Buying a diamond engagement ring is one of the most exciting moments in life. It’s a symbol of love, commitment, and the start of a new chapter. But let’s face it—choosing the perfect ring can also feel a little overwhelming, especially for first-time buyers. With so many options out there, it’s easy to get lost in the details.

That’s where this checklist comes in.

We’ve broken down everything you need to know to make the best decision, ensuring the ring you choose is as special as the moment you propose.

Set Your Budget Early On

Before you even start looking at diamonds, it’s important to set a budget. Knowing how much you’re willing to spend helps narrow down your options and keeps you from falling in love with a ring that’s way out of your price range. One popular guideline is to set aside two to three months' salary, but the most important thing is to spend what feels comfortable for you.

Engagement rings come in a wide range of prices, so you can find something beautiful no matter your budget. If you’re on a budget but want something luxurious, check out engagement rings for a variety of stunning options to fit your financial plan.

A Little Tip: If you’re on a tight budget, consider choosing a smaller diamond with excellent cut quality. A well-cut diamond will reflect more light and appear more brilliant, even if it’s smaller.

Understand the 4 Cs: Cut, Clarity, Carat, and Colour

If you’ve ever researched diamonds, you’ve likely come across the 4 Cs: cut, clarity, carat, and colour.

These four characteristics determine a diamond’s quality and price, so understanding them will help you make a more informed decision.

Cut: This is the most important factor in a diamond’s brilliance. A well-cut diamond reflects light beautifully, making it sparkle.
Clarity: This refers to the tiny imperfections (or lack thereof) inside the diamond. The fewer the inclusions, the clearer—and more valuable—the diamond.
Carat: Carat refers to the weight of the diamond. Larger diamonds tend to be more expensive, but size isn’t everything!
Colour: The less colour a diamond has, the more valuable it is. However, many diamonds with a slight tint can still look stunning and be more affordable.

When buying a diamond, it’s all about balance. You may choose to prioritise cut over carat if sparkle is more important to you than size.

Explore a range of large diamond rings if carat weight is a priority for you.

Choose the Right Diamond Shape for Your Style

Diamonds come in all shapes, from the classic round brilliant to the trendy cushion cut. The shape you choose should reflect your partner’s personal style.

Some shapes, like round, offer the most sparkle, while others, like emerald or pear, offer a more unique and vintage look.

Here are a few popular options:

Round: Timeless and brilliant.
Princess: A square shape with lots of sparkle.
Cushion: A mix between square and round, with soft, rounded edges.
Oval: Elegant and elongates the finger.

Pro Tip: If your partner loves vintage styles, consider a cushion or emerald cut. These shapes give off a romantic, old-world feel.

If you're not sure about the shape, check out engagement rings to explore all the styles.

Decide on the Engagement Ring Setting

The setting of the ring is just as important as the diamond itself. The right setting can enhance the look of your diamond and protect it from damage.

Here are some of the most popular settings:

Solitaire: A single diamond held by prongs. This classic style focuses all attention on the diamond.
Halo: A centre diamond surrounded by smaller diamonds. This makes the centre stone appear larger and adds extra sparkle.
Pavé: The band is covered with tiny diamonds, giving it a sparkling effect.
Vintage: These settings often include intricate details like filigree or milgrain, giving the ring an antique look.

If your partner leads an active lifestyle, you might want to choose a more durable setting like bezel or prong, which offers more protection for the diamond.

Explore engagement rings with a variety of settings to find one that fits your partner's style and needs.

Choose the Right Metal: Platinum or Gold?

Choosing the metal for your engagement ring is about both aesthetics and durability.

The most popular choices are platinum, white gold, yellow gold, and rose gold.

Platinum: Extremely durable and hypoallergenic but more expensive than gold.
White Gold: A popular choice for its sleek, modern look. It requires occasional rhodium plating to maintain its shine.
Yellow Gold: A classic option that’s making a comeback.
Rose Gold: Soft and romantic, this metal has a pinkish hue and is often chosen for its unique look.

If you're looking for something unique, you might also want to check out eternity rings for other gorgeous band styles.

Know Your Partner’s Ring Size

This one may seem obvious, but getting the correct ring size is essential. The last thing you want is a ring that’s too tight or too loose.

Here are a few ways to discreetly find out your partner’s ring size:

Borrow one of their rings (from the correct finger) and take it to a jeweller for sizing.
Ask their friends or family.
Use a printable ring sizing guide found online.

If all else fails, choose a ring that’s slightly larger. It’s easier to resize a ring down than up.

Consider Ethical and Eco-Friendly Options

In today’s world, many couples are choosing ethical and eco-friendly engagement rings.

These options include conflict-free diamonds and lab-grown diamonds.

Conflict-Free Diamonds: These diamonds are sourced from areas that do not fund violence or exploit workers. Look for certifications like the Kimberley Process.
Lab-Grown Diamonds: These diamonds are created in a lab but have the same physical and chemical properties as natural diamonds. They are often more affordable and eco-friendly.

If you're interested in sustainable options, check out lab-grown diamonds for affordable, ethical choices.

Ask for a Diamond Certification

A diamond certification is a document from an independent lab that details the quality of the diamond based on the 4 Cs. Always ask for a certificate from a reputable organisation, such as the GIA (Gemological Institute of America) or AGS (American Gem Society). This ensures that you’re getting what you pay for.

Plan for Future Care and Maintenance

Once you have the ring, taking care of it is crucial. Diamonds are durable, but they can still lose their shine over time.

Regular Cleaning: Clean your ring at home using warm water, dish soap, and a soft toothbrush. Professional cleanings every six months are also recommended.
Check for Damage: Make sure the prongs holding the diamond are secure and inspect for any wear on the band.

Consider insuring the ring as well. Jewellery insurance can protect you from loss, theft, or damage, giving you peace of mind.

For matching pieces and something extra special, check out diamond pendants and necklaces to complement your engagement ring.

Work with a Trusted Jeweller

Finally, it’s important to work with a jeweller you trust. Whether you’re shopping in person or online, read reviews, ask for recommendations, and don’t hesitate to ask questions. A good jeweller will help guide you through the process and ensure you’re getting the best quality within your budget.

FAQs

How do I know if a diamond is real?

Look for a diamond certification from a reputable lab. You can also ask the jeweller to test the diamond in front of you using a diamond tester.

Should I prioritise diamond cut or carat weight?

Cut is the most important factor in a diamond’s brilliance. A well-cut diamond will sparkle more, even if it’s smaller. If you’re working with a budget, prioritise cut over carat.

Can a diamond ring be resized?

Yes, most diamond rings can be resized. However, if the ring has an intricate design or small side stones, resizing may be more difficult.

Is it okay to buy an engagement ring online?

Yes, many reputable jewellers sell high-quality engagement rings online. Just make sure to read reviews, check their return policy, and confirm that the diamond comes with a certification.