1. Set a Budget

Before selecting an engagement ring, you should decide on a budget you feel comfortable with. Many old wives tales suggest that an engagement ring should cost three months' worth of your salary, but truthfully there is no rule to dictate the budget you set. 

Your budget should depend on your significant other’s preferences and your own financial circumstances. The best plan is to find a diamond or gemstone that balances size with quality at a price point that works for you. 

Lab grown diamonds and moissanite are budget-friendly options and we have a variety of flexible payment options including 12-month financing, layaway, and easy monthly payments via Affirm.

2. Choose a Setting

Once you’ve determined your budget, it’s time to select a setting. A ring setting refers to the entirety of the design besides the center stone the prongs, gallery, and band. While settings are very important to the way a style looks, they’re also important structurally: they hold the center piece and should provide comfort for everyday wear.

Ring Styles

Ring settings can range from luxurious halo styles to classic solitaire silhouettes and completely custom designs so it’s definitely helpful to have guidance from a professional in picking the perfect piece. 

Selecting the setting can be one of the most difficult decisions to make during this process, so take the time to consider what you and your partner want: whether it’s modern, nature-inspired, or something unique. 

It can also be helpful to consider what types of clothing and accessories your partner typically gravitates towards to inform the style of setting you go for. To make the decision less stressful, we proudly offer 30-day free returns and exchanges on unworn items.

Metal Type

Engagement rings generally come in four different metal types: white gold, yellow gold, rose gold, and platinum.

Trends are constantly changing, but white gold and platinum are classic choices, with yellow gold becoming increasingly popular. For those with metal allergies, platinum is the hypoallergenic choice.

Size

Don’t worry if you don’t know your partner’s ring size (or your own)! Determining your partner’s ring size without asking can be tricky — but not impossible. We’ll teach you a few simple tips and tricks to help figure it out:

Sneak a ring from your partner’s jewelry box and take it to a jeweler to have it sized or trace the inside of the ring on a piece of paper. 

Recruit friends or loved ones to help you covertly determine their size.  

It’s always best to err on the large side so that you’ll be able to fit the ring on their finger when you propose.  

You are always welcome to order a complimentary ring sizer from our website (if you aren’t keeping the proposal a secret).  

If the size isn’t perfect, we offer a free 60-day resize policy so you can find the perfect fit.

3. Select a Center Stone

Once you’ve decided on what style of setting and metal type your ring will be, it’s time to find the right center stone. Traditionally engagement rings are set with diamonds, but colored gemstones are also a great choice for anyone looking for something unique or a pop of color.

Whatever type, shape, or color of gemstone you fall for, selecting a center stone is a vital and exciting next step to designing the perfect piece.

Lab diamond vs. Natural Diamond

Lab diamonds have the same chemical, optical, and physical composition as their natural counterparts. Without specialized equipment, you cannot visually tell the difference between the two.

The only difference is their origin: one was grown in a lab and the other formed deep within the Earth billions of years ago. 

Lab diamonds are slightly more affordable than natural diamonds, however, so they offer a great way to optimize your center diamond while staying on budget.

Understanding the 4 Cs: What Should You Look For?

When buying a diamond ring, understanding the 4 Cs Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat—is crucial. These factors determine the diamond's quality and value.

Cut

The cut of a diamond refers to how well it has been shaped and faceted. A well-cut diamond reflects light beautifully, creating that coveted sparkle. Jewelen's diamonds are expertly cut to maximize brilliance and fire.

Color

Diamonds come in a range of colors, from colorless to yellow or brown. The less color a diamond has, the higher its value. Jewelen offers diamonds in various color grades, allowing you to choose the perfect balance between quality and budget.

Clarity

Clarity measures the presence of inclusions or blemishes within a diamond. The fewer imperfections, the more valuable the diamond. Jewelen provides detailed clarity ratings for each diamond, ensuring transparency and trust.

Carat

Carat weight indicates the size of the diamond. Larger diamonds are rarer and more expensive. Jewelen's collection includes diamonds of all carat weights, so you can find a ring that matches your preference and budget.

What is the Ideal Setting?

The setting of a diamond ring holds the diamond in place and can significantly impact the ring's overall appearance. Jewelen offers a variety of settings, including:

Solitaire

A single diamond set on a simple band. This classic style emphasizes the diamond's beauty.

Halo

A central diamond surrounded by smaller diamonds. This setting enhances the ring's sparkle and makes the center stone appear larger.

Three-Stone

Three diamonds set side by side. This design symbolizes the past, present, and future of a relationship.

Vintage

Intricate designs and detailed craftsmanship reminiscent of antique rings. Perfect for those who love a touch of history.