Effective September 3, 2026
What Is a Loaner Ring?
A loaner ring is a ring you borrow from us for a short time, usually for a proposal. Some people call it a placeholder engagement ring or a temporary engagement ring. You propose with it, then return it when your real ring is ready. It stays SMC Diamonds' property the whole time.
When a Loaner Ring Makes Sense
- Your custom ring isn't finished yet. Custom rings take time to make, and your proposal date might come first.
- You want them to choose the design. Propose with the loaner, then come in together and pick the real ring.
- Your ring is in for repair or service. We can help you avoid days with an empty finger.
- You're travelling and would rather not take your real ring with you.
How Our Loaner Ring Service Works
- Ask us. Email info@smcjewels.ca or ask in store at 409 Granville St, Suite 828, Vancouver.
- We confirm the details in writing. Availability, cost and your return date are all written down before anything leaves the store.
- Pay in full. The loaner service is paid in advance before the ring is released.
- Propose. This is your part.
- Bring it back. Return the loaner in similar condition by the agreed date, once your real ring is ready.
Loaner rings are offered at SMC Diamonds' discretion and depend on availability, so it's worth asking early.
Loaner Ring Terms
- The service is fully paid in advance.
- The client covers the cost of the loaner ring service.
- The ring must come back in similar condition to how it was received.
- If it's lost, SMC Diamonds can recover the loss from your deposit or payment.
- If the loaner ring is worth more than your original order, the difference is paid in cash, debit or e-transfer.
Condition and Return
Please treat the loaner like it's the real thing, because to us it is. It has to be returned in similar condition. It can't be resized, engraved, altered or handed to someone else, since it remains SMC Diamonds' property the whole time.
Loss or Damage
If a loaner ring is lost, SMC Diamonds can recover the loss from your deposit or payment. If the ring is worth more than your original order, you'll pay the difference in cash, debit or e-transfer.
What Is Not Included
Loaner rings aren't covered by our limited lifetime manufacturing warranty. They can't be exchanged or turned into store credit, and they don't come with complimentary resizing, engraving or cleaning. Those benefits apply to jewellery purchased from SMC Diamonds by the original purchaser named on the invoice.
Loaner Ring FAQs
Can I propose with a loaner ring?
Yes, that's what a loaner is for. You get to ask now, and the real ring comes later.
Is it okay to propose without the real ring?
Many couples like choosing the final ring together, since it's a piece they'll wear for years.
How far ahead should I ask for a loaner?
As early as you can. Loaners depend on availability, so asking early gives us the best chance of having one ready for your date.
How much does a loaner ring cost?
The cost depends on the ring, and we'll confirm it in writing before the loaner is released.
What's the difference between a loaner ring and a promise ring?
A promise ring is exchanged while dating, before any proposal. A loaner ring is borrowed for the proposal itself and returned once the engagement ring is ready.
Request a Loaner Ring
Planning a proposal in Vancouver?
Email info@smcjewels.ca,
call +1 250-899-2290, or
visit us at 409 Granville St, Suite 828.
We'll confirm availability, cost and the return date in writing so you know exactly where you stand.
Applicable Law and Consumer Rights
This policy is governed by the laws of British Columbia and the applicable federal laws of Canada. It doesn't exclude any consumer right that can't legally be waived. Loaner ring terms form part of SMC Diamonds' Terms and Customer Policies.