You found the love of your life, and now you are ready to make it official. As the owner of National Estate Jewelers of East Brunswick, our Team is always happy to help. In an effort make this a wonderful experience, I have created my, “3 Steps to Buying a Diamond Engagement Ring” to pinpoint the perfect engagement ring within your budget and timeframe.
STEP 1: DECISIONS
BUDGET: Perhaps you have already purchased a home and car. The next biggest purchase may be a diamond engagement ring. Therefore, a budget must be established - one that you feel comfortable with and is affordable. At National Estate Jewelers we work with all budgets to customize an engagement ring.
SHAPE: There are a multitude of shapes to consider, some of which include round, princess, oval, marquise, pear, heart, etc. Each shape offers its own unique characteristics and flair.
SIZE of the CENTER DIAMOND: In making this decision, it is important to consider the 4Cs - cut, color, clarity and carat.
SETTING or RING STYLE: There are numerous choices available when selecting a setting or ring style to highlight and protect the diamond. Each option (Prong, Bezel, Tension, Channel, etc.) has its own beauty and advantage.
GOLD or PLATINUM: There is a traditional gold (18k and 14k) or platinum (known for its strength and hypoallergenic properties) setting to suit the personality and lifestyle of the ring’s recipient.
STEP 2: COLLECT DATA
SHOP: Now is the time to put some details together. Fortunately, you can go online, as well as going to brick and mortar stores.
LOOK: When you are with friends, family members and co-workers, take a look at their diamond engagement rings. You can comment on its beauty and ask how they are enjoying the ring. They may even have some engagement ring recommendations to share.
PICTURES: It’s easier than ever to just take a picture of the rings you like.
RING SIZE: To keep the integrity of the engagement ring, try to find out the correct ring size. This will prevent the need for cutting, adding to the setting or using a ring guard. At National Estate Jewelers we can give you some tips to help determine the ring size, without becoming too obvious.
DATE NEEDED: The last thing you want to do is rush the experience or the process. Custom creations usually necessitate a 2 - 4 weeks lead time… plan ahead.
STEP 3: GO FOR THE GOLD… OR PLATINUM!
CALL: Congratulations, you’ve done the first 2 STEPS! Now, call National Estate Jewelers and schedule an appointment in a private consultation room with one of our Experts. Our consultation room is equipped with premier diamond grading lights, the same lighting system used in the labs of the prestigious Gemological Institute of America (GIA). Bring all the information that you have collected to this appointment.
SENTIMENTAL STONES: Some clients have some sentimental smaller stones they would like to add to the setting. Please bring them with you and we can discuss usage and placement.
LIFESTYLE: It is important to consider the lifestyle of the recipient. Does this person have an active life, one that may include sports and hobbies that could potentially impact the stone or setting? In addition, consider employment and related tasks - such as in gardening or construction, or as a personal trainer, chemist, chef, etc.
PERSONALITY: Your future spouse may like a little bling, glamour, be more reserved or go for some current trends. At National Estate Jewelers we do not rush our clients; we want to properly match personality with the stone and setting.
As a graduate gemologist, I have over 40 years of experience. You can be confident in purchasing a diamond engagement ring from National Estate Jewelers. We have a team of GIA Graduate Gemologists and trained jewelry professionals, who make this a no-pressure experience. Once a selection is made, you will receive certification and/or an independent grading report. And, please remember to protect your purchase… buy insurance.
Looking to purchase an antique (100+ years old), vintage (20+ years old) or an estate engagement ring (pre-owned)? Please call and schedule an appointment. We pride ourselves on helping all our clients with their jewelry preferences.
Once the perfect engagement ring is purchased, insured and on your future spouse’s finger, please take the next step and let us create your wedding bands and bridal party gifts.
National Estate Jewelers is conveniently located at 212 NJ-18 in East Brunswick, next to the FedEx office. Stop in or call 732-257-GOLD (4653).