Save With A Pawn Shop Engagement Ring
Shopping for an engagement ring is an expensive milestone for many couples. Diamond and precious metal rings can be very expensive when purchased through a jewelry store, so many people prefer to shop for jewelry at a pawn shop. This can be an excellent choice because of lower costs, but there are a few considerations when buying jewelry from a pawn shop.
Know what you're buying
Before making any major jewelry purchases, whether from a pawn shop or a high-end jewelry store, make sure you have a good understanding of the jewelry itself. In addition to different types of precious stones, you should also know a little bit about gem cut, shape, clarity, color, and size. Type of metal is often an important factor, too, so you should learn about how precious metals are graded.
Of course, being an expert on stones and metals isn't much help if you're not sure of the preferences of your significant other. Discussing metal allergies, likes, dislikes, and what the perfect ring might look like should be your first step. Having a ring size handy is also a good idea, but know that rings can usually be sized to fit properly through a jeweler.
Examine shop policies
Anything you buy might end up not working out, regardless of the purchase place. Before buying, make sure you ask about the shop's return policies. Some may have rather liberal return policies where you can get cash back for returns made within 30 days. Others may only offer store credit. It may also be helpful to ask your pawn broker what they might pay for a similar ring if you were bringing one in to sell today.
Find an appraiser
Many reputable pawn shops will often appraise jewelry before selling, but you should also find your own independent jewelry appraiser before purchasing. The shop may also recommend an appraisal service -- which might be more beneficial for them than you. If possible, take the ring to your appraiser without any identifying information, just in case your appraiser already has a relationship with the pawn shop you're working with.
Shop with an open mind
Pawn shops often have a very large selection of jewelry ranging from timeless vintage pieces to more modern and trendy designs. If you're not able to find exactly what you're looking for, it may be worth spending some time examining the less desirable pieces. You may find a beautiful stone that could be reset in a custom band, which would make your ring even more personal and meaningful.
Purchasing an engagement ring from a pawn shop is an excellent option for many couples. Researching precious stones and metals, knowing shop policies, independent appraisal, and keeping an open mind can help save a lot of money -- and stress -- during this process. If you're looking for a pawn shop that specializes in jewelry, visit Desert Jewelry Mart & Coins.