Before you even think of buying an engagement ring, you need to figure out which jeweler will work best for you. Choosing a jeweler is at least as important as choosing the ring itself, because different  jewelers will have several things that a couple needs to consider before settling on the perfect one.

Know what you Want

If you know what type of engagement ring you’re looking for, it will make choosing a jeweler much easier. For example, if your bride-to-be loves classic styles and traditional jewelry, a small independent jeweler may be the perfect choice. On the other hand, more elaborate stones or settings may require you to visit a national chain, because they will be able to offer a larger selection of rings that an independent jeweler simply can’t do. Large scale jewelers will also be able to offer more customization options.

Your best bet is to visit several jewelers, both national chains and smaller independent outfits, and narrow your choices based on the type of ring you plan to buy.

Pros and Cons of National and Independent Jewelers

There are pros and cons whether you choose to buy from a chain store at the mall or an independent jeweler. Chain stores have a wider selection, especially if you want an elaborate ring, but independent jewelers can often inform you about different aspects of your gem a national chain may not have available to them.

If warranties are a concern for you, you may decide to go with a national chain. An independent jeweler may close up shop, leaving a warranty and any guarantees of future repairs null and void. This is unlikely to happen if you purchase a ring from a well-established national chain.

From the customer service angle, an independent jeweler may make you feel more at home. Because independent jewelers are often more knowleadable about their products than national chain stores, they are likely to work with you until you find the exact ring you want. While this isn’t true in all cases (there are plenty of national chains that are happy to help you with ring customization,) a large store may feel too intimidating for some couples, making a small jeweler the perfect choice.

Services, Warranties, and Reputation

An engagement ring is a lifetime investment, so it’s important to carefully research a store’s warranty policy and what services they offer. Are cleanings and routine repairs/maintenance part of the services they offer? Do you need a larger warranty than what they can provide? Are alterations or upgrades to the ring possible later on? You should also research the store you are considering before making a purchase. Check the business out through the Better Business Bureau and ask for references from past clients to see how they felt about the service they were given. An engagement ring is an important purchase, and you want to make sure you only deal with a reputable jeweler. If you carefully research your options and check out the jeweler that interests you to ensure their credibility, you will guarantee a satisfying purchase that will still be memorable years from now.