Not everyone has the balls to buy an engagement ring from an online jewelry shop. After all, there are some sacrifices that must be made when shopping online versus a brick and mortar store. Not to mention, a little faith and some good luck.

When you buy an engagement ring at a brick and mortar store, one of the biggest advantages is that you get to actually see the selection of rings in person. You can examine them up close and personal as well as make comparisons between various rings. Typically there will be a salesperson providing you with some knowledge and information about the diamonds, so you don't feel like a fish out of water. Once you select a ring, you can have it in your grubby little paws just minutes after putting it on your charge card. Should something go wrong with the ring, you can make a fast trip back to the store to get it examined and possibly repaired.

So given all these advantages, why would anyone buy at an online jewelry shop? The biggest reason to buy online is that you will save thousands of dollars. Online jewelry shops don't have to pay for expensive overhead and are able to pass the savings on to you. Also, you don't pay for taxes on the ring, which will save you hundreds of dollars. If you're like my husband, you don't want any salespeople around putting undue pressure on you to make a purchase beyond your budget. You can avoid having to interact with others, by shopping online.

As with shopping at a brick and mortar store, one make still take precautions. Read the fine print and carefully review the return policy. Make sure they offer a long enough period (i.e. 30 days) for you to know whether the ring is a keeper. Purchase diamonds that are GIA or AGS certified and avoid ones that are not. Check out the ring retailer on the Better Business Bureau. Look at whether anyone has made complaints against the retailer and whether the complaint has been resolved. Finally, make sure the online ring retailer offers a sufficient method of insurance to ensure that you will be covered, should the ring get lost on its way to you.

For great deals from reputable online jewelry shops checkout Blue Nile, one of the best online jewelry stores out there. Also look into Mondera, which has earned rave reviews from customers and those in the know.