Getting Engaged? Your local jeweller's got you covered

Gold or silver? Diamond or gemstone? Princess, solitaire, or round brilliant? Antique or contemporary?

Everyone's ideal engagement ring is different. With so many cuts, mounts, and bands to choose from, it's easy to get overwhelmed when searching for your future fiancée's perfect ring.

While you might have an idea of the style they prefer, it can be quite tricky to nail down the kind of band, setting, and precious metal that will best suit their hand.

Luckily, there are people who have spent their entire working lives practising the art of jewellery making and ring selection. But how do you know who to trust with the most important jewellery purchase of your life?

Here are some things to keep in mind when choosing a jeweller:

• What's their service like? Choosing a ring can be equal parts exciting, exhausting, and nerve-wracking. You'll want expert advice from your jeweller, but you'll also need their patience, discretion, and reassurance. Seek out recommendations from people you know, get advice from locals, and pay attention to recent testimonials/reviews.
• What's their aftercare like? Great jewellers will do more than just sell you the ring. Ask yourself: do they offer an aftercare service, which would include things like routine cleanings? Does their refund policy seem reasonable? Would you be able to approach them for repairs in future?
• Are they local? Buying local for your engagement and eternity rings does more than just deepen your connection to the town you've made your home. Most local jewellers are small business owners who rely on your support to keep doing what they love. By purchasing with them, you're investing in your community. 
• Do they have an online presence? When making up your mind, It can be helpful to browse the websites/social media pages of jewellers in your area to get an idea of what they offer. You might not know what you or your partner want until you see it on screen! This comes with the added bonus that, due to the fact that they're local and have a physical store nearby, it's easier to go and inspect the ring that caught your eye in person.

Check out the 'Shopping' section of the Xplore Local app for a comprehensive list of jewellers in your town. Find links to their website, one-touch call, and turn-by-turn directions to their store.