One day, you may find yourself in a jewellery store, shopping for something you know little about, with a very excited partner. If you don’t know the basics of how to pick an engagement ring, you’ve come to the right place. Choosing the right engagement ring can feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. The bottom line is that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. The perfect ring for your partner should reflect her personality and style. It also shouldn’t throw you into years of debt. Who wants to leap into marital bliss with a diamond ring-shaped anchor of debt weighing them down? Here are some ideas on how to pick an engagement ring of her dreams.

How to Pick an Engagement Ring

1. Choose a Cut and Style to Compliment Her Personality

When picking the perfect ring for your partner, look no further than at your partner. What is her style? Does she prefer classic or contemporary designs? Does she typically gravitate towards minimalistic or bold pieces of jewellery or accessories? Chances are, her current wardrobe will point you in the right direction. Different diamond cuts normally suit different personality traits. Here are some popular diamond cuts paired with the style personalities they complement perfectly:

How to Pick an Engagement Ring
Diamond cut styles: round brilliant, emerald, cushion, oval, heart, radiant, princess, pear, asscher with facet diagrams
  • Round Cut: Classic, elegant. It suits someone with traditional taste; it is timeless and versatile.
  • Princess Cut: Modern and chic, this bold, geometric cut is ideal for those who love clean lines.
  • Oval Cut: This cut is feminine and romantic. Soft and graceful, it flatters and suits an elegant woman.
  • Emerald Cut: Sophisticated, bold. These clean lines suit a minimalist, confident look.
  • Pear Cut: Creative, trendsetter. This distinctive teardrop shape is for those who love to stand out.
  • Marquise Cut: Dramatic and daring, this cut is perfect for the bold, adventurous type who loves a daring fashion choice.

Considering your future fiances’ style ensures that the ring you pick will be congruent with what she wears daily and a piece she will love for years to come.

How to Pick an Engagement Ring

2. Timeless vs. Statement

Regarding the ring’s design, you may want to consider timeless versus statement rings. Is she more likely to enjoy a piece that will spark conversation? Or one that will be a subtle reflection of her love? Again, both options can hold sentimental value and depend on her taste. Some examples of timeless options include a solitaire setting or a pavé band that offers simple, enduring elegance.

Halo settings, three-stone rings, and emerald-cut diamonds are classic choices that never go out of style. Statement rings may be unique designs with colourful stones, double halos, asymmetrical designs or intricate details that make a bold statement and can be deeply personal.

How to Pick an Engagement Ring

3. Don’t Be Tricked Into Breaking the Bank

Here’s the thing: mined and lab-grown diamonds are the same thing–diamonds! They are chemically and structurally identical. The only difference is where they came from. And their price tag, of course! Lab-grown diamonds come at a dramatically lower cost. This affordability allows you to get a larger, higher-quality diamond at a fraction of the cost. Making a sound financial decision doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice quality or beauty. It’s quite the opposite. It’s a win-win.

4. Consider Buying a Stone and Designing the Ring Together

If your partner would prefer to be part of the ring-designing experience, consider purchasing just the stone and saving the design process together. While not the traditional way of doing things, this can be a very romantic and personalised experience. It also ensures that the ring truly reflects her and your relationship. Creating the ring together results in a ring you can both cherish.

Choosing the perfect engagement ring doesn’t have to be daunting if you focus on your partner’s style, keep an open mind about where your diamond is sourced, and even involve her in the ring-making process. Remember that, ultimately, the perfect ring is the one that makes her feel unique and loved, no matter the budget. 

Talitha Cummins is the founder of The Cut Jewellery.

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