Where to buy an engagement ring?
Firstly, you need to understand your girl: what she sees as the most import criteria for an impressive ring: brand, size of the diamond, design, uniqueness, etc. Well, the following content is based on a ¡®sensible expenditure¡¯, I am sure those who have deep pockets won¡¯t even bother to read these articles, they will probably just walk into a boutique shop and get advise to have a personal services that cost ¡ê¡ê¡ê$$$. Here are some more practical advices.
If she is into brand, you can get some nice rings from sales in big stores like Harrods. Cartier normally only gives 10% discount on sales, where as some other brands might offer up to 50% discounts.
If she is into size, the best places are wholesale jewellery shops, like Hatton Garden in London. You can ask for up to a 40% discount of tag prices. As 4Cs, if you emphasize on Carat weight, you will have to compromise on Color, Cut and clarity if there is a budge. Believe me, do not comprise on cut, diamonds do not shine properly if the cut is wrong, get close to perfect cut stones. In terms of color, if you go down to H and I (nearly colorless), the price will be much cheaper, do not go under J because they are not collectable colors unless the sizes are really large. As far as clarity is concerned, SI- I3 for a big stone is acceptable as long as the impurity is not in the centre. Ebay is another place to get these stones, but you really need to be careful with the seller¡¯s reputation etc.
If she likes a specific design, you can get it through individual jewelers like the ones in Hatton Garden. You can ¡®copy¡¯ or get ¡®inspiration¡¯ from some designer stuff, but please make sure that your jeweler can actually make it properly.
If she likes some really unique collection, you can pick up some really fancy rings from antique shops. Many one of a kind or classic ones are truly collectable. However, you must remember that in general, diamonds are not good investments.
Do not forget to get your VAT back if you do not live in the country.
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