Author: Gold News Club

Photo credit Bundo Kim

Affordable jewellery perfect for Valentines Day.

Do you struggle to find affordable jewellery for valentines day? Most couples buy at least one special gift on February 14th each year.

Not everyone buys jewellery. In fact, most people agree on the importance of a thoughtful gift. Most of us like the idea that our partner has spent some time thinking about a special Valentine’s gift.

Popular Valentine’s gift ideas include the clichéd dozen red roses, chocolates, flowers, candles, romantic dinners and jewellery. Most importantly the chosen gift should be a perfect fit for your partner.

But rather interestingly, only 1 in 10 men spend over £75 on their partner on Valentines Day.

A staggering £2.5 million is spent on flowers each year for this day.

What do women ask for on Valentines Day?

Forget what men buy women on Valentines Day. Instead, ask what do women ask for? Here are a few things that women actually ask for on February 14th.

27% of women want a holiday

This was quite a surprise, but fair enough. Who can be criticised for wanting a holiday. Provided they want their partner along…

17% of women want a car

We think this is a little unrealistic based on the average spend on Valentines Day. Perhaps a chocolate car would suffice…

15% of women want a Spa day

A great choice and the opportunity for her to pamper herself. Many Spas offer vouchers for full or half day Spa sessions.

13% want jewellery

Jewellery is a popular choice. Especially any item of jewellery memorable for Valentines Day. Many men choose designs with a heart or with a personal effect such as an engraving.

Who spends the most on jewellery for Valentines Day

Engagement ring buyers spend the most on jewellery at Valentines Day. A diamond ring falls into the highest price bracket for Valentines Day gifts. Moreover this day represents one of the most romantic days of the year.

Photo by Nathan Dumlao

Falling half way through the month, Valentines Day can be very expensive. For this reason, we put together a gift guide depending on finances.

All of our our suggestions fall into a lower price bracket. As a result, we’ve added some affordable jewellery for Valentines Day. But don’t hang around. Most of our suggestions get snapped up in the run up to Valentines Day.

When is Valentines Day?

Everyone knows that Valentines Day happens on February 14th each year. This single day makes a perfect occasion for a proposal. For this reason, January and February are very busy months for us—especially when it comes to diamond engagement rings.

Affordable jewellery for Valentines Day – Ideas and Inspiration

The following jewellery ideas offer buyers some affordable jewellery designs perfect for Feb 14th.

Star and Hearts Silver Necklace

Price £80.00 including delivery

By online or collect in store

The Star and Hearts necklace provides a sizeable pendant design with a circular pattern of hearts around a star. Suspended from a 32 inch chain, it makes a perfect Winter necklace worn as a statement necklace over a sweater.

Heart and Diamond Necklace

Price £300 including delivery

By online or collect in store

This classic heart shaped necklace sparkles with the addition of natural diamonds. Crafted in 9ct Gold, the design features a stylish heart design, set along one side with brilliant cut diamonds. The pendant includes luxury packaging and presentation box.

View additional ideas and inspiration in our jewellery gift guide 

The post Affordable Jewellery for Valentines Day – Gift Ideas and Inspiration appeared first on Serendipity Diamonds Blog.

What is the average engagement ring cost?

In the UK, the average engagement ring cost works out to about £1700 based on a typical engagement ring purchase price.

How much should an engagement ring cost?

An engagement ring should cost a multiple of the cost price of the materials. Materials include the diamond, ring mount and labour. Some jewellers cost and engagement ring based on a margin on these costs plus VAT. 

Other jewellers buy the finished ring (already marked up.) As a result, their own added margin results in a much higher engagement ring cost. For this reason, we suggest buying from a bespoke jeweller responsible for making the engagement ring.

Ballerina design with Arreton wedding ring

Why do buyers want to know the average price of an engagement ring?

Take time to research the average engagement ring cost. As a result, you’ll gain valuable insight into how much to spend on an engagement ring.

Many clients ask themselves how much they should spend on an engagement ring? With this in mind, we researched engagement rings online and on the High Street. 

We looked at several well-known jewellery stores. Moreover, we took specific information from their websites. Next, we made a comparison to our own prices. Finally, we worked our research into an article.

How much to spend on an engagement ring.

Many clients ask themselves how much they should spend on an engagement ring. Start by finding out the average cost of an engagement ring. 

Consider your own finances and financial situation. Finally, compare the value from one jewellery store to another. 

Everyone’s budget is different. Moreover, every buyer has different requirements. You don’t have to work to the average engagement ring cost, but it helps understand prices.

Interest in engagement ring cost over time

The following chart looks at Worldwide interest in the cost of engagement rings. Over time, we see an increase in interest in the cost of engagement rings.

Why does the average price of an engagement ring differ?

