When selecting their engagement rings and browsing styles to share with their sweethearts, modern brides are definitely click-happy.

According to TheKnot.com‘s 2013 Engagement & Jewelry Study, 49 percent of the brides involved in selecting their ring said they were most influenced by the Internet. And 59 percent of involved brides said they “used the Internet extensively to research rings prior to my engagement.”

Not surprising, considering the Internet is the resource that’s literally at their fingertips. Some 56 percent of brides polled said they own tablets, and nine of 10 have smartphones. So if you’re still thinking of your online retail strategy as a side business for your bricks-and-mortar jewelry store, it’s probably time to upgrade your strategy.

JCK