Don't know which ring to choose? Wonder why the price of a ring is expensive. Well, here's a few smart tips that you might want to consider. The tips given are based on advise by my dad who used to work in the gemstone industry during his early years and also from a lot of reading.

1. How much am I willing to spend.

When it comes to spending every dime you have in your bank, always look at how much you're willing to spend. Put this as your first point, at least when it comes to hunting for that perfect ring, you have a few options to consider based on your budget. Even if you walk into a jewelry shop, this is the first question they'll ask you. As I mentioned many times before, BE REALISTIC your budget. Don't try to be a snob.

2. White gold or the yellow one

Well, now it comes back to what you like. At the end of the day, you will be the one wearing that ring for the rest of your life. Tips: if you're looking at buying ring with diamonds, best opt for white gold as it will make the diamonds sparkle even more.

3. Should I get a GIA cert?

Yes you should if you plan to change your wedding ring a couple of years later and No if plan to wear it forever. Adding on a GIA cert means it will add on to your cost/budget. Unless if you're planning to get your wife a new set of ring after 3 years of your marriage. A GIA cert is basically an authentication of what is your diamond grade is. If you're looking at trading diamonds, yes, this cert is very important. A diamond ring  purchased with a GIA cert is slightly more expensive compared to those without the cert. But then again, no one is going to look at the inside of your ring. Only you and your partner knows it.

4. Boutique or the old uncle jewelry shops

This is one of the important element when buying a ring.For myself, I opt for old jewelry shops like those situated in Komtar(for Penangite). Sometimes, these old jewelry shops has good quality loose diamonds and they sell them at a lower price compare to those in the high end jewelry boutiques. Do not underestimate these shops. Boutiques like Soo Kee Jewelleries, Habib Jewels are mainly selling their brands as they're already an established companies. Therefore, their products are slightly above the average price. 

5. Ask for the labor cost, if possible.

If you have your own loose diamonds, you'll need the frame of a ring, right? Try to inquire on what is their labor cost like since you're not purchasing any ring frame for your diamonds from their shop (I doubt they'll provide that but just give it a shot). Labor cost can be quite expensive so I advise you to do some survey. But then again, the differences between shops will not be that much. Even if you're purchasing the whole ring with the diamonds, inquire on the labor cost as well. With that you can estimate how much is the hike up price.

6. Pricing and quality of the stone

If you think the price of the ring is pricey, ask what's the quality of the diamond. Go here to see some tips.