How to Find the Perfect Engagement Ring (Without Stressing Out)
Ready to put a ring on it? Here’s what you need to know, including our roundup of where to buy the best engagement rings for 2025 (hint: The Diamond Store)
So, you've found the love of your life - now what?
Few things in life demand as much thought, research, planning and - let’s be honest- emotional sweat as getting engaged. Once you’ve decided they’re “the one,” there are so many questions you need to ask before you even get to those crucial 4 little words. When, where, how... but arguably the most question of all to secure that important yes: what ring do I get?
For some of you, this will have been a long time coming and your other half may well have been dropping hints (aka. DMing you pictures of the exact ring they want). For others, the hard work of how to find the perfect engagement ring falls to you. But we’re here to make it easy. With the right mindset - and a few expert tips from The Diamond Store - you can go from ring rookie to rockstar (pun intended).
Don’t Overthink It
If you know, you know. There’s no harm in starting the hunt now - even if the proposal date is still TBC. Browsing early gives you time to understand different styles, compare prices, and, crucially, avoid that last-minute panic scroll. Searches like “best engagement rings for men to buy” and “how to pick an engagement ring she’ll love” are at all-time highs - and trust us, the best decisions are never made under pressure.
Set a Smart Budget
The age-old “three-month salary” rule? Outdated. What matters more is buying a ring with confidence and within your means. If you're working with a tight budget, consider family heirlooms or shopping for second hand vintage rings. However, if new is what you’re after, lab grown diamonds are by far the most affordable way to get a bigger rock for your buck.
Hatton Garden-based jewellers, The Diamond Store, is one of the best places to buy lab grown diamonds in London. After over 60 years in business, in 2019 The Diamond Store were one of the first jewellers to recognise lab grown as the future, shifting their focus towards conflict-free and ethically sourced natural mined diamonds as well as sustainable lab grown diamonds. Their unique, innovative technology means that they can also offer rare and beautiful lab grown stones - such as coloured diamonds - at a more affordable price point.
Pro tip: Don’t rule out premium jewellers because of price. You might be surprised by what you can afford when you're clued up on the details.
Do Your Homework (Yes, You Need to Learn the 4Cs)
You don’t need to become a gemmologist overnight, but learning the basics of the 4Cs - Cut, Colour, Clarity, Carat - is essential.
Cut affects how brilliantly the diamond sparkles, always opt for Good or Very Good
Colour is graded from D (colourless) to Z (slightly tinted)
Clarity deals with imperfections - most are minor
Carat is the weight (not size) of the diamond
Understanding what matters most to you - whether that’s sparkle, size, or ethical sourcing -will help you score a great deal on the diamond and the sentiment.
Trending Engagement Rings in 2025: What’s Hot Right Now?
Search volumes are soaring for:
- Oval and pear-shaped diamonds: for an elegant, modern take on the classic solitaire
- Marquise: the current ‘it girl’ diamond shape of the moment. On trend yet timeless
- Hidden halo settings: extra sparkle for a quiet luxury touch, especially popular with celebs
- Yellow gold revival: bold, warm, and unashamedly luxe
- Three stone rings: three stones, one love story to represent your past, present and future as a couple (hello, symbolism)
- Chunky: a hot take on the vintage signet ring, designed for those you don't do dinky jewellery
Checking out what's trending can provide great inspo but remember: timeless beats trendy if it’s more them. You can discover our pick of the best diamond engagement rings from The Diamond Store below.
The Diamond Store
Amora Marquise 2.00ct Lab Diamond Engagement Ring F/VS Set in 18K Gold
£1799.00
A solitaire ring - meaning a single central diamond mounted on its own - is iconic for a reason. However there is a new trend for the bold, vintage-inspired marquise cut, which offers major finger coverage. At 2.00ct, it delivers serious sparkle at a fraction of the cost of a mined diamond - but, as with all styles, you can find this design with both bigger and smaller diamonds too.
The Diamond Store
Lumia Pear Cut Lab Diamond Halo Ring 0.50ct F/VS in 925 Silver
£349.00
Petite but mighty, this ring features a delicate pear-shaped diamond framed by a shimmering halo - ideal for romantics on a budget who still want a little drama.
The Diamond Store
3 Stone Meghan Lab Diamond Engagement Ring 1.7CT F/VS1 18K White Gold
£1499.00
A modern royal vibe inspired by Meghan Markle, this three-stone ring symbolises past, present, and future - perfect for a classic yet meaningful proposal.
