Trying to find the perfect engagement ring can be quite a challenge, especially when you’re looking for that special ring without input from your partner. There are so many styles to choose from, and you have to know what you’re looking for if you want to find a good ring source – especially online.
For instance, maybe you don’t care much about the colors, but you just want a solitaire diamond. Or perhaps you’re into vintage rings and don’t want something modern. When you know what you want, it can be easier to find the right ring by searching online, but there’s still no guarantee your perfect ring will show up within those searches.
Thankfully, you can use technology to your advantage to find the perfect engagement ring that will make you and your partner happy. Here’s how.
- Use a “try it on” app for your phone
You’ve probably seen those apps that let you see how certain pieces of furniture or décor will look in your house, or apps that will show you what certain pieces of clothing will look like on you. There truly is an app for everything, and engagement rings are no exception.
An engagement ring app that allows you to view a ring on your finger before you buy it and without even having to leave your house will be a game-changer in your hunt for the perfect ring. You’ll save time by not having to go to a jewelry store or order a ring online and deal with possible returns. You’ll also be able to tell visually whether or not you like how a particular ring looks on your finger. Sometimes rings look amazing by themselves, but aren’t a good match for your personal style and you won’t know until you try them on.
Most of all, using a virtual engagement ring app will help you narrow down your choices faster so you can get closer to finding the ideal ring. After using the app, you might need to visit a jeweler, but at least you will know more about what you specifically want.
- Online marketplaces are easier than a jeweler
One of the easiest ways to find an engagement ring is to look on online marketplaces on social media and Craigslist. Just be sure you don’t get caught in a scam. If you find something you like out of your area and the seller is legitimately willing to ship it to you, have them post it to a platform like eBay, where you will have full purchase protection, and their seller reputation will be at risk if they pull any shenanigans.
Online marketplaces are great because you can ask the seller questions about the item before you even go check it out, and that can help you narrow down your pool of possibilities. Local marketplaces are sometimes easier than going to the jeweler since you can meet with the seller at a local coffee shop to check out the ring instead of driving to a far away downtown area.
Another reason local marketplaces are great is because you can get more ideas regarding the type of ring you want. You might find a style you hadn’t considered, but really like. The only downside is that your options are severely limited when you’re relying on local listings.
- Estate sales can be found online
Local estate sales are pretty easy to find online, especially when you join Facebook groups in your area. You can search for the phrase “estate sale” and if anyone has recently announced a sale, you’ll know where to go.
Estate sales are known for being an excellent way to pick up quality jewelry, but you can’t just go in without a plan. You need to know how to somewhat accurately assess the value of a ring so you don’t get overcharged.
For this, it’s good to get acquainted with gem cuts and sizes and basic bands. You don’t need to be at the level of an appraiser, but you do need some fundamental knowledge regarding value.
Online searches can give you great ideas
Last, but not least, technology makes it easy to perform a general search for ideas rather than actual rings for sale if you’re still not sure what kind of ring you want. Online forums, like Reddit, have discussion spaces for engagement ring design ideas. This can be helpful in your search. You’ll find all types of designs and settings, and it’s a great place to ask questions.
By taking full advantage of technology, especially online searches, you’ll have an easier time finding a beautiful engagement ring that you and your partner will love.
