Tradition says that the custom of giving a diamond engagement ring began in 1477 when the Archduke Maximilian of Austria gave Mary of Burgundy a diamond ring and married her the following day. At that time all diamonds came from India and the common fellow had little hope of offering one to his own sweet love.



But if diamonds are so indestructible, must a gentleman give his lady a newly mined and cut diamond? I say no! The opportunity for a true bargain exists in a pre-owned diamond.

Regular retail jewelry stores have an enormous markup in the price of their jewelry, but great deals can be found by looking beyond the traditional jewelry store. Sure, you can get a deal at the most famous of the 'big box' stores, but does your lady want to wear the same ring that thousands of women across the country have just chosen? What about the 4 C's of diamonds: cut, color, clarity, and carat? You might want to make sure that one of your 4 C's doesn't stand for 'cheap.'

Investigate the potential bargains to be found at jewelry and loan shops, also called pawnbrokers. Well-established pawnbrokers work well within the structure of the law of the land and provide a valuable service to the community. A person who may not have a terrific credit rating, but needs a loan to fill an emergency need, has some place to turn to. Frequently folks have old jewelry that could better serve as cash for groceries or for an auto repair bill than as a reminder of great-grandma in the form of a broach.

How do you make sure you are getting what you are being sold? Regardless of where you purchase your diamonds, insist on a certificate of authenticity and quality from a reputable source such as GIA, the Gemological Institute of America. GIA was established in 1931 and was the creator of the 4 C's diamond grading system. IGI, the International Gemological Institute, and AGS, the American Gem Society, are also respected sources to certify diamonds.

After they fall out of pawn, the gems are separated from the metal and the diamonds are reconditioned to a state as good as new. With the price of gold now over $1,000 per ounce, the gold that resides in rings, out of fashion broaches, and twisted necklaces' can be regenerated into new life by an experienced goldsmith. Combine the gold with a rejuvenated pre-owned diamond and your lady can be wearing a totally new and unique engagement ring that will delight her for decades. By avoiding the standard retail jewelry store, your budget will deliver a larger diamond to make her eyes sparkle even more.