How to Choose an Engagement Ring

Choosing an engagement ring is easier when you begin with the person who will wear it, rather than a particular carat weight or trend. Think about their everyday jewellery, preferred metal colour and whether they enjoy delicate designs or a more noticeable ring. A photograph of a favourite piece can be just as helpful as a detailed brief.

Choose the centre stone and setting together

A round engagement ring offers lively sparkle and a timeless, balanced outline, while an oval engagement ring can feel more elongated on the hand. Emerald and Asscher cuts show broader flashes of light if you prefer clean, geometric lines. The mounting matters just as much: a solitaire draws attention to one stone, a halo frames it, and a trilogy brings three stones together.

For a classic diamond look, compare our lab grown diamond engagement rings. If you are drawn to colour, lab grown gemstone engagement rings offer sapphires, emeralds and rubies, while coloured lab diamond engagement rings feature diamonds with a coloured centre stone.

Consider the ring from every angle

Look at the height of the setting, the profile of the claws, the width of the band and how a future wedding ring might sit alongside it. Platinum and 18ct gold also have different colours, finishes and maintenance considerations. A ring should feel balanced on the hand as well as beautiful in a photograph.

Practical details before you order

If the exact ring size is uncertain, speak to a consultant before choosing a design that may be difficult to resize, particularly one with diamonds around much of the band. Check the current delivery estimate for your chosen setting and any personalisation, rather than assuming every ring has the same lead time. A little planning leaves more room to enjoy the proposal itself.

Our jewellery consultants can help you compare proportions and narrow down the details during a private appointment at our Manchester or London showroom. There is no need to arrive knowing every technical term; an idea of what you like is enough to begin.

2026 Award Nominations

Award Winning Jeweller

We’re proud to be recognised consistently by the UK jewellery industry’s leading awards programmes. In 2026, Lily Arkwright has been shortlisted for Branded Boutique of the Year at the Professional Jeweller Awards and Bridal Jewellery Retailer of the Year at the UK Jewellery Awards, reflecting our continued commitment to exceptional customer service, product innovation, and ethical craftsmanship.

These latest nominations build on previous industry recognition, including being shortlisted for Bridal Jewellery Retailer of the Year at the 2025 UK Jewellery Awards and Independent Retailer of the Year at the Professional Jeweller Awards 2025. We were also finalists for Retail Team of the Year at both the Retail Jeweller Awards and Professional Jeweller Awards in 2024, recognising the passion, expertise, and dedication of our team.

We’re honoured to be recognised for helping thousands of couples find the perfect engagement rings and wedding rings, with a strong focus on choice, transparency, and personalisation. As an award-winning jeweller, we remain committed to delivering exceptional service, exceptional craftsmanship, and responsibly sourced lab-grown diamonds, moissanite, and natural diamonds, ensuring every customer can find a ring that perfectly reflects their love story.

Expert Engagement Ring Advice

EXPERT, QUALIFIED ADVICE

Expert Engagement Ring Advice

Choosing an engagement ring is easier with specialist guidance. Our team includes JET-qualified consultants and colleagues progressing through the National Association of Jewellers' training pathway. Together, they can help you compare diamond and gemstone shapes, settings, metals and ring proportions.

Meet us at our Manchester or London showroom for a private consultation, or discuss your ideas online.

Book a virtual consultation