Engagement Ring Guide

What should I know before buying an engagement ring

At Prism and Pearl we use moissanite rather than diamonds. We consider moissanite a superior and attainable choice because it offers extraordinary brilliance, ethical origins and better value. Diamonds are traditional and many people prefer them for that reason. The diamond industry has also been shaped by strong marketing. If you want to compare these stones you can read our guide to diamond alternatives and learn how to choose a diamond alternative here.

When you are ready to buy an engagement ring it helps to know a few fundamentals so you can feel confident and stay within your budget. These are the key points.

1. Understand the quality factors

The four major grading factors called the 4 Cs are colour, clarity, cut and carat weight. These help compare one stone to another. See our Guide to the 4 Cs if you are unsure of definitions. Moissanites are chemically similar to diamonds so they are graded with the same framework.

All Prism and Pearl stones are D colour, VVS2 clarity and excellent cut. Carat is your choice.

Colour

Diamonds range from colourless to those with warmer tones. Colour comes down to rarity and taste. Some love cool white sparkle while others prefer a champagne glow.

Clarity

This refers to internal inclusions or surface marks. Fewer inclusions give a higher clarity grade. Moissanite has very high clarity which creates strong light return.

Cut

This is how well the stone has been shaped to reflect light. A great cut produces the most sparkle and can make a smaller stone look lively.

Carat weight

This describes size. Bigger stones are rarer which increases cost. Choose a size that suits your hand and lifestyle rather than focusing on the largest option.

2 Choose your shape

See our Guide to Choosing Your Shape for more detail.

• Round brilliant is the most popular and usually the most expensive.
• Fancy shapes can provide savings and a unique look.
• Some shapes reveal colour or clarity more than others. Emerald cut is one example.

3. View the stone in natural lighting

A stone can look very different under shop lights compared with everyday light. View it in daylight, warm indoor light and shaded areas.

4. Pick the band metal

The metal influences both the overall look and how the gemstone appears.

• White gold or platinum enhance bright stones.
• Yellow gold adds warmth.
• Rose gold gives a classic feel.

For moissanite, sterling silver with a platinum finish creates a luxe look for an attainable price.

5. Choose a setting style

The setting influences sparkle, durability and style.

• Prong settings allow strong sparkle.
• Bezel settings provide a smooth silhouette and protect the stone.
• Halos and side stones add presence without needing a larger centre stone. See our full guide here.

6. Reflect your style and trends

This is your moment. Choose something that feels like you. Think about engraving, mixed metals or a distinctive shape. Vintage inspired details can add character. Also consider how the ring will pair with a wedding band.

7. Get the sizing right

Comfort matters. If the ring is a surprise, borrow a ring they wear or have a jeweller size it. Many rings can be resized by one or two sizes.

The pressure myth around diamonds

There is a popular belief that an engagement ring must cost a certain amount or that a diamond must be large to represent love. That idea was created by clever marketing.

The story often relates to De Beers and their campaigns that promoted the idea of a diamond being forever and encouraged spending three months of salary on a ring. This positioned diamonds as rare and exclusive which linked financial cost with emotional value. Modern couples often feel unnecessary pressure because of this idea.

Love and commitment come from the relationship. A ring should never create stress. Choose a piece that fits your budget and feels right. Remember that celebrity rings belong to a different world. Beauty is not defined by price.

Final thoughts

Buying an engagement ring can feel simple when you focus on what your partner loves, what suits your budget and the quality you feel comfortable with. Use the 4 Cs as a guide. The ring is a symbol of love rather than a financial burden.