Wedding Bells are Ringing - The Ultimate Guide to Engagement and Wedding Rings

Getting engaged and married are some of the most exciting, wonderful, and emotionally charged moments of your life. You're making a commitment to your partner and stepping into a brand-new chapter of your love story. But let’s be honest—along with all the romance, there’s also a bit of stress!
How do you choose the perfect ring? What’s the best metal? What size is right? Relax—we've got you covered. This guide will help you navigate the big decisions and save you time (and maybe a headache or two) later on!

Choosing the Right Engagement Ring

An engagement ring isn’t just jewellery—it’s a symbol of your love, commitment, and unique story. So, it makes sense to put some real thought into it. Here are some key things to consider:

• • Style – What’s your partner’s taste? Classic? Vintage? Modern?
  • Lifestyle – Are they super active? If so, a high-set diamond might not be the best choice.
  • Gemstone – Diamond or coloured gemstone? Sapphires, rubies, and even emeralds make stunning alternatives.
  • Setting – What’s practical for everyday wear?
  • Metal & Colour – Yellow gold, white gold, rose gold, or platinum?

A private jeweller can help walk you through these details, making sure your choices align with your partner’s taste and lifestyle.

How Much Should You Spend?

Ah, the age-old question. A 2023 survey of 4,000 British couples found that the average engagement ring cost £1,929. But let’s clear something up—there’s no right amount to spend!
You may have heard the old “three months’ salary” rule, a clever marketing tactic by De Beers in the 1930s and 1980s. The truth? You should spend what you feel comfortable with. Prioritise what matters most—size, quality, or uniqueness—and set a budget that works for you.
 

Ring Size: The Secret Mission

If you’re planning a surprise proposal, getting the ring size right can be tricky! Try these subtle tactics:

• • Borrow a ring they already wear (just make sure it's for the correct finger!).
  • Enlist the help of a friend or family member.
  • If in doubt, go slightly larger—it’s easier to resize down than up.

And don’t stress! If the sizing difference isn’t extreme you will be able to get it changed. Sophie Flanagan Fine Jewellery offers a free resize post-proposal to help alleviate the panic!

Diamonds, Sapphires, Rubies, or Something Else?

Do engagement rings have to feature diamonds? Absolutely not! There are plenty of stunning alternatives that are durable enough for everyday wear:

• • Sapphires – Available in a variety of colours, not just blue!
  • Rubies – A timeless, bold choice.
  • Emeralds, Spinel, Aquamarine – Unique and full of character.

If you do choose a diamond, remember the 4 Cs:

• • Cut – Determines sparkle.
  • Clarity – Fewer imperfections = higher quality.
  • Colour – The less yellow, the higher the grade.
  • Carat – A larger stone isn’t always better, quality matters too!

And what about laboratory-grown diamonds? They look identical to natural ones, but at a lower cost. Would you be comfortable telling your partner it’s lab-grown? If yes, go for it! If you’re unsure, you may be best to steer clear but check out our guide on the topic.

Metal Matters: Gold, Platinum & More

Did you know that gold prices have soared in the last year? This has made platinum more popular again—it's incredibly durable and now similar in price to gold.
Here’s a quick breakdown:

• • Yellow gold – Classic, warm, and timeless.
  • White gold – Elegant and modern (but needs rhodium plating over time).
  • Rose gold – Romantic and unique.
  • Platinum – Strong, naturally white, and hypoallergenic.

The best choice? Whatever suits your partner’s skin tone, style, and preference! And no, your wedding bands don’t have to match.

To Be Wedfit or Not to Be Wedfit?

Does your partner want their wedding band to sit perfectly flush against the engagement ring? If so, look for a wedfit design, where the gemstone sits slightly raised. If they don’t mind a small gap, then a non-wedfit ring is just fine.
There’s no right or wrong—just think about what they’d love most!

Wedding Bands: It’s Not Just “A Simple Ring”

When people say they want a straightforward wedding band, what does that mean? There are lots of decisions to make:

• • Profile – D shape, court, flat, halo…
  • Width – 2mm? 3mm?4mm etc?
  • Finish – Polished, brushed, textured?
  • Weight – Light, medium, heavy?

Not sure where to start? Check out our Wedding Bands Resource Page for more details!

After the “Yes” – Insurance & Care

Now that you have the perfect rings, here’s what you need to know:

• • Insurance – Definitely worth considering! Check if it’s covered under home contents insurance or get a specialist policy.
  • Regular Maintenance – Annual check-ups can prevent lost stones and make sure the setting is secure.
  • Cleaning – For diamonds, warm water, dish soap, and a soft toothbrush will keep them sparkling. Other gemstones may need special care.

Still Have Questions? Let’s Chat!

After all this, you might still have questions—and that’s completely normal! Choosing engagement and wedding rings is a big decision, and we’re here to help.
Give yourself plenty of time to explore options, and don’t hesitate to reach out for expert guidance. A private jeweller can make the process smooth, enjoyable, and tailored just for you. So… what are you waiting for? Let’s create the perfect ring to start your story!