Choosing the perfect diamond engagement ring is one of the most important decisions you'll make when proposing. The significance, beauty, and symbolism attached to the ring make it much more than just a piece of jewelry. We understand the value of selecting a ring that will be cherished forever, and in this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about diamond engagement rings from selecting the right diamond to choosing the best setting.

The Four Cs - Cut, Clarity, Color, and Carat

When selecting a diamond engagement ring, it’s crucial to understand the four Cs—Cut, Clarity, Color, and Carat. These elements define the overall beauty and value of the diamond, and knowing how to balance them will help you make an informed decision.

Cut - The Sparkle Factor

The cut of a diamond determines how well it reflects light. It is often considered the most important of the four Cs because a well-cut diamond sparkles more brightly. A diamond that is poorly cut may appear dull, regardless of its clarity or color. The cut is graded from Excellent to Poor, with an excellent cut maximizing the brilliance of the diamond.

When selecting the cut, consider the following popular shapes:

Round Brilliant: The most popular cut known for maximum sparkle.

Princess: A modern, square cut that combines elegance with a contemporary look.

Cushion: A square or rectangular cut with rounded corners for a vintage feel.

Emerald: A rectangular cut that emphasizes clarity over brilliance, known for its sophisticated appeal.

Louvre Engagement Ring in Platinum

Clarity - Imperfection or Flawlessness

Clarity refers to the absence of internal flaws or inclusions and external blemishes. Most diamonds have imperfections, but many are too small to be seen with the naked eye. Diamonds are graded on a clarity scale from Flawless (FL) to Included (I). For the best value, we recommend choosing a diamond with VS1 or VS2 (Very Slightly Included) clarity, as these diamonds have inclusions that are barely visible even under magnification.

Color - The Whiter, the Better

The color of a diamond is graded from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow or brown). Colorless diamonds (grades D to F) are the most desirable and valuable. However, near-colorless diamonds (grades G to J) also offer excellent value, as the color is not easily detectable unless compared side by side with higher-graded stones. For those seeking a traditional, icy-white diamond, we recommend selecting a diamond in the D-F range.

Carat - The Size of the Diamond

The carat refers to the weight of the diamond, with one carat equaling 200 milligrams. Larger diamonds are generally more valuable due to their rarity, but bigger doesn’t always mean better. The beauty of a diamond is often in its balance between size, cut, and quality. Many buyers opt for diamonds just under popular carat sizes (e.g., 0.90 carat instead of 1.00 carat) to save on cost without sacrificing visual impact.

Elodie Engagement Ring in 18K yellow gold / Platinum

Diamond Shapes - Finding the Perfect Style

The shape of a diamond greatly impacts the overall style of the engagement ring. While round diamonds are the most popular, other shapes have their own distinct appeal:

Oval: A modern take on the classic round cut, offering elegance and a larger surface area.

Marquise: A unique shape with pointed ends that can make the diamond appear larger than it is.

Heart: A romantic and symbolic choice, perfect for those looking to express love through their ring.

Choosing the right diamond shape is a matter of personal preference, but it should also complement the wearer’s hand and lifestyle.

Selecting the Right Setting for Your Diamond

The setting of an engagement ring plays a crucial role in both protecting the diamond and showcasing its beauty. Here are the most popular settings to consider:

Prong Setting

The prong setting is a timeless and popular choice for engagement rings, featuring metal claws that hold the diamond securely in place. This design allows the diamond to capture and reflect maximum light, enhancing its brilliance and sparkle. Prongs can be rounded, pointed, or flat, depending on the desired aesthetic. The open design of prong settings showcases the diamond’s beauty and ensures optimal light exposure, making it an excellent choice for highlighting a diamond’s brilliance.

Bezel Setting

A bezel setting encircles the diamond with a thin metal rim, providing robust protection while maintaining a sleek, modern appearance. This setting is ideal for individuals with an active lifestyle or those who prefer a minimalist design. The bezel setting not only secures the diamond but also gives it a contemporary and sophisticated look, often making the stone appear slightly larger due to the surrounding metal rim.

Halo Setting

The halo setting surrounds a central diamond with a circle of smaller diamonds, creating a stunning visual effect that enhances the size and sparkle of the main stone. This design amplifies the diamond’s brilliance and offers an extra touch of glamour, making it a popular choice for those seeking a ring with added dazzle and a more dramatic appearance.

Pavé Setting

In a pavé setting, small diamonds are closely set along the band of the ring, creating a continuous and dazzling sparkle. This setting enhances the overall brilliance of the ring and is ideal for those who desire a ring with exceptional sparkle and a glamorous touch. The close placement of the diamonds maximizes light reflection, giving the ring an elegant and opulent look.

Bella Engagement Ring in 18K white gold

Solitaire Setting

The solitaire setting is renowned for its simplicity and elegance, featuring a single diamond prominently displayed in a prong setting. This classic design highlights the diamond’s beauty without distraction, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate a timeless and understated look. The solitaire setting focuses on the purity of the diamond, offering a sophisticated and enduring style.

Odile Engagement Ring in 18K rose gold / Platinum

Diamond Certification: Ensuring Quality

Always ensure that your diamond comes with a certification from a reputable gemological laboratory, such as the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or the American Gem Society (AGS). These certificates provide detailed information on the diamond’s four Cs and assure you of its quality and authenticity.

Conclusion

Selecting the perfect diamond engagement ring is a personal and meaningful process. By understanding the four Cs, considering the various diamond shapes and settings, and choosing the right metal, you can create a stunning and memorable ring that symbolizes your love. Remember, the most important thing is finding a ring that resonates with you and your partner.