Have plans to propose but not the ring? Proposed with a symbolic band but now want to create this special ring together? Looking for something extra, unique and impressive but not over the top? We know how hard this decision can be and how overwhelming the choice can become.
That's why we've compiled a guide to everything you need to know on how to choose an engagement ring successfully. Explore the key points and nuances and be ready to tackle the long-awaited and sweet task with confidence!
What Makes an Engagement Ring Special?
Yes, we know that this question sounds weird because it is an engagement ring, the one and only piece that always stands apart, but bear with us. When we answer this question, you’ll be much more confident about approaching the task and asking all important questions.
Alongside the reason for buying it, the features that make this ring a special one are the styling nuances and preferences of the person who will wear it.
First, this ring will be worn regularly, every day, to be exact, so it needs to be practical and durable enough to live up to the occasion. The band has to be solid and strong and the stone should be secured well in its place. This ring will be worn with a wedding band and styled with other rings from the jewelry collection, so its design needs to accommodate another ring stacked close to it.
Second, it should please the wearer, matching the taste for color, stone, shape, and all those details that make a ring beautiful. A diamond or some other gem, white gold and rose gold, this or that setting style? The only guide here is what she wants (and it’s up to you to spy around a little and learn about her jewelry tastes in advance).
So when you put together these two points, you get a ring that is made to the liking of one precious person only, and so it is unique in all possible senses.
Popular Engagement Ring Styles to Know
The engagement ring styles are defined by the carefully balanced interplay of the setting and the stone. Taken together, they can create a more reserved or bolder look, a delicate or more substantial feel, and impact how the ring is seen by others.
Key Ring Styles To Keep In Mind
Solitaire - a single stone set on a simple band. This style is timeless and suits every bride. The design underscores the amazing centerstone, so you can experiment with the gem selection and be sure that everyone will notice it.
Three-stone style - one larger and two smaller stones are placed along the band. They take up more space and make the ring look more solid on a finger. Additionally, you can play with colors and have a ring with diamonds or a combination of colored gems.
Halo (half-halo, double halo) - this style is one of the oldest known and still one of the most versatile. It is a great way to make a modest stone look bigger (due to a row of stones running around it) or to add sparkling accents to a colored center stone. Practically every type of gemstones (diamonds included) wins when set into a sparkly surrounding.
Cluster - a set of stones sprinkled along the band or arranged together in a whimsical pattern look fresh but also stylish and unobtrusive. Together with a more solid and uniform wedding band, a cluster ring forms a perfect pair, cool and easy to style.
Art Deco - if you want something more ornate and opulent, rich in historical references but beautiful on its own, opt for Art Deco. Rectangular stones, complex settings, lots of interesting details and grand architectural shapes - that's what Art Deco is about. For such a ring, a wedding band can be minimalist. The focus will be on the engagement ring at all times.
Victorian - this style also belongs to the vintage cohort and is more decorative in comparison to simpler modern styles. The Victorian style ring differs from Art Deco in that it features more floral and natural motifs and more rounded and curving shapes. It is romantic and fairy-like, so an additional layer of magical meaning is guaranteed.
Each and every style is beautiful whether done with diamonds or other colored gems. You can experiment with different stones until you feel that a given combination is just what you had in mind all along.
Choosing the Best Metal for Engagement Rings
The stone is important but the metal of the ring matters, too. The best metal for engagement rings is the one that can enhance or soften the color or sparkle of stones and give a certain stylistic vibe to a ring you want.
Gold is popular because it is, well, gold. It’s beautiful, does not change its color or look through time, is hypoallergenic, and in general elevates the look of jewelry pieces.
Yellow gold is classic of the classics, it suits diamonds and colored gems alike. Just mind that not to look yellowish, diamonds need to be nearly colorless. Colored gems will look more saturated and elegant when paired with this metal.
Rose gold is gaining popularity year after year. It has a more delicate tone, almost blush-like, which makes jewelry look exquisite and luxurious. It's not as straightforward in its effect as yellow gold, but once you own a piece of jewelry in this shade of gold, you’ll want more. Once again, diamonds need to be practically colorless to look perfect in rose gold, but colored gems will only gain depth and beauty in this setting.
White gold is a modern stylistic invention, and it makes all stones look sleek and cool, if a little bit on the colder side. Diamonds will look perfect in white gold, and even a diamond with a hint of yellowness will look pristine. Blue and green gems will gain transparency and cool tones, while rubies may look a bit more transparent and pinkish. Overall, white gold looks contemporary and is excellent for minimalist and unusual designs, as it will stand out against the skin tone.
