Engagement Ring Buying Guide

The Engagement Ring Buying Guide

A practical, step-by-step guide to finding the ring they'll wear forever — without the overwhelm.

Step 1: Set Your Budget First

There's an old rule about spending three months' salary — ignore it. What matters is what feels comfortable for you. With lab-grown diamonds, you can typically afford a stone 40-60% larger than a mined diamond at the same price point. Decide your number first, then let that guide everything else.

Step 2: Choose the Diamond Shape

The shape is the single biggest style decision. Round is the classic maximum-sparkle choice; oval is the most popular elongated cut; cushion offers soft romantic corners; emerald is understated and glamorous. Try to spot what they already wear — necklace pendants, earrings — for clues. See our full shape guide.

Step 3: Understand the 4Cs

Cut, colour, clarity and carat weight work together. Our advice: don't sacrifice cut — it's what drives the sparkle. Favour a slightly lower clarity (eye-clean is invisible to the naked eye) and a good colour grade to get the most size for your budget. Read the full 4Cs breakdown.

Step 4: Pick a Setting Style

  • Solitaire: one stone, zero distractions — timeless.
  • Halo: a centre stone surrounded by smaller diamonds — maximum sparkle.
  • Three stone: past, present and future — full of meaning.
  • Bezel: a smooth metal frame — modern and practical.

Step 5: Find Their Ring Size

Borrow a ring they wear, trace its inside on paper, or check our ring size guide. When in doubt, pick a standard size and use our free resizing — most couples do exactly that.

Step 6: Plan the Proposal

The ring is half the story. For tips on timing, location, and the words that make the moment, read our proposal planning guide.

Shop Engagement Rings

Ready to start looking? Browse the collections — every ring is handcrafted to order with certified diamonds.

Need help narrowing it down? Talk to a jeweller — no pressure, just honest advice.