Tips For Finding A Unique Engagement Ring At Auction
Monday, October 1st, 2018

For many, choosing the right engagement ring means finding something unique and special. Finding just the right engagement ring that tells your partner how much they mean to you is a personal process. You can shop with your partner or look for one alone.
One option for finding a unique engagement ring is to bid at an auction. Jewelry and estate auctions will open up many options for you and your future spouse by offering different terms, quality, price, and even a larger selection. The following are some tips you should remember when shopping for an engagement ring at an auction.
The benefits of buying an engagement ring at auction
One of the best benefits of buying an engagement ring at an auction is that you will have many options to choose from. These choices are also offered at a fair market value, which is significantly less than what you will find with retail prices.
An auction can offer rings for less money because auctioneers do not provide the hands-on experience you’ll find at jewelry stores. You may also not receive your ring in a fancy box and will not have the option for post-purchase care. A significant benefit, though, is that your chances are extremely high for finding a unique, one-of-a-kind ring not offered anywhere else. Many people do not prefer rings that are common and appreciate vintage and antique jewelry more.
You do not have a professional attendant to show you the different selections at an auction, which can be a real benefit. This means you will not have someone following you around, trying to persuade you to purchase one selection over another. You may have to do more research on your choice to ensure you get the perfect ring, but it will be worth the effort.
How to search for rings at an auction
You should begin your search early and plan on being patient during the process. You are able to “shop” at most auction houses days and sometimes weeks before the scheduled sale. Visit them in person to get a close-up look at the possible choices that will be available for bidding. You may even have the opportunity to try the rings on to see how they will look and fit. Another option is to look online at auction catalogs, which should show images and condition reports for each item.
When you do find a ring that you are interested in, you need to ask questions. Talk with a jewelry specialist and, if possible, ask for more photos to share with them. Speak with the auction house and ask if there is a history available for the ring as well. You want to be sure you know what you are bidding on and that the ring will live up to your expectations.
What questions should you ask?
Before the bidding begins, you need to ask questions such as whether the stones are colored naturally or are man-made. If the engagement ring has diamonds, ask if there is a gemological laboratory certificate accompanying it. If there is no certificate, then you should talk to a jewelry specialist to find out more about the cataloging process.
A condition report is available by most auction houses. Ask if the ring you are looking at has one, and request to see it to learn if the ring is a good choice for you. It is common for engagement rings being sold at auction to need some minor work. So, don’t be surprised if you have to complete small repairs before being able to present the ring. You will more than likely have to resize the ring to get a perfect fit also. Speak with the jewelry specialist at the auction who may be able to recommend someone for you.
Jewelry and estate auctions in the Texas Panhandle
If you would like to learn more about buying specialty items at auction, contact the experts at High Plains Auctioneers today. We are experienced in hosting a variety of auctions including estate, farm equipment, and antique auctions. Call us today at (806) 244-6776 or Contact Us by email for more information about Bidding and Selling at auctions. You can also take a look at our Upcoming Auctions to see what we will have available.