How to Choose an Engagement Ring

Whether you’re buying a ready to wear engagement ring or planning on having a custom engagement ring crafted by a local jeweller, there are certain things you need to consider. Not all rings are equal, and people are often surprised at the number of elements that come together to produce the perfect engagement ring.

In this blog, we will look at some of the key factors that you should take into account when shopping for unique engagement rings.

Ring Styles and Settings

There are many different types and styles of engagement rings, from simple and sleek bands to intricate gem-studded varieties. Different setting styles can change the overall look of the ring dramatically. As a leading engagement ring shop in Hertford, we can help you choose the style that best matches the story you are trying to tell with the ring. We can offer you advice on the ideal settings — these are the parts of the ring where any diamonds or gemstones are to be mounted — and help you make a choice not only for beauty but also for security.

Ring Size

Ring size is all important, and while ring sizes are standardised across the UK, it is easy to get it wrong. Be careful not to rely on previous measurements, as this can always be subject to change. It is also important to account for the fact that all our fingers vary in size from one to the next, so don't rely on other rings that are worn on different fingers, as this will not give you an accurate size for the specific finger the new ring will be worn on.

Here at Chapter 79, we will spend the time to get an accurate measurement to ensure a perfect fit. We understand that it is not always possible to measure the person who will be receiving the engagement ring before it is made/bought, so our recommendation, if you are unsure, is to opt for a standard UK size (normally an M or N). Because of the uncertainty when it comes to engagement ring sizing, we also offer a free first re-size for each engagement ring, allowing you to alter one of our rings should it be too large or too small.

Materials and Metals

You have various options when choosing the material of the band of your engagement ring. Although the main concern when making this choice is the colour of the ring itself, your choice in metal will also influence how the ring wears over time. The most popular options in material are gold and platinum, with choices in gold coming in a range of colours including white, yellow and rose. Although silver is a precious metal, it is not one we would recommend for an engagement ring, due to the soft and malleable nature of the metal.

The first thing we would recommend when making this decision is to be observant; pay attention to what colour jewellery your partner already wears — this will help you to make an informed decision about what colour your partner prefers/what suits them best. The type of metal you choose will affect the price of the ring, but this shouldn't deter you. After all, an engagement ring is a lifelong investment.

Diamonds or Coloured Gemstones

The centre stone of your engagement ring is the ultimate showstopper, and should be selected carefully and thoughtfully. While diamonds are a traditional choice for engagement rings, having long symbolised love and eternal beauty, many modern rings also incorporate different-coloured gemstones. There are plenty of options, each with its own meaning. Of course, you can always pick a particular stone because you love the colour, rather than it holding any symbolic significance.

An important thing to remember when deciding on your centre stone is that size is not everything. Often, the quality of the stone can have much more significance than its overall size. Diamonds, are in fact their own entity, and if you choose to opt for the traditional and timeless diamond engagement ring then there are many other factors to consider about the diamond itself — you can read our blog about their four defining visual qualities here.

If it's more unique engagement rings you are after, with a potential pop of colour, then coloured gemstones can come in a range of different shades and hues. Here at Chapter 79 we can offer you a 'stones-to-view' service, allowing you to inspect chosen gemstones in person, and potentially hand-pick the gem that will eventually be set into your ring.

Bespoke Engagement Rings

With all of these elements in mind, you should have some idea of what you’re looking for when browsing the racks of your local jewellers. Finding a ring that meets all of your preferences can be difficult. In such circumstances, why not consider having a new engagement ring created from scratch? Our designers will walk you through the various options before producing a one-of-a-kind ring you can be proud of.

Unique Engagement Rings in Hertford

If you’re looking for an engagement ring shop in Hertford with a reputation for excellence, you have come to the right place. At Chapter 79, not only do we create stunning custom-made engagement rings in our purpose-built workshop, but we also have a wide selection of beautiful ready to wear and made to order items available for immediate purchase. Visit us in-store or call us on 01992 534 555 to discuss your requirements. Alternatively, send an email to workshop@chapter79.co.uk, and a member of the team will call you back.