Don’t panic, this is more common than you may think. In this blog post, we’ll cover the typical process people go through in purchasing a ring, and make note of all the details you need to know so you that can plan your proposal months in advance with a fair expectation of what your engagement ring will look like and when it should arrive.
The Ring Buying Process
While every couple and every ring is different, the average length of the ring buying process is roughly 3 months. This estimate includes the initial research and consultation up to the final delivery day.
Below, we cover the main steps in the journey as well as the several factors that can affect the estimated arrival of your ring, so you can plan ahead for the big day.
Custom Engagement Ring Timeline
1. Research and Consultation (1 week)
The first step for many couples during their ring buying processes is doing research about engagement rings before seeking professional consultation, learning everything from the 4Cs of diamonds to differences among gemstones.
After the initial research has been done, couples typically start browsing engagement ring options to look for inspiration on the different cuts and settings for the gemstone. Here at Love and Promise Jewelers, we pride ourselves in being a meticulous partner in the consultation process, taking inspiration from your research. We understand that every ring starts with a great story and with great people, and we want to take the time to understand you and your partner, what your preferences are, what your ring sizes are, and how we can help deliver the ring of your dreams.
2. Design (2-3 weeks)
If a customized ring is what you're looking for, this is the stage where we take your dream ring and begin sketching your ring, then create 3D models using modern sculpting tools. We're used to doing several iterations of an idea until it's perfect in our customers' eyes.
3. Review (1-3 weeks)
Once the models are complete, we send them to you for your feedback. We share every angle of the ring so you know exactly what you're getting. This stage can be as long as you want, and we even offer up to five complimentary revisions before moving on to the next stage.
4. Create (~3 weeks)
Here's where we take all the inspiration and ideas you've given us, the models and imagery we developed, and move to produce the real thing. This includes casting the metals, setting the gemstones in place, finishing any engravings, and testing it in quality control.
5. Final review and delivery (2 weeks)
Once everything is complete, we'll send a photo for you to review so we can make sure we exceed your expectations. After receiving approval, we'll package it and send it off to you within the next couple of days!
Â
Factors affecting delivery time
Type of ring
If after your research about engagement rings has been completed and you are eyeing a ready-to-ship ring style that has already been tested, measured, and cut, the timeline for purchasing a ready-to-ship engagement ring is much shorter than a custom ring, often truncated to less than 3 months. Anything from our Rosados Box line of engagement rings is expected to ship in 10-15 business days (unless otherwise stated). Each ring’s page will display a lead time for a more accurate estimation for that specific ring.
Level of customization
Customization allows our customers to add a personal touch to their engagement ring. As outlined above, the ring buying process for custom orders can be longer depending on the level of complexity. From the consultation and design to the creation process and reviews, an additional 4-6 weeks could be added until the order ships out. If you're in a hurry, we offer Rush Custom Express at an additional charge to reduce the turnaround to just 2.5-4 weeks.
Order date
One of the biggest factors that affect the ring buying process from the time of purchase to when the engagement ring arrives is the order date. If you are planning on proposing around the holidays, keep in mind that deliveries are almost always affected by the holiday season. Sometimes carriers don’t deliver, and other times, weather and supply can factor into the waiting time. If you want to receive a ring by a certain holiday date, we recommend viewing our holiday delivery estimates.
Delivery Address
For all international orders, expect a longer delivery time. Love & Promise Jewelers offers full insurance with adult signature requirements for release, but each country has a different process for importing packages through customs. We recommend a lead time of one week for all international orders, including orders from Hawaii and Alaska.
My order didn’t arrive on time and I’d like to return it.
We’re sorry that the order didn’t make it to your address when you expected it. We offer a 5-day money-back guarantee or exchange on all of our rings (except custom rings, rushed orders, and financed plans). Please call us ahead of time to receive a return authorization number, and include all materials and packaging when you send the package back.
For a more thorough explanation of our policies, please read this page.
How do I make sure the ring arrives safely and on time?
If you’ve already placed the order, you can track your ring in the mail using our order tracking tool. Please have your Order ID and email address ready to input. It should be noted that there may be some lag time between new activity and the system update.
While there is no straight answer to the question of how long it takes to get an engagement ring, the guide above provides a useful process outline to help you plan ahead for the big day - from research and consultation to purchase to delivery. Careful consideration of factors that may impact delivery time, such as the type of ring, level of customization, order date, and shipping address will also help you ensure that your dream engagement ring arrives in time for the big question.
We understand your concerns about receiving your ring in time for the special day, and we want to keep you notified if anything changes so you never feel out of the loop. If you have more questions or concerns regarding ring delivery, please contact us and we’ll get in touch as soon as we can.
Â