If you’re ready (or at least considering) to take the next big step in your relationship, choosing the right ring can be a daunting process.

With so many designs, styles, and settings to choose from, it’s often difficult to even know where to start.

That’s why we designed this comprehensive, educational engagement ring guide for you. You’ll learn everything you need to know before you buy so that when the time comes to propose, you can rest easy knowing you got the perfect ring that your partner will cherish for years to come.

Engagement Ring Shapes

Round Engagement Rings

Known as the most popular engagement ring style, round cut rings constitute a classic shape that emits a dazzling shimmer.

Round cuts are also incredibly versatile and can be adapted into a wide range of settings, side stones, and metals. Whether you’re looking for a vintage or more modern look, this can cover any side of the spectrum.

Oval Engagement Rings

A unique blend of the round and marquise shapes, oval cuts offer a gorgeous sparkle while complementing the finger.

While the shape was designed relatively recently (in the 1960s), its subtle curves and understated profile are suitable for classic, vintage designs.

Cushion-Cut Engagement Rings

A cushion cut ring a stylish choice that has been growing in popularity. They possess a romantic, soft shape with a timeless appeal and plenty of character.

A hybrid of old antique cuts (and especially popular in the 19th century), cushion-cut rings possess a vintage charm that accentuates the diamond’s curved sides.

Princess-Cut Engagement Rings

Modern angles, a brilliant sparkle, and ample character make Princess Cut rings an immutably popular choice.

Akin to round cuts, the princess cut diamond has a brilliant facet pattern specifically designed for sparkle - with each facet expertly shaped to reflect the light.

Princess-cut diamonds exude chic angles are both glamorous and modern, making it the second most popular diamond shape behind the round brilliant.

Emerald-Cut Engagement Rings

Emerald cut rings have a distinctive, unique shape that stunningly highlights the diamond’s clarity. for a stunning effect.

Designed in veneration to namesake gemstone, emerald cut rings have a much different look from the classic round brilliant shape.

Rather than a brilliant facet pattern specifically cut to emanate maximum sparkle, the emerald's step-cut facets and open table center on clarity. Cropped corners and an elongated shape produce a sophisticated silhouette that flatters the ring finger.

Asscher-Cut Engagement Rings

The distinctive Asscher shape specifically emphasizes a diamond's clarity. With its distinctive X shape and cropped corners, the Asscher-cut differs greatly from the classic round brilliant shape. Although its square outline is comparable to the princess cut, their differences are amplified upon closer examination. Rather than a brilliant facet pattern — which produces a lot of sparkle — the Asscher's step-cut facets and open table focus on clarity.

Radiant-cut Engagement Rings

Radiant cut engagement rings create a contemporary silhouette that delivers a brilliant sparkle and stylish elegance.

It is a hybrid of several other diamond shapes, with a striking facet pattern (which produces the sparkle) similar to the round brilliant and marquise cuts. However, Its rectangular shape and cropped corners, derive features from the sophisticated Emerald and Asscher diamonds.

Pear-Shaped Engagement Rings

With an eye-catching silhouette that delivers radiant sparkle, the pear shape is truly unique. It is cut with a luminous facet pattern designed for radiance.

A hybrid of the round and marquise styles, the shape is ideal for those seeking a distinctive, standout ring that still exhibits a classic sparkle.

Heart-Shaped Engagement Rings

Romantic, rare and radiant, a heart-shaped diamond’s iconic silhouette produces brilliant sparkle through a special design.

They are available in a wide range of settings, from simple solitaire designs to dazzling heart-shaped halos that spotlight the extraordinary look of the heart-shaped diamond center stone.

Classic, vintage and modern engagement ring styles beautifully complement this inherently romantic shape.

Types of Engagement Ring Settings

Halo Engagement Rings

Halo engagement ring settings are designed with a border of smaller round diamonds that frame the larger center diamond. This method visually enhances the center diamond, creating a significantly larger and more majestic look.

Typically paired with vintage diamond shapes, oval halo engagement rings and three stone halo engagement rings are quite popular. However, the most traditional round halo engagement ring remains in the highest demand. Overall, vintage halo engagement rings are perfect for those seeking for a more complex, ornate ring setting.

