Today there are many routes people can take when it comes to buying an engagement ring. Whether it’s visiting a store like Jared or Kay Jewelers, using a family heirloom, or buying one off of Etsy.com.

Yes, you read that right. Etsy has engagement rings.

It may seem a little sketchy buying an engagement ring from an online shop that’s known for more of its handmade crafts, but more and more people are doing it now.  Etsy has a section under “Jewelry” and “Rings” dedicated to “Antique Engagement Rings”. For those who may not have an older ring to inherit, and are really interested in finding a ring with a story (or at least a later date than 2013) for their proposal, it makes shopping easier and very convenient.

So, for you worry warts, here’s the scoop.

1.    Do your research. Make sure that your buyer has good reviews and ratings.  It’s less and less risky if you know who you are buying from based on previous sales and ratings.

2.    Ask for more pictures. If you’re only seeing one photo of the ring, ask for more. Look at it from different angles and close-ups to make sure you know what you’re buying. If you are close to where the shop owner is based, you may even consider meeting somewhere to see it.

3.    Ask A LOT of questions. Is the ring insured? Do you offer insurance? Is the diamond certified? (You may even ask them if they would mind getting the ring inspected/appraised and sending you the work before you order it, if they haven’t had this done already.) Do you offer payments? Get ALL the details before you commit to buying the ring!

Jonathan McCarter (Raleigh, NC),  fell in love with a ring off of Etsy and knew it was perfect for his bride-to-be (now married for almost two years). McCarter said, “I didn’t decide on Etsy, I decided on the ring. When you have found it you will know and if your ring is out there somewhere, as long as the seller seems reputable, I wouldn’t let anything stand in the way of you and your chosen symbol of undying love and dedication.”

Emily

Photo Credit: Courtney Valentine Photography (Elizabethton, TN).