Finding the Perfect Engagement Ring: Where to Start

You’ve found the person you want to marry. The hard part is over. But for those embarking on the search for the perfect engagement ring, it can feel like the hard part has just begun.

We often hear that it’s the seemingly endless options available that make this decision overwhelming. Usually an engagement ring is a person’s first major jewelry purchase. It’s understandable that between all the choices (size, color, stone, metal, and price) the decision can feel overwhelming. The good news is: your girlfriend has probably already given this a lot of thought. She likely has a specific idea of what she wants. Even if she doesn’t have something in mind, she has a set style and taste that will help make your decision incredibly easy.

But before you get to that, there are some things that will be really helpful to think about first. For starters, you want to consider your budget. Only you can determine a price range that feels comfortable. Consider your lifestyle and do think long term. An engagement ring will hold it’s value, and it may be something that you want to pass on to future generations.

Next, you’ll want to get to know the anatomy of a ring. Study up, because understanding the difference between a 6-prong or a 4-prong setting, and a solid or a split shank matters (if not to you, it will to the person you’re giving the ring to). Here, we break down the key characteristics of an engagement ring:

The Center Stone

The center stone is the focal point of an engagement ring. What you need to know is that shape matters. There are a variety of shapes to choose from, some traditional, others contemporary. Compare the round center stone of the Ritani Classic Solitaire with the square stone of the Ritani Three Stone Princess Cut. What you’ll notice is that more than the geometry is different: the stones reflect light in unique ways. This is because different shapes come with their own facets (sides cut into a stone that trap and reflect light). You’ll also notice that while the shape establishes a style for the ring, how it’s set (the mounting and shank) and what it’s set with (side or accent stones) creates the ring’s character.

Accent Stones

Accent stones expand upon the style of the ring and can be used to highlight the center stone. Adding accent stones can change the look of a ring from a classic style to one that’s unique and sophisticated.

An alternative to traditional side stones is a setting with pave diamonds around the center stone—what’s called a halo setting. It’s a more delicate and intricate option. It can change the shape of the center stone and make it look bigger. Even this kind of accent comes with a variety of options. Compare the Hyde Park Round Halo for Forevermark with the Hyde Park Cushion Halo for Forevermark: they embellish the center stone differently, the Round Halo emphasizing the circular shape of the center stone, the Cushion Halo giving the center stone a more square appearance with a brilliant center.

The Shank

This is the part of the ring that wraps around the finger. You can choose the type of metal (platinum, white gold and yellow gold are the most common options), thickness and ornamentation (split shank or pave encrusted, for example). We’ve shown you some traditional shanks in the examples above. A more ornate option is the Tacori Princess Center with ribbon shank.

Now that you know some of the basics about engagement rings, start looking more closely at your girlfriend’s everyday style—and take a look inside her jewelry box. Also consider the upside of buying an engagement ring with your girlfriend: you can’t go wrong with your better half making the decision with you. If you are keeping this process a surprise, you may want to consult a close friend to help you with your search. The most important tool you’ll need is a well-trained sales associate. Speak with a specialist on the Hyde Park team who can answer all of your questions and work with you to find the perfect ring.