Sidestone Engagement Rings

A side stone engagement ring is an engagement ring with a diamond band.

These styles are timeless in the engagement ring tradition and the simple beauty of these settings highlights the brilliance and sparkle of your diamond.

Three Stone Engagement Rings

A three-stone engagement ring has a row of diamonds that drastically augments the ring’s sparkle and shine. It is a durable, long-wearing style that fits perfectly in a round cut diamond with any metal or setting.

Solitaire Engagement Rings

Meanwhile, a solitaire style ring showcases the beauty of a single, stunning diamond. It is generally paired with a prong setting that maximizes sparkle by diminishing the exposed metal. In turn, the diamond you select will be the focal point of the ring.

Vintage Engagement Rings

Vintage style engagement rings offer the best of both worlds. Their delicate designs, lacy filigree work, and old-world charm are paired with diamonds designed to elicit maximum beauty and sparkle.

To create a stunning, one-of-a-kind vintage engagement ring, start with a Halo setting paired with a yellow gold or platinum metal. You can then add a cushion, Asscher, or marquise cut diamond to produce an elegant, classic look.

Custom Engagement Rings

If none of the above designs match your tastes, you can always design a custom engagement ring that fits your style.

How to Get the Best Price on an Engagement Ring

Choosing Your Carat Weight

When you’re ready to choose a carat weight for your diamond, remember that size is not everything – cut grade strongly affects the quality and beauty of your diamond; color and clarity grades do so too (though to a lesser degree).

For the best value, consider diamonds slightly lighter than the carat weight you initially had in mind. For example, if you are thinking about purchasing a 1-carat diamond, consider diamonds at 0.95 to 0.99 carats as well. The difference in visual size will be negligible, but the savings can be significant. You can use those savings to invest in a higher cut grade or a more lavish ring setting.

Prioritize Cut Grade

Since cut has the most impact on a diamond’s overall appearance, we recommend you put the greatest priority on finding a high-quality cut grade. The diamond’s clarity and color should be considered secondary. We do not recommend purchasing a larger and more expensive diamond if it means sacrificing the quality of the cut.

To read all of our Frequently Asked Questions click here.

Which Engagement Ring Should I Get?

With such a wide range of ring styles and diamond shapes available, your choices are nearly limitless. Begin by exploring popular styles to find the perfect aesthetic. In halo or classic engagement ring styles, multiple diamonds create dramatic sparkle. Meanwhile, a single solitaire diamond ring radiates stunning elegance. Next, consider the center diamond. The shape of the center diamond will create the personality of the ring. Choose from among the most popular diamond shapes, and use Ritani’s diamond quality ratings to refine your choice. You'll also want to consider the best type of precious metal for your ring. For starters, choose between a white or yellow metal, and learn about the pros and cons of each metal type.

Which Engagement Rings are Most Popular?

Halo settings are our most popular style since their versatility pairs well with any sized finger. Stylistically, round rings are the most popular for similar reasons. They can be converted into a wide range of settings, side stones, and metals, and looks - from vintage to modern. For more information, see this recent post listing the 10 best selling engagement rings of 2019.

Should You Go Engagement Ring Shopping Together?

While the answer to this question largely depends upon your dynamic as a couple, there are some inherent pros and cons of shopping for an engagement ring together. A major pro is that you can explore options together, which means that in the end, you will both be 100 percent sure that you’ve chosen the right ring. This also takes some weight off of the shoulders of the buyer, who may have otherwise spent more time going back and forth debating the right decision. However, a con is that the whole surprise element of the proposal will either be diminished. Part of the appeal of a proposal is the level of suspense leading up to the event, and the jubilant release of emotion when the moment occurs. 

What Should I Look for When Buying an Engagement Ring?

There is a range of qualities to analyze when purchasing a ring. The shape of the diamond matters most, followed by the right setting. The former facilitates the stone’s geometric qualities, while the latter sets the tone and style of the ring itself. In addition to the stone itself, carefully consider which metal to use, as each possesses unique qualities, strengths, and comparative drawbacks.

How Much Should You Spend On An Engagement Ring?

