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29th Oct 2021

Thinking about popping the question? Here are 3 top tips for engagement ring shopping

Sarah Gill

engagement ring

Brought to you by Ryan Thomas Jewellers

If you’re looking for the perfect ring…

So, you’ve made the decision to ask for your other half’s hand in marriage, but haven’t got a clue what sort of ring to put on their finger.

Would they prefer something antique or modern? Subtle or statement? What kind of cut and how many carats?

With so many elements to keep in mind, it’s easy to get overwhelmed.

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To help alleviate some of your worries, we gathered some top ring-buying tips from the folks at Ryan Thomas Jewellers to make sure you’re on the right track…

Do your homework!

An engagement ring is no small investment, so you’re going to want to make sure it suits your partner’s style just right. Observe their tastes and preferences, browse online and listen out for subtle (or not-so-subtle!) hints. Whether they’re flipping through a magazine or chatting with a friend, you might pick up some valuable clues.

Is their jewellery mostly gold, or silver? Are they partial to a bit of bling bling, or are they more understated in their approach to accessorising? A halo style ring featuring smaller diamonds around a centre stone ensures maximum impact and sparkle, while a solitaire ring’s elegant simplicity will remain a timeless classic. If their tastes lie somewhere in between, opt for a three stone engagement ring that features two side diamonds accentuating the brilliance of the centre stone to represent your relationship’s past, present and future love.

Remember: quality trumps size

No matter how big a diamond is, if the quality isn’t up to scratch it’s doomed to be a lifeless and unimpressive stone. Opting for a smaller diamond with an impressive cut, a H or above colour grade and a SI1 or above clarity grade will ensure the ring truly sparkles.

However, if your beloved happens to have eyes that might be slightly bigger than your budget, there’s always the option of a lab-grown diamond. Visually and molecularly identical to the real deal, these quality alternatives actually carry about a 50% lower price tag to mined diamonds, so would be a much more affordable option.

Make sure you view the ring in person

While you can browse to your heart’s content online, an in-house visit is a true essential for the best possible shopping experience. Whether it’s for information on resizing, a valuation for insurance reasons, or simply to properly inspect the weight, style and quality of your purchase, you’ve got to see it in the flesh to know it’s the one.

A valuable opportunity to ask your jeweller all the right questions, use this time to find out some of the following:
1. Can the ring be ordered or made in the correct size if it doesn’t fit?
2. How long does it take to order or make the ring in the correct size?
3. Will a detailed receipt or valuation be provided so you can have the ring insured by your insurance provider?

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Thankfully, Ryan Thomas Jewellers have decades of experience in helping customers find the ring of their dreams. Specialists in sourcing the highest quality diamonds and diamond rings, the family-owned independent retailer offer an extensive collection of jewellery AND a bespoke ring creation service.

If you want something entirely unique to your soon-to-be fiancé(e), the team of knowledgeable sales consultants at the Munster jewellery store will be able to assist and advise you throughout the entire process, all from the comfort of their private diamond boutique. From design details and choosing gemstones to creating a perfectly tailored wedding ring to match, their skilled Goldsmiths can transform your dreams into a reality.

To book a consultation or browse through one of the largest superior diamond ring collections in Ireland, visit Ryan Thomas Jewellers. An independent retail jewellers specialising in diamonds and fine jewellery, particularly engagement and wedding rings, their experienced consultants will guide you through the whole process of buying or making a diamond ring.

Brought to you by Ryan Thomas Jewellers

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