How to Buy an Engagement Ring

This guide will go through every step before buying an engagement ring, from understanding styles, settings and trends to making the final selection.


A Spark That Lasts a Lifetime

At Eternate, we understand the significance of engagement rings and share your excitement of choosing one. We also know with all the different styles, gemstones and metals to choose from, the selection process can feel a bit overwhelming. That’s why we would like to walk you through the process step-by-step, answer your questions, and guide you through all the important details so that you can easily find the ring you will both cherish for a lifetime.

1. Budgeting

The first step should be setting a realistic budget for a comfortable purchase. Engagement rings come in a whole range of different prices depending on factors like the gemstones, metals, their quality, settings and craftsmanship. When you have a price range in your mind, you can narrow down your choices easily. Here are a few tips on that:


  • Compare prices from different jewelers, both online and in person. Remember, slight design and gemstone changes can make a big difference in price.
  • Look for gemstones that offer a balance between size and quality with a price tag that works best for you.
  • Diamonds are the most popular. They might as well have a more heavy price tag because natural diamonds are precious and rare. However, that doesn't mean you have to miss out on that beautiful sparkle. Consider diamond alternatives like moissanite and lab diamonds which are equally durable, brilliant, beautiful and come at a much more accessible price point.
  • Your safest bet would be to openly discuss what's important to your partner. Maybe a dream vacation or saving for a house is more important than a super expensive ring. So, your budget should reflect your partner’s preferences and your own financial considerations.
  • Our ultimate advice is to set as realistic and flexible a price limit as possible. After all, you can never know which ring will get under your skin.

2. Engagement Ring Styles

A gold solitaire engagement ring might be the first image that pops into your head when you think of engagement rings, but there's a whole world of different styles you might also like. The key here is to try and find the one that best suits your partner’s taste. To do so, you might need to get a sense of your partner's preferences.

Take a peek at their existing jewelry collection. This can tell you a lot about their taste in metals, colors, gemstones and overall design. You can also chat with close friends or family members who might have some insights into their dream ring. Once you have a better idea of their preferences, you’re ready to explore different ring styles. Look through a variety of styles and let your eye be drawn to what you think would look lovely on your partner. Here are a few popular styles you can go for:

3. Choose a Gemstone

Deciding on a gemstone is another big step towards finding the perfect ring. You can never go wrong with a sparkling diamond, but there is actually a whole world of equally unique and brilliant gemstones to discover. Choosing the perfect engagement ring is even more exciting when you consider all those beautiful options you have.

Engagement ring traditions are redefined, and colorful gemstones and diamond alternatives are becoming increasingly popular. Many couples now are embracing unique styles featuring these alternative gemstones such as moissanite, lab diamond, opal engagement ring, moss agate engagement ring and even more. So, if you're looking for a ring that's as special as your love, rest assured that there are countless ways to find something truly one-of-a-kind.

Diamond

With so much to consider, choosing a diamond itself can also feel daunting. Luckily, a framework called the 4C’s can help you navigate diamond quality.


Cut: Cut refers to a diamond's proportions and how light interacts with it. A well-cut diamond will sparkle brilliantly, while a poorly cut one might appear dull. A smaller diamond with excellent cut might sparkle more than a larger diamond with lower quality.

Color: Most diamonds often have tiny traces of color, whether we can see them or not. Color is graded depending on how colorless it is because colorless diamonds are the most valuable.

Clarity: Clarity refers to the presence of any tiny flaws called inclusions within the diamond, which can affect its brilliance. The value of a diamond increases the closer it gets to being completely flawless.

Carat: Carat is the measurement unit of the weight and accordingly the size of the diamond. It is the most important factor affecting a diamond’s price.


Understanding these factors is key to finding the perfect diamond for your budget because even small differences in these grades can change the price significantly. That’s why, it’s best to familiarize yourself with the 4C’s and diamond grading to get the best value for your budget. For more detailed information regarding these gradings, visit our comprehensive Diamond Guide.

Moissanite

Moissanite is a dazzling lab-created gemstone that's gaining serious popularity lately as a beautiful and affordable alternative to diamonds, and it's no wonder! Moissanite actually outshines diamonds in some ways, thanks to its higher refractive index, meaning it reflects light in a way that creates a flashy play of colors. You won't have to worry about its durability either as it's nearly as hard as a diamond, so it can well keep up with an active lifestyle. To learn more about moissanites, check out our Moissanite vs. Diamond Guide.

