WE'LL HELP YOU FIND THE ONE, AGAIN

Going engagement ring shopping? Congratulations! Buying a ring and gearing up for the proposal is a really exciting time, and it's easy to get caught up in the romance, but remember: An engagement ring is usually a considerable expense, so make sure you do it right. Whether you’re going out on your own or you'll be heading out shopping together, this essential guide will help in finding the perfect engagement ring.

NARROW DOWN THE RIGHT SHAPE FOR YOU

If you know what you want in terms of diamond shape, that’ll help focus your engagement ring hunt immensely. Every shape (or cut) is priced differently — and each has a different price per carat. Round cuts are the most expensive, whereas pear and marquis are less so.

If size is important to you, you can get more carats at a better price when you choose a less expensive shape. Study up on engagement ring cuts and have one (or two) favourites in mind.

CHOOSE A METAL FOR THE BAND

Traditionally, engagement rings are made from gold, silver, or platinum. It's essential to note, however, that silver and platinum look almost the same, but platinum costs significantly more. It's pricier because it has more weight to it, but it's a soft metal and will scratch easily. Consider your partners’ lifestyle and budget before deciding which metal to go for.

HAVE A CARAT SIZE IN MIND

The age-old question of quality versus quantity also applies to engagement rings. Some people prefer a larger stone to a whiter stone, while others want the absolute clearest possible diamond, despite the carat count. 

If size matters to you (ahem!), keep your ideal carat size in mind when engagement ring shopping together, and be flexible on the other elements to suit your budget. You might think you know what size or shape you want, but then when you try it on, you find out you want something entirely different once you start seeing things on your finger in real life. 

GET MEASURED CORRECTLY

This may seem obvious, but make sure to get measured! You don't want a ring that's cutting off your circulation or, even worse, so loose it's at risk of falling off. It should feel snug but comfortable. If you're not accompanying your partner, you can go get sized at a jewellery shop on your own. Then casually mention your size the next time the topic comes up (or tell your best mate, so they'll know the answer if they ask them!)

CONSIDER HOW YOUR ENGAGEMENT RING WILL LOOK WITH YOUR WEDDING BAND

While it’s easy to get caught up in finding the perfect diamond, the engagement ring is only one half of the equation. Your wedding band is the oft-overlooked other half. Definitely think about what style of wedding band would go with your ring. Some engagement rings don't allow a band to fit flush against them, so it's important to consider the full package while shopping for your engagement ring together.

Engagement ring shopping can be a daunting task — get by with a little help from your friends. Ask for advice from those who’ve got engaged before, and call upon someone who knows you and your future spouse. See what they think will suit their style. 

Find the perfect engagement ring, eternity ring or celebration ring with our specialist Custom & Co in Kent. Each ring is unique in that it is designed using a collaboration of the customer's ideas and the knowledge and experience of their experienced team. They have a stunning, modern store in Bluewater shopping centre, which is an ideal place for having a browse.

Find out more about Custom & Co.