10 Tips for Choosing the Perfect Engagement Ring

July 30, 2025

Edited By Lisa Smith

Choosing the perfect engagement ring is one of the most exciting and nerve wracking moments in a relationship. It’s a symbol of commitment, love, and the beginning of a journey together that lasts the rest of your life. Whether you’ve been planning this for months or just decided it’s time to pop the question, choosing the right ring doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

There are timeless solitaires and there are more unique styles like a pear shaped engagement ring. There are more choices than ever before, which means that finding the right ring can take some thought. Luckily for you, we’ve got 10 top tips to help you to choose the perfect engagement ring with confidence.

Think about their style. Before you start looking into carats, cuts, and clarity, take a moment to consider your partner’s personal style. Do they lean toward the classic or do they like modern? Are they into vintage pieces or minimalist aesthetics peak at the jewellery that they already wear? Is it favoured for gold or silver? Bold or delicate? This insight is going to really help you to narrow down your options, whether it’s a simple round solitaire or more distinctive pear shaped engagement ring.
Set a budget. It’s super tempting to go all out, but it is important to buy a ring within your means. You don’t want to start out a committed life together in debt. There is no set rule. Yes, you can ignore the outdated 3 month salary thing, but it should be an amount that you’re comfortable spending. Keep in mind that the setting and the style can greatly influence the price of the ring that you choose. Sometimes it can be influenced more than the stone itself. And don’t forget, this is just the beginning of your wedding journey, so budgeting smart now gives you flexibility later.
Think about the four C’s. Even if gemology isn’t something you understand, a basic understanding of cut, color, clarity, and carat weight goes a long way. Cut effects how sparkly the diamond appears, color grades how white or not the diamond is, Clarity refers to the imperfections or inclusions inside the stone, and carat measures the size, or more accurately, the weight. Each element influences both the look and the price of the stone, so prioritize what matters most to your partner and to you. Some might care more about sparkle, while others prefer size.
Think about unique shapes. Round diamonds are a classic, of course, but they are not your only option. You have marquees, emerald, Oval cushion and heart-shaped stones that are growing in popularity right now. If you’re looking for something elegant but slightly different, a pear shaped engagement ring may be the perfect middle ground. It’s going to combine the brilliance of a round cut with the uniqueness of a teardrop shape, which often makes the finger appear longer and slimmer.
Don’t forget about the metal. The metal you choose for the band can make a big impact on the overall look of the ring. You can choose yellow gold, which is warm and traditional, or white gold which is sleek and modern. Some people choose rose gold which is romantic and vintage inspired, but there are others with the thought of platinum rather than silver, which is durable and hypoallergenic.
Consider the setting. This refers to how the diamond is mounted on the ring. Not only does it affect the style of the ring, but it does affect how secure the stone is. Prong settings allow more light to enter the stone, so you get that maximum sparkle, but the bezel setting encircles the stone for a modern and secure look. A Halo setting is equivalent to small diamonds around the centre for that added brilliance. A pear shaped engagement ring looks stunning in both prong and Halo settings, which means that you emphasise both the shape and the sparkle.
Size does matter, but it really isn’t everything. Bigger isn’t always better when it comes to an engagement ring. A well cut one carat diamond can sparkle more than a poorly cut 2 carat stone. Plus, certain shapes like Oval or pear tend to appear larger than they are, which is a great trick if you want more presents without a higher price. You should never feel pressured to chase size, but focus on overall beauty and what feels right for your partner.
Make it personal. Engagement rings should be as unique as the love story that it represents. Consider adding personal touches, maybe a hidden gem inside the band and engraved message, or incorporating a family heirloom stone. When you choose something distinctive like a pear shaped engagement ring, it already sets you apart. Those extra personal elements can make the ring even more special.
Go with a reputable jeweller. If you pick a jeweller that’s transparent about sourcing, provides certifications, and offers good return and exchange policies, you’ll be able to shop with trust. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or take your time. If you decide to buy this ring online, make sure the store has solid reviews.
Don’t stress. When it comes down to it, the perfect engagement ring is the one that comes from the heart. Whether it’s a dazzling diamond, a pear shaped engagement ring, or something totally unconventional, it’s a symbol of your love and commitment. If you’re worried about getting every single detail right, remember that your partner will be overjoyed no matter what you choose. If tweaks are needed later, such as resizing or minor adjustments, it’s something that’s easily fixable.

This is a big step to take in life, but it doesn’t have to be an overwhelming one. With a little planning and attention to your partner’s style, you can find the ring that perfectly represents your relationship. If your heart’s leading towards something unique and beautiful, don’t overlook the timeless charm of a pear shaped engagement ring ’cause it might just be the perfect choice.