How to Choose the Perfect Engagement Ring
The time that you’ve been waiting for has finally arrived. You’ve met that special someone, and now it’s time to take the big leap and get married! But, hold on—there’s one huge question that still needs answering: Where do I even start with finding the PERFECT engagement ring?
At Seven Oaks Jewelers, we know how overwhelming this can be. Finding the perfect ring is no small task, and that’s why we’re here to help make this process easy, fun, and stress-free. We’ve guided hundreds of couples through this very journey, and now it’s your turn!
We believe the best way to approach choosing an engagement ring is by breaking it down into three key decisions: What center stone shape do I like? What metal type and color do I like? What style of band do I like? Once you have these answers, we’ll bring it all together to design the ring of your dreams.
Let’s dive in!
1. Center Stone Selection
The center stone is the heart of your engagement ring. It’s the part that catches everyone's attention, so choosing the right one is essential! Here are some important questions to guide you in making this decision.
What Type of Center Stone Should I Choose?
When selecting your center stone, the most popular route is to go with a diamond, but there are other beautiful options out there, too! Colored gemstones, like sapphires or emeralds, can add a unique touch. Consider what best suits your partner’s style. Do they love the classic elegance of diamonds, or are they more drawn to something unconventional like a rich blue sapphire or a vibrant ruby?
What Size Diamond or Gemstone Should I Get?
When it comes to size, the perfect diamond or gemstone is one that fits both your partner’s style and your budget. You don’t have to break the bank to find a stunning stone. Carat size plays a big role in the price, so consider what size would look proportional to the rest of the design, especially if you're opting for a more intricate band. Remember, the right size is the one that makes you both feel great!
What Shape Should the Center Stone Be?
Now comes the fun part—the shape! Diamonds and gemstones come in a variety of shapes, and each one offers a unique flair. Round brilliant diamonds are the most classic and offer maximum sparkle, these are rings like one of our favorites: Rose. However, shapes like oval, emerald, and radiant cuts are becoming increasingly popular for couples looking for something different. You can see these in some of our most popular rings like Heather or Cassie.
What Color and Clarity Are Most Important for the Center Stone?
When choosing a diamond, color and clarity are key factors to consider. Diamonds are graded from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow), with D-F being the highest grade. The clearer the diamond, the more sparkle it will have. While you want to get the best clarity possible, it’s important to balance that with your budget. Most diamonds are slightly imperfect, but those imperfections are often not visible to the naked eye. For more information take a look at How are diamonds graded? When considering gemstones, choose a color that matches your partner’s style—whether it’s the deep blue of a sapphire or the rich green of an emerald.
What Is the Difference Between Natural Diamonds and Lab-Grown Diamonds?
Another important question is whether to go with a natural diamond or a lab-grown diamond. Both have the same chemical, optical, and physical properties, so the choice comes down to personal preference. Lab-grown diamonds are an ethical and more affordable option, while natural diamonds carry a unique history. At Seven Oaks, we offer both options, so you can decide based on what fits your values and budget best.
2. The Style of the Engagement Ring
The style of the engagement ring will reflect your partner’s personal taste and lifestyle. It’s important to find a design that fits their personality while also being functional for everyday wear. Here are some questions to guide you through this part of the process.
What Ring Setting Suits My Partner’s Taste?
Choosing the right setting is essential. A solitaire setting is timeless and focuses all attention on the center stone. However, if your partner loves sparkle, a halo setting that surrounds the center stone with smaller diamonds might be perfect. Other options include vintage-inspired settings with intricate details or modern, sleek settings for a minimalist vibe. Whatever you choose, make sure it complements your partner’s personal style.
What Metal Should I Choose for the Band?
The metal you choose for the band plays a huge role in the overall look of the ring. Yellow gold is classic and timeless, while rose gold offers a romantic and trendy touch. White gold and platinum are cool-toned metals that give the ring a sleek, modern feel. If your partner has sensitive skin, platinum might be a great choice, as it's hypoallergenic and durable. Take into consideration what metals they wear in their everyday jewelry—this can give you a clue as to what will feel most natural to them.
How Do I Select a Band That Complements the Center Stone?
When choosing a band, think about how it works with the center stone. If you’ve chosen a larger center stone, a simple band might be best, as it won’t overshadow the stone. If the center stone is smaller, you might want to opt for a thicker band or one that’s set with smaller diamonds or gemstones to add more visual weight. Make sure the band is proportionate to the stone for balance.
What’s the Best Design for My Partner’s Everyday Lifestyle?
Does your partner live an active lifestyle? If so, a low-profile setting that sits closer to the finger might be ideal to prevent the ring from getting snagged. For those who prefer a bold design, a more intricate, elevated band with larger stones may be more their style. Think about whether they want a ring that requires a lot of upkeep or something more low-maintenance for daily wear.
Should the Engagement Ring Match My Partner’s Existing Jewelry?
Does your partner have a specific style in the jewelry they wear every day? Whether they prefer a minimalist design or more elaborate pieces, it’s important to choose a ring that reflects their existing style. If they love stacking rings or already wear a lot of jewelry, a custom engagement ring that coordinates with what they already wear can make the ring even more meaningful.
3. Bringing It All Together
Now that you’ve considered the center stone, the band, and the setting, it’s time to bring it all together. This is where we at Seven Oaks Jewelers come in! Our custom process is designed to make sure you’re completely in love with the final design of your engagement ring. We take the time to carefully consider all your choices and turn them into a one-of-a-kind creation. Here’s how we help you do that:
How Do I Know If I’m Making the Right Choice?
One of the biggest concerns when choosing an engagement ring is whether you’re making the right choice. Our team at Seven Oaks Jewelers is here to guide you every step of the way. By narrowing down your preferences for center stone shape, band style, and metal type, we ensure the final design is something your partner will love.
What’s the Best Way to Balance My Budget?
We know how important it is to stick to a budget while still choosing a beautiful engagement ring. That’s why our custom process includes options to fit any budget, without sacrificing quality. Our team will help you balance size, shape, and metal choices to find a ring that’s affordable and stunning.
How Do I Ensure the Engagement Ring Fits My Partner Perfectly?
It’s important to get the ring size right! We can help guide you on how to measure your partner’s ring size (without them knowing!) or use one of their existing rings to get an accurate size. Once we’ve designed the perfect ring, we’ll ensure it fits like a glove!
Can I Customize the Engagement Ring to Make It Truly Unique?
At Seven Oaks Jewelers, we specialize in custom engagement rings. Whether it’s a special engraving, a unique setting, or a completely original design, we work with you to create a ring that perfectly represents your love story.
How Do I Know the Ring Is Ethically Sourced?
We understand that many of our clients are concerned about sourcing. That’s why all of our diamonds and gemstones are ethically sourced. We only work with suppliers who follow responsible and sustainable practices, so you can feel confident in the ring you choose.
Choosing the perfect engagement ring doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By answering a few simple questions about center stone selection, style, and metal type, you’ll be well on your way to finding a ring that fits your partner perfectly. With Seven Oaks Jewelers, you can trust that the final product will be beautiful, unique, and a symbol of your love.
