An engagement ring: a symbol of hope for the future and longevity in a loving, trusting relationship. Engagement ring etiquette dictates we wear it on our left ring fingers because that’s where a vein connects to your heart. This, however, is an old wives’ tale. While it’s a romantic thought, it’s a modern myth… similar to the idea that every engagement turns into forever. While it’s certainly not your intention when you purchase or accept an engagement ring, we know that plans and relationships fall through. After a particularly painful end, it may be tempting to put that ring to the side and let it gather dust. However, let us be the first to encourage you to dust off that ring and give it a new life. Whether you want to sell it for cash or get rid of its bad juju, we can help you create something wonderful with it. After all, as C.S. Lewis said, “there are far, far better things ahead than any we leave behind.” Can’t decide what to do with that old engagement ring? Let us make some suggestions: Engagement Ring Etiquette According to Worthy, engagement ring etiquette dictates that the ring should be returned to the giver if they are the ones who called off the engagement of if the breakup was through a mutual agreement. If the recipient of the ring calls off the engagement, it’s traditionally returned to the giver. Check the Laws in Your State Concerning Who Gets the Engagement Ring. If your engagement or marriage was recently called off, look into the local laws concerning who gets to keep the engagement ring. According to Worthy, broken engagement rules vary from one state to the next in the United States. However, keep in mind that most states don’t consider who ended the engagement. Be sure to discuss the expectations of the ring ownership with your ex or your attorney before making any decisions. For more information, visit Nolo. Sell Your Ring So, you’ve researched or spoke with your ex and the ring is yours. Maybe you no longer want it or maybe the only thing that will heal your emotional wounds is sweet cash. This opens up a world of opportunities! If you sell it to us, we’ll give you cash on the spot for it. Whether you want that cash for a trip or rainy day fund, you’re free to choose how that ring contributes to your future. Trade in Your Ring If you’ll miss the feeling of a ring on your finger, trade it in for something you’ll love. Trading in your ring at Charleston Gold & Diamond Exchange means you could end up with a pre-owned Rolex watch, a ring with a different gemstone, David Yurman bracelets, or even a new diamond ring. We’ll make sure you’ll leave with something that makes you as happy as that old engagement ring was did. Repurpose Your Diamond Perhaps the diamond in your ring is a family heirloom or you have a sentimental attachment to it. By re-setting or re-purposing your diamond, you can keep the sentimental aspect and cleanse it of any bad memories. Whether you want to set it in a new ring or as a necklace, our full-service repair shop can create your perfect piece. At Charleston Gold & Diamond Exchange, we can help you make the best of any situation where “I do” becomes “I don’t.” If you find yourself in this predicament, bring in your ring and we’ll help you decide what’s best for you!
Monthly Archives: April 2019
Apr
Are you attracted to the lower price tag of lab-grown diamonds? Think twice before making this particular investment! We all know the first step to the perfect proposal: picking out the diamond ring your partner will swoon for! And our team at Charleston Gold & Diamond Exchange is thrilled to help you find the right match. We also want our customers to make the most informed decision possible when it comes to this investment, because it’s a big one! Which is why we’d like to discuss one of the newest trends in diamond-buying — lab-grown diamonds. The difference between natural and lab-grown can still be a bit muddy to consumers and sellers alike. In fact, some companies have landed in hot water for falsely advertising their lab-created diamonds. Here’s what you need to know: Natural diamonds are forged deep within the earth over many years under great pressure and heat. We mine, cut and polish raw diamonds to use in fine jewelry. For years, natural diamonds have been the only choice for that signature engagement ring sparkle. They are still what you’ll see in most engagement rings today. However, some companies have started creating diamonds in laboratories. They create them in one of two ways: High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) or CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition). The quality of these lab-created diamonds is increasing with time and reputable diamond-graders (like GIA) even grade them based on the four C’s. However, a professional jeweler can still spot the difference fairly easily. If you’re trying to find the right diamond within your budget, perhaps you’ve considered lab-grown diamonds. After all, their prices are up to 30% lower than their natural counterparts, according to Money Under 30. But, before you pull the trigger, consider your diamond’s resell value. Marriage is a life-long thing; you may want to upgrade your ring one day or the marriage may not last forever (unlike that diamond). That’s why Charleston Gold & Diamond Exchange suggests investing in a natural diamond, even if you have to spend a little more for it now. Natural diamonds hold their value extremely well. The supply of lab-grown diamonds is only going to grow, meaning the demand will inevitably go down, making them a poor investment. If you invest in a natural diamond now, you’ll thank yourself later when you need to resell and get at least 30-50% of your money back. If you go to resell your lab-grown diamond, that number decreases to the point where you’ll get next to nothing back. Still interested in a lab-grown diamond? Let us know. While we don’t typically carry them in our store, we can still help you find one with the best quality for the best price! Now that you’ve thought about how your diamond is made, check out our guide to picking the perfect diamond shape.