The Diamond Store
Dalia Lab Diamond Oval with Trillions 1.70ct Ring in 18K Yellow Gold F/VS1
£1449.00
Effortlessly chic, this oval centre stone flanked by trillion-cut side diamonds is a fashion-forward twist on tradition.
The diamond Store
Amora Oval 2.00ct Hidden Halo Lab Diamond Engagement Ring F/VS1 Set in 18K Gold
£1849.00
An oval ring relies on its size for impact - not ideal if you're on a budget. However by going lab grown you can procure a timeless, sizeable oval cut without insane cost - this one even comes with a hidden halo for secret luxury.
The Diamond Store
Natalia 5.65ct Lab Diamond Round Cut Engagement Ring in 18K Yellow Gold G/VS1
£3229.00
Unapologetically glamorous, this is the showstopper of dreams - a 5.65ct round cut whopper that you really can't ignore. Designed for the bold and confident, it’s surprisingly attainable thanks to its lab-grown brilliance.
The diamond Store
Diana Lab Diamond Pear Halo Engagement Ring 18KW Gold 1ct F/VS1
£999.00
A timeless design with a regal feel, pear-shaped stones are having a real moment. At 1ct, it’s the perfect mid-sized sparkler for someone who wants refined beauty with heirloom appeal - at a price that won't wipe you out before the wedding.
The Diamond Store
Georgina 5.70ct Lab Diamond Oval Cut Engagement Ring in Platinum G/VS1
£3299.00
For the ultra-luxe aesthetic, this platinum-set, 5.70ct oval is pure opulence. Best suited for someone who wants impact, clarity, and, let's face it, a serious rock on their hand. The sparkle on this is insane.
The Diamond Store
Aurora Lab Diamond Emerald Cut and Trillion 1.70ct Ring in 18K Gold F/VS1
£1499.00
Architectural and modern, the emerald centre flanked by trillion sides gives this ring an Art Deco feel. At 1.70ct total, it’s sleek yet statement-making - perfect for seriously stylish fiances.
The Diamond Store
Lab Diamond Side Stone Engagement Ring 0.25ct H/Si in 925 Silver
£185.00
This outrageously affordable style is one of The Diamond Store's bestselling rings. It's clean, simple, and ideal for those who want understated, timeless beauty on a budget. Again, because of being lab grown, this is a larger stone for your buck compared to mined diamonds.
The Diamond Store
Katerina 5.55ct Lab Diamond Princess Cut Engagement Ring in 18K White Gold G/VS1
£3399.00
Ok let's put this in perspective. If you were to try and buy this big impact 5.55ct princess-cut dazzler as a mined diamond, it would cost you upwards of £25k. This wow lab grown style is made for someone who loves drama and precision, from a man who is savvy with his spending.
The diamond Store
Emerald 0.75ct And Diamond 18K Gold Ring N4300
£1029.00
Tapping into the ever growing trend for colourful gemstone rings, this vibrant Columbian green emerald feels a little bit different to your usual engagement style - ideal for a creative or non-traditional bride. By opting for lab grown diamonds as the side stones, you'll make a huge saving.
The Diamond Store
Lab Diamond Signet Ring 0.50ct in 18K Gold Vermeil H/SI
£279.00
A contemporary twist on the classic signet style, this chunky ring features a subtle central diamond for just the right amount of edge. This feels so 'now', perfect for modern, fashionable brides who don't own dainty jewellery and want something bold and unique.
Be (Slightly) Sneaky
Before you click "add to basket," ask yourself: would they actually wear this?
Pay attention to what jewellery they wear day-to-day. Do they prefer gold or silver? Are their pieces minimalist, vintage-inspired, or statement? What does their wardrobe look like – is it timelessly chic, super casual or ultra maximalist?
No clue? Peek at their Pinterest, ask their close friend, or even suggest a “casual” window shopping trip. Chances are, they’ve already left breadcrumbs. Follow them.
Size Matters (So Get It Right)
The proposal should be unforgettable - but for the right reasons. Avoid the awkward “it doesn’t fit” moment by measuring their ring size in advance. Use The Diamond Store’s free ring sizer tool or discreetly borrow a ring they wear on the correct finger (left hand, fourth finger FYI). Not sure? The Diamond Store has a generous exchange policy, so you’re covered.
Don’t Go It Alone
Even Bond had Q. You don’t have to navigate this alone.
Brands like The Diamond Store offer expert customer support, personal consultations, and a seamless online experience. Whether you need styling tips, reassurance, or advice on ring insurance (yes, that’s a thing), their team is at the ready.
Now go forth and get that yes! You’ve got this.