Engagement rings
Worn on the third finger of the left hand, an engagement ring is the first step in the exciting journey of marriage. When he gets down on one knee, opens the ring box and asks that all-important question, the engagement ring must take her breath away.
The tradition of the diamond engagement ring
Traditionally an engagement ring features a diamond to symbolise the enduring nature of love. The tradition of a man giving a diamond ring as a promise of marriage began in the Middle Ages when Holy Roman Emperor Maximilian I gave Mary of Burgundy a gold ring set with a diamond as a token of love. This royal tradition has grown over the centuries and, today, over 70% of women receive a diamond engagement ring.
Choosing the right diamond – the 4 Cs
Take your time when buying a diamond. Every diamond is unique and you're buying something that will last forever.
You'll want to buy the best diamond for your budget and to do this you'll need to consider the 4 Cs – colour, clarity, carat and cut. It is the interplay of these characteristics that determines the value, rarity and beauty of your diamond.
For more information on choosing a diamond engagement ring, visit our diamond buyer's guide.
Buying with confidence – the fifth C
A diamond is an important investment - emotionally and financially – so choose a reputable jeweller that you are comfortable with. For your additional peace of mind, at Ernest Jones we have a wide selection of certificated diamond rings which come with a Jewellery Identification Report from the International Gemmological Institute, guaranteeing the quality of your diamond.
Choosing the right style
You want the engagement ring you choose to be just right for the bride-to-be. If you're buying the ring together, the bride-to-be should try on different styles until she finds the one she loves. If you're planning on surprising her, take notice of rings she admires on friends, in magazines and in jewellers' windows. Ask her friends. Does she tend to wear traditional or modern jewellery? Does she prefer yellow gold, white gold or platinum?
A diamond solitaire ring is the traditional engagement ring – a single diamond set on a band of gold or platinum. Brilliant round is the classic diamond shape solitaire. However, fancy shaped diamonds such as emerald cut, princess cut, oval, heart, pear and marquise are increasingly popular and create an exquisite contemporary engagement ring.
A diamond cluster ring brings together a number of stones for a dazzling effect. A cluster ring may have one diamond as its centerpiece surrounded by smaller stones. Or it may feature four diamonds of equal size, set together to create the look of one stunning stone.
A diamond three stone ring is a beautiful, meaningful option. With a diamond representing your past, your present and your future, a three stone ring is also known as a Trilogy ring.
Or take a look at the Leo® Diamond collection of rings, available only at Ernest Jones. Visibly brighter, the Leo® Diamond is the first diamond to be independently certified for its superior brilliance.
Of course, you don't have to have a diamond engagement ring - everybody has their favourite stone or style. For something truly personal, why not consider a ring set with her birthstone?
Engagement rings at Ernest Jones
Buying your engagement ring is an important first step on the road to your wedding day and life together, so take your time and explore our wide range of exquisite engagement rings.