Both the style of ring and gemstone choice affect the cost. In addition, precious metal type, diamond carat weight, diamond colour and clarity affect cost. 

For example, the price of Gold has risen dramatically in recent months. Another factor involves exchange rates. To explain, diamonds are sold according to a dollar price. 

Therefore, changes to exchange rates influence the cost of diamonds. As a result, engagement ring prices change with the exchange rate. For this reason, our own ring prices change daily.

In addition, the shape of the diamond may affect cost. For example, round brilliant diamonds work out more expensive compared to many fancy shapes? 

For this reason, our round solitaires are more expensive than Princess cut solitaire rings. Owing to this, we used round diamond solitaire rings in our research.

In addition to the above factors, profit margin affects cost. This varies from one jeweller to another. Some have a higher profit margin. As a result, there are differences in price and value.

Consider your financial situation before buying the ring

Before buying a ring, carefully consider your financial situation. Everyone’s financial position differs based on personal circumstances. Income, existing commitments and credit status all vary. 

As a result, you might decide to look above or below the average cost. Most importantly, you should feel happy with your engagement ring and the price you paid. 

Are big jewellery brands best on price?

Well-known jewellers benefit from having well-known brand names. The jewellery and brand H Samuel receives a great deal of recognition in the UK. Founded in 1862 the company enjoys a legacy of High Street presence.

The same can be said for Goldsmiths, Earnest Jones, Beaverbrooks, and Fraser Hart. These are popular brand names of UK jewellery shops. But do they offer such great value?

By comparison, many small independent jewellers give a high level of customer service. In addition, their expertise, client care and choice make them a good alternative. 

Furthermore, many open up their catalogues and prices online. This leads to some interesting comparisons, seen below.

For anyone willing to explore further afield, many specialist jewellery stores sell online. Fortunately, we provide clients with both an online experience in addition to showroom facilities.

Surprisingly, a great difference exists in what’s on offer based around the average ring cost.

How many month’s salary – Tradition and how much you should spend on an engagement ring

The jewellery and diamond company DeBeers created the first rule-of-thumb in the 1930’s. Their guide set a benchmark on how much to spend on an engagement ring.

The ‘One Month’s Salary’ rule for buying and engagement ring

DeBeers suggested spending one month’s salary on a diamond engagement ring. Later, by the 1980’s this suggestion increased to two month’s salary. 

Later still, in Japan, buyers were urged to spend a figure based on three months salary.

As a result, there was a great deal of confusion for buyers. Buyers face the dilemma of whether to spend one or three months salary on the ring. 

This is sometimes called the DeBeers myth. In the real World, this guidance serves no true purpose for many buyers. 

What is the average salary in the UK?

The Office of National Statistics put the average UK salary at £27,271. Perhaps, this does not reflect your own salary. This statistic is used here for reference only.

Based on this figure, the average net income per month is approximately £1800.00. 

Traditionally, ring buyers might spend somewhere between £1800 (one month’s average salary) and £5400 (three months average salary). This depends on which version of  ‘the DeBeers myth’ you choose.

The average engagement ring price at Serendipity Diamonds

We looked at the last 50 x sales of engagement rings at Serendipity Diamonds. The cost of an engagement ring ranged from £400 to over £10,000. 

From this selection, we sold many different designs. At one end of the scale, affordable gemstone rings. 

At the other end, 2 carat, 3 carat, 4 carat and 5 carat diamond rings provide very expensive diamond ring choices. 

The following chart plots 50 x sales of engagement rings. As a result, it shows the most popular sale prices for engagement rings.

This is fairly typical for a solitaire, three stone, or cluster style diamond engagement ring. For many, this is also a realistic budget for a certified diamond engagement ring in a high-quality precious metal. 

From our chart you can work out how much to spend on an engagement ring based on popular choices.

Serendipity Diamonds – independent engagement ring specialist 

Do chain jewellery stores offer best value engagement ring?

Chain stores do not tend to offer best value for money. In our experience, large multiple jewellery stores do not offer best value. 

In contrast, bespoke jewellers, create individually crafted rings rather than mass-produced designs. Also, they offer a greater range of ring types. For instance, promise rings which few UK jewellers offer. 

Many engagement rings are made in high volumes due to demand. This stock includes mass-produced rings from the Far East. 

In addition, many stores buy low grade diamond rings cheaply produced, but sold at very high margins. Some jewellers work on a margin of 300% – 400% over their own cost price. 

We compared our own £1700 rings to other well-known jewellery stores.

With this in mind, we took 5 well-known jewellery stores—all with an online presence. Then we searched for a comparable 18ct White Gold solitaire ring on each website. 

The scope of our research covers well known UK retailers omitting internet specialist jewellers like Blue Nile or James Allen. By comparison, most of our examples offer a walk-in physical store.

