So, you have finally decided that it is time to propose to your partner. Now, you may wonder when buying the perfect engagement ring is best. There are several things to consider before you actually go out and buy the ring. First, when do you plan on proposing? The proposal date will significantly affect when you purchase the ring.
Even if you haven’t decided when to propose, the ring is probably high on your priorities. You likely are trying to figure out what type of ring your partner wants and how much you can afford. Of course, there are certain times of the year when you can save money on engagement rings, so chances are this is something you are also wondering about.
Today we will talk about the best time to buy an engagement ring. Let’s get started.
The Best Time to Buy an Engagement Ring
When you come down to it, the best time to buy an engagement ring is when you are absolutely ready. The right time is totally up to you, for the most part. Of course, it can be a bit more complicated than just knowing the right time if you are trying to get the most for your money.
There is no right or wrong time to shop for an engagement ring. However, there are a few things to consider. For example, did you know many jewelers tend to reduce prices around the holidays?
While it is often thought that getting engaged during the holidays is bad luck, there is nothing wrong with buying a ring during the holidays; just because you have the ring doesn’t necessarily mean you have to propose right away.
No Prime Shopping Season
If you plan on buying engagement, know there is no prime shopping season for jewelry. Sure, there may be some good deals around the holidays, so this would be an excellent time to shop if you are on a strict budget. But you might be surprised to find there can be better deals before and after the holiday season.
For instance, the Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales can offer some pretty great deals, but chances are you will not find any jeweler that will substantially reduce their products.
Beware of “Great” Online Deals
There may be perks, such as free shipping when you order online, but we don’t recommend ordering an engagement ring online. Many people have been fooled into thinking they are buying quality jewelry, only to find out that their white gold rings are simply base metals or sterling silver plated with white gold.
But this isn’t to say that there aren’t reputable jewelers that sell their products online. It is a good idea to shop around and visit a few stores. Once you find what you are looking for, you can see if it, or something similar, is available through an online jewelry seller.
Some discounts you may find online, besides free shipping, could be free gifts with your purchase (such as a matching pendant or earrings) and possibly deals on the setting.
Stores are Busy During the Holidays
Another thing that may deter you from purchasing an engagement ring during the holiday season is that the stores are incredibly busy at this time of year. There isn’t as much selection as others have already swooped in to buy rings and other jewelry. For this reason, many people shop before or after the holidays so they don’t have to fight through crowded malls and stores.
When Do You Plan to Propose?
Another thing to consider when planning to buy an engagement ring is when you will make the proposal. In fact, many experts recommend planning your purchase around the actual proposal date if you have one in mind. For instance, if you plan on proposing on Valentine’s Day, the best time to shop for a ring could be in January (you may also find post-holiday sales during this time).
One study shows that while some people shop for engagement rings about three to four months before proposing, others may begin as much as a year in advance. Others said they began shopping about six months before they were planning on proposing.
Consider the Ring Itself
Are you thinking about having a ring custom-designed for your partner? Is there a particular style you think they would like more than other styles? If you have definite ideas about what you are looking for, it may be a good idea to start shopping several months before the planned proposal.
This is especially true if you have a custom-made ring. There are many different production timelines, and the more intricate the design, the longer it will likely take. While it may only take three or four weeks to receive a ring you ordered from a jeweler, you can expect that timeline to increase dramatically if it is custom-made.
Let’s say you are looking for a fancy-cut diamond center stone with a large carat weight. This will take much longer to source than an already pre-designed ring. There is a lot involved in the creation of a custom-designed engagement ring. It all begins with a consultation.
You will need to select the central stone, as well as other stones, if the ring is to include more than one diamond. Then, you should sit with the jeweler and decide how the setting will look.
This will take time, so consider this if you are serious about giving your partner a one-of-a-kind engagement ring.
Conclusion
An engagement ring is likely one of the most important purchases you will ever make. You need to take your time to ensure you get precisely what you are looking for and that your partner will cherish it forever. There is no ideal time to shop for engagement rings.
Many factors are involved in this purchase, and you need to decide when the time is right for you.