Silver has become a more sought-after option for engagement rings. The matter is not the price but the subtlety of the look. Silver has a more soft shine to it, but when rhodium-plated, it looks almost identical to white gold. Also, some brides choose silver because it is their preferred jewelry material, so an engagement ring needs to fit into a larger aesthetic concept. Anyway, silver is a valid option, although it’s more malleable than gold.
Just keep in mind that both types of metal are prone to scratching, so maintenance will be required now and then.
Gemstone Engagement Rings: Beyond the Diamond
The biggest plus of present fashion trends is the freedom to choose various stones and materials. Diamonds (or diamond alternatives) are not the only appropriate option any longer. The entire Big 4 of gems (diamond, emerald, ruby and sapphire) are widely represented in the newest bridal collections, so they all are legit It-stones for the chicest engagement rings (if you had any doubts).
But what if we look beyond the big 4? Now you can include into your ring the most unique and interesting stones without anyone raising a brow. You get a ring that is symbolic of your engaged status and carries additional layers of meanings and beauty. Such special stones make the ring stand out immediately, even if the design is very restrained and formal.
Need an example? We’ve got plenty of gemstone engagement rings that are on the fashion radar right now!
Alexandrite: purple to grey or greenish, this amazing color-changing stone can rival a diamond in the sparkle and grandness department. The ring with alexandrite will stand out at any moment, and this majestic gem is equally suitable for an elegant solitaire, halo, or Art Deco styles.
Aquamarine: delicate blue with the slightest hint of warm green, this stone looks different when set in yellow, rose or white gold. Set in ‘gold’ gold, it makes a pretty heirloom piece with that special vintage vibe. In white gold, it feels totally modern and sleek, even on the chic avant-garde side, cool in tone and reminiscent of the sea and the sky.
Topaz: unlike aquamarine, topaz has a cold icy-blue tone, from deeply saturated to almost transparent. But topaz can also be yellow, pink, and colorless, looking almost like a diamond. You can experiment with topaz, putting it into white or yellow metals, and see how different it will look every time. The advantage of topaz is its affordability, so even a chunky solitaire won’t scare you with its price tag.
Citrin: the warmth and the comforting feel of the stone is practically a legend. The unique color between warm yellow and light orange reminds of everything pleasant and nice, like luxurious summers, honey, and amazing wines. In addition to its special beauty, the citrine ring is believed to bring luck, prosperity and good health to its owner.
Opal: this mysterious stone with rainbows and multiple fires within has many legends attached to it because of its beauty and spiritual properties. It will make an impressive and unforgettable engagement ring, plus the opal is usually shaped into a smooth cabochon, which adds to the uniqueness of the look. Whether set in the white or yellow metal, opal always looks fabulous, giving a refined and mysterious Edwardian and Belle Epoque vibe.
Sunstone: rich orange and rusty red, the stone reminds of the abundant fall, warm sunsets, pumpkin spice and all things cozy and pleasant. Yet it has the power to give you an energy boost and fend negative energies off, so the story goes. You are free to pick any setting or metal for it, but we’d recommend getting a sunstone and rose gold ring, because the beauty of the stone is amplified manifold in the warm golden frame.
Moss agate: when we talk about uniqueness, moss agate can easily claim the palace on top because every stone is absolutely unique, there are no two stones alike. Each piece features delicate green swirls and twigs that create mini-landscapes on the surface. Once you’ve seen it, you’ll never forget. The big advantage of a moss agate ring is its affordability, so choose a chunkier stone to display the fairy-like mossy forests in their full glory.
Rutilated quartz: one more stone to captivate your imagination. The transparent gem holds a network of fine lines inside, giving the impression of lace set in stone. The ring with this stone will definitely gather compliments and it will be a treasured piece in a jewelry collection.
How to Choose an Engagement Ring That’s Truly “You”
Now that you know about the ring’s main ‘ingredients,’ you will easily arrive at the ring that is absolutely ‘you.’
Decide on the stone and overall style. If you’re more into classics, opt for simpler styles with diamonds or diamond alternatives. You’ll rock them confidently for many years to come without worrying about changes in trends. If you’re looking for a ring to give to your special one, look at the jewelry she wears. But timeless styles like solitaire, three-stone, and halo are always a safe bet. Play with the shape of central stones, from classic round to elongated emerald and oval to fancy heart-shaped, and you’ll see how different these designs can look.
If you want a colored gem, decide on the stone. What stone appeals to you most? What stone is your (or your loved one’s) birthstone? What colors are among your favorite ones? When the stone is chosen, it’s much easier to choose a metal to show off the stone color most favorably, and to opt for the style. Colored gems are great for more intricate designs, they can be accentuated with small colorless stones and the ring will be a true masterpiece but more subdued and demure than a diamond ring.
