Before the advent of computers and the internet, engagement rings were purchased outright from retail stores such as tiffany’s and de beers. Men who wanted to surprise their girlfriends as well as non-traditional and practical couples would go to these stores and perfectly coiffed salespersons would, one by one, show beautifully crafted diamond rings until the perfect one is chosen.
Nowadays, the process of securing engagement and wedding bands is much easier. Couples can just spend a few hours scouring the internet for reputable sites, select a ring and, with a click of a button the ring has been purchased and within days it will be on her finger.
So, which is better? Should rings be purchased via the internet or is it still better to go to a retail store? Both are okay. Both have their own share of pros and cons. The final decision really rests on your shoulders.
The biggest downside of purchasing rings the traditional way is the time the entire process consumes. Retail outlets are not located next to each other, and even if they were, going through rows and rows of loose stones, bands, and actual rings will occupy more than just a few minutes. However, what’s good about going to retailers is that you would be able to ask the sales personnel questions about the ring you want to buy. They can guide you through the entire selection process and help you pick out the ring that suits your girlfriend’s personality, her lifestyle and your budget. Another good thing about shopping in retail stores is that you will know exactly what the ring will look like. You can see, touch, feel, and caress the band and the stone. There’ll be fewer surprises in store for you. When you shop outright, what you see is definitely what you’ll get.
On-line shopping is ideal for those who live very busy and very hectic lives. You can just browse through several websites, bookmark the rings you favor and conduct the entire transaction in just a few minutes. The ring will then be shipped to you and you would have gotten your lady an engagement ring without having to disrupt your schedule. Shopping via the internet is also good if you want to get a ring from a jeweler that’s located out of state. What’s not good about it, however, is that you are often not sure about the actual size of the item you’re buying. Yes, there are photos, the website describes everything in detail, and these stores have toll-free numbers you can call, but it’s just different. Nothing can replace personal contact, and nothing is better than seeing the ring yourself.
So which is better? Who knows, and honestly, it really is not of prime importance. What is important, especially to your lady, is the kind of ring you will present to her. If you select a ring that matches her entire persona and fits her like a glove; where and how you bought will hardly even matter. |