How to choose the perfect diamond engagement ring

As one of the most special items that you are likely to ever purchase, it’s important to make a well- informed decision when choosing an engagement ring, particularly when opting for a stone as precious as a diamond. Here is our guide on what you need to consider.

Take your time

An engagement ring is intended to be a lasting symbol of love so do your research and think it through, don’t make a purchase on a whim. Be sure to only buy from a diamond expert with years of experience. You might like to take a friend or family member along with you for a second opinion and ask plenty of questions throughout the process.

Make it personal

Take into account the personality of the person you are buying for. Does the diamond need to have a certain amount of understated elegance, or are you looking for more of a sparkler to make a real statement? This too may influence the size of diamond that you go for.

Cut, colour, clarity and carats

Commonly referred to as the 4 C’s, these are usually the factors which will be influenced by your budget. Your diamond expert will talk you through in more detail, but here are a few things to think about before you buy.

You may want to pay most attention to the cut, as this is what determines the sparkle of a diamond. From pear to oval, heart to marquise – there are several to choose from. A scale measuring from colourless to yellow is used to grade the colour of a diamond, the general rule is the less the colour, the higher the value.

Due to the way that diamonds are formed, under extreme heat and pressure deep within the Earth’s crust, they often have their own unique birthmarks and blemishes. Again, a scale is used to reflect the clarity of a diamond. Very rare diamonds don’t have these marks, meaning they are often the most valuable kind. And finally, the number of carats relates to the weight of a diamond – with one carat equalling 0.2 grams.