7 Things You Should Know Before Buying an Engagement Ring

Buying an engagement ring is one of the most exciting moments of your life, but it can also feel overwhelming. Between choosing the perfect style for your partner, understanding the nuances of diamonds, and staying within your budget, there’s a lot to consider. We’re here to help you navigate how to choose an engagement ring with confidence.

Here are seven key things to know before buying an engagement ring:

1. Know Your Budget

Before you start browsing, decide on a budget that feels comfortable for you. Forget the old “three-month salary” rule; what matters is finding a ring that makes sense for your finances. Knowing your budget upfront allows us to source the best possible options within your range and can help determine whether to shop for a lab-grown diamond or a natural diamond. 

Not sure how much you should spend? Check out our guide on how much to spend on an engagement ring.

2. Understand the 4 Cs

All diamonds, whether lab-grown or natural, are graded by the 4 Cs:

• Cut
• Colour
• Clarity,
• Carat weight.

Each factor affects both the stone’s appearance and its price. A well-cut diamond can sparkle brilliantly even if it’s slightly smaller or lower in colour/clarity. For natural diamonds, the best grading source is the GIA, whereas for lab diamonds, we recommend the IGI.

Read our full guide on the 4Cs to understand which matter most for your priorities.

3. Lab Vs Natural Diamonds

Before buying your engagement ring, it's important to know whether you're looking for a lab-grown or natural diamond. Lab-grown and natural diamonds have the same physical and visual properties as natural diamonds; the only difference is their origin.

• Natural Diamond: mined from the earth
• Lab Grown Diamonds: created in a lab

Which is the right choice for you? Learn more about lab vs natural diamonds.

4. How to Read a Diamond Certificate

A diamond certificate (or grading report) from GIA, IGI, or other labs provides all the technical details about a diamond:

• Clarity & Inclusions – Shows any internal or surface flaws. Many are microscopic and won’t affect beauty.

• Color Grade – Indicates how colorless the diamond is; minor differences are often invisible to the naked eye.

• Cut & Proportions – Includes depth, table percentage, and angles that affect brilliance.

• Fluorescence – Indicates if the diamond glows under UV light, which can subtly affect appearance.

• Measurements & Carat Weight – Exact dimensions, not just approximate size.

Pro Tip: Two diamonds with the same carat, color, and clarity can still look different based on cut and proportions—reading the certificate helps you compare diamonds intelligently.

Link: Learn more about why diamonds with the same specs can have very different prices.

5. Pay Attention to Your Partner's Style

Does your partner love bold and sparkly designs, or do they prefer something subtle and dainty? Understanding their style ensures the engagement ring truly feels like them. Rings can be crafted in 10k, 14k, or 18k yellow, white, or rose gold, as well as platinum. We typically use 14k gold for style and durability, but we can customize any metal to suit your vision.

--> Setting Styles & Prongs

• Solitaire, halo, bezel, tension – Each affects the ring’s look and the diamond’s security.

• High vs. low settings: Higher settings make a diamond appear larger but may snag more easily; low settings sit closer to the finger for comfort.

• Prong type and number impact both durability and style.

Link: Explore our guide to engagement ring settings for a full breakdown.

--> Band Choices: Dainty Vs Bold

• Dainty bands feel minimalistic and modern, but may be less durable over time.

• Bold bands create a statement, provide more support for large stones, and can complement intricate designs.

• Consider lifestyle and finger size when choosing band thickness.

--> Metal Choices & Gold Types

• 14k vs. 18k gold – 14k is more durable; 18k has richer color.

• White, yellow, rose gold, or platinum – Each metal affects price, durability, and style.

• Personal preference, lifestyle, and skin tone all factor into metal choice.

Pro Tip: Matching metals with other jewelry or wedding bands is key for long-term wear.

--> Diamond Shape & Style Considerations

• Oval, round, emerald, pear, and other shapes each affect visual size, sparkle, and style.

• Some shapes pair better with certain settings or fingers.

• Choose a shape you love that also complements your lifestyle.

Link: Read more about choosing the perfect shape and setting for your lifestyle.

6. Ring Size Matters

Nothing is more awkward than proposing only to discover the ring doesn’t fit. If you’re unsure, consider these options: try rings on together beforehand, borrow an existing ring for sizing, or use discreet measuring methods. Most rings can be resized afterward (unless the design has diamonds all the way around), but it’s best to start as close to the right size as possible.

7. Trust Your Jeweller

An engagement ring is one of the most significant purchases of your life, so you want to work with someone you trust. At Dainty Diamond, we have over 30 years of experience handcrafting wedding and engagement rings. You’ll work directly with the owners to select your diamond, design your ring, and watch your vision come to life with the best manufacturers in Toronto.

[Book a Free Consultation to Get Started]

8. How to Choose an Engagement Ring Design

The engagement ring isn’t just about the center stone—it’s also about the band that holds it. Consider details like a hidden halo, diamonds on the band, and the band’s width. We’ll guide you through all of these choices to ensure your ring looks perfect from every angle.

9. Plan Your Timing Accordingly

All our rings are made to order. From selecting the perfect stone to designing your dream ring, we craft each piece meticulously. The process typically takes 6–8 weeks, though we can accommodate quicker timelines if needed. Planning ahead ensures your ring is ready for the perfect moment.

Buying an engagement ring should feel joyful and exciting, not stressful. By keeping this engagement ring guide in mind, you’ll be prepared to choose a ring your partner will cherish forever. And remember, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

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FAQ

Q: How do i choose the right engagement ring for my partner?

A: Start by observing their personal style, what jewelry they wear daily, their metal preferences, and whether they like bold or subtle designs. If you’re unsure, discreetly ask friends or family for advice or consider a classic, timeless style like a solitaire diamond.

Q: What are the 4 C's of diamonds?

A: The 4 Cs are Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat weight.

• Cut affects how the diamond sparkles.

• Color ranges from colorless to slightly yellow.

• Clarity measures the presence of inclusions.

• Carat weight is the diamond’s size.
  Balancing all four ensures a beautiful diamond within your budget.

Q: Can I resize an engagement ring later?

A: Yes, most engagement rings can be resized, especially if they don’t have diamonds all the way around the band. 

More Frequently Asked Questions