Lab Diamond

Lab diamonds have the same chemical and physical properties as mined ones, meaning it is not possible to visually tell the difference between the two without special equipment. The only difference between them is how they are formed. Lab-grown diamonds are crafted in controlled laboratories. Mined diamonds, on the other hand, form naturally deep within the Earth before being brought to the surface through mining. Explore our Lab-Grown vs. Natural Diamonds guide for more information.

Unique Gemstones

So you're thinking of a ring, but maybe diamonds aren't quite your or your partner’s style, and you are looking for something a little different, and that's totally cool. Here at Eternate, we offer an array of different gemstones beyond diamonds, each with its own unique properties and aesthetics. We even have a handy Gemstone Guide where you can explore some dazzling alternatives for your most cherished piece. So, if you're picturing something with a pop of color or an unconventional twist, go ahead and explore our alternative engagement rings featuring these gemstones in beautiful settings.

4. Decide on a Gemstone Shape

After deciding on the gemstone for the ring, the next step can be choosing the shape of it. Diamonds come in all sorts of cool shapes, like the classic round, the elongated oval and the geometric princess cut. But that's not all. There are fancy shapes like pear, marquise and heart, too. Other gemstones can be even more playful, with shapes like kite and hexagon.

The shape you choose affects how your ring will look overall, not just the sparkle. It can also influence how well the stone sits in the setting – some shapes with sharp corners, like princess and pear, can be more prone to chipping than others. That's why picking a shape is just as important as the gemstone itself and the famous 4C’s (cut, clarity, color and carat). To dive deeper into different shapes and how they'll influence your ring's design, check out our Engagement Ring Guide.

Round
Oval
Princess
Emerald
Cushion
Heart
Radiant
Asscher
Pear
Marquise

5. Choose the Setting

You have set a budget, decided on a gemstone and have an idea about which shapes and styles to go for, now it’s time to explore engagement ring settings. Setting is the name for the entire design of the metal framework that holds the stone securely in place on a ring. The setting plays a crucial role in not just the overall style of the ring, but also its durability, comfort and how well it highlights your chosen gemstone.

For example, a bezel engagement ring, where the metal wraps around the gemstone, provides extra security for your stone. Keep in mind that it might hide more of the stone though. Prong settings, on the other hand, maximize sparkle by holding the diamond with small claws, but might require a bit more care. Halo settings make your gemstone look bigger and add extra sparkle around it.


That is to say, the setting allows you to personalize the ring's style and is an important step to consider before making a decision. With a little help from our Engagement Ring Guide, you are all set to choose a setting and move on to the next step.

Metal Choice

The type of metal you choose significantly impacts the look, practicality and durability of your jewelry, especially for frequently worn pieces like engagement rings. The most popular precious metals for engagement rings are gold and platinum. These are excellent choices that won't disappoint you in terms of durability. Both gold and platinum are hypoallergenic, so you can wear them comfortably without worrying about irritation.

When it comes to the color of it, a shiny white is the most popular one but yellow gold is also getting highly popular these days. For a more romantic and vintage feel, you can also go for a rose gold engagement ring. No matter your preference, our expert craftsmanship ensures you get a stunning and long-lasting piece of jewelry that is crafted from 100% recycled materials, so you can feel good about your choice while celebrating your love story.

Ring Size

Finding the ideal ring size can be the final step before making a purchase. Now that you have found the perfect ring that will make their eyes pop and heart beat with joy, you need to make sure it will fit when you propose. If you are planning a secret proposal, we have come up with sneaky ways to learn their ring size to help you. If you are making a purchase for yourself, you can read about how to measure your ring size or if you already know your ring size but are not sure how to convert it, you can refer to our size conversion chart. To give you a general idea, the most common ring sizes for women are 6, 6.5 and 7, whereas for men, they are 10, 10.5 and 11.

Men’s Engagement Rings

Traditionally, engagement rings have been for the soon-to-be-betrothed woman, but times are changing. We're thrilled to introduce our new collection of unique men's engagement rings, designed for those who want to express their commitment in a special way – because sometimes, he's the one you want to pop the question to. These rings offer a more understated or subtle look compared to traditional styles. The main stone, if there is one, is typically smaller and often sits flush with the band for a clean, modern aesthetic. Explore our collection and discover the perfect ring to pop the question with, in a way you will both never forget.

