Guide to Buying an Engagement Ring
It’s more than just a ring, it’s the beginning of your story. Your engagement ring is likely the first truly meaningful piece of fine jewellery you’ll ever choose. We make sure the experience feels every bit as special as the piece itself - personal, considered, and tailored entirely to you.
“Close your eyes and picture your dream engagement ring - and the wedding band that goes with it. Then take your time exploring who can truly bring that vision to life. You’ll always remember who you bought your engagement ring from, so make sure it’s someone you trust - and like!”
- Rhona, CEO & Founder, The Diamond Expert
Our Guide
Have a Flexible Budget
You will see and hear advice that suggests you set a budget and stick to it. But in reality this can be very limiting if you don’t know how much diamonds cost. At The Diamond Expert, we recommend you price up some rings that you have seen and love, and you’ll soon know what carat weight and price point you are comfortable with. Be flexible from there, as often a little more can make all the difference in getting the ring of your dreams!
Diamond Quality
It is important to ensure that you purchase a certificated diamond whether it is a natural diamond (GIA are the best) or a laboratory grown diamond (IGI are the best). Try not to get too bogged down by the science of diamonds as there are so many variables, but once you have an understanding of the basics and you buy from a trusted expert, you won’t go wrong.
Design and Detail
Buying an engagement ring that has been bespoke created just for you is one of the most exciting experiences you’ll ever have. Working with an expert on each and every tiny detail and tailoring your ring to your exact specifications is the most rewarding way to purchase your special ring. Rhona, The Diamond Expert, has 17 years of experience guiding couples through the journey of creating the most exquisite engagement rings.
Lasting Relationships
Just like your partner, you may have a long lasting relationship with your jeweller! Buying from a trusted industry expert means you have peace of mind long after you purchase your ring. You may need a ring re-sizing, repair or check up, advice on insurance, re-design, upgrades or want to buy another piece of jewellery. We have over 80% repeat custom which is testament to the trust our clients place in us. Our business is based firmly in trust and relationships and your happiness is of the utmost importance to us.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re wondering how to pick an engagement ring, start with the person who’ll be wearing it. Think about their everyday style, preferred metal colour, the diamond shapes they’re naturally drawn to, and whether they prefer something understated or more of a statement.
From there, consider the diamond shape, setting and metal, as well as how the engagement ring will sit alongside a future wedding band. You don’t need to know every detail before you begin. A consultation with an experienced jeweller can help you narrow the options and create something that feels completely personal.
One of the most important things to consider when buying an engagement ring is diamond certification. It gives you independent information about the diamond you’re purchasing and helps you understand exactly what you’re paying for.
At The Diamond Expert, we work with GIA-certificated natural diamonds and IGI-certificated lab grown diamonds. Beyond certification, pay attention to cut, colour, clarity and carat weight, but don’t feel you need to become a diamond expert yourself. That’s what we’re here for.
Our guide to buying an engagement ring can help you understand the essentials before you start comparing your options.
If you’re wondering when to buy an engagement ring, we recommend starting the process at least 4–6 weeks before your planned proposal, particularly if you would like a bespoke ring.
The ring itself is typically ready within 2–4 weeks from the date of order, but allowing a little extra time gives you space for your initial consultation, quotation, 3D design and any adjustments you would like to make before we begin creating it.
If you already have a proposal date in mind, speak to us as early as you can. It keeps the experience exciting rather than rushed.
There is no set amount you should spend on an engagement ring, and we don’t believe in arbitrary rules.
Instead of choosing a fixed budget before you know what diamonds and settings actually cost, start by exploring a few rings you genuinely love. This will give you a much clearer idea of the carat weight, design and price point you feel comfortable with.
From there, we can help you understand where your budget makes the biggest difference and guide you towards the right balance of diamond quality, size and design.
If you’re researching how to purchase an engagement ring as a surprise, a private consultation is a very good place to start.
Bring along anything that might help us understand their style, from photos of jewellery they already wear to engagement rings they have saved or mentioned. If you don’t know their exact ring size, don’t worry. A rough estimate is often enough to begin the design process, and we can advise you on the best approach.
Most importantly, you don’t have to make every decision alone. We’ll guide you through diamond shape, setting, metal, proportions and all the details that make the finished ring feel like them.
Online research is a brilliant place to begin your guide to buying an engagement ring, but for such a personal purchase, we recommend speaking with an expert before making your final decision.
A consultation gives you the opportunity to compare diamond shapes, sizes, settings and metals with expert guidance, while asking all the questions that naturally come up along the way.
At The Diamond Expert, consultations can take place in person or virtually, so you can have the reassurance of a private jeweller experience wherever you are.
Natural diamonds and lab grown diamonds are both real diamonds with the same chemical, physical and optical properties. The key difference is how they are formed.
Natural diamonds develop beneath the Earth over billions of years. Lab grown diamonds are created in a controlled environment using technology that recreates the conditions in which diamonds form.
At The Diamond Expert, our natural diamonds are GIA certificated and our lab grown diamonds are IGI certificated. Lab grown diamonds will typically allow you to choose a larger or higher-specification diamond for the same budget, while some clients prefer the rarity and natural origin of a mined diamond.
There is no ‘right’ choice. We’ll explain both clearly and help you decide which feels right for you.
Design Your Dream Ring with Us
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If you’re ready to breathe new life into your jewellery, Contact Us today to schedule your personal consultation and take the first step towards a beautiful transformation!