Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Engagement Ring
Choosing an engagement ring is one of the most meaningful purchases you'll ever make. Whether you're planning a surprise proposal or shopping together, this guide walks you through every decision, from budget to certificate, so you can buy with confidence.
The seven steps at a glance
- Set a budget you're comfortable with
- Understand the 4Cs of diamonds
- Pick a style that suits their personality
- Choose the metal
- Get the ring size right
- Personalise it with an engraving
- Ask for a certificate
1. Understand your budget
Start by setting a comfortable budget. There's no rule on how much you should spend, and the old three months' salary idea began as an advertising campaign. What matters is choosing a ring that fits your finances and that they'll love. Our guide to how much to spend on an engagement ring shows what each budget realistically buys.
2. Know the 4Cs of diamonds
Cut, colour, clarity and carat are the four things that decide how a diamond looks and what it costs.
Cut
How well the diamond is shaped and polished. It has the biggest effect on sparkle, so it's the C most worth spending on.
Carat
The diamond's weight, which mostly shows as size. Prices jump at round numbers like 0.50ct and 1.00ct, so a 0.90ct can be great value.
Colour
Graded from D (colourless) to Z (light yellow). Near-colourless G to J stones look bright white once set, especially in yellow gold.
Clarity
How free the diamond is of tiny natural marks called inclusions. Many stones graded VS or SI look completely clean to the naked eye.
Lab-grown or natural?
The 4Cs apply to both. The difference is price, rarity and resale value. Our lab-grown vs natural guide compares them honestly.
3. Pick a style that reflects their personality
Think about their lifestyle and the jewellery they already wear. Do they love vintage glamour or modern minimalism? These are the most popular styles:
SolitaireA single stone. Timeless and the easiest to match with a wedding band.£1,950View ring
HaloSmall diamonds around the centre stone add sparkle and make it look bigger.£1,500View ring
Three-stonePast, present and future, often with coloured side stones.£1,600View ring
Vintage-inspiredTwisted bands, milgrain and warm gold for an heirloom feel.£3,900View ring
Prefer colour? Sapphires, emeralds and rubies make beautiful engagement rings. Read our coloured gemstone guide.
4. Choose the right metal
- Platinum: naturally white, very durable and hypoallergenic.
- White gold: elegant and modern, rhodium-plated for its bright finish.
- Yellow gold: classic and timeless, and back in fashion.
- Rose gold: soft and romantic, with a vintage touch.
Most of our rings are made in 18ct gold or platinum at the same price. See our guide to yellow vs white gold.
5. Don't forget the ring size
The right size means comfort and no resizing later. If you're unsure, borrow a ring they already wear on the right finger, or ask a close friend. Our ring size guide explains how to measure at home.
6. Personalise it with an engraving
Add initials, a special date or a few words only the two of you understand. We offer free engraving on selected engagement rings, so just ask when you order.
7. Ask for a certificate
For any significant diamond, ask for a grading report from a recognised laboratory such as GIA or IGI. It confirms the 4Cs and whether the stone is natural or lab-grown. Our natural diamonds come with GIA certificates where applicable. Find out more about our certified diamonds.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get an engagement ring?
Many of our rings are ready to ship. Made-to-order and bespoke rings take longer, so talk to us early if you have a date in mind.
Which diamond shape is most popular?
Round brilliants remain the classic, and ovals are one of the biggest trends right now. Elongated shapes like ovals and pears can also look larger for their carat weight.
Should we choose the ring together?
Many couples do. You could also propose with a simple placeholder and choose the ring together afterwards. There's no wrong way.
Can I have a ring made to my own design?
Yes. Our bespoke jewellery service can turn your ideas into a one-of-a-kind ring.
Shop with confidence at Chloe's Jewellers
We're here to help you find or create the ring of your dreams. Visit us at Greville House, 35 Greville Street, Hatton Garden, Monday to Saturday, 10:30am to 5:30pm.
Book an appointmentBrowse engagement ringsFree UK delivery, worldwide shipping, a price match guarantee and flexible payment plans come with every order.
