ENGAGEMENT RING GUIDE
Everything you need to know before you start shopping
Reading time: 8 minutes
How to Pick an Engagement Ring
Choosing an engagement ring doesn’t have to be stressful. Forget panic-inducing jewellery store trips or endless online reviews. Selecting the perfect ring is often simpler than you think — once you understand the key elements that define a great engagement ring.
Set a Budget
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Many people have heard the old tale that you should spend three months’ salary on an engagement ring. In reality, this idea came from a decades-old advertising campaign by a major diamond producer.
Rings carry symbolic value and last a lifetime, but how much you spend should reflect your partner’s tastes, your priorities, and your personal circumstances. Setting a budget early makes the process smoother and ensures you focus on what matters most.
Flexible Payment Options
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At AHW Atelier, we understand that an engagement ring is a significant investment. That’s why we offer Afterpay, letting you spread the cost over manageable instalments while still choosing the ring your partner will treasure forever.
Different Styles
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Engagement rings come in a variety of styles, from classic solitaires to vintage-inspired designs and sleek modern minimalism. Each style has its own appeal, letting you find a ring that reflects your partner’s personality.
Diamond Cut
Selecting the cut is the most important step as it affects the rest of the design and is the first thing we all see.
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Round Cuts
Classic, brilliant, and timeless. Symmetrical shape maximises sparkle.
Oval Cuts
Elegant and elongated, flattering on most fingers and often appearing larger than their carat weight.
Emerald Cuts
Rectangular step-cut facets highlight clarity, creating a sophisticated, understated look.
Pear Cuts
Teardrop shape with grace and vintage appeal, visually enlarging the surface area.
Marquise Cuts
Long and narrow with pointed ends, creating the illusion of greater size and a distinctive silhouette.
Looking for something unique? Coloured gemstones are a popular alternative. At AHW Atelier, we specialise in custom-made rings. Explore our Gemstone Guide for inspiration.
Choose Your Ring Metal Colour
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The metal affects a ring’s look, durability, and price. Choose according to lifestyle, personal taste, and budget.
Platinum
Durable, hypoallergenic, holds stones securely, and develops a natural patina over time.
Yellow Gold
Warm, classic, complements all skin tones.
Rose Gold
Romantic blush tone, versatile for vintage or modern designs.
White Gold
Cool-toned, rhodium-plated for shine; requires occasional re-plating.
Choose Your Carat Size
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Carat size affects visual impact and price. Bigger isn’t always better.
Choosing slightly under standard markers, for example 1.9 carats instead of 2, can save money without compromising appearance.
A smaller, well-cut diamond often appears larger than a bigger, poorly cut stone.
Find Your Partner’s Ring Size
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Correct sizing ensures comfort, security, and longevity. Fingers can fluctuate with temperature and activity, so measure under normal conditions.
A properly sized ring slides over the knuckle with slight resistance and sits comfortably at the base of the finger.
Visit a jeweller — any reputable store offers sizing services. At AHW Atelier, we provide precise measurements in store. If you can’t visit, use an online guide and a piece of string or dental floss. [Link to Ring Size Guide]
Propose!
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You’ve chosen the perfect ring — now comes the memorable moment. Keep it personal, heartfelt, and true to your relationship. Speak from the heart, choose a meaningful setting, and enjoy the moment — this is what will be remembered forever.
