10 Tips For Choosing The Perfect Diamond Engagement Ring

A diamond engagement ring is the ultimate symbol of forever. Whether you're drawn to a classic round cut or something more distinctive, choosing the one takes more than a quick decision. The right ring should capture your style, sparkle beautifully, and feel just as perfect years from now as it does today.

From understanding diamond quality to selecting a setting that increases its brilliance, these ten expert tips will help you find the perfect diamond engagement ring for your proposal. Let’s take the guesswork out of shopping so you can focus on what really matters: choosing a ring that takes your breath away.

1. Set Your Budget First

Before you start browsing, determine how much you're comfortable spending. The old "three-month salary rule" is outdated: you should spend what feels right for you. When you determine an amount, don’t forget to factor in additional costs like the ring setting, resizing, and insurance, so you can start shopping confidently.

If you’re looking for ways to maximize your budget, consider lab-grown diamonds, which cost up to 50% less than natural diamonds but have the same chemical makeup. If you have your heart set on a round brilliant stone, you can save money on a magnificent ring like The Chelsea by prioritizing cut over carat size, since a well-cut diamond will sparkle more than a larger, poorly cut one. Having a budget in mind from the start will help you make the right decision and avoid overspending.

2. Decide on the Right Diamond Shape

The shape of the diamond plays a major role in its appearance and price. Round diamonds are the most expensive due to their superior brilliance, while shapes like oval, pear, and emerald cuts can give you a larger look for the same carat weight. If your partner has a classic style, round or princess cuts are timeless choices, whereas a pear or marquise shape might appeal to someone who loves a more unique design. 

You should also consider hand and finger shape when selecting a diamond: elongated shapes like oval, radiant, and emerald can make fingers appear longer. Some diamond shapes also hide imperfections better than others; for example, round and cushion cuts disguise flaws well, while emerald and Asscher cuts require higher clarity. These are all insights that can help you choose a diamond engagement ring she’ll love.

Pear and Radiant Diamonds

3. Know the 4Cs - but Prioritize Cut

The 4Cs (Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat) determine a diamond’s quality, but if you’re choosing a round brilliant, cut is the most important factor for sparkle. A round diamond with an excellent or ideal cut will reflect more light, making it appear brighter and even larger, especially on sleek settings like The Lexie. 

Many people assume color and clarity need to be flawless, but that’s not always necessary. G-H color diamonds offer the best balance between price and appearance, while VS1-VS2 clarity diamonds appear flawless to the naked eye but cost significantly less than "flawless" diamonds. If you're looking to save, some fancy shapes like radiant and cushion cuts naturally hide inclusions, allowing you to spend less on clarity without sacrificing beauty.

4. Choose a Metal That Matches Their Style

The metal of the band can completely change the look of a ring. Before making a decision, consider your partner’s existing jewelry. 

If they prefer modern, cool-toned jewelry, platinum or white gold might be the best option. Platinum is incredibly durable and hypoallergenic, but it is also the most expensive. White gold offers a similar aesthetic at a lower price, though it may require periodic rhodium plating to maintain its color. Yellow gold is a timeless and warm-toned choice that looks exquisite on vintage-inspired pieces like The Jasmine, while rose gold has a romantic and vintage-inspired look. Choosing a metal that complements your partner’s style will ensure they love wearing the ring every day.

5. Pick a Ring Setting That Complements the Stone

When it comes to settings, you have beautiful options. A solitaire setting is classic and timeless, but if you love extra sparkle, halo settings surround the diamond with smaller stones, making it look larger. Pavé bands like The Michelle add even more brilliance, while three-stone rings represent the past, present, and future. If your partner has an active lifestyle, consider a bezel setting, which surrounds the diamond with metal to provide extra protection. The right setting can enhance the beauty of the diamond and ensure the ring fits seamlessly into your partner’s daily life.

6. Get the Right Ring Size (Without Ruining the Surprise!)

A ring that doesn’t fit can be a hassle to resize, so try to get the correct size from the start. If you want to keep the proposal a surprise, you can borrow a ring your partner already wears on their ring finger and take it to a jeweler for measurement. If that’s not an option, ask a trusted friend or family member who might know their size. If you’re completely unsure, it’s best to size up slightly since it’s easier to make a ring smaller than to enlarge it.

7. Certification Matters—Only Buy a GIA or AGS-Certified Diamond

A diamond certificate proves authenticity and quality, so make sure yours is graded by a reputable organization like GIA or IGI. GIA (Gemological Institute of America) is widely regarded as the most trustworthy diamond grading authority, ensuring that your diamond is accurately assessed for quality. Avoid uncertified diamonds, as they may be misrepresented in terms of color, clarity, and value. When purchasing, check the laser inscription on the diamond to match it with the certification report for added peace of mind.

8. Consider Ethical & Conflict-Free Diamonds

Today, more buyers prioritize ethically sourced diamonds, so it’s worth considering your options. Lab-grown diamonds are a sustainable and conflict-free choice that offer the same beauty at a lower price, so you can invest in a more elaborate setting like The Kylie. 

If you prefer a natural diamond, make sure it’s sourced from a jeweler that adheres to ethical standards. At Keyzar, we ensure all of our diamonds are conflict-free, providing peace of mind with your purchase. You can also look for diamonds that come with Kimberley Process certification, which helps prevent conflict diamonds from entering the market.

9. Shop Smart: Online vs. In-Store

When buying an engagement ring, deciding between an online or in-store purchase is important. At Keyzar, we provide high-resolution 360° videos of breathtaking diamond rings, allowing you to inspect the diamond closely before buying. In-store shopping, on the other hand, allows you to see the ring in person and try on different styles, though prices may be higher. Regardless of where you buy, choose a retailer that offers free resizing, warranties, and an easy return policy to ensure a smooth experience.

10. Avoid Common Mistakes When Picking an Engagement Ring

There are a few common pitfalls to avoid when choosing an engagement ring. For example:

• Don’t sacrifice cut quality for a larger carat size: a poorly cut diamond won’t sparkle as much, even if it's big. 

• Consider your partner’s lifestyle when selecting a setting; for example, a high-set ring may not be ideal for someone with an active job. A low profile or bezel engagement ring like The Charlotte would be a better option.

• Avoid buying a ring based purely on trends, as what’s fashionable now may feel outdated in a few years. 

• Finally, don’t forget about insurance: an engagement ring is a significant investment, and protecting it with a jewelry insurance policy will give you peace of mind.

Ready to Find Your Dream Ring?

Choosing the perfect diamond engagement ring is a meaningful decision, and with so many beautiful options available, it can also be a challenging one. But by taking it step by step, you’ll find a design that feels just right: where size, shape, and brilliance come together in perfect harmony. And if you ever need inspiration, exploring different settings and stones will help you create a ring that reflects your love beautifully. Shop now at Keyzar and make it yours!