Is buying an engagement ring at a "mom & pop" jewler always better?

Question

I am begining to look for an engagement ring for my gf. She advises me not to buy her ring at a "chain" store or a "mall" store. She suggests going to a "home town" jelwer or a "mom and pop" type shop. Any suggestions on the topic? The reason I like chain stores and major retailers better is because they wont be likely to go out of business as much as compared to the smaller type stores. Plus you can get better deals? I am interested actually in going to The Shane Co.

Answer 1

I Recently Went Shopping For An Engagement Ring And With Funds Being Tight, Am In The Same Predicament As You.



But I Found This Site That Is Reputable, And I Purchased A Ring From It. They Have Payment Plans If Your On A Budget. They Also Have A Nice Selection.



http://www.ice.com/customer/default.jsp?sourceID=aaaolg_85



Good-Luck And Congratulations!!!!!!!!

Answer 2

I just helped my brother choose a diamond for his girlfriend so I know how confusing it can all be.



It would be much better to get it at a "mom and pop" jeweller because



- Buying from a chainstore you are more of a number than a person. A 'mom and pop' store will go out of business if they don't sell great product with good service.



- Generally chainstores don't have diamonds above I or J colour. You don't want to go under H colour, F or G is ideal (for the average person).



- The cut may not be as good because these are bought by the more serious jewellers. They may tell you that they have perfect cuts (for e.g. hearts and arrows), but it is HIGHLY unlikely, if not impossible. The best cuts go to wholesalers and small jewellery designers.



- A jeweller will be able to give you more advice on the diamond and the setting as separate things. A diamond will stay the same, but often over the years the setting may change.



- Think about the mark-up in the chain stores. You often see the rings at 30-50% off and the product can be pretty low quality.



- Once you have your ring it doesn't matter about whether the store goes out of business or not. It isn't like a toaster that will break. A sotre that is family run is likely to be passed down the family so you still have some assurances.



- The best deals you can get is by going through a diamond wholesaler. They are experts in choosing a diamond which is the key thing you are buying. A jeweller will be able to sell you a diamond cheaper than a chainstore and you will get a superior product.



After you have chosen a diamond you can then go to a jeweller who can work with you to design the setting. The jeweller can create the setting based on the particular diamond you have so that inclusions on the edge can be covered.



Good luck and congratulations.

Answer 3

Before you go to any jewelry store do some research. Anyone can go to a store and pick up a diamond ring. Ask people you know on their recommendation for stores/shops. Find a jeweler or go online and learn about the 4c's, cut, caret, clarity, and color. Someone above posted chain stores usually stock lower grade rings. It is true they are displayed in the counters and people are drawn in to purchase those. But if you ask, higher quality diamonds are normally in the safe. But service wise, it is better to go to a small local jewelry store. You can just pick out a stone and choose different setting. Chain stores are you get what you pay for. Small shops don't want to waste money by purchasing low quality diamonds to sell to their customers. Remember a one caret for $1000 is not the same quality as a one caret $5000 diamond. If a girl is shallow, you could probably get away with purchasing the biggest caret, but lower quality, and she will be happy. If the girl has a good head on her shoulder and not materialist, I personally would get the best diamond for the money, even if it isn't big. At least you and she will know it has the best color and clarity your money could buy.

Answer 4

I ve did both and had only problems with the big store chains , my wife bought a ring from a big chain store paid $1,200.00 for it and then we had it appraised twice and said it was only gold filled and worth no more than $50.00, and then we went back and they said they don't give refunds, so be careful and it does make a difference, not saying you are going to have any problems, but just a safe hold, do some research on it and have a gemologist look at it so you don't get ripped, its a 400 % mark up usually, great question good luck, mom and pops seem to be more honest, will tell you more than the big places , and "Congrats on the Engagement" ! remember there all going to say its the best deal in town ,when its really not, try Bidz.com on line auction live, and they will grantee all your purchase and they have awesome stuff check it out bought many times from them , and there stuff is worth more that you pay, and its custom and one of a kind, ok take care

Answer 5

Ah yes the Shane Co. (open weekdays til 8 sat and sun til 5) lol I've heard that commercial so manytimes.

