From Start To Finish: How The Engagement Ring Process Works

FROM START TO FINISH: HOW THE ENGAGEMENT RING PROCESS WORKS

Thinking about proposing? First off, deep breath. You’ve got this, and it’s going to be amazing. The engagement ring process can feel like a big deal (because it is), but what it shouldn’t be is confusing or overwhelming. Whether you're planning a grand proposal or a cozy kitchen-floor moment, here’s your go-to guide to understanding how it all works—from “I think I’m ready” to “YES!

LET’S BREAK IT DOWN.

Step 1: Pick Your People (aka, Your Jeweler)

Before you start browsing diamonds or diving into “add to cart”, it’s important to figure out where you will feel most confident buying your engagement ring. What does this journey look like for you? What’s most important, and what kind of aftercare would you expect with this moment? The jeweler you select is your guide, hype team, and reality check all rolled into one. It’s important that whoever you choose matches your vibe and is a real person.

  • Transparent pricing: straightforward, easy to understand
  • Certified Gemologists: professionals to offer expertise and friendly guidance
  • Pressure-free vibe: people working on your time, not theirs
  • Clear timelines and customization options
  • Guarantees & Perks that last as long as your ring is meant to – a lifetime

Read Google reviews, ask friends for recs, or check out their Instagram to get a feel for their vibe.

Step 2: Browse (and Save All the Screenshots)

Some couples come in knowing what they want, and others come in with no idea whatsoever – both are the right way to start. But, if you want to kick off with some sense of your partner’s style, here are a few ways to get an idea:

  • Pinterest boards
  • Saved Instagram posts
  • A friend who knows their style
  • Or, our favorite, ask your partner. They’ll be more than excited to share the details of their dream ring.

A few years ago, we created the OG 3D Ring Designer and it’s still a free tool you can use on our website now. This is a great starting point to mapping out the silhouette and style basics that your partner and you will love.

Step 3: Book a Ring Appointment

This is where things start feeling real. During a typical engagement ring appointment, you’ll:

Appointments usually take 30 minutes to an hour, but can run longer if you’re deep in decision mode. And no, you don’t have to know everything going in—we’ll walk you through it.

"People often come in thinking they want one thing and leave with something completely different. That’s totally normal! A lot of inspo comes from social, but once someone tries a ring on or sees the sparkle in real life, they light up and know it’s the one!” - Heather, Diamond Specialist

Step 4: Make It Yours

Here’s where your timeline comes into play. Depending on what you pick, the turnaround time can vary:

  • In-stock ring (off the shelf): Ready in just a few days
  • Made-to-order/custom engagement rings: Usually takes 3–6 weeks
  • Complex custom designs or rare stones: May take 6–10+ weeks

 The earlier you start, the more options you have, especially if you're planning something time-sensitive, like a destination proposal or coordinating with family.

Step 5: Protecting your Ring

Once the ring is in your hands, you’ll want to insure your engagement ring. This step is so important that we offer our clients complimentary insurance for the first 12 months of their ring. 

If you plan to insure your ring with your own insurance plan, there are a few things to know:

  • Ask your jeweler for the appraisal – another item we offer complimentary to our engagement ring clients.
  • Use a company like Jewelers Mutual or add it to your renter's/homeowner's insurance
  • It’s worth it. It’s usually pretty affordable, and you’ll sleep better at night.

So... How Much Should You Spend on an Engagement Ring

You’ve probably Googled this already (hello, “how much should an engagement ring cost?”). The truth? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer.

That old “three-month salary” rule? Outdated. What matters is:

  • Your budget
  • Your partner’s expectations
  • What feels right for your relationship

The average price of an engagement ring from our store in Cincinnati is around $7,000, but you can absolutely find stunning rings well below—or above—that range. It’s our responsibility (and pleasure) to help you get the most sparkle for your spend.

TLDR: The Engagement Ring Timeline

  • Week 1: Research, gather inspo
  • Week 2–3: Book an appointment, explore options
  • Week 3–6: Select your ring
  • Week 6–10: Ring is crafted, inspected, and ready to go
  • Post-pickup: Insure the ring, plan the proposal, freak out (& have the best day ever!)

FINAL THOUGHT: YOU’RE NOT ALONE IN THIS

Buying an engagement ring isn’t something you do every day. It’s okay to have questions (we love them, actually). Whether you’re all-in on a custom design or just testing the waters, we’re here to help—no pressure, no sales pitch, just support.

Ready to start? Book your appointment. We are open Monday through Saturday and offer late-night Thursdays (open until 8 PM, good vibes guaranteed).

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