Choosing An Engagement Ring

Budget

The amount you should spend on an engagement ring is going to be different for everyone but a commonly accepted guideline is two month’s salary. An engagement ring will need to last a lifetime and may even be passed on and re-worn in the future, so it is imperative to buy quality not just when it comes to the diamond but also the mount/ring. A poorly made mount is unlikely to stand the test of time and may result in diamond loss from a weak setting.

Diamond Quality

Ultimately diamond quality is how well the diamond looks, and let’s face it no one wants to have to wear a ring with a dull stone in for the rest of their life. Try and aim for a diamond colour of I or better as colours J upwards are noticeably tinted yellow. Diamonds which have Si clarity or better do not have inclusions/faults that are noticeable to the naked eye, so Si is a good minimum quality to choose. Single stone engagement rings with a diamond of at least 0.25 carat and H Si quality or better should really come with an independent diamond certificate, with smaller diamonds and lower qualities it is not worthwhile due to certification costs.

Engagement Ring Designs

There are so many engagement ring designs it can understandably be difficult in knowing what to choose for your loved one.

Consider the following points before making your final decision.

1. Which metal or combination of metals would be most appropriate for your partner? It is advisable to choose a metal that matches what your partner wears already i.e. do they wear other gold rings or perhaps a necklace made from silver/other white metals.
2. Think about which diamond shape would compliment your partners hands the best. For example the relatively long and narrow marquise cut diamond is well suited to hands which are long and slender, whereas round and princess cut diamonds are perfect for shorter hands.
3. What sort of influences or taste does your partner have? Then select from either a traditional, contemporary, modern or vintage engagement rings.
4. Consider asking a friend or relative of your partner who will be able to give you their insight and views.

Ring Sizes

When you have found an engagement ring that you like it is important to know the correct ring size to select. If you have access to a ring which fits the appropriate finger then you can print off our ring size chart and follow the instructions. We also offer a complimentary ring sizer which we will send to you once we have received your request. Our standard ring sizes are J-Q for women and R-Z for men although we can make other ring sizes if necessary.