A short guide to choosing a diamond engagement ring — Ernest Jones

One of the most important purchases that you will ever have to make in your life is a diamond engagement ring. Not only do you have to plan the proposal itself, and take the chance when you get down on one knee, but getting the right ring is vital. The ring should dazzle her and make her feel magical.

Don’t worry, help is at hand

Sound scary? At Ernest Jones we take every care to make sure that the selection process is easy, straightforward and stress free so that you can focus on the important things, such as organising how and where you are going to propose.

Key points when buying a ring

Before buying a diamond engagement ring for your loved one at Ernest Jones, here are some key considerations.

• The 4Cs - cut, carat, colour and clarity.
• Diamond shape — traditional round brilliant or contemporary princess cut?
• Determine your budget — traditionally it is a month’s salary, but this is just a guideline so be sensible.
• What metal does she wear?
• Style — contemporary and bold, cluster, three diamonds or a solitaire?
• Ring size — borrow one of her rings?
• Always keep a receipt — just in case!

A little more detail

Some of these points are self-explanatory but to help you understand some of the finer points, let’s go into a little more detail on some of the more complex areas of buying an engagement ring.

The four C’s

When buying a diamond engagement ring, or any diamond jewellery, it is advisable to consider the four Cs. It is the interplay between these that determines a diamond’s value, rarity and beauty. Consider the importance of each of these to you and you’ll find the right diamond for your needs and budget.

Cut

The only one of the four Cs that is not determined by nature, cut refers to the angles and proportions a craftsman creates in transforming a rough stone into a polished diamond. A well-proportioned diamond allows light to be reflected from one facet to another, releasing its fire and brilliance.

Carat

Carat refers to the weight of the diamond. The larger the carat weight, the rarer and more valuable the diamonds. However, two diamond with the same carat weight may have different values depending on their cut, clarity and colour.

Clarity

Most diamonds contain inclusions that may look like tiny crystals, clouds or feathers. The fewer the inclusions, the greater the clarity and the more valuable the diamond.

Colour

Most diamonds contain subtle shades of yellow or brown which determine its colour. The closer a diamond is to having no colour, the more valuable it is. Diamonds are graded from D (truly colourless) to Z (light yellow).

Diamond shape

The traditional diamond shape is round brilliant. Other shapes are known as "fancy shapes" and include princess cut, emerald cut, oval, marquise, heart and pear.

How many diamonds?

Many people consider the diamond solitaire ring, with just one wonderful diamond, to be a traditional diamond engagement ring. You could, however, select a diamond three stone ring, with each diamond representing the past, present and future, or go for total bling effect with a stunning cluster ring for ultimate sparkle.

Ring size?

It is impossible to guess someone’s ring size, but very important to get it right. Imagine trying to slide the ring onto her finger and it being too small! The most accurate way of getting her ring size is to take her to get her finger measured in your local Ernest Jones store. But if you’re going to surprise her with an engagement ring, get hold of one of her rings and take it to an Ernest Jones store to have it measured. Or you can use our ring sizing chart to measure it against. Do remember to put it back — you don’t want her to think it’s been stolen! If you do buy her a ring that doesn’t fit — don’t worry. At Ernest Jones we’re happy to exchange it for the correct size.

Which metal?

Have a look at her jewellery box to see if she prefers yellow gold or white gold. Or maybe she likes platinum, a hardwearing metal that retains its beauty. Once you have established which metal she prefers you will be one big step closer to buying exactly the right diamond engagement ring.

And finally…

For the other key points, it is basically common sense. Do keep the receipt, especially if you’re not entirely sure of her ring size, stick to your budget (there’s an engagement ring for every budget), look at her jewellery to help you pick the right style and, remember, you can always let her choose the ring herself.

For more information about choosing the right diamond, visit our diamond buyer’s guide.

View diamond rings here.