You would most likely get a better deal from a "mom and pop" store. They try harder to beat the chain stores because "Hometown" stores are a dying breed w/Shane Co. on the radio every 5-10 minutes. And other ones.

I work next to a "small" jeweler. And they will fix the ring for free if something happens to it. They are a lot nicer. You don't have to deal with a mall to get there.

Have you asked her her reasons for wanting a smaller store? Talk it out.

I have had my wedding ring from Walmart. I love it and it's not the ring yet the meaning behind it. I love my husband very very much!! Congradulations on choosing to enter marriage. Best of luck!!

Answer 6

I actually work for a "mom an pop" jewelry store. We have been in biz for over 30 years. There is a difference shopping at a mom and pop compared to a mall store. The biggest advantage at a M&P is working with a sales person that has your best interest in mind. The mall sales people are under alot of pressure to make the sale, and many of them work on a commission only basis. Secondly, ALOT of mall stores mark up their prices so that they can mark them down infront of you to make you think you are getting a better deal than you actually are. Remember the Chain stores rely on Volume sales not quality. A M&P knows their jewelry suppliers( many on a personal basis) So if something were to happen to your ring, they know who to call Also M&Ps don't usually try to sell you an extended warranty on you piece. It is a huge money maker for the chains and the sales people are rewarded nicely if they can get you to spend the extra dough. In my opinion, they are a waste of money, If you buy a quality piece it will only need occaisional repairs. As far as you diamond goes, make sure that you buy it from a reputable gemologist. The mall diamonds are usually average in their 4 Cs and are below average in their cut and polish. A good jeweler will work to get you the best diamond for you budget(you must have one) and if he doesn't have one in his store, he will get you some more to look at. A great M&P jeweler will be with you from the very start through the end. They will even be capable of designing a ring for you ( I am a jewelry designer for a M&P) So if you are looking for a personal setting where you are treated like a member of the family, i suggest give your local independently owned jeweler a try. Try looking for the store with a long history, they have been in biz a long time for a reason.

Just remenber, you get what you pay for. I suggest a diamond that is F-G color, VS2-SI2 clarity with a good cut. Good luck!

Answer 7

Many "mom & pop" jewelry stores can create a custom wedding set that is more personalized. This will cost a little more but may be well worth it. They are often very competitive on their standard merchandize and may be close to and often less than the "mall" stores. Here is what I would do - take her with you to pick out the rings. She will be thrilled! After all, it is something she plans on wearing the for rest of your lives together. Discuss what you can afford to spend between the two of you. Go to both the "mom & pop" and "mall" stores before making a decision. Don't worry if the smaller store will go out of business. A good jewelry repair shop can service almost any problem later on regardless of the source of the jewelry. Congratulations and best wishes.

Answer 8

Mall stores are pricier, get some quotes from different chains, be careful of the Mom and Pop stores, some may not carry the guarantee that you would want for the ring. If your active duty or retired military, jewelry stores with the BX's have great prices on rings. You might even be able to buy direct from the AAFES catalog online. www.aafes.com

Main thing is shop around.

Answer 9

I am not familiar with The Shane Company.



This is what I do know: Most of the "mall" stores are owned by one company, Sterling. Much of their pieces are the same- you will find very little originality.



Check out the Mom and Pop and independent jewelers before you buy. Ask about their reputation and how long they have been in business. They will customize your piece to your specification. Your future fiance will have a one-of-a-kind piece. That's nice.



My husband bought my engagement ring at an art studio. We also bought our wedding rings there, too. They are unique. No one else has rings like ours. They will be nice to pass down to our nieces and nephews.



I also had a ring done recently at another jeweler. He is a son of a jeweler. We are very pleased with the pieces we bought from him.



At both places the jewelers and employees had time to spend with us. The employees at the "box" stores may be on commission and may rush through your service. Think about that, too.



You are making a big investment. So, check out the stores first before you go.



Congratulations, too, by the way!

Answer 10

NO.



