Frequently Asked Questions

Engagement Rings

There is no rule for how much you should spend on an engagement ring. The right budget is one that feels comfortable and still leaves room for the life you are building together. A Harry Ritchie’s jeweler can work with you to compare stone size, quality, metal and setting options to find the perfect ring that is within your price range.

We understand that engagement ring prices can feel confusing at first. Natural diamonds are valued for their rarity and the fact that each one was formed by the Earth over billions of years. Their price depends on the 4Cs: cut, color, clarity and carat weight, as well as the setting and metal you choose. Lab-grown diamonds offer another option, often allowing you to choose a larger stone while staying within the same budget.

The best place to start is with the person who will wear it. Think about their style, their daily routine and the jewelry they already love. Are they a timeless romantic, drawn to classic pieces? Or are they more modern and trend-forward? Do they usually wear yellow gold, white gold or rose gold? Your partner is already giving you clues that can point you in the right direction. From there, a Harry Ritchie’s diamond expert can guide you through natural diamonds, lab-grown diamonds and colored gemstones, helping
make this milestone moment as enjoyable as it should be.

Many couples choose to shop for an engagement ring together, and it can make the process feel easier for both of you. You can learn what styles, shapes and metals your partner loves without revealing your final choice or exactly what you plan to spend. A Harry Ritchie’s diamond expert can also help you explore options privately, so the proposal and the ring can still feel like a genuine surprise.

Trying to learn someone’s ring size without giving away the surprise can take a little detective work, but plenty of amateur sleuths have pulled it off. Borrowing a ring they already wear can help, as long as it comes from the correct finger. A close friend or family member may also know their size. When you’re still unsure, don’t worry. A Harry Ritchie’s diamond expert can help you choose a ring that can be easily be resized.

Round and oval diamonds now account for just over half of engagement ring purchases nationally. Round remains the enduring classic, while oval is becoming a favorite because its elongated shape can appear larger on the finger and create a flattering, elegant look. Emerald, marquise and elongated cushion cuts are also drawing more interest. Trends can be a helpful place to start, but the best shape is the one that feels most like the person who will wear it.

Today’s engagement rings are more about personal character than one dominant look. Bezel settings, elongated stones, vintage details, warm-toned diamonds and colored gemstones set in heavier gold bands are all in demand. But there is no need to feel overwhelmed by the variety. A Harry Ritchie’s bridal expert can help you understand the trends and find a ring that will remain timeless.

An active lifestyle doesn’t mean setting aside the ring you love. Low-profile and bezel settings offer more protection by reducing the chance that the center stone will catch on clothing, take a direct hit or loosen during activities. A Harry Ritchie’s bridal expert can help you consider your work, hobbies and daily routine, then find a ring that feels beautiful, comfortable and suited to the way you live.

The timeline depends on the ring you choose. If your ring is in stock, it may only require sizing before it's ready. Special orders, center stone changes, or metal changes typically take 3–4 weeks with rush options available in some cases. Fully custom engagement rings generally require 8–10 weeks.

If you have a specific proposal date or special occasion in mind, let us know. We'll help you find the best option to fit your timeline.

Yes. Whether you'd like to personalize one of our existing engagement ring styles or create a completely custom design, we're here to help.

Many of our engagement rings can be customized with your preferred metal color, center stone, finger size, and other design details. For something truly one-of-a-kind, our team can also help you create a fully custom engagement ring from the ground up.

Visit your nearest Harry Ritchie's store to meet with one of our jewelry experts, who will guide you through the design process and help bring your vision to life.

Natural Versus Lab Diamonds

Yes. Lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds. They carry the same chemical composition and physical properties as natural diamonds. Lab-grown diamonds are created using technology that recreates the intense heat and pressure under which Natural diamonds form. To the eye, lab grown diamonds look virtually identical to their rare counterparts.

The biggest differences are time, origin and long-term value. Natural diamonds form deep within the Earth over billions of years, making each one a rare part of the natural world. Because their supply is finite, they also tend to retain value more consistently over time.


Lab-grown diamonds are created in a controlled environment using immense heat and pressure to recreate the natural process, producing a diamond in a matter of weeks. Both natural and lab- grown diamonds can be beautiful, and both can be meaningful ways to mark life’s most important milestones. The right choice comes down to what matters most to you.

In most cases, no. A natural diamond and a lab-grown diamond of similar quality can look nearly identical to the unaided eye. Both are available in a wide range of cuts, colors, clarity grades and carat weights. It usually takes specialized equipment to tell them apart. That’s why every Harry Ritchie’s diamond is independently certified by a renowned third-party organization and clearly identified, so you can feel confident knowing exactly what you are purchasing.

