How to Choose an Engagement Ring
From budget to the 4 Cs, shape, setting, metal and size — a clear, step-by-step way to choose the right engagement ring with confidence.
Quick answer
Choosing an engagement ring is easier as a sequence: set a comfortable budget, understand the 4 Cs, pick a diamond shape, choose a setting, choose the metal, and get the size right. Every ring is made to order in solid 9, 14 or 18ct gold, with diamonds independently graded (GIA, IGI or HRD) — so you can keep the design you love and tailor the details.
1. Set a comfortable budget
Start with a figure you're comfortable with — there's no fixed rule about what to spend. Knowing your range first makes every other decision easier, because shape, carat and metal can all be adjusted to fit it. Because our rings are made to order, you can prioritise what matters most to you (size, sparkle, or a particular design) and we'll build the ring around your budget.
2. Understand the 4 Cs
Diamonds are described by four characteristics:
- Cut — how well the diamond is cut to return light; it has the biggest effect on sparkle.
- Colour — how colourless the diamond is, graded on a scale from D downwards.
- Clarity — the presence of tiny natural inclusions.
- Carat — the weight (and roughly, the size) of the stone.
You don't need the top of every scale — the art is balancing the four to suit your eye and budget. Our diamonds are independently graded (GIA, IGI or HRD), in natural or lab-grown.
3. Choose the diamond shape
Shape sets the character of the ring. Round is timeless; oval and cushion feel soft; emerald and Asscher feel architectural; pear and marquise feel distinctive. See our diamond shapes guide for each option, and how to choose a diamond shape for a framework based on your hand, lifestyle and budget.
4. Choose the setting
The setting holds the stone and defines the style. A solitaire is classic and clean; a halo adds sparkle and size; a trilogy carries meaning with three stones; a bezel is modern and secure. Our setting styles guide walks through each, and the styles overview shows how they compare.
5. Choose the metal
Every ring is made in solid 9ct, 14ct or 18ct gold — never plated — in yellow or white gold, with rose gold available on a bespoke basis. Higher carats are richer in gold and colour; 14ct offers a hard-wearing balance for everyday rings. Qualifying pieces are UK hallmarked under the Hallmarking Act 1973. See our 9ct vs 14ct vs 18ct guide to compare.
6. Get the size right
You don't need to know the size to order. Once your ring is ordered we send a free ring sizer for an accurate fit, or you can tell us a size you already know — and we offer resizing for peace of mind. Each ring is then made to your size, typically within 14 days, or created as a fully bespoke design.
Where should you start?
Because every band is made to order in your size and carat, you can keep the design you love and adjust the details to suit. Message our team on WhatsApp and we'll help you choose.
Frequently asked questions
How do I choose an engagement ring?
Work in steps: set a budget, understand the 4 Cs, choose a diamond shape, choose a setting, choose the metal, and get the size right. Taking them in order makes each decision easier.
What are the 4 Cs of a diamond?
Cut, colour, clarity and carat. Cut has the biggest effect on sparkle; the skill is balancing all four to suit your eye and budget. Our diamonds are independently graded (GIA, IGI or HRD).
How much should I spend on an engagement ring?
There's no fixed rule — choose a figure you're comfortable with. Because our rings are made to order, we can build the ring around your budget and prioritise what matters most to you.
Do I need to know the ring size before ordering?
No. After you order we send a free ring sizer for an accurate fit, or you can tell us a size you already know. We also offer resizing.
How long does an engagement ring take to make?
Made-to-order rings are typically ready within 14 days depending on the design; fully bespoke pieces are confirmed at the point of quote.