The engagement ring process is evolving, and many couples are looking to purchase their rings online more than ever before. But how can you make sure that the ring you have fallen in love with online is the right one for you? Companies have answered this demand of wanting to "Try Before You Buy" and can provide a shopping experience that rivals in-person brick and mortar ring shopping. From uploading a picture of your hand to receiving physical replicas, you can truly visualize what a ring style will look like on your finger. These options are very desirable for many consumers and allow them to find "The One" and feel confident in their online purchase. Here are a few ways to try on engagement rings before buying online.
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Virtual Try-On
With the incredible advances in technology, you can now try on a ring virtually with just your cell phone. James Allen is one of the companies that allow you to see any of the rings they sell right on your finger. The benefit of this option is that you do not have to just choose one or two rings to see on your finger, but as many as you want. One common piece of advice that sales associates give is that you may love a specific ring that you noticed on Pinterest, or another woman, but see the ring on your finger before you make a decision. In addition, try on a few different styles that you normally wouldn't think to try. Or have your significant other pick a few that stand out to them.
With no restrictions on how many you can try on virtually, really spend some time looking at designs. The process is simple: start with going to JamesAllen.com and pick an engagement ring. Then click "Try On" on the product page. Next, take a clear photo of your hand with your smartphone (make sure there is good lighting!). Once you adjust the ring to your finger, you can change the shape of the center diamond to see how it looks with that particular ring. This option is a quick and simple way to get an idea of what rings you and your partner like without having to leave the comfort of your own home!
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Physical Samples
If seeing the different rings digitally on your finger isn't enough, or you have narrowed your favorites down to a few options but just can't pick "the one" yet, then you may want to consider ordering physical samples to try on. Online diamond ring companies have gotten creative with giving their customers a more "in person" experience like they would have in the store. There are two popular ways that companies choose to provide in person samples: sterling silver models or customized 3D printed models.
The well-known diamond and engagement ring company, Ritani, has chosen to provide its customers with sterling silver and cubic zirconia replicas of their designs. Though the rings are not determinant of the quality of the finished, full price product, they will help you determine which style suits you best. The process is simple and easy and you are not obligated to purchase. You get to select from a range of diamond shapes and sizes, and then put in your ring size to select three rings for your "Try-On" Box. Ritani does require a $150 refundable deposit, but you get to keep the rings for 10 days to see which one suits your daily life!
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The other popular company that ships rings to you to try on is With Clarity. With Clarity is solely online and relatively new to the bridal space, only starting around 4 years ago. Their edge with being an online company is their use of 3D printers. 3D printers are commonly used in the industry to create custom ring designs and With Clarity has also used that technology as an inexpensive way to let customers try on rings in the comfort of their own home. Without any showrooms to visit, this allows customers to take a closer look at designs and feel more confident in their purchase. These rings aren't made of the golds or platinum with real diamonds that your final will be, but they will look and feel like the real product. After selecting a ring style that you want to try on, you have the option to select from the diamond shapes available, the metal color, and diamond size. The With Clarity designs are especially helpful if you want a yellow or rose gold ring. This service is also completely free and you get to wear the rings for three days.
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What to Watch Out For When Trying the Rings On
Because you will not have a sales associate right with you when trying the rings on, there are a few things to take note of when wearing your samples. First, if you are deciding between different two carat weights, order the samples in one of each. Most companies offer sizing in ¾ carat and 1 carat sizing, but then it jumps to 1.5 and 2 carats. There is somewhat of a noticeable size difference and even more of a price jump when going from 1 to 1.5 carats and 1.5 to 2 carats. Take some time looking at your carat size selections to see if you can really notice the size difference when wearing it on your finger.
Secondly, pay attention to how high each diamond sits on your finger. Many women fall in love with a ring design, only to discover that the diamond is too high and not practical for their everyday life. If you opt for one of the options that allows you to try rings on in person, make sure you wear them as much as possible. This is actually one experience that you can get that is not available within a traditional brick and mortar store. Experiencing the rings you are interested in your daily life will help immensely in choosing the right ring for not only your style and budget, but your lifestyle.
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Any of these try on options are a great way to help determine the right ring for you. Buying such a large purchase online can be stressful, but it doesn't have to be. Companies like James Allen, Ritani, and With Clarity have gotten creative to make sure you feel confident in the ring you purchase. Have fun and get your partner's input - you may just surprise yourself with a style that you fall in love with!
