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Planning to propose?💍
The right engagement ring is a big decision, but there’s no single "best" choice — only the best one for you and your partner.
Ready to make a choice that reflects your unique love story?
Follow these 5 steps to select the perfect ring!
1. Consider Your Partner's Style
Do they prefer classic, modern, or vintage designs?
Would they want something simple or bold?
What type of jewelry do they usually wear?
Choosing a ring that fits their style makes it more meaningful and ensures they'll love wearing it every day!
2. Choose a Metal and Setting
When it comes to choosing the perfect engagement ring, your options for both metals and settings are endless — each one offering something unique to reflect your love story!
Metal Options:
(from most to least expensive)
Platinum: durable, heavy, white sheen, non-allergenic
Gold: shiny, available in yellow, white, and rose, 10-24 carat
Palladium: affordable, similar to platinum, no plating needed
Cobalt: white, scratch-resistant, shiny, affordable
Titanium: lightweight, strong, non-resizable
Tungsten carbide: hard, scratch-resistant, non-resizable
Stainless steel: durable, sleek, affordable
Setting Options:
(from most to least expensive)
Three stone: center stone with two accent diamonds
Halo: center stone surrounded by smaller diamonds
Pavé: tiny diamonds set along the band for sparkle
Hidden accent: hidden diamonds for subtle sparkle
Bezel: metal encloses the center stone, secure and modern
Solitaire: classic, single center stone
Quiz
You want a ring that will last a lifetime, withstand daily wear, and has a classic, elegant appeal. You’re okay with spending a bit more for durability. Which metal would be the best option?
Platinum is durable, has a beautiful white sheen, and is perfect for daily wear, making it ideal for a lasting engagement ring.
3. Pick a Stone That Fits Your Budget
Diamonds are common, but moissanite, sapphires, and other gems can be beautiful and more affordable.
Consider the 4Cs of Diamonds:
Color: Diamonds are graded by how clear or colorless they are. The less color, the better.
Clarity: This refers to how clean a diamond is. Fewer spots or flaws make it more valuable.
Cut: The way a diamond is shaped affects how it sparkles. A well-cut diamond shines more.
Carat: This is how big or heavy the diamond is. Bigger diamonds usually cost more.
Lab-Grown Diamonds
These diamonds are ethical and often more budget-friendly:
Made in labs using the same process as natural diamonds
Chemically and visually identical to natural diamonds
Durable and high-quality like mined diamonds
Created with technology used for over 50 years
Growing in popularity for jewelry
Alternative Gemstones
Moissanite: A brilliant, affordable alternative to diamonds with strong durability and sparkle.
Sapphire: Comes in various colors, durable, and often more budget-friendly than diamonds.
Morganite: A soft pink stone with a romantic look, less expensive than diamonds.
Topaz: Available in multiple shades, affordable, and has a beautiful shine.
Aquamarine: A light blue gem that’s elegant and budget-friendly, but softer than diamonds.
4. Think About Practicality & Longevity
Does your partner have an active lifestyle? A lower-profile setting may be better.
Quiz
Alex has a hands-on job and is always using their hands for work. They want a ring that is durable, low-maintenance, and won’t easily scratch or loosen over time. Which option would be the best choice?
Platinum is highly durable and resistant to wear, while a bezel setting securely holds the center stone in place, making it ideal for an active lifestyle.
5. Look for Ethical & Sustainable Choices
When choosing a stone for your ring, consider the impact it may have on the environment and human rights:
Take Action
By keeping in mind your budget, ethical values, and your partner’s preferences, you can choose a ring that’s as meaningful as it is beautiful!
This Byte has been authored by
Kristina Lebron
Learning Designer
MS