Engagement Ring Guide

Budget

The amount you should spend on an engagement ring is going to be different for everyone. It used to be said that the equivalent of two month’s salary was an appropriate amount, however these days with the advent of Lab grown diamonds there’s no need to break the bank.

An engagement ring will need to last a lifetime, and may even be passed on and re-worn in the future, so it’s important to buy quality, not just when it comes to the diamond, but also a solid well-made mount/ring.

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. Cut is generally considered to be the most important factor in a diamonds appearance, and relates to how well the stone has been made (facet proportions, symmetry etc). We would advise an overall cut grade of very good or excellent.

Try and aim for a diamond colour of G or better, as colours J upwards are noticeably tinted yellow. Diamonds which have Si1 clarity or better do not have inclusions/faults that are noticeable to the naked eye, so Si1 is a good minimum quality to choose.

Single stone rings with a diamond weight of at least 0.30 carat and H Si1 quality or better should really come with an independent diamond certificate, with smaller diamonds and lower qualities it is not usually worthwhile due to certification costs.

Ring design

With many styles to browse it understandably can be very difficult in knowing which design 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 complement 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 regular hands.
3. Job and hobbies should be a consideration too, whilst in some instance the ring will need to be removed, for an active person a low rise setting may be more practical and less likely to catch on things.
4. What sort of influences or tastes does your partner have? A classic diamond set design will work well alongside most looks, however coloured stones should be considered for those who prefer something a bit less mainstream – or coloured stones with diamond accents for the best of both.
5. Consider asking a friend or relative of your partner, who will be able to offer their insight and views.

Ring Sizes

Once you have found a 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 belt, which we will post out to you once we’ve received your request.