The best thing to do is go to a reputable jeweler, not a chain store or mall store but a store that is known for its higher end jewelry. In this manner you can purchase a ring of known gem quality with papers to certify it for insurance purposes. Mall stores and chain stores often sell diamonds that are flawed. Mom and Pop stores often sell the same stones. Only the top end stores are worried about being called crooks. The thing about diamonds are cut and clarifity are just as important as carat in retaining the ring's value. She may get a smaller stone but it will be worth more money because it is flawless. You get what you pay for.

Answer 11

I really don`t think it matters where you buy it as long as there is LOVE in giving it.....My husband bought mine from Avon, and I cherish as much as I would if it were a real diamond that cost $10,000....I would rather put the money to better use, home, trip, savings,. An expensive ring does not mean you love the person more, or that your marriage will last forever, it`s the time and love and respect you give a person that will determine that, not a gift.

If you all lose the ring then you have lost alot of money, but you will always have each other..



Good Luck and I wish you eternal love and happiness

Answer 12

First of all, congrats to you!!



Now for my answer. A home town jeweler/mom & pop store will have pieces that are not in your local chains. You will have more of a selection.



On Primetime Live they did a show about buying fine jewelry at local chains and found that the chains have the same exact quality jewelry as the non chain jewelry stores have, just at a better price.



So, if you are going for just a regular solitare ring, go to the chain. You will get the same ring just at a better price. If you are more interested in giving her a ring that most women do not have, go to the jewelry store.

Answer 13

I would feel better going to a major store for warranty purposes. A smaller store might not be able to give you the warranty or service you might need. But listen, if you do not mind me giving you advice, this is what I would do. If you are able to go on a cruise/trip to St Thomas go there. The diamonds are better quality and so much cheaper! As a matter of fact, most major USA companies buy their diamonds there. You can save easily from $3,000 to $9,000 depending on the quality and size you want. Email me if you are interested in some advice. So you know, I am not a jeweler nor do I sell nor buy so do not think I will try to sell you anything. I do like diamonds and know good quality jewelry. Advice is free. Congrats on your pending engagement.

Answer 14

I would go to a chain store. I got a ring a few years ago from a "mom & pop" store. One of the diamonds fell out about a year ago. Now I am stuck with getting a new diamond put in it. I am scared to wear it...one of the other ones might fall out. The bagett is over $100, not to include setting it and fixing the prongs.

Answer 15

Aafes Engagement Rings

Answer 16

Congratulations! - and listen to your girlfriend. First of all, you want to start this off right - why do the opposite of what she wants? After all, SHE's wearing it. Second, she's right anyway. You may find very nice, even gorgeous, rings at the chains - but they will look like every other nice, gorgeous ring that every other hyper-pragmatic guy buys at those places. At a boutique (home town, mom & pop, whatever), you'll probably find unique rings, maybe even an antique ring. WHO CARES if the store goes out of business? It's not a car, it's a ring - and if the stone falls out of the setting, you can take it to any jeweller and have it reset.



Congrats again, and good luck!

Answer 17

I think your gf is absolutely right. First and foremost do some homework about diamonds and settings. There is a lot to learn. Get some input from ur gf about what she always wanted. Look at ur budget and see what u can afford. I don't know where u live but most of the diamonds coming into the US come through NYC where Hassidic Jews have cut them for more than a century. A big city like Chicago also an area where it has only jewelry stores -- kind of like the fish markets in Boston, NYC, Seattle, etc. Even in the small state where I live there is a husband and wife team who sell discounted diamonds and will let u see what they paid from the wholesaler. The Mall and chain stores like JCPenney have a tremendous markup on their diamonds and that is why they can discount them so deeply.



Remember this is a memorable occasion and if u work together and stay in budget everyone will be happy. Purchasing our diamond(s) is one of the fondest memories I have. Good luck!

Answer 18

what does "going out of business" have to do with buying an engagement ring...are you planning on returning the ring? As far as I know they are not returnable.



You're not looking for a "better deal" friend. An engagement ring is supposed to cost you one month's salary. And the idea is to get the best ring you can for your best girl who will later be your better half. You need to ask the points and clarity and make sure the gold is 14K, and insure the ring before you take it out of the store. Splurge if you love her...your future is at stake here. The "home town jeweler" sounds best to me.

