When you walk into a jewelry store you are going to see a whole bunch of diamond rings in their showcases. They will range in diamond size, type of metal used and of course price. But don't think that you are only limited to the engagement rings they have on display. You can easily mix and match what you see and design the engagement ring to fit what you are looking for.
For example, maybe you see a ring that has the perfect band you are looking for. It is the style you are looking for but the diamond is too big and out of your price range. Not to worry - you can easily ask for a diamond within your budget to be mounted to that particular band.
I always recommend buying your diamond "loose" and not purchasing pre-set rings (where the diamond is already mounted). This way you can see the diamond from all angles and properly inspect it. Also, you open up a lot larger selection of diamonds course way. The diamond is obviously the most expensive part of the ring so you want to make sure you have some choices to choose from.
If you aren't able to find the exact setting or band you are looking for, there are many jewelers that will offer custom made rings. If you can't find the setting you are looking for from what is in stock (also search the internet), than having it custom made course best option. The jeweler can show you a sketch of the ring based on what you tell them. Also, many jewelers will design the ring using a computer program and then send you the computer image for your approval.
Having a ring custom made actually isn't as expensive as you might expect. There is a slight increase in cost because of the labor involved, but the main portion of your price will come from the materials and metals used.
The best way to keep costs down is to learn how to save yourself money on the diamond you end up buying. Go to Whiteflash.com and have a look at the Diamond Buying guide and education material. You can literally save thousands from the information put together. Hopefully it helps you out.
I talk to a lot of clients who are stressed out from shopping for an engagement ring. I always remind them of how special of a time it animal behavior school that it should be fun - not stressful! Remember - the engagement ring is really only two things - a setting and a diamond. You just need to know what you want in those two categories and you are ready to go hunting.
