The Used Engagement Ring

With the purchase of a used engagement ring you can find a fabulous ring for an affordable price.

The market for previously owned wedding rings is actually quite large, and couples looking for gently used rings may enjoy an abundant selection of styles and prices. Before you buy though, check out these pros and cons and tips that will help you to find a lovely ring for the right price.

Pros of Used Engagement Rings

The main pro for used rings – saving a bundle of $$$ on the purchase of an engagement ring made with superior craftsmanship and materials. Other pros include:

• Used rings are one way you can reduce your wedding ring environmental footprint.
• With so many styles, designs and prices couples can find a quality engagement ring that suits their budget and tastes.
• Many engagement rings which are used are sold with the option of purchasing a matching wedding band.

Cons of Used Engagement Rings

Shoppers for previously owned engagement rings must be savvy to avoid any type of scams and to avoid overpaying for a used ring.

Some used rings cannot be resized because of the type of metal in the band or intricate designs which may be engraved onto the band.

Information on the exact alloy used to make the band may be lacking.

Shopping Tips and Precautions for Used Engagement Rings

Before you purchase a used ring for engagement, always keep these tips in mind:

• All used rings with gemstones, particularly used diamond rings, should come with a certification report on the stones which verify the types of stones and their cut, carat and clarity.
• Beware of ring sellers who are offering ‘lab reports’ from their own laboratories or from laboratories which have no history or contact number. The best laboratories on gemstone certification are from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and the American Gem Society (AGS).
• Never purchase a used ring from a seller who does not have a phone number and address – do not rely on their email address for the sole means of contact.
• Never purchase a used ring from a seller who does not offer at least a 30-day no-nonsense refund policy.
• Always research the seller. Look for feedback reviews on the Internet which are posted on separate review or consumer websites.
• Ask a local jeweler to examine the ring after you have purchased it to verify the quality of the gemstone’s setting and the value of the ring. If you find out that you have overpaid for a used ring, return it with your 30-day refund.

Always ask as many questions about the ring as possible too. For example:

“What type of metal is the band made from?”

“Has the band been plated with rhodium?”

“Is the band made from solid metal or has it received a coating?" (For example, a coating of thin gold over silver)

“Does the metal alloy in the band contain any nickel?”

“Has the inside of the band been engraved?”

“Are there any scratches on the band or damage to the ring?”

“How old is the ring?”

“Can the ring be resized?”

Where to Find a Used Engagement Ring

You may find used engagement rings and used diamond rings through a local jewelry shop or even a pawn shop – as long as these resources offer engagement rings with laboratory certifications and a refund policy.

You may also find a large selection of used rings through Internet resources including online auction sites such as e-bay. One of the fastest growing online resources for used wedding and engagement rings – to sell or buy – is IDoNowIDont.com. Of course, always keep the aforementioned shopping tips and precautions in mind before you click the ‘buy’ button.

Alternatives to Used Rings

If you are unable to find a used engagement ring for the right price, consider purchasing an engagement ring made with durable yet more affordable metals including stainless steel, titanium and tungsten. You may also want to consider purchasing a sterling silver engagement ring (although silver requires some special care to prevent scratching) and substituting the engagement gemstone with cheaper man-made diamonds or affordable, stunning and durable gemstones which are perfect for engagement rings.

Do You Have Questions or Comments About a Used Engagement Ring?

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