by Meg Jack

Created on: February 12, 2009   Last Updated: February 18, 2009

My fiance and I were engaged last March. He was smart and got my wedding ring with my engagement ring. This way it matches. Where did he get it? Off the Internet! You may be surprised that someone would be willing to buy something so important offline, but it is the most beautiful ring I've ever seen. Why go to a jewelery store in the mall where they sell low quality diamonds for the same price as high quality diamonds on-line?

My husband-to-be selected my ring after a long search. He must have searched every website out there before he choose mine. He got it from www.danforthdiamonds.com. Here, he was able to select the band and then select the diamond to go in it. When you go to a jewelry store you aren't able to choose the diamond separately from the band unless you have one custom made. Of course, there can be scams on-line too, so make sure that the people you are working with are secure. Don't hesitate to call and talk to the company prior to purchasing.

Now, buying a man's ring is a totally different story. From what we've found, it's no cheaper to buy on-line then in store. I still wouldn't recommend places like Kay Jewelers in the mall, but rather specialty jewelers around your city or town. Here, you have to be very careful again. Some jewelers will mark up their rings quite a bit, so look around before buying. This also gives you or your future husband a chance to see what you like, try things on. A titanium ring, which is becoming very popular these days and is also very sturdy, can cost less than $100. However, keep in mind that a titanium ring cannot be sized. Some jewelers will offer to let you bring your titanium band in and change sizes for the rest of your life at no extra cost, which is something else to take into account while shopping.

So, when it comes down to it, do a lot of looking around for the best quality without breaking your pockets. Don't be afraid of shopping on-line, but be cautious about it. You can save quite a bit with a woman's ring and band by purchasing on-line, and you also can make sure the bands will match by doing this. Stay away from the "big names" like Kay and Zales. In general, they aren't offering great quality for the price. Do a lot of research and I'm sure you will make the best decision. Picking out wedding bands is just the beginning of a life together. Don't let it stress you out, and learn about compromise and saving early. Don't go crazy on the cost of wedding bands, keep in mind that there will be plenty to pay for in the future!

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