15 Tips for Buying an Engagement Ring

Congratulations! You’ve found that special someone you want to spend the rest of your life with, and now it’s time to take the next big step: proposing. The following article offers 15 practical tips to guide you through selecting an engagement ring that expresses your sincere and earnest question, “Will you marry me?”

Your Ultimate Guide to Purchasing an Engagement Ring 

1. Set a realistic budget: Determine a comfortable spending range that aligns with your financial situation. Remember, the value of your love isn’t measured by the price of an engagement ring.

2. Understand the 4 Cs: Familiarize yourself with the guiding principles that determine the quality and price of a diamond:

   • cut: the shape, dimensions, and angles of the stone         

   • colour: a 12-letter grading scale that ranges from D (colourless) to Z (light colouration)

   • clarity: the visibility of imperfections

   • karat: the weight of a diamond

3. Choose the right metal: Consider options like white gold, yellow gold, rose gold, or platinum. Each metal has unique characteristics and suits different styles, personalities, and skin tones.

4. Select a gemstone: While diamonds are traditional, coloured gemstones like sapphires or rubies can offer a unique and personalized touch. Many cultures and individuals hold specific gemstones in high regard. 

5. Decide on a ring style: Explore various styles such as:

   • Solitaire engagement rings: a single stone (usually a diamond) set on a metal band

   • Solitaire with accents: similar to above but with smaller stones along the band

   • Halo engagement rings: a central stone surrounded by smaller ones

   • Multi-stone centre: several diamonds clustered together

   • Diamond band: a metal band with a continuous row of diamonds along the front and/or sides

   • Bridal set: a pair of rings (engagement ring and wedding band) that fit together 

6. Pick the perfect diamond cut: Hand size and lifestyle can affect the ideal cut for your intended. Some of the best-known cuts include: 

   • round 

   • princess

   • emerald or cushion 

   • oval

   • pear

7. Consider ring size: If you’re planning a surprise, try to find your beloved’s ring size by looking at other rings in their jewellery box, asking their friends, or consulting a jeweller for sizing tips.

Read more: Ring Sizing
 

8. Seek certification: Ensure your diamond has a reputable certification, such as a GIA report, guaranteeing its quality.

9. Explore lab-grown options: Get more stone at a budget- and eco-friendly price. Consider our New Brilliance Lab Grown Diamonds collection.

10. Evaluate the setting: The setting holds a ring’s gemstones in place. It will influence the engagement ring’s appearance and durability. Common settings include:

    • prong: metal claws securely hold the diamond

    • bezel: metal surrounds the diamond 

    • channel: metal arches elevate the stone 

11. Research warranties and policies: Read and compare warranties, return policies, and any lifetime guarantees offered by various jewellers.

12. Consider lifestyle factors: Choose a ring that suits your partner’s daily activities and personal style.

13. Explore designer collections: For a touch of haute couture, consider our exclusive collections:

    • Blossom Engagement Rings: feature exquisite engagement rings crafted in 14K gold and adorned with stunning lab-grown diamonds

    • Jenny Packham Collection: showcases a range of luxurious lab-grown diamond engagement rings that reflect timeless romance and sophistication.

    • Diamond Revelations Fancy Shapes: are unique and captivating diamond rings, expertly crafted to highlight the beauty of various fancy diamond cuts 

14. Plan for the future: Look into options for matching wedding bands or the possibility of future upgrades.

15. Trust your instincts: After considering all factors, choose the engagement ring that speaks to your heart and represents your and your sweetheart’s unique personalities, passion, and commitment.

Find the Perfect Engagement Ring Today

For over 100 years, Ben Moss Jewellers has been at the heart of Canadian engagements. Continue the tradition with your choice of over 650 beautiful engagement rings available online and in stores across Canada.