When you factor in all important points, you’ll get a jewelry piece that reflects your needs and tastes. It will be a one-of-a-kind engagement ring that reflects your love story and the unique approach to life.
Classic & Modern Diamond Engagement Rings
Diamonds are diamonds, after all. If you are more into classic, timelessly elegant and effortless looks that don’t seem to age at all, go for diamond engagement rings (or diamond alternatives). If in doubt, or if you don't want to dwell too hard on the matter of choosing a ring, again, go for diamonds.
Right now, the attention of all fashionistas is on slimmer, more subtle and laid-back styles. But it does not mean that you have to choose only them. Go for a chunkier, bolder look, if you feel so. An engagement ring needs to bring joy to your loved one, in the first place, or you, if you have decided not to entrust the choosing process to someone else.
A little insider’s tip: diamonds can be lab-grown, ethical and affordable. So if the price is what turns you away, consider lab-grown stones, certified by 4Cs, brilliant in their beauty but fully fitting within any budget.
Or else, opt for moissanites or cubic zirconia. They create an amazing diamond-like effect but cost significantly less than diamonds of similar size.
Universal styles with modern twists or executed in their timeless glory without alterations are solitaire, variations of halo rings, three-stone (trilogy), toi et moi (two-stone) rings and cluster rings.
Just remember, that an engagement ring is hopefully a forever ring, so it should be comfortable to wear daily and it should make a good match for a wedding band. For this reason, popular engagement ring styles tend to be on a simpler side, closer to universal classic models rocked by royalties and celebrities. If you want to freshen up the jewelry set on your hand, you can always add a big blingy cocktail ring or two (or as many as you want, for that matter).
Unique and Vintage Engagement Rings: Stand Out with Style
When unique stones meet unique styles, a true jewelry wonder is born. Such are Victorian and Art Deco styles. We’d say that opal rings also give a strong Belle Epoque, also called Art Nouveau feel, but it depends on the specific setting design.
If you don’t want to play it overly safe and do it ‘too traditionally,’ look for such unusual - but gorgeous - styles that can incorporate colorful gems seamlessly.
You’ll have to think a bit about getting a matching wedding band, but a simple shiny band will do. Or else, choose a neat pave band with stones picking up the tone of the stone of the engagement ring.
Other than that, you don’t have to worry about anything. More complex and era-specific vintage engagement rings are highly popular, so if you love one, you’ve got plenty of wonderful collections and pieces to choose from.
Just consider this stunning Victorian aquamarine piece. Or else, look at this nature-inspired ornamental ring - you can customize it and fit it with any stone you prefer. Opt for a larger or a smaller centerpiece - each will look amazing.
They are all splendid in their own way, diverse and appealing to various tastes, and they will exude elegance and style now and beyond the bustling and emotions-rich wedding day.
Expert Tips for Buying the Perfect Engagement Ring
Practicality
Always consider the lifestyle. If it is very active and on-the-go, with lots of sports or hands-on activities, compact solid designs where stones are set close to the band and securely fixed in place are more preferable. Very delicate details and aerial bridges and sprigs that are only superficially attached to the band may not survive the test or time.
Yet if the lifestyle does not require a heavy-duty ring and more whimsical designs play an important part in the daily outfits, you can safely choose a ring with elements that branch outside from the main band and are connected at one point only.
Customization
To create a ring that is really ‘you’ or worthy of your loved one’s personality, you need to collaborate with a reliable and professional jeweler. A ring needs to be customized till it embodies your idea of perfection. You can achieve that only when you team up with people passionate about what they do and who know their craft and how they can enhance your ideas. YourAsteria can provide you with everything - from the best selection of unique engagement rings to assistance in customization and designing a ring from scratch. It’s our passion and mission to make your dreams come true, at least in the jewelry department.
Certification of diamonds
Whether mined or lab-grown, diamonds need to undergo a certification process that will establish their 4Cs parameters. Yes, every diamond features these parameters, so when you buy a stone, you have the right to know what exactly you are buying and how its features align with the price tag. And remember, size (carat weight) does not matter as much as clarity and cut. So look at the stone first and decide if you like the shape and the sparkle. Then check the certificate, to be on the safe side.
Resizing option
With all precautions and little tricks to learn about your sweetheart’s ting size, there is always room for error, and that’s pretty normal. That's why every jewelry shop offers resizing services, so if the ring is a little too big or too small, it can be made into a perfect fit. A shop you buy this special ring from usually offers free resizing, but ask in advance to be on the safe side. Plus, some ring models can be resized as easily as others. So ask all the right questions before putting the money down, so to speak.
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