Asking someone to marry you is a huge milestone moment and to mark the occasion, choosing an engagement ring that your partner will love is a must! While this may feel like a lot of pressure, there are steps you can take to help make an informed decision that’ll leave you feeling confident for the big moment.
At the start of your search when buying a ring, we recommend looking through the various ring designs and styles around. The solitaire is a timeless choice. Its elegant design allows the single diamond to take centre stage. Side stone designs are ideal for those looking for extra sparkle, as they feature a single centre stone surrounded by smaller diamonds.
Halo engagement rings have grown in popularity owing to their eye-catching effect. The centre stone is encircled by smaller diamonds—ideal for someone looking for a showstopping sparkle. Trilogy rings have a sentimental meaning behind them, with the three stones representing the past, present and future.
If you’re unsure of how to choose an engagement ring, we’ve got some key points in this buying guide to help with the search. Let’s find the perfect engagement ring!
Decide on the ring shape you like
The diamond shape has an impact on the whole ring design and how flattering the style is for the hand shape. However, the prevailing factor should be the wearer’s preference.
Round diamonds show more brilliance and scintillation, making them a popular choice. Princess, pear and oval are growing in popularity due to their versatility, while the cushion shape is a favourite with its larger facets to increase brilliance.
More unique shapes include the marquise, radiant, asscher and emerald. There’s also the heart cut diamond for romantic souls.
Pick a metal for the ring band
Selecting a precious metal for your engagement ring is a personal choice. The most common options include traditional warm yellow gold or elegant white gold. Platinum is a versatile and durable choice, while rose gold offers an on-trend blush hue.
Many jewellery wearers have a preference. Take note of what they wear, as it’s likely they’ll want their ring to match pieces already owned for a cohesive look.
Think about the ring's size in carats
The carat weight of the ring will affect the overall appearance of the design. It’ll also determine the price tag, too.
When grading diamonds, the carat of measures its weight, rather than the actual size. This means that two diamonds in different shapes can have the same carat weight but may differ in size.
When considering carats it’s important to think about the wearer’s lifestyle. If they’re very active, a larger diamond may not be the most practical choice.
Get your finger size measured correctly
A comfortable fit is key for an engagement ring. If you’re unsure, you could ask a trusted friend or family member if they know your partner’s size. Alternatively, you could borrow a ring they already own to measure.
If you're not planning a surprise engagement, you can request our free ring sizer here. While not completely accurate, it’s useful for estimating your partner’s ring size.
Don’t worry if the ring size is wrong. Thankfully, most engagement rings are adjustable. It happens all the time, so that’s why we offer a free resizing service within 30 days of purchase.
Think about how your engagement ring will look with your wedding band
Looking ahead and thinking about the wedding ring will help to ensure your chosen design will be cherished forever.
To take the guess work out of your decision, you could choose a bridal set. Consisting of a diamond engagement ring and a wedding ring, this set matches harmoniously in style, shape and fit.
Shop bridal sets >
Choose certified rings
Research your jewellers before parting with any money. Make sure the diamonds are from internationally reputable sources and comply with international standards and industry associations.
You should also check what certification comes with the purchase and what manufacturing and repair guarantees are on offer. Never be afraid to ask these questions. Reputable jewellers will proudly share this information.
Verify diamond certificate
Your diamond ring’s certificate is an important document that must be kept safe. It’s an impartial summary of the diamond’s authenticity and specification, including carat, colour, clarity and cut, verified by a gemologist or diamond laboratory. This means you have the reassurance that the diamond is as described by the seller. At Austen & Blake, we provide diamond certification for every diamond we sell.
Be smart about the quality of the cut and clarity
Learning more about the 4Cs of diamonds will help you get the best diamond for your budget. The 4Cs are carat, clarity, cut and colour. It’s important to consider these four factors as they all affect the overall appearance of the diamond to the naked eye.
For example, a larger carat diamond with a poor cut grade can appear smaller than a diamond of the same size with a higher cut grade. You can learn more about the 4Cs in our Diamond Guide.
Don't be afraid to negotiate
If you’re wondering how much should you spend on an engagement ring, your budget is individual to you. In the past,
people have been guided by spending around 3 months' salary, but you don’t have to.
Research costs when looking at designs. This will help indicate what styles are available in line with what you feel comfortable spending.
Our Jewellery Experts can advise how to make the most of your funds, as well as advise on the finance options available.
Consider affordable alternatives to natural diamonds, such as lab grown diamonds and moissanite. Gemstones such as ruby, sapphire and emeralds also create a colourful choice.
Shop gemstone rings >
In conclusion...
Buying an engagement ring may feel daunting, but the process should be exciting and enjoyable with the right inspiration and information. Ultimately, we’re sure they’ll love what you choose as it’s been selected with love, care and attention!
