Tips For Buying Your Wedding Rings

As Valentine's Day approaches, please keep these top 5 tips in mind...

1. Get the timing right.

You might have a year or more to buy your rings, depending on how long your engagement is. If you are buying a gold or platinum ring - and most couples do - then remember that the price of these rings can change quite a lot over the course of several months. This is because the price of gold and platinum rings is affected by the world markets in precious metals, and these markets have been particularly volatile lately. If you've got the time to do a bit of research, you can avoid buying at peak prices and save yourself some cash.

2. Know your carats.

Most gold jewellery comes in two types: 18 carat and 9 carat. 18 carat gold has a purity of 75%. 9 carat gold has a purity of only 38%, which makes it a lot cheaper. Most people prefer 18 carat for a wedding ring. Platinum does not come in different carats - any genuine platinum jewellery is almost completely pure. This is one of the reasons why platinum is more expensive than any type of gold.

3. Know your ring style.

Rings can be curved or flat on the inside. The shape of the inside affects the comfort of the ring. If you are not used to wearing rings, you will probably find that a ring which is curved on the inside is more comfortable than one which is flat. Rings can also be curved or flat on the outside. The shape of the outside affects the look of the ring. For a classic look, go for a ring which is curved on the outside. Rings which are flat on the outside look more modern.

4. Check your ring size.

Ring sizes are on a scale from A (smallest) to Z (largest). Larger rings cost more. Some jewellers have a different price for every size, whereas other jewellers have a price for men's sizes (bigger) and a price for women's sizes (smaller). If you are just looking for a plain band, remember that men with small enough fingers can sometimes fit a woman's size. This is often exactly the same style as the man's size ring, but cheaper.

5. Be prepared to haggle.

Some jewellers are prepared to haggle, especially if you are buying the bride's and groom's rings together. It never hurts to ask. If you're uncomfortable with this, start with a standard: "Can you give us a discount for two?" or "Is that the best price you can do?". You will soon know if the jeweller is prepared to play ball.

Submitted by Benjamin Parker, www.groompower.com