Shopping for an engagement ring online can be a very convenient and rewarding experience, but there are a few things that you need to be aware of to make sure that you and the love of your life end up with a ring that inspires you both for life.

Until recently, mens’ wedding rings were something of an afterthought, and it’s not a surprise considering that it didn’t even become customary for men to regularly wear wedding bands until World War I. Since then, men’s wedding rings have typically been quite predictable and pretty consistent in their appearance and band material. There was some customization, but for the most part, the groom’s ring was a given, but it shouldn’t be, and thankfully this isn’t the case anymore!

If you have any antique jewelry or just bought some at an estate sale, don’t clean it right away! Any piece that’s at least 100 years old (the definition of antique for jewelry) will need special care. This might seem strange because the stones and metals used in jewelry haven’t changed too much, but there are some things to consider first before taking out your cleaning equipment.

Almost everyone has to get their ring resized at some point, so don't feel guilty if you need your ring resized! You're not alone, and it's actually much easier than you may think. Typical situations people find themselves in when they need a ring resized include when they receive a ring (either from an engagement or an heirloom) that didn't fit to begin with, or their fingers have gotten bigger or smaller over the years, or they simply want to wear the ring on a different finger. Whatever your reason for needing your ring resized, there are a few things you need to know.