Type of Metal

The most common materials used for engagement rings are gold and platinum. Yellow gold is the most traditional option but white gold is emerging as a modern favourite. Each metal has its own merits, so discuss these with your jeweller to understand what you’re buying.

You may also want to look at the jewellery your girlfriend currently wears for inspiration. If she owns a lot of yellow gold then it is wise to buy an engagement ring made from the same metal. Otherwise white gold, silver or platinum might be better suited.

Type of Setting

Most engagement rings are set with a precious gemstone and once again there are plenty of options for you to choose from. You can either have a setting which incorporates several claws to hold the gem in place or opt for a more invisible setting which creates a more seamless appearance.

Settings can also incorporate platinum or gold to add to the overall effect so this is something else you’ll need to consider.

Type of Stone

The gemstone is the centrepiece of the ring and its most important element. Diamonds are the traditional choice for engagement rings and there are plenty of different styles for you to choose from.

One interesting option is this stylishly modern 18ct gold 0.80ct diamond crossover ring which sets two brilliant round diamonds within an interesting shape for an engagement ring with a difference.

Quality

When discussing diamonds it is always important to remember the four Cs – but even more so when looking for an engagement ring. To help, here is a brief explanation of what each C represents and what you should look for.

Carat

This refers to the weight (not size) of the diamond, and the larger the carat the heavier and more valuable the diamond.

Colour

This is graded from D (colourless and rare) to I (less expensive).

Clarity

Diamonds are natural and therefore have natural imperfections. The fewer imperfections that are present, the more “sparkle” and value the diamond will have. Clarity is rated from F1 (perfect) to I3 (imperfect).

Cut

The round cut is most common for engagement rings because it produces the most sparkle, but other cuts include square, emerald, pear, marquise, cushion and heart-shaped. The type and execution of the cut is as important as the stone itself and a bad cut can effectively ruin a diamond.

When shopping for an engagement ring, make sure you consider all of the 4 Cs when looking at diamond jewellery. There are plenty of guides available to help you and jewellers will always be happy to help.

You’ll also need to work out what size you need, so take one of your girlfriend’s rings along as a guide and always ask about the process involved with making adjustments.