Are you on the cusp of embarking on a journey towards forever with your partner? Congratulations! As you step into the world of engagement rings, the process can be both exciting and overwhelming.
At Niche Diamonds, we understand the significance of this momentous occasion. That's why we've curated a guide to help you navigate the waters of choosing the ideal engagement ring for your loved one in the UK.
1. Understand their style
Before delving into the world of engagement rings and choosing a surprise ring for your partner, take a moment to observe their personal style. Do they lean towards classic, timeless pieces, or do they prefer modern, sleek designs?
Or if you're choosing a ring together, talk about both style preferences and practicality. People who work with their hands or need to wash them often might lean towards a simpler style than someone who works in an office, for example.
2. Consider the 4 C's
When it comes to diamond engagement rings, the 4 C's - Carat, Cut, Clarity, and Colour - are essential factors to consider. Opt for a balance between these qualities based on your partner's preferences and your budget.
If you're seeking affordable engagement rings that still sparkle brilliantly, a slightly lower carat with excellent cut and clarity can be a smart choice. The 4 C's are helpful to understand both what you do and don't want.
Find out more in our Diamond Guide
But remember, even a diamond with a number of 'inclusions' can still look perfect to the naked eye. And if you stick with colourless or near colourless diamonds, you can choose diamonds from D colour to G at a wide range of prices. Yet it will be very hard to tell the difference between these colours.
The upshot? It's essential to be informed, but equally vital not to get too bogged down in the detail and to find a ring that speaks to your heart.
3. Beyond the 4 C's
There are a few other factors to be aware of, such as flourescence, the pros and cons of different diamond shapes, diamond certification, and natural vs laboratory grown diamonds.
At Niche Diamonds we help you cut through the confusion. Take a look at our Diamond Guide to get the lowdown on the 4 C's and beyond. Keep an eye out for new blogs. Or contact our friendly team for a no obligation chat, info session or quote for comparison.
4. Explore solitaire elegance
A solitaire engagement ring is a timeless choice that exudes sophistication. The focus is on the single dazzling diamond, making it a perfect symbol of your unwavering commitment.
You can choose from a variety of diamond shapes for a solitaire ring. A round brilliant cut is a true classic, but other shapes like oval diamonds, emerald cut and princess cut diamonds also beautiful in a solitaire setting.
Solitaire engagement rings are a great place to start your search. Our capsule collection of solitaire engagement rings in the UK showcases exquisite designs that will leave a lasting impression.
When exploring solitaire designs, you might find your perfect ring. Or you might decide to go for something with a bit more detail, such as a diamond band, trilogy setting or a diamond halo.
We can also work with you to design something a bit different, or even create a full bespoke design to help you craft a truly one-of-a-kind piece. The choice is yours.
5. Size it right
Sizing matters! If you're aiming for an element of surprise, discreetly borrow one of their existing rings to get an accurate size. Alternatively, ask friends or family for assistance, but ensure they can keep the secret!
Proper sizing ensures your partner can comfortably wear their new treasure as soon as you've popped the question. And it's more important if your chosen design contains diamonds in the band.
Take a look at our Ring Size Guide for more helpful tips and instructions to measure ring size.
6. Consider the wedding ring
Couples can sometimes become enthused with statement engagement ring designs, only to realise that it's difficult to find a wedding ring to complement it. If you plan on adding a wedding ring after the big day, it's wise both to consider and to try wedding rings with your favoured engagement ring design before purchasing.
And sometimes, less is more. Simple engagement rings hold an inherent charm, allowing the beauty of the diamond to take centre stage. These rings are versatile and can effortlessly complement any wardrobe choice and many different wedding ring designs.
A plain band also makes re-sizing a lot less fuss. If your ring size changes for any reason during the milestones of future life, a plain band is more affordable and easier to have re-sized. This goes even if your diamond has a halo or a trilogy setting.
It is of course still possible to re-size a diamond band, but it may involve adding or removing one or more of the diamonds, and will involve more intricate work which is likely take longer and cost more.
7. Set a budget
Speaking of cost, engagement rings of course come in a huge variety of price ranges. It's important to set a budget that aligns with your financial comfort.
Ignore the hype about spending a certain amount of pay on an engagement ring. Think instead about what the ring means, what you can truly afford and how you plan to pay for it, before embarking on your search.
At Niche Diamonds, we offer a selection of affordable engagement rings without compromising on quality, ensuring you find the perfect ring without breaking the bank.
8. Take the next step
Choosing the perfect engagement ring is a heartwarming journey that speaks volumes about your love and commitment. Whether you're drawn to solitaire engagement rings, classic designs, simple elegance or something more intricate or elaborate, we're here to help.
Remember, the engagement ring you choose is a reflection of your relationship and the journey you're about to embark upon.
Take a look at our selection of diamond engagement rings for inspiration on that sparkling symbol of your love, ensuring your engagement is a memory that glitters for a lifetime.