Our Final Tips

Choosing an engagement ring is a big decision, so it's worth taking some time to think it through. Below are our final tips to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience:

  • The ring is just one part of the equation while the proposal itself is a big part of it. Make sure the timing allows for you to have the ring in hand without spoiling the surprise. A good rule of thumb is to allow at least 2 months between starting your search and proposing.
  • Don't be afraid to get some hints. If you're not sure about their exact taste, have a casual conversation about engagement rings. This can give you clues about their preferred style, metal or gemstones without tipping off your intentions.
  • Shop around. Don't feel pressured to buy the first ring you see. Compare prices and styles from different jewelers.
  • The most important thing is to find a ring that symbolizes your love and commitment. Consider engraving the ring with a special date or message to make it even more personal.
  • Did you know that at Eternate, you can design your own dream ring? With our custom made service, you will get the piece of jewelry that is exactly as you imagine it and 100% unique.
  • Eternate offers flexible payment options such as weekly or monthly payments powered by Affirm and Shoppay so you don't stress over payment.
  • Engagement rings are a significant purchase. Before you buy, understand the jeweler's return or exchange policy in case the ring isn't quite right or the size doesn't fit. At Eternate, we offer a complimentary 30-day return and exchange policy for all our customers.
  • Remember, you don't have to go step by step in the exact order as we outlined above. Of course, if you find a ring that instantly catches your eye, go for it. But a little research can go a long way in making sure your surprise is perfect. Knowing what you're buying ensures a confident choice you'll love and increases the chances your partner will be dazzled by a ring that reflects their taste.

Pop the Question

Congratulations! No matter which ring you chose, it will be just a starting point for a lifetime of memories. The most important detail will always be the love behind the proposal. Focus on the joy and excitement of this moment and starting your future together. We leave the rest to you, and wish you a lifetime of joy and happiness.

The Top Engagement Ring Trends of All Time

Engagement Ring Buying Guide FAQs

How to buy an engagement ring on a budget?

You can start by setting a budget first. This will guide your choices and ensure a smooth shopping experience. Then, if it’s going to be a diamond engagement ring, familiarize yourself with the 4C’s, and think about what matters most. For example, if brilliance is a priority, you might consider prioritizing cut over carat weight or clarity to stay within your budget. You can also consider alternative gemstones or pre-owned vintage engagement ring options for unique and often more affordable rings.

How much should an engagement ring cost?

There is not a single and correct answer to this question because there are many factors affecting an engagement ring’s cost. Even small design differences or gemstone grades can affect the price in surprising ways. So, it really depends on you and your financial considerations.

What is the difference between engagement ring and wedding ring?

An engagement ring is typically given during a proposal to symbolize your commitment to getting married. It often has a central gemstone, like a diamond. A wedding ring, on the other hand, is exchanged during the wedding ceremony itself and signifies your official union as a married couple. Wedding rings tend to be simpler in design.

What hand does an engagement ring go on?

Traditionally, engagement rings are worn on the fourth finger of the left hand, also known as the ring finger. This custom has roots in ancient Rome, where they believed a vein in that finger led directly to the heart, but of course this is not a rule. Wear it on the hand and finger that feels most comfortable and meaningful to you.

How to clean an engagement ring?

You can mix warm water with a mild dish soap (avoid harsh chemicals) and let your ring soak for 20 minutes. Then, use a soft-bristled brush to gently clean around the stone and behind the band. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a lint-free cloth. For deeper cleaning, consider an annual professional cleaning by a jeweler.

How to wear an engagement ring and wedding band?

Tradition often places the wedding band closer to your heart, so it goes on first, followed by the engagement ring on the same finger. Yet, there are no hard and fast rules. The most important thing is to find a way that feels comfortable and stylish to you as a couple.

How many carats should an engagement ring be?

There's no one-size-fits-all answer for carat size. It depends on your taste and budget. The average engagement ring is around 1 to 2 carats, but many beautiful rings are smaller or larger. Consider what your partner would love and what works for your lifestyle.

How should an engagement ring fit?

The ideal engagement ring feels secure and comfortable. It should slide smoothly over your knuckle but stay snug enough to spin with a gentle nudge.