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08.11.24
How To Find the Best Deals on Engagement Rings
It should go without saying but the ideal time to find the best deals on engagement rings is when both you and your partner feel comfy-cozy with making things official. Because, sure, you might find the deal of a century on that diamond engagement ring you’ve been eyeing, but if your partner isn’t ready to say, “Yes!”, what’s the point?
Now, for the sake of this blog post let’s say that you and your partner are in it to win it. You know their ring size, you’ve agreed on a budget, they’ve told you what type of diamond shape they prefer, and the sound of wedding bells is ringing in both of your ears. Incredible! Now all you need to do is find and buy the ring and, hopefully, save a few bucks along the way. Sound familiar? You’re in luck. We’ve identified the best days of the year to find above-average diamond ring deals and how you can lay the groundwork for securing a seriously scintillating engagement ring at a seriously cheap price. Shoppers, start your engines.
When Is the Best Time to Buy an Engagement Ring?
First things first, is there actually an ideal time to find a cheap engagement ring? Well, yes and no. Believe it or not, the price of diamonds remains pretty steady throughout the year. But despite stable prices, nuances in the market mean that timing is everything. Retailers will often run promotions to boost sales during historically slow periods or to celebrate holidays. That’s your golden ticket. In fact, it’s during peak diamond buying season, roughly from November to Valentine’s Day, that you can find the best deals on engagement rings, literally right now in case you were wondering. More specifically, it might be worth it to consider the following major shopping holidays and seasons:
Singles’ Day
No, we’re not talking about the tongue-in-cheek alternative term that many singles might use for Valentine’s Day, we’re talking 光棍节.
Also called Double 11 or Bachelors’ Day, Singles’ Day is an unofficial shopping holiday celebrated on November 11th. It’s also the largest shopping day in the world. So naturally, you should expect some big sales. Just be aware that Singles’ Day has yet to catch on in the US so it might take some concentrated scouring of Asia-based retailers.
Black Friday
The OG-US shopping day. Black Friday is the time of the year to find the best deals. While in the past Black Friday was an IRL event, many online retailers are including online sales. This means that it’s a fantastic opportunity to snag that diamond tennis bracelet, emerald stud earring set, or even that engagement ring you’ve been eyeing.
Cyber Monday
Cyber Monday is like the cooler introverted sister to Black Friday. Sales on solely based online, though like Black Friday, they may occasionally bleed into in-person shopping.
Cyber Monday is great not just because you can surf the web right from the comfort of your couch but also because shopping online opens a bevvy of financing options that aren’t offered in-store. Talk about a win-win.
The lead-up to Valentine’s Day
Surely, after the swell of the holiday rush, you can expect retailers to give their sales a break? Surprisingly, this is not the case. And that’s primarily due to the influx of demand that many jewelers vie for around Valentine’s Day. So keep an eye out for tempting deals after NYE, just in time to ship and receive sparkle that would make Cupid jealous.
There’s Good Engagement Ring Deals and Then There’s the Best Engagement Ring Deals
OK, so now you know what dates to know when looking for that extra sparkle in your life. But you don’t just want a good engagement ring deal, do you? No, of course not, you want (and deserve) the best engagement ring deal possible. Luckily there are a few tricks you can keep in mind that can help you gain early access to deals, get the best price possible, and even get a little something-something for yourself.
Trick 1: Know the difference between cheap engagement rings and affordable ones
Buyer beware: “Cheap” is a tricky word in the world of engagement rings. It can mean savings, sure, but it often signals rings that falter fast. You don’t want a ring that makes a break for it after a year, do you? It may seem like we’re picking at straws here but aim for engagement rings labeled “affordable” instead.
Often, stores that tout cheap engagement rings sell cheaply made engagement rings. And while you may get a great deal in the present they can cost you big in the long run. And if the online store you’re shopping at doesn’t have a clear return policy, provides graded diamonds from accredited labs, or allows you to see your diamond in person, run -you’re being taken advantage of.
Trick 2: Avoid hidden fees by doing your research
Often, retailers sneak hidden fees into your online cart to get you to spend more money. A lot of the time, it’s the promise of free shipping but when you go to check out with your discounted items free shipping is only available with a minimum spend. Want your order insured when it ships your way? Possible fee. Or, there could be a steep restocking cost should you choose to return your engagement ring.
Note what jewelry stores you’d like to target for seasonal sales and promotions. Run down your list and research their shipping and return policies and any exclusions to said policies. That way, you won’t deal with sticker shock upon checkout despite a seemingly lower price.