As a result, we found the following, based on an average price of around £1700.00

1. Serendipity Diamonds – Best Value

View designs and browse engagement ring prices

 

 

Firstly, the team at Serendipity Diamonds, create each engagement ring individually to order. Clients have many options available. Furthermore, we hand craft all rings individually in the same way as a bespoke suit.

What engagement ring can you buy for £1700 at Serendipity Diamonds?

This specific ring we found made in White Gold. 0.40 carats GIA certified diamond with a colour grade of G and a clarity grade of SI1. 

This example included a very good cut grade. Lifetime warranty and free size adjustment. Free delivery with exceptional presentation. 

Most noteworthy, buyers get an extra 10% off this cost by using a promotional code available. Or, there is a choice of finance including 12 months 0% finance.

Serendipity offers very good value. A round diamond ring, set with a 0.40cts diamond, graded G colour and SI1 clarity by GIA (Gemological Institute of America).

In addition, buyers enjoy the reassurance of a very good cut. Finally, the build quality is excellent with substantially weighted settings.

In addition, enjoy 60 days returns, a free size adjustment and incredible packaging.

Other plus points include 12 months 0% interest-free credit available subject to application. Clients enjoy free shipping on all orders. In addition, buyers can click and collect or order directly from their team.

Why 5 stars? – We give 5 stars owing to an all-round service with a good price. Helpful guidance, friendly support, detailed information, packaging and add-ons make this the best value. 

The following video shows the diamond size and quality based on the 0.40 carat G SI1 example in the Twist setting. Typical for the average engagement ring cost.

2. Goldsmiths

 

 

What engagement ring can you buy for £1700 at Goldsmiths?

We spent time looking online at Goldsmiths engagement rings. As a result, we discovered a comparable ring design in 18ct White Gold. Set with a 0.25cts diamond they specified no quality or grade for the £1750.00 ring.

3. H. Samuel

What does £1700 get you for an engagement ring at H Samuel?

We spent time looking online at H Samuel engagement rings. After research we found a comparable H Samuel diamond engagement ring on their website. To demonstrate, the ring included the following details. 

This example was made in 18ct White Gold. Created with a diamond weight of 0.33cts. Set with a diamond of whiteness grade I colour and a clarity grade of I1.

Why 3 stars? – Set with a small diamond, of lower quality, we found less value at H. Samuel. In addition, we have no information on cut. We were unsure of the cut of the diamond and whether the diamond was below a good cut grade. 

4. Beaverbrooks

Next, we considered Beaverbrooks, another of the popular High Street jewellers.

What does £1700 get you for an engagement ring at Beaverbrooks?

Unfortunately, we were unable to find a similarly priced ring within Beaverbrooks engagement rings. We attempted to find a Beaverbrooks engagement ring with a £1700 average cost. 

Instead we found it necessary to increase the budget by another £150.00. Amazingly, the higher price did not offer a bigger diamond. In this instance, the diamond was noticeably smaller. 

In this example, the engagement ring was crafted in 18ct White Gold. Created with a diamond weight of 0.28cts. Selected with a whiteness grade of G colour and SI1 clarity for the diamond. No diamond grading report was included. 

Why 2 stars? – This year, Beaverbrooks fell behind H Samuel. We were surpised to see this included their own diamond report. To put it another way, buyers experience more trust in independent diamond grading laboratories such as GIA. 

5. Ernest Jones

Again, we struggled within the price range. We looked at many of the Ernest Jones solitaire engagement rings online. As a result, we had to push the budget up to £1800 to find an equivalent engagement ring.

What does £1750 get you for an engagement ring at Ernest Jones?

For £1799.00 you can buy a diamond 0.40cts.  But we saw no specified colour or clarity grades appeared on the website page. 

Why only 2 stars? – Unfortunately, very little information appeared as noted last year. Whereas on some websites, full spec appears, we found no product information for this design. 

Next steps when buying your ring

Once you have a clear idea of budget, consider your engagement ring design. Many clients feel forced into paying what others feel they should spend. For a moment, put aside how much to spend on an engagement ring. 

Look at the designs available and consider which style you prefer. In addition, consider all of the design elements including the shank, setting and shoulders. 

At Serendipity Diamonds, our small and friendly team work with more than 30 years of engagement ring knowledge. Most importantly, we give great advice on every aspect of buying a ring. For example, we advise on the best choice of precious metal for the ring. 

In addition, how to choose a diamond for whiteness and clarity without spending too much. During any meeting, we advise on the various characteristics known as the 4 C’s of diamond grading. 

We hand craft most rings, tailored by diamond size to fit to the average engagement ring cost. For this reason, we offer most designs with several thousand price options! As a result, we offer the complete package. From expert guidance, to individually crafted engagement rings.

