You can shop for engagement rings and wedding bands in department and jewellery stores, from designer craftsmen or from pawn shops. Some couples bypass the ring tradition and put the money towards something else they want. You may have a stone or setting that has been passed down through the generations that you can have reset or present as is. Or you may have an antique or heirloom that you want resized or put into a new setting. The design may range from simple to decorative. Remember to listen to what will make your intended happy. There is nothing worse than starting off an engagement with the wrong ring ... you may hear about it for 50 years or more!

If you and your fiancée are both shopping for the engagement ring, look at the matching wedding bands at the same time. If you decide on a double-ring ceremony, the bands should match. Don't forget to put an inscription on the inside circle of the ring that includes your initials, date of your wedding.

When you are shopping for a ring, make sure the condition of the ring matches the price. When you have chosen the ring you want, ask to see the certificate of authenticity and a written appraisal.  

TIPS FOR BUYING DIAMONDS

Many first-time diamond ring and gift buyers are often nervous about making such an important purchase and want to ensure that they are getting a good value.

Most people love diamonds for their beauty and don’t even realize that they also hold their value better than other gemstones. It is not always the most expensive diamonds that hold their value the best. For those who are concerned with value, the following tips might come in handy:
 
• It may not be as wallet-friendly, but value-conscientious shoppers may want to know that diamonds larger than one carat in size will hold their value best.
• Diamonds that have the quality "F" in color and "VS1" and "VS2" in clarity have been holding their values best over time, even though they aren’t the most expensive grades.
• Cut is the most important of all the C’s. Look for a proportion and shape that maximize the diamond’s sparkle for best value retention. That information provided on major lab reports is called certs.
• Round brilliant-cut diamonds will hold their value better than other shapes.
• Because diamonds are the hardest of all stones, they will be less likely to be damaged, which will help retain their value.
• For the best value for your money, put the most money into the diamond itself and choose a simple setting.
 
Choosing the ring is only half the process. If you are purchasing a diamond over ½ carat in size, you should choose one certified by a major lab, get the ring independently appraised by a third-party appraiser, and talk to your insurance agent about the best way to insure the ring. Shoppers should only purchase a larger diamond if it has proper reports.
 
Get the jewel appraised. An appraisal will tell you the value of a piece of jewelry (a lab grading report will not) and will provide documentation for insurance purposes. Reputable jewelers will allow you to have an item appraised either before you purchase it or will allow you a period to have it appraised with a full refund if it doesn’t meet expectations.

Choose an appraiser who is an accredited member of a nationally recognized appraisal organization. Ask about an appraiser’s credentials and make sure they are still active. The appraisal should be done for an hourly or a set fee, not for a percentage of the value of the property—that’s unethical.

And finally, make sure you understand the return policy. Get the return policy in writing and get a thorough description of the item (including diamond size and quality) written on your receipt.

For more information about jewelry appraisals in the U.S. or to find an ASA-accredited gems and jewelry appraiser call (800) ASA-VALU or visit www.appraisers.org. In Canada call the Canadian Jewellers Association (CJA) in Toronto at 416-368-7616, toll free 1-800-580-0942 or visit www.canadianjewellers.com.

Jewellery by Jacques Mouw Precious Jewels, Beverly Hills, CA, visit www.jacquesmouw.com.
Photo: Earrings are 18K white gold diamond earrings. 1.35 CTTW.
Photo: Platinum pear shape fancy yellow diamond ring. 3.77 CTTW. Prices available on request.

WeddingsHoneymoons.com | GROOM Shopping for Rings | April 1, 2011