When deciding how much to spend on a ring, there are two major considerations that you should carefully consider and strike a balance between:

-Your partner’s expectations.

-Your financial standing.

Assess your current (and potential future) income, your expenses, and your savings to gauge how much you can sensibly spend.

What Size Engagement Ring Is Most Common?

The average total carat weight for an engagement ring in the United States is 1.08 carats. While the range of 1.0 to 1.9 carats is by far the most popular, there are noticeable peaks at the 0.70 – 0.79 range, the 0.90 – 0.99 range and the 1.50 – 1.59 range. For more detailed information, click here.

When is the Best Time to Shop for Engagement Rings?

The consensus is that the best time to purchase an engagement ring is approximately 2-3 months before your scheduled proposal date. This allows you ample time to prepare for your special day and ensure that everything goes as smoothly as possible.

How to Choose an Engagement Ring to Suit Your Hand

As stated above, halo settings pair nicely with any sized finger, which is why they are our most popular style. However, there are many other options to choose from that can suit your hand shape and size perfectly.

Engagement Rings for Petite Hands and Short Fingers

Petite or short-fingered hands typically look best with smaller diamonds, thin bands, and/or split shanks. Therefore, shop for stones cut in a small, round shape. Asscher or Princess cut diamonds are other suitable alternatives. If you are looking to lengthen your fingers, try a pear, marquise, or oval shape.

Engagement Rings for Large Fingers

Long, thin fingers have considerable flexibility when it comes to the shape and size of a diamond center stone. Due to the greater size of a large hand, larger stones appear more proportional.

For those with large fingers, here are some things to consider:

-Fancy, square, round stones complement thin fingers.

-Large, bold designs and wide-band statement pieces work nicely.

-Explore thicker, heavier bands or double rows of diamonds.

Can Engagement Rings be Resized?

Many people do not get their partner’s ring size right the first time around. That’s why Ritani offers one free ring resizing within the first year of purchase. To learn more, contact customer service at 1-888-9RITANI. We’ll take care of the rest.

Is White Gold or Platinum Better for Engagement Rings?

Platinum

Platinum engagement rings offer a greater degree of durability and strength that protects your center diamond more efficiently than white gold. While platinum is similar to white gold in appearance, it is naturally white and therefore does not require any form of replating. Platinum will retain its color for generations, allowing your jewelry to become precious family heirlooms with the same initial luster. Platinum is also rarer and denser than gold, making it a great choice for those subject to skin sensitivity. Its non-reactive, hypoallergenic qualities set it apart from other jewelry metals. Overall, platinum is more durable, easier to maintain, and its prongs will offer superior diamond protection.

White Gold

Ritani offers both 18K and 14K white gold engagement rings. The difference between 18K white gold and 14K white gold is the metal’s level of purity. 18K white gold is 75% gold and while 14K white gold is 58.30% gold. 14K white gold is less expensive than 18K white gold. Overall, white gold is a much more affordable option than platinum. It is a great option for those seeking long-lasting jewelry with an appearance similar to platinum.

What about a Gold or Rose Gold Engagement ring?

Gold

As one of the softest and most flexible metals in the jewelry market, yellow gold is typically infused with other metal alloys like silver or copper for added strength. At Ritani, we use 18K gold – the purest gold that can withstand the jewelry-making process as well as years of wear. At 75% gold, our 18K yellow gold strikes the perfect balance between everlasting strength and pure gold.

Rose Gold

Rose gold has recently become a trendy option for engagement rings. To learn more about rose gold, check out our detailed breakdown of tips for buying a rose gold engagement ring, along with all of its respective qualities.

Can Engagement Rings be Financed?

Many companies allow customers to finance engagement rings to afford greater flexibility throughout the payment process. Ritani has financing options that includes zero interest for 12 months.

Is it a Good Idea to Buy an Engagement Ring with Financing?

If you cannot buy a ring in full and decide to finance it, make sure that it is not an unreasonable amount. While you may not want to buy something “cheap,” you can still responsibly finance an affordable ring. The bottom line is that there is no reason to go into substantial debt and hurt your credit rating over a ring that is way out of your price range.