With the economy in the dumps, companies in every industry are inventing ways to squeeze every penny they can out of their customers. The jewelry business is no different. It seems the latest popular sales pitch is trying to convince guys that the new fad is dudes wearing diamond engagement rings. Word to the wise: don’t fall for this guys!

Now, this isn’t a “promise ring” we’re talking about. Promise rings are a traditional way to state your intentions to marry before the engagement. You’ll often see these worn by high schoolers who are in love (or think they are) and are too young to be officially engaged. The rings in question in this blog are actual diamond engagement rings for men. Give me a break.

We're all for changing wedding traditions...just not this one.

About two years ago when I was personally going through the ring-buying process, my fiance and I walked into a jewelry store (that will remain un-named) to check out some of the various ring styles and learn about the 4 c’s. The fast-talking salesman immediately took us for amateurs and proceeded to go on his rant about how men’s engagement rings were the new hot trend in weddings and yada yada yada. Luckily, we had done our homework and were aware of this deceptive tactic before we ever walked in the store. One of the key things to remember is that jewelry salespeople prey on young couples that are obviously shopping for engagement rings. The younger you look, the more ideal of a target you are. For my wife and I, we probably looked like we had just stepped out of middle school band practice…(laugh it up, when I’m 60, I’ll look 40).

For you future grooms out there that may be heading to the jewelry store soon – remember to always have  a plan and never let a slick salesperson control the situation. There’s nothing wrong with saying “I’m just looking.”

Be sure to go over the groom’s guide to ring shopping before you head out into the wild. Cheers!

-Chris Easter: Co-Founder of TheManRegistry.com and definitely not wearing a diamond engagement ring.

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Groomsman gift of the day: Personalized Football Bar Sign Just in time for the Super Bowl!

Personalized Football Bar Sign

Totally awesome non-wedding link of the day: 40 current baseball players that are bound for the Hall of Fame

Grooms, check out the men’s wedding registry, groomsman gifts, and advice for grooms – all at TheManRegistry.com!