Yes. Lab-grown diamonds cost less than natural diamonds of a similar size and quality. This can give couples more flexibility to choose a larger center stone, a higher-grade diamond or a more detailed setting while staying within budget. Natural diamonds, however, offer something lab-grown stones cannot: true rarity, a distinct story of origin and a history that began miles beneath the Earth’s surface billions of years ago.

It’s natural to wonder what a diamond may be worth in the future. Lab-grown diamonds are often chosen for their size, sparkle and personal meaning rather than as a financial investment. Because they can be produced in growing quantities and at increasingly lower costs, their prices can fluctuate, making long- term resale value less predictable than that of a rare, Natural diamond. Of course, the sentimental value of any diamond is something no market can measure.

Absolutely. Lab-grown diamonds are graded for cut, color, clarity and carat weight, just like Natural diamonds. An independent grading report provides a clear picture of the diamond’s quality and makes it easier to compare different stones. A Harry Ritchie’s diamond expert can walk you through the report in plain language and help you focus on the qualities that matter most to you.

There is no single right answer. A natural diamond may feel right if you value rarity, tradition, a distinct story of origin and the history that comes with a creation process measured in billions of years. A lab-grown diamond may be a better fit if size, design flexibility or price matter more to you. Both natural and lab-grown diamonds are ideal ways to commemorate a unique love story. It’s your story. It is your choice.

The 4Cs are cut, color, clarity and carat weight. Together, they give you a simple way to understand and compare diamonds. Cut affects how much the diamond sparkles. Color refers to how colorless it appears. Clarity considers the natural characteristics within the stone, while carat weight measures how much it weighs.

Different people value different Cs. Some may choose a larger carat weight and accept a little more color, while others care most about cut because they want a diamond with exceptional sparkle. A Harry Ritchie’s diamond expert can help you understand the trade-offs and decide which qualities matter most to you.

Yes. Independent certification is one of the most important protections when buying a diamond. It creates transparency by documenting the stone’s cut, color, clarity, carat weight and other identifying characteristics, so you can feel confident you are getting exactly what you are paying for.


Both Natural and lab-grown diamonds come with certification. Before purchasing any diamond, you should be shown its authentic grading report and given the opportunity to review it. A Harry Ritchie’s diamond expert can walk you through the report, explain each grade and help you compare your options with confidence.

At Harry Ritchie's Jewelers, we are committed to responsible sourcing. Our diamonds are purchased from suppliers who comply with the Kimberley Process, an international certification system established to prevent the trade of conflict diamonds. We work with trusted vendors who share our commitment to ethical sourcing and responsible business practices.

All diamond jewelry available on our website features natural diamonds. In our stores, we offer both natural and lab-grown diamonds. If you're interested in a lab-grown diamond, visit your nearest Harry Ritchie's Jewelers location, and one of our jewelry professionals will be happy to assist you.

Jewelry repair, maintenance and services

Yes. Harry Ritchie’s offers jewelry repair services for many types of pieces, including jewelry purchased elsewhere. Common repairs include ring sizing, prong repair, stone replacement, chain and clasp repair, pearl restringing, polishing, refinishing and rhodium plating. We also repair and service timepieces, including luxury watches such as Rolex.


All work is performed by certified bench jewelers and experienced watch specialists with years of expertise. Bring your jewelry or timepiece to any Harry Ritchie’s location for a free inspection and repair estimate. While you are there, we will also be happy to give your jewelry a complimentary cleaning.

Yes. We offer ring sizing for most rings. Some styles may have sizing limitations due to their design or materials. Visit your nearest Harry Ritchie's Jewelers location for a sizing evaluation and estimate.

Yes. We offer complimentary jewelry cleaning and inspection at all Harry Ritchie's Jewelers locations. Regular cleanings help keep your jewelry looking its best and allow us to check for any signs of wear.

Yes, Harry Ritchie’s will gladly repair jewelry purchased from another retailer. We understand that your jewelry and timepieces often carry sentimental value, so our focus is not on where they were purchased. Instead, we commitment is expertly restore their function, beauty and luster so you can continue wearing them with pride.

Jewelry repair costs vary depending on the metal, design, nature of the damage, and stones involved. Because every piece is different, it usually needs to be examined before an accurate estimate can be provided. Harry Ritchie’s offers free repair estimates and complete transparency in how the work is priced, so you will understand the recommended repair and its cost before any work begins.

Repair times vary depending on the work required, the availability of parts and whether specialized service is needed. Most repairs are completed within 2–4 weeks. We'll provide an estimated completion time when your repair is received and notify you when it's ready for pickup.

We understand that it can be difficult to part with a piece of jewelry that carries sentimental value. That’s why we do everything possible to complete each repair carefully and efficiently through certified bench jewelers with years of expertise. We also provide updates throughout the process, so you always know the status of your jewelry and when you can expect it back.

