5 questions to ask before you buy an engagement ring

131

Buying an engagement ring is a big deal. It has to be special, pricey and going to be worn, daily, for a lifetime. So it’s best if you are totally informed about the ring itself and any offers or guarantees that come with it. So, before that big question is popped, be sure to ask the jewellers you had choosen for your big day the following questions to make sure you have landed the right one.

The “four Cs”? 

If you’re looking at solitaire diamonds, or rings with large center or side stones, you’ll want to ask the jeweler to give you the rundown on each of the four Cs, which stand for color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. These standards are a universally-recognized method for assessing diamond quality, and they’ll give you a good idea of the quality of the diamonds you are selecting.

May I see the diamond under a loupe? 

Most jewelry stores will have a loupe—a small device that magnifies up to 30X—through which you can view your diamond. This level of magnification is important for scoping out characteristics, as well as verifying that the diamond’s mark or number matches the one on the certification.

What is the Certification? 

Before buying any diamond make sure that it is International Gemological Institute or GIA certified and one should enquire about the buy-back policy on a written and properly sealed document.

What kind of maintenance and care is required? 

Before you buy, you’ll want to know what kind of upkeep is required: White gold, for instance, needs to be re-dipped in rhodium annually to maintain its color and a diamond’s setting may need to be checked regularly as well to ensure it’s secure.

What kind of warranty do you offer? 

Find out what the jeweler offers as far as lost stones and other damage is concerned. Most jewellers offer a buy back guarantee today so we suggest that you look out for it. That lends stability, protection and a seal of guarantee to your purchases.