Answer 19

I'm thinking your girlfriend doesn't want a ring that many other girls may already have and that is why she would rather you do business with, as you call them, a mom and pop store; I don't know where you live, but where I live (Greenwich, CT), we prefer a smaller store, one that's been in business for years and also offers "estate" jewelry, that is, antique/vintage jewelry that most certainly will be "one of a kind." Ask around, call your local business bureau to check out any store that looks "shady", but if they've been in business for years, I wouldn't worry; true, it may be a little more expensive, but go for it!

Answer 20

So what do you want quantity or quality? Better service and attention with Mom & Pop (you're parents love u don't they?), they are more committed to your special event than the chain that is more interested in shoving them thru and living on the volume. Stability should not be an issue, I know some great small shops that have lived on their reputation and always get my business, hands down.

Answer 21

want the best diamond for the best price. here is what you do. get a business liscence for 30 bucks and go to a jewel show. every town has them. look on the internet at http://www.gjxusa.com or ask your local mom and pop jewler. go there buy a diamond for over half of what you would normally pay then go to your mom and pop jewler and have them design your ring. You just saved a bunch of money and it's personalized by you.

Answer 22

She want something unique and special, maybe a design chosen by you, which you can't get at a chain store. Not to mention, the service is much better at a home town jewelry store, than a big chain store. My husband had one made for me at a jeweler, and I didn't expect this from him. Home town jewelers are very competitive with chain stores by the way and they fix your jewelery, while you wait.

Answer 23

Aside from the wishes of your gf, small stores will have more interesting pieces and better service (usually). Some of them also offer great warranty packages.

If you plan on moving, consider the location of the shop vs. where you'll be living. We bought my ring at a small shop and then moved away. In order to keep the warranty up, I have to mail the ring to them twice yearly for inspection. Traveling to the store is not an option for me. A large chain store will be more flexible in this regard. Also, you CAN find nice pieces and great service in chain stores.

Discuss these points with your gf to ensure you make the best choice.

Answer 24

She's clearly tripping. Go to Shane Co. Like you want. Get the Wedding Ring from a Mom and pop store. Or Get the engagement from the mom and pop store, and then get the marriage from Shane Co.

Answer 25

I think your best bet would be to go to a jewelry district and shop for the best diamond and then find the setting separate. The malls and retail shops have HUGE markups!!! STAY AWAY! The Mom & Pop store will probably be more reliable if they have a good reputation. Ask someone who has a ring you admire where they got it - don't ask the price (that's rude). Good Luck and have fun!

Answer 26

Mom and Pop jewelers in my experience have better quality and tend to go out of their way more and sometimes at cheaper prices. I had to buy a ring for somebody at a mall store, and the ring procededed to break more that 4 times. If a mom and pop ever goes out of business, usually another one will take over for you or they would be glad to help you out. I guess in my opinion, mom and pops are more personal. (Also, you have to remember the mall stores are paying high high rent, so to recoop that cost, they use cheaper products at overpriced prices.)

Answer 27

My father was a jeweler for his entire life. The reason that the malls sell cheaper rings is because there grade of cut is way under what you would get from a mom and pop as you put it. There are a bunch of grades that you need to check and check as well the clarity of the diamond.

I would go to the local mom and pop and check with them on all these items they will be happy to give you that discount and not to include go over everything that you need to know. If you intend on paying only 2k for a ring anyway then the mall is right for you. But remember that an engagement ring is aprox 30% of your income that you have to spend as per tradition.

I hope this helps.

Good luck and congrats.

Answer 28

i think that you are on the right track. i personally would prefer a chain because they most likely wont go out of business and you would have a warranty on the ring should it not fit, or a stone fall out, or other problems with it. A smaller local store will most likely offer the same services but at a higher price. Although if it is resizing then it shouldnt cost very much anyway, I would be more worried about a stone falling out.

Answer 29

Almost everyone in my family, including in-laws, goes to the same independent jewelery store in Raleigh, NC (even though some of us live in other states). The service is awesome and he is still able to do financing. He has so far reset two stones for engagements and various other things. The original designs are awesome. Plus he can sometimes obtain stones or metals from unusual areas to accomodate a particular request. SO I vote for going with the small chain!