In many cases, yes, broken necklace chains can be repaired, whether the issue is a break in the chain, a damaged clasp or a worn connection point. More delicate, hollow or extensively damaged chains may require a different approach, but our certified bench jewelers can often address the issue.

Bring the necklace to any Harry Ritchie’s location for a free inspection. Our team will document the damage, explain the repair process and review the recommended next steps and cost with you before any work begins.

Most likely, yes. Replacing a missing stone begins with a careful inspection of the setting to determine how the stone was lost and whether the surrounding prongs or structure also need repair. Great care is then taken to find a replacement stone that closely matches the size, shape, color and overall character of the original. The goal is to replace the stone and restore the piece to its original beauty and luster.

Bring the ring to any Harry Ritchie’s location for a free inspection.

Warning signs of a loose prong include a stone that moves, catches on fabric or makes a slight sound when the ring is gently handled. You may also notice a prong that looks bent, worn or uneven compared with the others.


If anything feels loose or looks unusual, do not hesitate to bring the ring to Harry Ritchie’s, regardless of where it was purchased. It is much easier to adjust or rebuild a prong than to replace a missing stone later.

An annual inspection is a good starting point for most engagement rings. If you wear your ring every day, work with your hands or have a setting with several smaller stones, twice a year may be a better routine. Harry Ritchie’s offers free ring inspections and complimentary cleanings, giving you peace of mind about the condition of your ring while helping it look as bright as the day you first wore it.

Most jewelry should be professionally cleaned once or twice a year. Pieces worn every day, such as engagement rings, wedding bands and favorite earrings, may benefit from cleaning every six months because lotions, soaps and everyday wear can dull their sparkle more quickly.


Harry Ritchie’s offers complimentary professional cleanings, making it easy to restore your jewelry’s luster and have it checked for loose stones, worn prongs or other signs of wear at the same time.

Yes, white gold can begin to show a hint of yellow over time. That is because gold is naturally yellow. White gold is finished with a layer of rhodium to give it its bright white appearance. As that finish gradually wears away, the warmer tone beneath may become more visible. This is completely normal and easy to correct. Rhodium plating can restore the ring’s bright, polished white finish

Often, yes. A ring can usually be resized more than once, but the metal, setting, amount of adjustment and history of previous repairs all matter. Repeated or significant resizing can gradually affect the ring’s strength and shape, while certain designs, such as eternity bands or rings with stones set around the entire band, may be difficult or impossible to resize.


The safest first step is a professional inspection. Harry Ritchie’s can evaluate the ring, explain what adjustments are possible and recommend the best way to achieve a comfortable fit without compromising the piece.

No appointment is required for jewelry repair. Walk-ins are always welcome for repairs, inspections and complimentary cleanings. However, scheduling an appointment can help us be more mindful of your time and ensure a team member is ready to give your piece the attention it deserves. Use the store locator on our website to find the Harry Ritchie’s location nearest you.

Yes. We partner with a trusted custom jewelry designer to help bring your vision to life. Whether you're creating a one-of-a-kind engagement ring, redesigning a family heirloom, or crafting a unique piece, our jewelry professionals will guide you through the process from concept to completion.

No. Harry Ritchie's Jewelers does not purchase previously owned jewelry. However, we partner with National Rarities twice each year to host special buying events where you can sell your jewelry, gold, silver, coins, and other valuables. Sign up for our email list to be notified of our next National Rarities buying event HERE

Local and independent-jeweler questions

Jewelry is highly personal, and buying it should feel comfortable, transparent and never transactional. A local jeweler can foster a lasting relationship with you, offering honest guidance from people who know your community because they are active members of it and who will be
there long after the sale.


Harry Ritchie’s is family-owned since 1956, and has grown to become one of the most trusted independent jewelers in America, all while remaining proudly rooted in the Pacific Northwest. We take pride in giving back to the people and places that have supported us for generations, and today, as we honor our 70th Anniversary, we are honored to serve families who have trusted Harry Ritchie’s for four generations.

Trust and transparency are essential when choosing a jeweler. Look for an established business that explains quality and pricing clearly, provides independent documentation when appropriate and stands behind both its jewelry and its workmanship. Just as important, look for sales associates who listen far more than they speak and understand the responsibility that comes with helping you celebrate life’s most meaningful milestones.


A trustworthy and committed jewelry partner should also offer flexible, transparent financing options and continue to be there after the purchase, whether you need cleaning, sizing, repairs or simply have a question. These are the values our founder, Harry Ritchie, instilled in us seven decades ago, and they continue to guide us today.

