In case you missed our recent live Instagram story we have all the details for you here on how to efficiently shop for an engagement ring in store. Click this link to watch the full YouTube video and read along for some helpful tips
We know ring shopping can be a daunting task and for most people venturing into an unknown and detail oriented world. Keep in mind this post is geared towards clients who at some point will be able to physically visit our store. We do specialize in working with remote clients as well and we will be covering this in a future post (you can read here for our remote shopping experience). Remember this is a happy time so have fun with it and although there are many technicalities and details involved do not treat it like a science experiment!
Let’s get started!
Step 1: Do your Homework: No there will not be any type of quiz when you arrive at our store but it is always good to familiarize yourself with diamond/engagement ring terms, qualities, prices and most important styles. Browse the website, look at our online video gallery, and of course our Instagram page.
Some tips when browsing: Start with a broad overview browsing different ring designs and see what catches your eye. If you have always had your heart set on a certain shape then cut straight to the chase and look under that filter. For example if you know you like oval diamond rings filter that out on the website or video gallery using the filters on the left side
Make a short list of the styles (which you can save in an e-mail or on your phone) and/or diamond shapes you are interested in. Equipped with your desired styles in mind, set up an appointment to come try them on.
Step 2: The Appointment: having an appointment is a great way to ensure someone will be available to meet with you and have all your information prepared ahead of time ensuring a proper follow up. You can come with your future fiancée or to make it a little more fun; come with a friend or relative and make a day out of it. We recommend having the "boozy brunch" after your appointment ;) Together will go over your short list and focus on those specific styles. Sometimes what you have in your mind might not translate to how you feel about the look on your hand so be prepared to possibly change course during the appointment if you love something you never expected to even try on!
Step 3: Pick the Shape of your Center: It is important to get a general idea of the shape you prefer. For instance, narrowing down cushion and oval as your top two picks makes it a lot easier than picking from an array of shapes in person at once. For this portion we recommend leaving price and budget out of it- at the end of the day the price is determined by the size/quality of the center diamond along with your budget. Pick the shape you find most flattering and are drawn to the most in all circumstances. Regardless of carat size, quality, and price we guarantee that you will still enjoy your favorite shape in terms of looks.
Try the shape of your choice on your hand, compare it side by side to other options. Get the opinion of your shopping mate and also check out how it looks in the mirror as well for an additional view. Having your sales associate try it on as well can give another perspective on how it looks from a distance. Try your desired shape on with a wedding band as well to see how it looks and works together. Last of all keep in mind every fancy shape diamond comes in a variety of outlines; from more square to more elongated so be sure to throw that into the equation as well.
Step 4: Pick the Style; Top Down Approach: An engagement ring from Lauren B is known for its meticulous attention to detail and for that reason getting down to the nitty gritty on every design aspect is very important. Keep in mind you can use examples from all of our rings and incorporate any aspect you like that into your custom new design. Our top down approach covers the most glaring characteristics first and then moves on to the more detailed portion
o Metal Color: First select the metal color of your choice for your ring- you can pick from white, rose, and yellow gold. Pick the color you feel works best with your skin tone and your everyday wardrobe. There is no right or wrong answer here but remember this is a ring you are going to be wearing for a long time so be conscious of that. Can't decide? Opt for a two tone ring design featuring elements of both colored and white metal such as this emerald cut diamond three row pave diamond ring or this oval diamond double edge halo two tone design. Note that any ring can be made in ANY metal combination you like. For the next examples we will assume that the ring design in question is a cushion cut center in a micropave halo design.
o Single halo or Double EDGE Halo: The double edge halo design essentially adds an additional trim of diamonds along the edge of the halo. If you love the extra sparkle opt for that detail which is nice to look at from the side. If you prefer it to look more simple then opt to leave the double halo off your custom ring.
o Single or Double Halo- If you want a very bold look and to increase the surface area of the diamond on your choice, select a double halo such as this split band double halo custom design. If you prefer to keep the surface area of your diamond and single halo as is then leave off this option. Watch this video to see the difference between a single halo and double halo engagement ring live and in action
o The Attachment: The attachment refers to how the halo and diamond connect to the shank and there are a few options: If you prefer a classic design, opt for a 4 stem attachment where the 4 stems holding the halo come to a point and connect directly to the band such as in this classic cushion halo ring. Another option, if you want a bit more stability and flow to your ring is adding a cathedral. The cathedral acts as shoulders by connecting the halo on either side and gives a more sturdy feeling to the ring once sitting on your hand because of the extra connection. An example is shown in the photo here
For a very low setting that touches the finger closely and is even more low maintenance select this cushion cut center in invisible gallery attachment where all excess metal under the ring is removed for a sleek and low set appearance.
o Height of Setting: The height of the setting refers to how high the halo will sit off your ring. For a high set, ask for the stems of your ring to be more elongated. Most of our rings are medium-low set for a comfortable feeling. A low set ring works with designs such as the invisible gallery we mentioned above. Watch this video here comparing different engagement ring setting heights
o The Band: Pick your desired style for the band based on your preference. First consider a single row of diamonds. For a daintier look choose our thinnest option. For something a bit more substantial you can select something with a thicker band such as this round moissanite ring with pave diamonds along the side. This features larger diamonds than usual along the band. If you like the look wider band, consider a setting featuring three rows of diamond along side. This cushion cut three row micropave ring offers a more sparkling effect with diamonds. For a video comparing different engagement ring band sizes watch here
Step 5: Finger Size: Get your finger sized by us and always ensure a snug fit or else the ring will sway side to side since it is top heavy. You want your diamond to remain upright in most cases. We recommend sizing down a bit for a thin band since it allows for more space on the finger
Step 6: Start your File: Your specific associate will take detailed notes on each aspect of the center-stone you like and the custom setting design you are interested in. Of course you may have fallen in love with an in stock ring and that’s that. We will give you a brief overview on the back of the business card and keep all the details in store for when the time comes and needs to be reviewed. Each customer is assigned to one Lauren B associate. Your sales person will keep all your notes and is your point of contact throughout the ring shopping experience with us.
Step 7: Drop a Hint: let your significant other know where to go but don’t be too pushy- who ever is buying it will like to have the “final say” ;)
Please contact us for any inquiries and to start working together on this momentous project. We look forward to it!
