can buy your engagement ring:
- At a national retail jeweler
- At an independent local jeweler
- Second-hand from an estate jeweler, pawnbroker, or online auction
- From an online jeweler
Every one of these has advantages and disadvantages. Let's break them down.
National jewelers
Shopping at your local mall is undoubtedly the most convenient and easiest way to browse diamond rings. The most apparent and positive aspect of shopping for jewelry inside a store or showroom is that you can look, hold, and try on the piece before buying it. National jewelry stores also have reputations, so you know you'll be getting what you pay for, and if you run into any issues, you have a big company backing up your purchase.
On the downside, these chain jewelry stores have some of the highest prices marking up their inventory sometimes by five times its wholesale price! Yikes. Another disadvantage to shopping at a national jeweler is the limited ability you have to customize your ring. If you're looking for something extraordinary and unique, this probably isn't where you're going to find it.
Independent jewelers
With an independent jeweler, you may have access to exclusive choices in styles and settings and the ability to personalize the setting if your jeweler does made-to-order rings. For example, your local jeweler can reset a diamond from a family heirloom. It's also nice to support a local business.
But be cautious; you should do your homework before you buy. Although most jewelers are honest, you always risk that chance of buying from one who isn't. Be sure to ask about the jeweler's return policy before investing your money.
Prices at a local jeweler may be lofty as well, you also may be able to talk the price down, but if you're looking for affordability, this may not be the way to go.
Second-hand engagement rings
A second-hand wedding band can be a beautiful piece of jewelry, a great bargain, and an ethical choice, but it isn't always the best option for everyone. If you're going to buy a used ring, you want to either know how to inspect a diamond or be confident of an unwavering return policy. The condition of the ring might be bad. If you don’t know what you are looking at, you may get fooled.
Online jewelers
A wedding band is an investment and one you'll want to research before buying. The good news? Online shopping has made it especially easy to find your dream ring. Online jewelry shoppers mostly rely on the product images and the best way to increase the value of jewelry is to take high-quality photography. This guide will help you make gorgeous photos of your diamond rings without having to hire a professional photographer.
In today's digital age, people buy everything online, including diamonds!
When you start browsing the web searching for a wedding band, you will notice that online stores tend to offer a more comprehensive selection of wedding bands. This is probably the most significant benefit that an online store offers over a physical jewelry retailer. You cannot go wrong with features like free shipping and returns, free ring sizing, and a lifetime warranty.
Not to mention diamonds at some online jewelers cost almost HALF what they do at the mall. For instance, a classic baguette band may cost you $500 more at a chain store, whereas online retailers may offer a significant discount.
How can they do it? Pretty simple: By not paying for thousands of stores across the country. Rent is not cheap. Nor is paying the staff to sell the jewelry. The result? Near-wholesale prices on diamonds.
Try looking online if you're looking for a truly unique, memorable, and one-of-a-kind wedding band. From beautiful baguette bands to stunning emerald cuts, many online retailers give the option to customize your band at no additional cost. Make sure they offer a lifetime warranty before you buy!
You want to be able to buy your wedding rings, wear them, and never have to worry about them again. They should feel comfortable, be beautiful, and reflect your individual style preferences. This is why you should take your time shopping for affordable wedding rings or diamond wedding bands. Take this opportunity to enjoy the process with the love of your life. It's a once-in-a-lifetime experience!