Answer 30

You will not find good quality workmanship at a chain store because they are geared to price rather than quality. They use lightweight settings and have goldsmiths setting their stones that frankly don't know what they're doing. Plus they tend to use their own labs to inflate the grade of the stone so you think you're getting a higher quality than you are actually getting. The benefit of an independent jeweler is that they have to work harder to get your business and yes, you generally get better quality and better service. Plus, put yourself in your girlfriend's shoes-- would you like to know you received the most important piece of jewelry in your life, the symbol of your love and commitment, from someone who was only interested in getting "a good deal" or from someone who cares enough about you to make sure it's the best quality, made to last a lifetime?

Answer 31

educate yourself on diamonds first. Then where ever you go you know what they are talking about. WHolesale diamonds throught the net are the best place for a deal. take the stone and have it mounted at a local jewler. It will be custom, unique and demonstrates you will do more than just go to the chain store or any store for that matter. Her ring will be 'as special as she is' without it cossting you a house and your left arm.

Answer 32

A chain store will probably get you a better price, but you will likely get better service with regard to the selection and customization of the ring if you go with the mom & pop store.



When it came time for my (then) fiancee and I to pick out our rings, we went down to the wholesale jewelry district in Los Angeles (we were visiting my family in California at the time) -- lots of small specialty shops, plenty of variety to choose from and good customer service; she ended up choosing a very unconventional ring (the main stone was jade, the state gemstone of Alaska, where we lived) and got a really good deal on it.

Answer 33

Chose a store that offers services and warrantees.

Not one that just sells merchandise in stock.

Be sure there is an actual jeweler on the premises.

Not too long ago I needed just the setting (which true to the period was platinum) of a white gold heirloom ring repaired. I went to my local jewelry store to have the repair done. Come to find out, they farm out such work. When my ring was repaired the setting was done in white gold not platinum which the original setting was.

Congrats and the best of luck!

Answer 34

The majority seem to favor the small business and I agree. Remember, you get what you pay for. People who staff the chain stores are not well educated in jewelry and can't offer good advice; the choices are narrow; the product is inferior. Actual jewelry stores are staffed by actual jewelers who know the product, the quality of stones, the settings, and can customize a lovely ring for you. You will get better service from them because they are motivated, and of course they stand behind their products. If you don't want them to go out of business - patronise them!

Answer 35

an enagament ring is special item and she just wants somthing nicle priced from a local store reason if the ring needs to be sized uo or down or you lose a stone or it needs repair. it's easier to get it done the quality is the same the smaller jewlers can serve you better and give you better prices. and you can take time choosing.

Answer 36

The point about going to a "Mom & Pop" jeweller is that you can get unique wedding rings. However, if you are really ambitious you can design your own rings and get a jeweller to craft it.

Answer 37

Don't know if this will help but my wedding ring and a ring my hubby bought me for Christmas both came from a dealer that sold estate jewelery. Both are very unique. I don't know of any woman who wants a ring that is just like what someone else has.

Answer 38

In all my years of purchasing jewelry - I have found Zales to be the best - Your diamonds are guaranteed for life as long as you have them checked 2 x's a year - the quality of diamonds is what you want to pay $$$ but Mom & Pops do not replace diamonds for free if lost.

Answer 39

alright, dont go to "fat tony' discount jewlery store"... find a store that has been there for a long time. ask around, maybe if you see a girl with a great ring, ask where she got it.



chain places often offer a guarentee of it being authentic.



i really hope you the best.



DO NOT DO PAWN SHOPS!

Answer 40

Your best bet is to do what she wants. Might as well start being good and consider her wishes now and see if you want that kind of a life. Let her pick the ring with you since she already knows you are getting it. This getting married is a job and if you don't work at it it will not last. Who cares about the best deal if she is not happy.

Answer 41

I've never bought one but this is what people have told me: Look at antique and secondhand stores before you price new rings. You may find something that is "perfect" and MUCH cheaper than new, and you won't be looking at monthly payments forever... and ever... and ever... (Go by yourself first and then if you see something that YOU like, ask them to hold it for you for a couple of days and bring your fiance back to give final approval.)



