5 things your jeweler doesn’t want you to know when shopping for an engagement ring

Are you shopping for an engagement ring? Congratulations! Getting ready to propose is an exciting time in your life. Finding the perfect engagement ring is an experience of a lifetime.  Whether you consider yourself a diamond expert or are new to the jewelry game, there are many things your average jeweler doesn’t want you to know.

To help you stay ahead of the game, check out these 5 tips to help you succeed (and enjoy) engagement ring shopping!

You, me, & the 4’cs

One thing you will see a lot of when researching diamonds are “The 4 C’s”. The 4 C’s are color, cut, clarity, and carat. Like a snowflake, each diamond is unique. Therefore, gemologists use these 4 aspects to help define the value of an individual diamond.

Now that you have read about the 4c’s, you feel like an expert, right?!
No worries, with Richter & Phillips Jewelers, we guide you along the diamond purchasing process to make sure you understand exactly what you are selecting, so that you can shop with confidence. If you would like, we are more than happy to explain and demonstrate each of these aspects to you. It can be very interesting!

Because our staff is full of GIA certified gemologists that simply love diamonds, please feel comfortable asking all questions you have (but don’t be surprised if our staff geeks out when your diamond has a special cut or extra sparkle!) Our staff wouldn’t say they are diamond nerds… but I would.

Read a 2-minute overview of the 4 C’s here 

Diamonds aren’t the only stone you can use in your engagement ring

There are many precious, natural stones that make gorgeous engagement rings; sapphires, rubies, emeralds, and more. Talk with your fiancé about these alternative options to diamonds.

If you still want a diamond center, there are other ways to incorporate colored stones. Create a halo or pavé set colored stones around the band. Both are great options for that splash of color.

While colored stones can be trendy, a diamond is likely going to be timeless and classic. Diamonds are also the most durable and hardest of the natural stones. Don’t be afraid to do what is right for you and your fiancé. 

GET IT TOGETHER!

Want to know a secret? This ain’t your grandad’s old fashion jewelry shop. We absolutely LOVE when couples shop together for this once in a lifetime experience. You would be surprised with how many couples shop together months before the purchase is ready to be made.

Shopping as a couple for an engagement ring not only relieves stress, but it’s fun! For example, at Richter & Phillips Jewelers, you will be treated to complimentary drinks while you shop (speaking of stress relief). Let her guide you to the rings she likes. We guarantee you will leave with 2-3 options you know she will love.

What about the element of surprise? Well, here is the best part… we can keep a wish list of items your future fiancé loved. This way, once you are ready, we are too.

Read more about the perks of shopping for an engagement ring as a couple here 

You shouldn’t feel pressured

Getting married is a big step forward in a relationship. Being around for over 100 years, we have seen our fair share of individuals working up a sweat. But, this moment is special. We are here to help you have a memorable experience. Unlike all the other jewelry stores in Cincinnati, our staff does not work solely on commission. This is how we can guarantee you won’t experience pressure to buy. You want this to be on your terms, and we agree. You want to shop around for the best deal, and we understand. You have questions, we have answers. Our time is yours!

Read more about our guarantees here 

Don’t settle for less than perfect

Although we have Cincinnati’s largest bridal selection in the greater Cincinnati area, rings are not one size fits all. We are proud to offer the city’s finest custom design program.

What is custom design? Custom design can be a simple change to a setting or a brand new, unique ring altogether. We have custom design experts on staff, including our Vice President, Eric. Our team is ready to help you combine all your future fiancé’s favorite Pinterest rings into one, unique piece.

Curious what the process is like? Stop in and ask for Kim, Eric, or Art. They will be happy to guide you step-by-step so you can see if custom is the right fit for you.

What to do next?

Browse our selection of Engagement Rings!
We have so many unique pieces in store, it would be impossible to list them all online. Stop in our shop to browse Cincinnati’s largest selection of Engagement Rings.
Click here to start browsing 

Want to learn more about the 4 C’s?
Click here to read a 2-minute overview to help you prepare 

Save 40% off Verragio Engagement Rings.
Only at Richter & Phillips Jewelers can you save 40% on Verragio engagement rings and wedding bands. To view our full stock, stop in our shop! 

Get it together.
Read more about the perks of shopping for an engagement ring as a couple here