Choosing an engagement ring is an exciting decision that represents a new chapter in your life. The ring you select not only represents your commitment and love, but it also reflects your partner’s personality and style. Of course, with such a big decision comes a lot of responsibility – and deciding can be quite overwhelming. Read our guide to choosing the perfect engagement ring.
1. Understand the basics
It’s important to get to grips with the basics of what makes an engagement ring, first. Familiarise yourself with the metal options available, and also the factors that improve the quality and appearance of a diamond – called the ‘4 C’s’
The 4 Cs: Learn about the four key factors that determine a diamond’s quality: cut, color, clarity, and carat weight. Each of these factors influences the diamond’s appearance and price. If you’re selecting your own diamond, it’s important to understand how each factor changes the diamond – such as how sparkly it is, how big it is, and how high-quality it is. A good jeweller will help you assess the 4 C’s, and find a diamond that works for your requirements and budget.
Metal Options: Engagement rings come in various metal options, including platinum, white gold, yellow gold, and rose gold. Consider your partner’s preferred metal colour, any allergies they might have (some metals are hypo allergenic) and which metal works best for their lifestyle (some metals are more hardwearing than others).
2. Determine your budget
Setting a budget is a crucial step in the engagement ring journey. While there are various, traditional “rule of thumb” suggestions – such as spending two or three months’ salary – the most important factor is choosing a budget that is comfortable for you. Remember that the significance of the ring goes well beyond its monetary value.
3. Take note of their style
Of course, you might have already spoken to your partner about their dream ring. But if you haven’t, observe their style and preferences. Do they prefer classic, vintage, modern, or unique designs? Are they drawn to specific colours, shapes, or gemstones? Take note of their existing jewellery to help guide your decision. You can even take photos of them wearing their favourite outfits to a jeweller to help guide your decision, or chat to their friends and family for insider tips.
4. Research shapes and settings
Diamonds come in a range of shapes, from classic round brilliants to trendy ovals and princess cuts. And on top of this, there are lots of different settings to choose from. Look into shapes and settings, and find a combination you think your partner would love.
5. Consider their lifestyle
Think about your partner’s lifestyle and occupation. If they have an active lifestyle, work with their hands or look after small children, a low-profile ring setting might be more practical, to prevent snagging or damage.
6. Ring size and resizing
Determining your partner’s ring size can be challenging if you’re aiming for the element of surprise. Enlist the help of their friends or family to discreetly find out their size – alternatively, utilise our ring sizing guide and ring sizing app. You should also speak to the jeweller about resizing, and whether it’s an option if the fit isn’t perfect – not all rings can be resized. Read our guide to resizing, here.
7. Ethical considerations
As awareness of ethical diamond practices grows, opt for an ethical natural mined diamond, or a lab grown diamond. Read more about ethical diamonds and their importance, here.
8. Get professional help
Engagement ring shopping can be overwhelming, so don’t hesitate to seek guidance from professional jewellers. Our friendly team of experts and personal shoppers are always here to help!
9. Embrace personalisation
Adding personal touches to the engagement ring can make it even more special. If it’s possible, you could add an engraving to your ring, or you could incorporate meaningful gemstones (such as your respective birthstones), which all enhance the sentimentality of the ring.
10. Trust your instincts
In the end, the most important factor in choosing the right engagement ring is your intuition. Trust your instincts – the one that resonates with you, will likely be the one that your partner loves the most.
Still searching for the perfect ring?
Take a look at our beautiful selection of rings, and find the one that speaks to you.
10 tips for choosing the perfect engagement ring
Choosing an engagement ring is an exciting decision that represents a new chapter in your life. The ring you select not only represents your commitment and love, but it also reflects your partner’s personality and style. Of course, with such a big decision comes a lot of responsibility – and deciding can be quite overwhelming. Read our guide to choosing the perfect engagement ring.
1. Understand the basics
It’s important to get to grips with the basics of what makes an engagement ring, first. Familiarise yourself with the metal options available, and also the factors that improve the quality and appearance of a diamond – called the ‘4 C’s’
2. Determine your budget
Setting a budget is a crucial step in the engagement ring journey. While there are various, traditional “rule of thumb” suggestions – such as spending two or three months’ salary – the most important factor is choosing a budget that is comfortable for you. Remember that the significance of the ring goes well beyond its monetary value.
3. Take note of their style
Of course, you might have already spoken to your partner about their dream ring. But if you haven’t, observe their style and preferences. Do they prefer classic, vintage, modern, or unique designs? Are they drawn to specific colours, shapes, or gemstones? Take note of their existing jewellery to help guide your decision. You can even take photos of them wearing their favourite outfits to a jeweller to help guide your decision, or chat to their friends and family for insider tips.
4. Research shapes and settings
Diamonds come in a range of shapes, from classic round brilliants to trendy ovals and princess cuts. And on top of this, there are lots of different settings to choose from. Look into shapes and settings, and find a combination you think your partner would love.
5. Consider their lifestyle
Think about your partner’s lifestyle and occupation. If they have an active lifestyle, work with their hands or look after small children, a low-profile ring setting might be more practical, to prevent snagging or damage.
6. Ring size and resizing
Determining your partner’s ring size can be challenging if you’re aiming for the element of surprise. Enlist the help of their friends or family to discreetly find out their size – alternatively, utilise our ring sizing guide and ring sizing app. You should also speak to the jeweller about resizing, and whether it’s an option if the fit isn’t perfect – not all rings can be resized. Read our guide to resizing, here.
7. Ethical considerations
As awareness of ethical diamond practices grows, opt for an ethical natural mined diamond, or a lab grown diamond. Read more about ethical diamonds and their importance, here.
8. Get professional help
Engagement ring shopping can be overwhelming, so don’t hesitate to seek guidance from professional jewellers. Our friendly team of experts and personal shoppers are always here to help!
9. Embrace personalisation
Adding personal touches to the engagement ring can make it even more special. If it’s possible, you could add an engraving to your ring, or you could incorporate meaningful gemstones (such as your respective birthstones), which all enhance the sentimentality of the ring.
10. Trust your instincts
In the end, the most important factor in choosing the right engagement ring is your intuition. Trust your instincts – the one that resonates with you, will likely be the one that your partner loves the most.
Still searching for the perfect ring?
Take a look at our beautiful selection of rings, and find the one that speaks to you.
Discover more
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