The ultimate engagement ring guide

Ngày 14/10/2023

Planning on popping the question? Let us help you find the all-important ring

While there are still plenty of genuine-surprise proposals, buying an engagement ring now tends to be a much more collaborative purchase between couples. But eve if two heads are better than one, it can still be a daunting process; an engagement ring is often the most expensive jewellery purchase you will ever make, and with more options available from major maisons, small independent makers, antique jewellery dealers and lab-grown diamond brands than ever before, it can feel a little overwhelming choosing ‘The One’. Not sure where to begin? Let our comprehensive guide of classic, cool and contemporary engagement rings do the hard work for you...

Shop around

The first port of call? "Find yourself an established, qualified, reputable jeweller who is happy to spend as much time with you as you need, answering your questions and showing you options," explains Guy Burton, bespoke director at Hancocks London, which specialises in spectacular antique stones. In fact, it’s wise to seek more than one opinion. "If you're buying as a couple, shop around," suggests the London-based designer Rachel Boston, who is admired for her unusual cuts and contemporary settings. "Schedule different consultations, meet with different designers to see who you are called to work with, try on styles you think are maybe too 'out there' for you but that you might love – you might be surprised by what you end up gravitating towards."

Break it down

It may help to break down the decision into two separate steps: the stone and the setting. "Most of your money is going into the main stone – therefore keep in mind that the ring setting can be changed one day, but the stone will be the thing you take through with you," says goldsmith and jewellery designer Jessie Thomas. When buying a diamond-set design, it is crucial to ensure the proper certification is in place, too. "You should only ever buy a diamond that is accompanied by a certificate from the GIA [Gemological Institution of America] – no one else; it is your insurance and guarantee that you have indeed bought what you think you have," explains Burton. A diamond’s certificate will advise on the stone’s technical qualities in terms of cut, clarity, carat weight and colour – famously known as the 4Cs. "Don't get fixated on the diamond certificate though; it is there for your information and peace of mind but it is the ring that you will look at every day, so if the stone is beautiful to you, that is what is most important," he adds.

Think about style and setting

With the stone sorted, it’s time to think about style and setting. "Getting the design right can be daunting as it reflects someone’s personality," says the founder of Minka Jewels, Lucy Crowther. It’s worth trying on a broad selection of styles to get a feel for what suits you best, and it can’t hurt to give your partner a steer on your favourite designs, either. "We even have a little ‘drop a hint’ button on the website that sends a link directly to someone’s inbox," she adds.

How do you know it's the one?

How then, do you know when you’ve found the right piece? "If you leave the consultation thinking about it and are still thinking about it the next day, and the next... chances are, it's a strong contender," says Boston. "Ultimately you need to trust your instincts, your eye and your judgement," agrees Burton. "Ignore trends, ignore what your friends and family think, and pick the ring that makes your heart sing."