Shop engagement rings
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Asking someone to marry you is a huge milestone moment and to mark the occasion, choosing an engagement ring that your partner will love is a must! While this may feel like a lot of pressure, there are steps you can take to help make an informed decision that’ll leave you feeling confident for the big moment.
At the start of your search when buying a ring, we recommend looking through the various ring designs and styles around. The solitaire is a timeless choice. Its elegant design allows the single diamond to take centre stage. Side stone designs are ideal for those looking for extra sparkle, as they feature a single centre stone surrounded by smaller diamonds.
Halo engagement rings have grown in popularity owing to their eye-catching effect. The centre stone is encircled by smaller diamonds—ideal for someone looking for a showstopping sparkle. Trilogy rings have a sentimental meaning behind them, with the three stones representing the past, present and future.
If you’re unsure of how to choose an engagement ring, we’ve got some key points in this buying guide to help with the search. Let’s find the perfect engagement ring!
Decide on the ring shape you like
The diamond shape has an impact on the whole ring design and how flattering the style is for the hand shape. However, the prevailing factor should be the wearer’s preference.
Round diamonds show more brilliance and scintillation, making them a popular choice. Princess, pear and oval are growing in popularity due to their versatility, while the cushion shape is a favourite with its larger facets to increase brilliance.
More unique shapes include the marquise, radiant, asscher and emerald. There’s also the heart cut diamond for romantic souls.
Pick a metal for the ring band
Selecting a precious metal for your engagement ring is a personal choice. The most common options include traditional warm yellow gold or elegant white gold. Platinum is a versatile and durable choice, while rose gold offers an on-trend blush hue.
Many jewellery wearers have a preference. Take note of what they wear, as it’s likely they’ll want their ring to match pieces already owned for a cohesive look.
Think about the ring's size in carats
The carat weight of the ring will affect the overall appearance of the design. It’ll also determine the price tag, too.
When grading diamonds, the carat of measures its weight, rather than the actual size. This means that two diamonds in different shapes can have the same carat weight but may differ in size.
When considering carats it’s important to think about the wearer’s lifestyle. If they’re very active, a larger diamond may not be the most practical choice.
Get your finger size measured correctly
A comfortable fit is key for an engagement ring. If you’re unsure, you could ask a trusted friend or family member if they know your partner’s size. Alternatively, you could borrow a ring they already own to measure.
If you're not planning a surprise engagement, you can request our free ring sizer here. While not completely accurate, it’s useful for estimating your partner’s ring size.
Don’t worry if the ring size is wrong. Thankfully, most engagement rings are adjustable. It happens all the time, so that’s why we offer a free resizing service within 30 days of purchase.
Think about how your engagement ring will look with your wedding band
Looking ahead and thinking about the wedding ring will help to ensure your chosen design will be cherished forever.
To take the guess work out of your decision, you could choose a bridal set. Consisting of a diamond engagement ring and a wedding ring, this set matches harmoniously in style, shape and fit.
Choose certified rings
Research your jewellers before parting with any money. Make sure the diamonds are from internationally reputable sources and comply with international standards and industry associations.
You should also check what certification comes with the purchase and what manufacturing and repair guarantees are on offer. Never be afraid to ask these questions. Reputable jewellers will proudly share this information.
Verify diamond certificate
Your diamond ring’s certificate is an important document that must be kept safe. It’s an impartial summary of the diamond’s authenticity and specification, including carat, colour, clarity and cut, verified by a gemologist or diamond laboratory. This means you have the reassurance that the diamond is as described by the seller. At Austen & Blake, we provide diamond certification for every diamond we sell.
Be smart about the quality of the cut and clarity
Learning more about the 4Cs of diamonds will help you get the best diamond for your budget. The 4Cs are carat, clarity, cut and colour. It’s important to consider these four factors as they all affect the overall appearance of the diamond to the naked eye.
For example, a larger carat diamond with a poor cut grade can appear smaller than a diamond of the same size with a higher cut grade. You can learn more about the 4Cs in our Diamond Guide.
Don't be afraid to negotiate
If you’re wondering how much should you spend on an engagement ring, your budget is individual to you. In the past, people have been guided by spending around 3 months' salary, but you don’t have to.
Research costs when looking at designs. This will help indicate what styles are available in line with what you feel comfortable spending. Our Jewellery Experts can advise how to make the most of your funds, as well as advise on the finance options available.
Consider affordable alternatives to natural diamonds, such as lab grown diamonds and moissanite. Gemstones such as ruby, sapphire and emeralds also create a colourful choice.
In conclusion...
Buying an engagement ring may feel daunting, but the process should be exciting and enjoyable with the right inspiration and information. Ultimately, we’re sure they’ll love what you choose as it’s been selected with love, care and attention!
Shop engagement rings