Finally, we offer exceptional packaging and after sales care from our lovely team.

Consider the following benefits for all diamond engagement rings purchased at Serendipity Diamonds.

Firstly, we give expert advice and guidance to all clients without obligation. 

In addition, clients enjoy free delivery.

Also, a GIA diamond report with a minimum very good cut grade. 

In addition, a lifetime warranty on all workmanship and materials.

Together with 0% interest free finance on engagement rings. Subject to conditions.

Next, a Free insurance valuation.

60 days returns 

And finally, beautiful packaging with 2 ring boxes (one slimline for proposal)

We accept most Worldwide currencies. In addition, our showroom opens daily for clients from Monday to Saturday and clients can request an appointment for a more in-depth visit.

Photos from our engagement ring archives.

The following gallery shows some of our previous work. Most of our engagement rings appear on our website pages. Or, visit our Facebook page to see some of our latest designs. Our website products include pricing to help you decide how much to spend on an engagement ring.

This article first appeared on the Serendipity Diamonds blog in 2013 to demonstrate the average engagement ring cost. 

Updated yearly, it remains up-to-date with recent price comparisons. Most importantly, our aim was to give buyers answers to the question how much should you spend on an engagement ring. 

In addition, we aimed to provide a good idea of the value at different stores, based on an average spend. 

How much to spend on a wedding ring?

This is less concern when you decide to purchase the wedding ring at a later date. Most buyers concentrate on the cost of an engagement ring. 

Following engagement, most people budget for their wedding rings at a later date. As a result, the cost is spread over time. Plan ahead and research costs to better prepare yourself  before buying wedding rings.

The cost of wedding rings varies depending on the style, metal, weight, width and complexity of design. For example, a simple 2mm band in 9ct Yellow Gold costs far less than a bespoke ring. By comparison, a Platinum shaped wedding ring with diamonds costs far more.

 

The post The Average Price of an Engagement Ring – How Much Should it Cost? appeared first on Serendipity Diamonds Blog.

Is I3 diamond clarity good?

I3 diamond clarity is officially the lowest diamond clarity grade available. But what does I3 mean? Firstly the letter ‘I’ stands for inclusions or included. The number ‘3’ refers to the third worst ‘I’ grade in sequence. (To explain, included diamonds fall under I1, I2 and I3 clarity grades.)

Diamond clarity chart showing the different diamond clarity grades

As clarity improve through the scale, we move up to slightly included (SI) and very slightly included (VVS) grades until we reach the Internally Flawless (IF) and Flawless (FL) clarity grades.

I3 clarity represents the lowest official clarity grade for a diamond. But huge differences exist between I3 graded diamonds.

I3 clarity diamond 

The problem with I3 diamond clarity

Besides highly visible inclusions, there is an issue with I3 clarity diamonds. Since I3 represents the worst clarity, it covers a multitude of sins.

Two diamonds of I3 clarity can differ greatly. For this reason, some jewellery manufacturers invented their own grades I3, I4, I5, I6, I7 etc. But the GIA clarity scale ends at I3 for the lowest possible diamond clarity.

How much do I3 clarity diamonds cost?

Expect a much lower cost when you purchase an I3 clarity diamond. Heavy inclusions can be white or black. Or, I3 diamond may appear consistently opaque, cloudy or bluff in appearance. Included diamonds are more plentiful. For this reason, prices are far lower.

Different diamonds feature a variety of inclusion types, ranging from feathers to crystals.

I3 diamonds with the addition of a poor cut grade and low colour demand even lower prices. By lower colour, we mean that they are noticeably tinted.

Expect to pay around £1500 for a 1 carat I3 clarity diamond based on a colour grade of ‘J’ colour.

What are Salt and Pepper diamonds?

Be cautious when it comes to unusual names for diamonds. For example, ‘Salt and Pepper Diamonds.’ Some organisations sell diamonds under this name. The term is often applied to I3 diamond clarity which features a scattering of black and white inclusions.

The appearance of black and white inclusions gives the effect of salt and pepper scattered in the diamond.

At Serendipity Diamonds, we recommend SI2 as a minimum clarity grade. At this grade, diamonds appear eye clean. Below SI2 clarity, expect to see noticeable inclusions.

If you decide to buy an I3 diamond clarity, heavy inclusions reduce light passing through the diamond. As a result, the stone will have reduced brilliance. In addition, there will be an increased risk of damage during setting.

Inclusions breaking the surface increase risk of cleavage from pressure applied during setting.

Learn more about diamond clarity in the GIA video below.

The post I3 Diamond Clarity – What is the Meaning of I3 in Diamond Grading? appeared first on Serendipity Diamonds Blog.