After that, check a small (local) jeweler, and if still not satisfied, work up from there.



Good luck!

Answer 42

I would have to say reputation is what sells. If the store has a great reputation for the 4 C's and has the best price than go with it. After all, it is not WHERE you buy the ring, it is the thought you put into how you propose WITH the ring and how much love is between you.



~Sabrina Lily~

Answer 43

My husband got our rings at a small, home-town shop. That was over ten years ago.

If she knows youre going to get the ring, go together and make it an event to remember and cherish!

If she doesnt, make the ring as special as she is.

It's not supposed to be about the $ or the place you get the ring...its about what the ring means to you and the memories you both create while wearing them.

Good Luck and God Bless!

Answer 44

Find a fine jewelry shop like, Pure Gold, Prima Gold, etc. They sell high quality rings of different and excellent designs. Prices are fairly ok.

Answer 45

I totally agree with your soon-to-be-financee', most chain stores only carry low quality diamonds...diamonds that will look cloudy. Do you have a SAMS around you? I have been so impressed with the quality that SAMS carries. Even tho they are considered a chain-store...I've come to love all their jewerly.



You might want to do a little more research too. Go to Diamonds.com and see what you can find out.



Congratulations!

Answer 46

It's about the history. A ring with a past...her ring could have been some tragic love story like triston & isolde....I think it's a teriffic idea. Plus i think it would mean something special. When my sister got engaged his grandmother gave him her engagement ring. It was in the shape of a horseshoe nail....when his grandparents we're getting married they couldn't afford a ring so his grandfather designed one out of a horseshoe nail...when they got older he had an engagement ring made out of diamonds and white gold that was a replica of the old nail. That is the kind of thing that true love is made out of. I think your gf appreciates true romance:)

Answer 47

I suggest going to someone who designs and make rings.

You can get a "one of a kind" that way.

Answer 48

Look man, not to wish you bad luck or anything. but I bought one for like 2700 and then the $$%ch wanting a divorce 2 mos. after we got married.



The moral of the story?

She is marring YOU not the ring. If she isn't happy with YOU with a ring from walmart, dump her.



Get the ring at walmart....offer to get a better one at the 5 or 10 year aniversary.

Answer 49

I hear Shane Co is REALLY good. And from what you hear about them via the ads I'm not surprised, who can complain with a free lifetime warenty and the ability to pick out a lose stone and get ti set, and if she doesn't like it exchange it for another one! Geez. I'd go there if I were a guy buying a ring for my girl! Good luck!

Answer 50

BUYING AN ENGAGEMENT RING AT A MOM AND POP STORE MIGHT NOT GIVE YOU THE VARIETY, THAT A MAJOR CHAIN WOULD, BUT I WOULD DO IT JUST FOR THE AMBIANCE...THE SETTING IS LOW PRESSURE, AND SOME TIMES MOM AND POP STORES HAVE A GREAT SELECTION,WITH DECENT QUALITY, AT A NOMINAL PRICE. AS OPPOSE TO PAYING FOR THE STORES NAME. JUST AN OPINION.

Answer 51

Do you have special needs or priorities? I used a very small retailer who was able to order a Canadian diamond for me. I don't know what your priorities are, but here are some links that all diamond shoppers check out, IMO:



http://people.howstuffworks.com/diamond.htm

http://www.nytimes.com/library/world/africa/040600africa-diamonds.html

http://www.amnestyusa.org/amnestynow/diamonds.html

http://www.kimberleyprocess.com:8080/



If you want to learn more about the technical quality of a diamond:

http://www.pricescope.com/

Answer 52

well congrats on the big step... from my personal experience I prefer the mom and pop type shops... my reason is that you will get something more personalized and better service..... you can get a one of a kind ring that will express your style... not just a ring that is made in quanity..... good luck on a happy future

Answer 53

i got sooo ripped off, by a mom& pops jewler.also a lot of mom & pops go busted. go to shanes,ask about the 4 c`s.don`t worry, if it gets damaged, mom& pop will still fix it lol

Answer 54

Hi JSL, "The Jewelry Exchange" hands down! That is...if your from Northern California? XOXO Moonpie P.S. I work for "Elegant Occasions Catering" out of Martinez,CA We ROCK dude! A 5-star catering experience! Go to www.elegantoccasionscatering.com

Answer 55

After you have chosen a diamond you can then go to a jeweller who can work with you to design the setting. The jeweller can create the setting based on the particular diamond you have so that inclusions on the edge can be covered.

