How to Upgrade Your Diamond Ring (Without Feeling Guilty!)

Your engagement ring is full of passion and history. It’s a symbol of the day you and your husband began your adventure together. So, how can one upgrade this special diamond while preserving the sentimental value? We, at Sylvan's, can assist with that.

First of all, you’re not out of the norm. Everyone's preferences and styles change over the years. Sometimes what looked fashion forward when you got engaged, doesn’t fit your look today. Sometimes, as years progress, people find they have more disposable income and can get the ring they've had their eye on.

How To Upgrade Your Engagement Ring

1. Evaluate Your Style

There are a lot of choices (maybe too many!), so here are some invaluable tips:

• Swap a smooth band for a pave band.
• Swap a round diamond for an emerald cut one.
• Keep the same look but upgrade the carat weight.
• Incorporate all the original stones and metal into a brand new setting.

2. Get An Appraisal on Your Current Ring

Before you make any alterations, be sure to have your existing ring appraised (learn more about that here). It’s important to know the value ahead of time so you can get the most for it. It will also help you to determine if you want to trade your ring in, or put it on consignment. Trading-in a ring means you’ll get cash faster but may not get as much for it. Consigning a ring means you will have to wait for it to sell, but will get more cash in the end.

3. Decide on Your Budget

Know your allowance before you make any adjustments. Carat weight and type of metal used will affect the price the most. Our staff can help you work within your budget to attain the look you like. Many have found that adding gemstones around the original center stone is the ideal way of making a considerable change to a ring at a fraction of the cost.

4. Tell Your Partner

This is the chance to select a ring together. Start by explaining why you want to upgrade. Perhaps your taste or lifestyle has shifted and you want a ring to match the new you. Some may add stones or bands to acknowledge years together or their children. Whatever you do, always take your time, and be sure your partner knows how much you adore the original ring and how much it means to you. Acknowledging and preserving those touching elements can make all the difference!

Your opportunities are vast. Some purchase an entirely new ring and change the look completely. Others are able to keep the sentimental value by reusing the setting or side stones and upgrading the center stone. You can also add gemstones like emeralds, rubies, sapphires or colored diamonds to create a pop of color.

Upgrading a diamond or an engagement ring may be something you only do once in a lifetime. We’ve helped other to do it many, many times and are happy to help you find the right ring for today. Shop our hand-selected diamonds and enjoy expanded designer collections here and in-store.