How to Choose an Engagement Ring: A Step-by-Step Guide

Buying an engagement ring feels complicated because everything is presented at once. Break it into six decisions and it becomes straightforward.

Step 1: Set the budget first

Decide the number before you look at anything. Remember that with moissanite or a lab-grown diamond, the same budget buys a visibly larger, better stone.

Step 2: Choose the stone type

Moissanite for maximum sparkle per dollar, lab-grown diamond for a certified genuine diamond, lab-grown coloured gemstone for unusual colour.

Step 3: Choose the shape

Round is the brightest; oval and marquise elongate the finger; emerald and princess read modern and architectural; pear and heart are the romantic choices.

Step 4: Choose the metal

White gold and platinum suit colourless stones; yellow and rose gold suit warm stones and look better with lower colour grades.

Step 5: Choose the setting

Solitaire for timeless, halo for size, three-stone for symbolism, bezel for durability, pavé for extra sparkle.

Step 6: Confirm the size

Use our ring size guide, and check that the seller offers a free resize.