An engagement ring is one of the most important purchases you will ever make, so you need to make sure you give this process the time and effort it deserves.
When it comes to choosing an engagement ring, you must consider several factors: the shape, the cut, the material, the clarity, and so much more.
For those that are already feeling nervous at the mere thought of going engagement ring shopping, then the below buyer's guide is just what you need.
Read on to discover everything you need to know about how to choose an engagement ring for your soon-to-be spouse. Plus, where to buy the best engagement rings on the market.
How to choose an engagement ring
Set a budget
Although this may not seem very romantic, if you start to shop for engagement rings without first setting a realistic budget, you are setting yourself up for disappointment.
The general rule for how much you should spend on engagement rings used to be three months' salary. However, this is a hugely outdated concept that you no longer need to adhere to.
Instead, sit down and go through your finances and work out what you can realistically afford. Remember, there is no point bankrupting yourself just for a ring, even if it is the most important ring you will ever buy.
If you are on a tight budget, then you might want to look for a jeweller that offers you the opportunity to set up a monthly payment plan so that you don't have to find all the money upfront.
Decide on the shape
The next element on how to choose an engagement ring that you need to consider is the shape. Engagement rings are available in a vast collection of shapes, each with its own unique benefits.
Some of the most sought-after shapes for engagement rings are:
- Round cut
- Pear cut
- Marquise cut
- Princess cut
- Cushion cut
- Oval cut
- Radiant cut
- Heart cut
Arguably, the most sought-after shape is the round cut which allows for maximum sparkle and provides a timeless look that promises never to go out of style.
Following that, the princess cut is another popular choice, which is perfectly suited to those who favour a more modern style. This type of cut is also a lot less expensive than a round cut.
In terms of choice and quality, you can't beat Hatton Garden engagement rings!
Pick a metal
Engagement rings can be made from lots of different types of metals, including white gold, yellow gold, silver, and platinum. Again, each has its own benefits.
The type of metal that you pick will be dependent upon your budget, personal preference, and also on your partner's lifestyle.
Yellow gold
If you want a traditional-style engagement ring, then you should go for a yellow-gold band. This type of metal offers a classic and elegant look that will look good for many years to come.
Yellow gold metal is also a good choice for people with warmer skin tones.
Rose gold
Rose gold is bang on trend, especially among people who want a more unusual-looking engagement ring.
Rose gold suits all skin tones and provides a more bespoke engagement ring experience.
White gold
White gold is another widely used metal for engagement rings, offering versatility and a classic style.
White gold is best suited to people with cooler skin tones.
Platinum
If you don't mind digging a little deeper, then opt for a platinum engagement ring. The most expensive type of metal available for this type of ring, platinum will never fade and complements any cut and carat of diamond.
Although platinum looks best on cooler skin tones, it can still work for people with olive skin or warmer skin tones.
Think about the 4 C's
If you have already started choosing an engagement ring, then you have probably already heard of the 4 C's: cut, clarity, colour, and carat.
Cut
The cut of your choice of a diamond refers to the way it shimmers in the light. If a diamond has been cut with the ideal proportions, it should glimmer and glisten in the sun.
More specifically, the light should come out of the top of the stone. If it comes out from the sides, this will affect its dazzle.
When you choose an engagement ring, make sure you ask the jeweller about its cut and opt for the best in your price range.
Clarity
The clarity of your diamond refers to its imperfections. As you would expect, the fewer imperfections, the higher grade of clarity the diamond will be awarded.
It is worth knowing that many imperfections are easy to see, so you will need to ask the advice of a professional jeweller to identify these for you.
As you might expect, fewer imperfections mean more expensive.
Colour
Although you may think that diamonds only come in one colour, there are, in fact, several colours to choose from.
The most sought-after and expensive colour is white, which means the stone is colourless. The colour scale for diamonds slides from D (the highest rating) to Z.
Carat
The carat of a diamond refers to how much it weighs. As you would expect, the heavier the diamond, the more valuable it is.
You can find diamonds from 0.25 carats up to 3 carats, depending on your budget.
Take ring finger measurements
Imagine choosing the perfect engagement ring, and then finding out that it doesn't fit properly.
If you and your partner have discussed getting engaged, then this step is easy as you can simply go to a jeweller with them and have their ring finger measured. However, if you are planning a surprise proposal, then you might just have to "borrow" one of their rings to see what size they are.
Always look for certification
Engagement rings are expensive, so you need to check that the one you pick is the real deal.
Before handing over any money, always ask the jeweller for proof that you are buying a certified stone, and if you have any doubts or concerns, walk away.
