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Online shopping continues to increase in popularity due to its time and cost efficiency, but the reality is that e-commerce is not always the best choice for specific purchases. This is especially true for engagement ring shopping. An engagement ring is a significant monetary and emotional investment, so exercising caution when shopping is necessary.
The unfortunate reality is that what you see is not always what you get when it comes to online engagement rings. It can be challenging to identify diamond scams and tricks when you’re shopping virtually, and some ring characteristics are best seen physically and don’t translate well in imagery.
If you’re thinking about ordering an engagement ring online, consider the reasons why you will want to consider some in-store visits at least to start.
Customization Options
Many online big box stores sell prefabricated rings with little to no customization options to personalize a ring your preferences. In-store, however, you can work with a designer to weigh your custom engagement rings options and create a unique piece you are unlikely to see anywhere else.
While some online retailers offer online customization options, these options are typically limited and harder to see digitally. It is easier to select a design in person as you can better see the physical characteristics of the stone you are investing in, and the jeweller can show you several options more personalized to you after understanding your taste.
Vendor Interaction & Relations
When you work with a custom jeweller online, it can be more challenging to ask questions and obtain the decision support you need throughout the process.
However, when you visit somewhere local and work with a trusted jeweller, you can better communicate, express your needs, and get thoughtful answers.
Your order should not be a surprise, and working physically with a jeweller will help you give a better idea of what you are creating and allow for more seamless collaboration.
Maintenance and Resizing
Although you may give it your best effort to obtain your partner’s ring size, it can be tricky. There are many tricks online, like using a string to measure their finger and other tools that produce a very inaccurate ring size. Because the difference of a few millimeters can make a big difference, your hard work and stealth can often backfire resulting in requiring a resize after your proposal.
Alternatively, you may have been very accurate with your partner’s size at the time of your engagement, but over time our bodies change and that includes our fingers. It’s very common to need your ring resized at one point in your life. That's why a lot of ring designers create a ring that is going to fit your finger well into the future.
Having to coordinate with an e-commerce company to ship your ring back and forth can be very inconvenient, costly and risky (shipping high value goods). If you work with a local jeweller to take your ring size, you’ll save yourself a headache down the road.
Some Stones May Look Unappealing in Person
Often, diamonds sold online aren’t as marketed, and what you see is not what you get. Some retailers may take advantage of the limitations of online shopping and sell you the less desirable diamond that is dead weight in their inventory box.
Despite the flaws of online jewellery shopping, you may come across many reputable vendors that make online ring shopping a safe choice. However, this comes with a risk.
If you’re skeptical about making a significant purchase online, take the traditional route and visit a jeweller to find the perfect engagement ring for your loved one.
