Choosing an engagement ring is a big decision, but it should also be an exciting one. With so many diamond shapes, settings, metals and styles to choose from, knowing where to start can sometimes feel like the hardest part.
At Harling’s, we believe finding the right engagement ring is about more than checking a list of boxes. It is about finding something that feels like you, or like the person you are choosing it for.
Here are a few things to consider when beginning your search.
Start With Their Style
Before getting caught up in diamonds and technical details, take a look at the jewellery they already wear.
Do they tend to choose classic and timeless pieces, or are they drawn to something a little more unexpected? Do they wear yellow gold, white gold or platinum? Are they someone who loves delicate jewellery, or do they prefer something with a little more presence?
Their everyday style can tell you a lot about the engagement ring they will love.
And if you are keeping the proposal a surprise, their existing jewellery is a great place to start.
Choose Your Diamond Shape
The diamond is often the star of the engagement ring, and its shape can completely change the look of the finished piece.
Some of the most popular diamond shapes include:
- Round: The classic choice, known for its exceptional brilliance.
- Oval: Elegant and elongated, with a flattering appearance on the finger.
- Cushion: Soft and romantic with a timeless feel.
- Emerald: Sophisticated and understated, with long, clean facets.
- Pear: Distinctive and elegant, combining the look of a round and marquise.
- Marquise: Elongated and dramatic, creating a striking silhouette.
- Radiant: A brilliant-cut shape with a modern look and plenty of sparkle.
- Princess: Crisp and geometric with a distinctly contemporary feel.
There is no “best” diamond shape. The right one is the one that makes you stop and look twice.
Understand the 4Cs
When choosing a diamond, you will hear a lot about the 4Cs: cut, colour, clarity and carat weight.
Cut has a major impact on how much a diamond sparkles and interacts with light.
Colour refers to how much warmth or colour is visible in a diamond. The right choice can depend on the diamond shape and the metal of the ring.
Clarity refers to the natural characteristics within a diamond. A diamond does not need to have the highest clarity grade to look beautiful, as many characteristics are not visible to the naked eye.
Carat refers to weight, not simply how large a diamond looks. Shape and proportions can affect how a diamond appears on the finger.
The 4Cs are useful tools, but they are not the whole story. Two diamonds with the same grades can look very different in person, which is why seeing diamonds for yourself can make such a difference.
Natural or Lab-Grown?
Today, you also have the choice between natural and lab-grown diamonds.
Both are real diamonds. Natural diamonds formed deep within the earth over billions of years, while lab-grown diamonds are created using advanced technology in a controlled environment.
Some people are drawn to the rarity and history of a natural diamond, while others appreciate the value and accessibility of a lab-grown diamond.
There is no right answer. It comes down to what matters most to you.
If you are still deciding, read our guide to Natural vs. Lab-Grown Diamonds.
Find the Right Setting
The setting is what brings the diamond and the rest of the ring together.
A solitaire keeps the focus entirely on the centre diamond. A halo adds surrounding sparkle. A three-stone ring can carry a beautiful meaning of past, present and future. A bezel setting offers a sleek, modern look with the diamond surrounded by metal, while pavé settings bring extra sparkle to the band.
You may also discover details such as hidden halos, cathedral settings or diamond-accented bands.
The best setting is one that complements the diamond and suits the person who will wear it every day.
Choose Your Metal
Platinum, white gold, yellow gold and rose gold each give an engagement ring a different character.
Think about what they already wear and what will pair well with a future wedding band. Lifestyle is worth considering too, especially if the ring will be worn every day.
Not sure which is right? Our team can help you compare the options and find the metal that works best for your ring.
Don't Forget the Details
There are a few practical things that are easy to overlook when you are focused on finding the perfect ring.
Ring size: If the proposal is a surprise, borrow a ring they already wear on the intended finger or ask someone close to them for help. And if the size isn't quite right, don't panic. Many engagement rings can be professionally resized.
Budget: There is no magic number you need to spend on an engagement ring. Think about what feels comfortable for you and which elements matter most, whether that is the diamond, the setting, the craftsmanship or a particular design.
Timing: Give yourself enough time to explore your options, especially if you are choosing a specific diamond or creating something custom.
Consider Custom Design
Sometimes you know exactly what you want. Other times, you know it when you see it.
Custom design gives you the opportunity to create an engagement ring around the details that matter to you, from the diamond and metal to the setting and finishing touches.
At Harling’s, our team can help bring your ideas together and create something that feels completely your own.
We Know It, or We'll Find It.
Choosing an engagement ring does not have to mean becoming a diamond expert overnight.
That is what we are here for.
At Harling’s, we have been helping couples find and create engagement rings in Vancouver since 1964. Our team can help you explore natural and lab-grown diamonds, diamond shapes, settings, metals and custom designs, while answering all the questions that come along the way.
We love helping someone find the moment when they know they have found the one. We call that a Harling’s Moment.
Come Find Your Ring
Still deciding what feels right? Come in and have a chat.
You can see different diamonds, compare shapes and settings, try on rings and get advice from our team in person. Whether you have a very clear vision or have no idea where to start, we are here to help.
Book an Engagement Ring Consultation