Choosing an engagement ring is exciting, and a little nerve-racking. It is a piece someone will wear every day for the rest of their life. The good news is that it becomes much simpler once you understand a handful of decisions. Take them one at a time and you will end up with a ring you are both proud of.
1. Set your budget first
Forget the old "three months' salary" rule. Decide what feels comfortable and work backwards. Lab-grown diamonds have changed the maths: the same budget now buys a noticeably larger or higher-grade stone than it would in a mined diamond, which is a big reason so many couples are choosing them.
2. Understand the 4Cs
- Cut: how well the diamond is proportioned and polished. This affects sparkle more than anything, so do not compromise here.
- Colour: graded from D (colourless) down the alphabet. D to G looks colourless to most eyes, especially in white gold.
- Clarity: how many tiny inclusions the stone has. VS1 and VS2 diamonds are usually eye-clean and good value.
- Carat: weight, not size. Two 1-carat diamonds can look different in size depending on shape and cut.
Ask for a grading report from an independent lab such as IGI or GIA, so you know exactly what you are buying.
3. Choose a shape
- Round: the most sparkle and a timeless look.
- Oval: looks larger for its carat weight and lengthens the finger.
- Emerald: long, elegant flashes of light and a vintage feel.
- Pear and marquise: distinctive and finger-flattering, best with protective prongs on the tips.
- Princess and cushion: modern and soft-cornered options with lots of brilliance.
The best clue is what they already wear. Notice whether their jewellery is classic or bold, minimal or detailed.
4. Pick a setting
A solitaire keeps all eyes on the centre stone. A halo surrounds it with small diamonds and makes it look bigger. A pavé band adds sparkle along the shank. A toi et moi sets two stones side by side, one for each of you. Think about lifestyle too: lower settings catch less on gloves and clothes.
5. Choose the metal
Yellow gold feels warm and traditional, white gold is crisp and modern, and rose gold is soft and romantic. 14k gold is a good balance of rich colour and everyday durability.
6. Get the ring size right
If you are planning a surprise, borrow a ring they wear on the same finger and measure its inside diameter, or ask a close friend for help. Fingers swell slightly in the evening and in warm weather, so measure then. Our FAQ page explains how.
7. Consider something custom
If you cannot find exactly what you have in mind, a custom ring lets you choose the shape, setting and metal together. Share a sketch or a reference photo on our custom order page and we will help you bring it to life, or start by browsing our rings.
