Choosing an engagement ring can feel daunting, but in this decision, you’re not alone. We’ve been helping couples pick rings for decades, and we’ve faced hundreds of questions; What diamond should I choose for my ring? Does it have to be a diamond? How do I know which design to pick?
We’re lucky to have a team of experts at our Lancaster store who can alleviate all of these concerns. I’ve designed this guide to walk you through each aspect of buying an engagement ring, to take the stress off your plate.
How to Decide what Engagement Ring is Right for You?
My first, and most important piece of advice, is that each decision is personal to the couple - there’s no ‘one-size-fits-all’ method here.
If you’re early on in the buying process, here are some questions to ask yourself that may point in the right direction:
- What is your partner’s personal style? Classic and understated? Gold or silver?
- What is her lifestyle like? Does she need something that will bring comfort no matter what? Or does she have a preference for more intricate designs?
- What is your budget? There’s no ‘correct’ amount to spend, but do you have an idea in mind? Will you be purchasing outright or financing the ring?
It’s just about starting somewhere when choosing your ring. Don’t overwhelm yourself with a million questions from the get-go.
Should You Consult Your Partner?
This depends on what you and your partner want. If they have explicitly mentioned that they want it to be a surprise, then it’s best to honour that. But many couples today choose to buy rings together.
If you’re keeping it a surprise, my advice would be to discuss general preferences casually in advance, observe the jewellery she reaches for daily, and ask close friends or family for help.
Equally, shopping together is becoming more commonplace - after all, if they’re going to be the ones wearing the rings for a lifetime, they may want some input. Shopping together lets you see different designs and decide on your preferences without needing to exchange later.
Whether you’re shopping alone or with your partner, we like to make the experience special at Banks Lyon. Think, a personalised consultation, stress-free guidance, and an occasion you’ll always look back on. And, we make sure there’s no pressure or rush, just expert advice.
What are the 4C’s of Buying a Ring?
Put simply: Cut, Colour, Clarity, and Carat make up the 4C’s. These refer to the different elements of a gemstone, such as a diamond, within the ring. Choosing the perfect ring comes down to finding the right combination of these C’s, not just one.
Cut
This is where you’ll hear terms like ‘emerald’, ‘princess’, and ‘round brilliant’, essentially referring to how the stone is shaped.
Colour
Colour is mainly applicable to diamonds, and refers to the stone’s colour. Colourless is the most sought after, with tones ranging to faint yellow.
Clarity
Again, applying mostly to diamonds, clarity refers to how clear the diamond is and how many inclusions or imperfections it has. For example, FL/IF is the most clear, and I1-I3 are the least.
Carats
Carats refer to the weight of the stone. Larger carat weights are rarer, which is why lab grown diamond engagement rings are a popular choice to gain higher carats for a lower price.
The 4 C’s are just one part of the decision; you should also consider the setting, metal, and design of the ring in your process. To take the stress away, we’ve created our diamond buyer’s guide, which has all you need to know in it.
Does an Engagement Ring Have to Include Diamonds?
No, engagement rings don’t have to include diamonds. Other stones such as sapphires, emeralds, and rubies have been used as alternative gemstone engagement rings for decades.
While diamond engagement rings are the most traditional choice, the decision is entirely personal.
Choosing an alternative gemstone ring doesn’t mean foregoing diamond rings entirely; many stones pair exceptionally well with diamonds, in variants including three-stone rings and halo rings.
Making the Decision Together with Banks Lyon
Choosing an engagement ring is personal, and we’re here to provide all the guidance you need. In your consultation, we’ll talk you through the 4 C’s, setting styles, metal options, and explore your options for engagement rings on finance.
Whether you’re shopping alone or with your partner, we make the experience as special as it should be, matching you with a ring that feels aligned with your story.