Trick 3: Get social with your favorite engagement ring brands
Shopping the best online engagement ring stores and scouring the internet for the best deal on natural and lab grown high quality diamonds can be exhausting. Fear not, because there’s a secret handshake in the world of fine jewelry shopping – and it’s all about who you know, or rather- who knows you. The trick? Cozy up to your favorite jewelers by subscribing to their newsletters and stalking them (politely, of course) on social media.
Why play the espionage game? Because these savvy sellers tend to slip their best deals to their digital BFFs first. Yes, before the rest of the ring-hungry world catches wind. So, get that “Follow” finger ready and prep your inbox for an influx of insider info, ensuring you snag that perfect piece of jewelry. It’s like being part of an exclusive club, minus the secret handshake or the cloak-and-dagger meetings. Et voilà, fine jewelry scores without the bank account scare.
Psst: Darling, Become a Frank
A little self-promotion never hurt anyone, right? While we’re talking about the best natural and lab grown diamonds online we have to mention Frank Darling. Shopping for an engagement ring has never been more fun and purchasing that engagement ring? Never so easy. And yes, our Black Friday / Cyber Monday diamond sale this season is what dreams are made of. Utilize Trick #3 and follow us on Instagram @frankdarling or sign up for our newsletter by navigating to the homepage and down to get early access to some seriously sparkly sales.
Trick 4: Avoid upselling by having a plan
A lot of the time, engagement ring stores upsell intricate ring designs or ornate wedding bands during big sales. They believe that because they’re offering steep discounts, they can more easily persuade their customers to spend more money on things they don’t need. But here’s the deal. You’re smarter than that. You’ve done your research. The “Three Months Salary” rule to buying engagement rings? Yeah, you know that’s bs.
You see through the flashy promotions and recognize that a simple, well-crafted ring with beautifully cut diamonds can symbolize your commitment just as powerfully as any ornate piece. Armed with knowledge and a clear vision, you set out to buy the perfect ring online or in store. You have a plan, and that doesn’t include being sold things you don’t need.
Heart-Pounding Sparkle at Jaw-Dropping Prices? That’s Frank Darling, Darling
Ready to start shopping? While you have multiple sparkling options, we think you can’t do better than Frank Darling. And sure, we’re biased. But with a wide selection of stunning designs at affordable prices and fantastic promotions, you can feel confident that you’re getting the best engagement ring deal possible.
Ready to make a move? Explore Frank Darling’s engagement ring collection and see why buying online can be a total dream. You can also schedule a virtual or in-person consultation to chat with an expert, view diamonds, and get help designing the perfect ring.
FAQs
When is the best time to buy an engagement ring?
Generally, the best time to buy an engagement ring is both during the “slow season” for jewelers (aka outside of proposal season), and during major shopping holidays such as Black Friday or Cyber Monday. Now, why is this bewitching combo the golden ticket? Let’s unpack it. Picture this: it’s post-Valentine’s Day and before Thanksgiving – a time when lovebirds are less likely to pop the question. This sliver of the calendar is your oyster, as jewelers, catching their breath, might just offer that sparkling diamond at a price that doesn’t require you to sell a kidney.
What time of the year are engagement rings the cheapest?
Surprisingly, there really isn’t a set time when engagement ring prices drop. In fact, jewelers tend to hold the price of engagement rings pretty steadily over the year. Of course, there are specific shopping holidays that offer major discounts for engagement rings. It’s pretty easy to find high-quality, affordable engagement rings on Black Friday and Cyber Monday for example.
Do engagement rings go on sale for Black Friday?
Black Friday and Cyber Monday typically have engagement ring sales. It’s crucial to research since deals can vary. Retailers might extend discounts to other jewelry, including earrings and bracelets. Ensure you compare prices and offerings across different stores to maximize your savings. Shopping during these holidays can lead to significant discounts on your perfect ring, as well as other fine jewelry, making it an opportune time to make those special purchases.
How do I find the best deals on engagement rings?
Finding the best deals on engagement rings is easier than you think. Start by researching prices and designs ahead of time to know what you’re looking for. Shop during the off-season or on major sale days like Black Friday and Cyber Monday, when jewelers often offer significant discounts. Don’t overlook online retailers; they can have lower overheads and pass savings onto customers. Also, remember to follow your favorite retailers online or sign-up for their newsletter. Often, they’ll pass member only deals onto followers.
Molly
Currently blending luxury with lexicon to pen, edit, and manage the Frank Darling journal, Molly has written for VRAI, Clean Origin, and Olivia Ewing Jewelry. A lover of all things sparkly (including disco balls), she prefers portrait, step, and vintage cut diamonds with warm champagne hues.