Answer 56

i did from a local businessman. i got a great rock, i am not married now but still have the rock. they showed me and my ex the cut the clarity and color and the good and bad of diamonds. i felt like a princess! so many bags of diamonds we got to pick from, flaws no flaws, minor flaws. a good jeweler will take the time to show you this. i felt like a pirate with the pirates chest of loot! i kid you not! then they showed tray after tray omg, of settings and rings. one of my best memories of that time!



to this day i can spot a cubic from a real one and good diamond even with minor flaws.



i have a smaller diamon but it is worht more than most bigger ones as it nearly perfect. the flaws and the 3c are what matter. learn them and you will have a friend for life!



during times of war jewels and 18k gold and above are used as currency when money holds no value. the best lesson i learned in my youth.

Answer 57

yes i think it is better to buy it at a mom and pop store.you get great bargains and there are many different possibilitis.many which are beautiful.my fiance bought mine for $20 and i wouldnt trade it in for the world.

Answer 58

A local store would be more likely to make things right for you than a chain with their take it or leave it attitude.

Answer 59

For originality I would go to a mom and pop shop...for warrany and discounts go to a chain. good luck and congrats. I have the feeling no matter what she will be happy... I know I was...

Answer 60

GO TO A JEWELRY DISTRICT IN A MAJOR CITY, A SMALL CRAFTSPERSON, AN ANTIQUE STORE, OR FLY TO AMSTERDAM & BUY A GEM AT THE WORLD GEM MARKET. THEY ARE ALL CUT THERE ANYWAY & YOU CAN SAVE ENOUGH TO PAY FOR THE TRIP.

Answer 61

I agree with your girlfriend. I would prefer the Hometown shops. I know of one in my area, Shane Company, that has been in business for years, and would not possibly go out of business. Check out Shaneco.com. I've never shopped there, but I'm 100% certain its better than the mall stores. He even says in his commercials that he does not recommend the Mall outlets.



Check it out!

Answer 62

1

Answer 63

it doesnt matter what the price is it can be $2.00 (but that doesnt mean buy a two dollar ring ) the important thing is to give it with a meaning :)

Answer 64

the best advice i can give you is where ever you get the ring get an authentication certificate with it,,,this way you can be sure you are getting a genuine diamond...bigger stores might offer this more.

Answer 65

yeh! well i thnk u r right. u aint b goin 2 mom & pop type shops,but u should really try on either chain or mall store. now its up to her(u r gf) wheather she takes it seriously. if she insists u should go by her.after all u shouldnt b hurting her,maybe.

Answer 66

Where you purchase the ring is not of importance here. It's the love you receive when giving it.

Answer 67

NO! They might rip you off! Your best bet is to go somewhere that has CERTIFIED diamonds... So you get your $'s worth :)

Answer 68

i personally don't think the "where it's bought" is more important than the "who it's bought from and for".... i think if she knows and she "suggests" then there's no romance and suprise left

Answer 69

Maybe the price would be the same, but I'm sure the service would be better

Answer 70

Are you sure she isn't being modest and settling? What if she is just waiting to see if you really are that cheap or if you will ingore her request and spoiler her...It might be what she is looking for as an answer to weather her life will be cheap or spoiled?

Answer 71

I really liked The Shane Co. or better yet, COSTCO!!!!!!!!!!!

Answer 72

I do not think so. You need someone that will back up their product and warrenty.

Answer 73

if you find a ring from anywhere that you think your fiancee would like i would say no just make sure not to get her fake diamond or anything like that!

Answer 74

no the best place is Kay have you seen the commutations did you see the bling bling

Answer 75

Better quaility and price.

Answer 76

I don't understand what you mean by "they won't be likely to get out of business"

Answer 77

it would probally be a better price

Answer 78

no not at all

Answer 79

yes, if the price is right.