Yes. Harry Ritchie’s has been family-owned since it was founded in Eugene, Oregon, in 1956. Over the years, we have expanded into Washington, Idaho and Northern California, but Eugene has always remained our hometown and the heart of who we are.


Today, Harry Ritchie’s operates 15 stores across the Pacific Northwest while remaining committed to the values you expect from a family-owned business: trust, accountability, compassion and a genuine responsibility to every guest we serve. Our goal is to ensure you leave with a smile and the perfect piece of jewelry to tell your story.

Harry Ritchie’s was founded in Eugene, Oregon, in 1956, when Harry opened his first store at 856 Willamette Street with little more than a handshake, a strong work ethic and a promise to take care of his community. Today, we proudly celebrate our 70th anniversary and share this platinum milestone with every guest and team member who helped make it possible.

Harry Ritchie’s has 15 jewelry stores across Oregon, Washington, Idaho and Northern California. While each location serves and supports its own community, every store reflects the same family-owned values, welcoming service and commitment to helping guests find jewelry that reflects their love story.


Our locations include: Chehalis | Coeur d'Alene | Coos Bay | Eugene | Eureka | Idaho Falls | Kennewick | Lewiston | Medford |  Moscow | East Salem | Redding | Roseburg | West Salem | Wenatchee 

Shipping & Orders

Once your order ships, you'll receive a shipping confirmation email with your FedEx tracking number. You can use that tracking number to follow your package's progress. If you can't find your tracking email, please contact us and we'll be happy to help.

If your order has not yet shipped, we'll do our best to accommodate your request. Please contact us as soon as possible, as we begin processing orders quickly to ensure fast delivery. service@harryritchies.com

Yes. If you need a copy of your receipt, please contact us with your name, the store where your purchase was made (if known), the approximate purchase date, and any additional information you have about the transaction. We'll do our best to locate your purchase.

Yes. Online purchases may be exchanged at any Harry Ritchie's Jewelers location. Please bring your item along with your order confirmation or receipt, and one of our jewelry professionals will be happy to assist you.

Due to vendor limitations, rings ordered online are available in a standard size unless otherwise specified in the product information. Women's rings are typically a size 7, and men's rings are typically a size 10.

To find your perfect fit, visit any of our 16 Harry Ritchie's Jewelers locations or contact Guest Services at service@harryritchies.com.

If you know the size you'd like, you can also include it in the Order Notes section during checkout. A member of our team will contact you regarding availability and any additional cost, if applicable.

We ship online orders using FedEx 2-Day service. Shipping options and delivery estimates are provided during checkout.

No. To help protect your purchase, all orders are shipped through FedEx. Because our shipping insurance does not cover USPS deliveries, we are unable to ship to PO Boxes.

Selecting Adult Signature Required at checkout ensures your FedEx package won't be left on your doorstep. An adult at the delivery address must sign for the package before it is released.

We want you to love your purchase. If you're not completely satisfied, most new, unworn merchandise may be returned or exchanged within 30 days of purchase when accompanied by the original receipt. Items must be in their original condition.

The following items are final sale and are not eligible for return or exchange:

  • Special orders
  • Custom or personalized jewelry
  • Items that have been sized, engraved, or otherwise altered
  • Clearance or final sale merchandise
  • Gift cards
  • Merchandise showing signs of wear, damage, or misuse

Jewelry Care Plans

Our Jewelry Care Plans are designed to help protect your jewelry and keep it looking its best. Benefits include professional cleanings and inspections, ring sizing, refinishing, rhodium plating for white gold jewelry, stone tightening, prong retipping, clasp replacement, chain soldering, pearl restringing, and other covered repairs. Please refer to your Care Plan agreement for complete coverage details. For more details, visit our Jewelry Care Plan Page HERE.

To keep your Jewelry Care Plan active, your jewelry must be professionally cleaned and inspected every four months. Regular inspections help identify normal wear before it becomes a larger issue and keeps your plan active.

If you no longer live near a Harry Ritchie's Jewelers location, you may have your jewelry professionally cleaned and inspected by a reputable local jeweler. Be sure to keep a copy of your inspection receipt for your records.

In many cases, yes. Your jewelry must be inspected and, if necessary, restored to like-new condition before your Care Plan can be reinstated. Contact Guest Services or visit your nearest Harry Ritchie's Jewelers location to get started.

Watches

Yes. We offer watch repair services for most major watch brands. Bring your watch to any Harry Ritchie's Jewelers location for an evaluation and repair estimate.

Yes. We offer complimentary exterior cleaning for watches. This service helps keep your watch looking its best, but it does not include internal cleaning or maintenance.

Harry Ritchie's Jewelers offers Watch Battery Plans for most watches rather than one-time battery replacements. Contact your nearest Harry Ritchie's Jewelers location or Guest Services for more information and to see if your watch qualifies.