Engagement Ring Engraving Ideas

February 22, 2023April 17, 2023Engagement Rings, Top postsdiamond engagement rings, diamond rings, engagement ring advice, engagement ring engraving, engraved rings, ring engraving ideas

At JamesAllen, engagement ring engravings are free at checkout! Looking for the right words? Get inspired by dozens of our favorite engagement ring inscriptions so you can create your moment in your own words.

Engrave Your Engagement Ring

Every couple has their own special way of communicating with each other, filled with tokens of love and had-to-be-there private jokes. We’re all about those love languages! Whatever proposal you plan will be a personalized tribute to your shared language – so why not personalize your engagement ring too? With a special inscription, you don’t have to go all-out on custom engagement rings to get personalized bands.

Engagement Ring Engraving Ideas

At a loss for words? We’ve got the inspiration for your perfect engagement ring inscription. They are chock-full of awe-inspiring personalized messages for you to take your pick of.

Get inspired by our customers’ unique engagement rings! Consider engraving your engagement ring or wedding band with your anniversary date, the place where you fell in love, your initials, a romantic quote, or a phrase with a special meaning that only you two understand.

INSCRIBE A ROMANTIC PHRASE

Sometimes the biggest emotions are best expressed in the fewest words. We love the power of these abbreviated love letters!

More inscription ideas

WRITTEN IN THE STARS
JUST THE BEGINNING
UNDER YOUR SPELL
JUST GETTING STARTED
KEEPS GETTING BETTER
IT WAS ALWAYS YOU
YOU AND ME FOREVER
MY EVERYTHING
TILL NOW AND FOREVER
ALWAYS & FOREVER
TWO WISHES LEFT
CHALLENGE ACCEPTED
ME BETTER HALF

Platinum Three Stone Pavé Knife Edge Engagement Ring

Channel Set Princess Cut Diamond Engagement Ring

SHOP ENGAGEMENT RINGS

Song Verses

Nothing beats the classics! Some timeless melodies just get better with age. Take a page out of a songwriter’s book and borrow a romantic lyric for yourself.

More inscription ideas

time after time (Cyndi Lauper, ‘Time After Time’)
my love has come along (Etta James, ‘At Last’)
How sweet it is (James Taylor, ‘How Sweet It Is’)
all of me (John Legend, ‘All of Me’)

INSCRIBE A BIBLE VERSE

More inscription ideas

1 Corinthians 13:4 Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up! Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.”
1 Corinthians 13:13: “Three things will last forever — faith, hope and love — and the greatest of these is love.”

INSCRIBE YOUR PROPOSAL DATE

Your engagement ring engraving will always bring you back to the moment you proposed, tears, joy, and all.

Yellow Gold Shared Prong Marquise Side Stone Diamond Engagement Ring

Yellow Gold Comfort Fit Bezel Set Solitaire Engagement Ring

Yellow Gold 2mm Knife Edge Solitaire Engagement Ring

DESIGN YOUR RING

INSCRIBE YOUR INITIALS

As romantic as they are simple, engagement ring engravings of initials or names put your soulmate-status in writing.

Inscribe a Goofy phrase

It’s what’s on the inside that counts! Choose to inscribe your ring with a reference that holds special meaning for the two of you, whether it’s a sports term, internet speaks, or Irish Gael.

…AAAND SCENE.
Do Not Remove
MY LOVE BUN
My Lobster
Put My Back On!
You + Me = Duh
Hot Wifey (Hubby) Award
Happy Now?
You Wore Me Down
SUCKER
Finders Keepers
To Love, Honor, & Irritate

Matching Phrases

You two already finish each other’s sentences, so why not finish each other’s wedding rings? Get all matchy-matchy with complementary engravings. This is particularly good for couples who have distinct styles of wedding rings, but still want to match each other.

To Infinity…
…And beyond!
∞
+ 1

Free Engagement Ring Engraving

Personalization + no extra cost – why wouldn’t you engrave your ring for free as an extra meaningful touch?

How to add a complimentary engraving to your engagement ring at JamesAllen.com at checkout:

Choose your font: either block text or cursive script
Type a phrase up to 20 characters in length

White Gold Ridged Dome Solitaire Engagement Ring

Yellow Gold Entangled Vines Engagement Ring

White Gold Antique Bezel And Pavé Set Engagement Ring

Engagement Ring Engraving: Get the Message

Make your engagement ring just that much more special with a custom engraving, in a custom font, for absolutely free! Just add your text at the checkout, and your personalized ring will arrive, word-worthy and ready-to-wear.

Ready to get started? Write here, right now: find the perfect engagement ring for your inscription.

Subscribe to our email list for access to secret sales, practical ring-buying tips, and $100 off your first purchase!

Rachel Hoar

Rachel is an unabashed linguistics fanatic who can identify the ancient Greek root of any word. She promises not to spray you with Windex.

Questions to Ask Before Engagement Ring Shopping as a Couple

February 1, 2023April 10, 2023Education, Engagement Rings4Cs, engagement ring advice, engagement ring styles, engagement rings

Shopping for an engagement ring is a big decision, and it’s one of the most meaningful purchases you can make as a couple. But before you jump into the process, there are some things to consider and discuss first.

What Are The Pros Of Ring Shopping Together?

The pros of shopping together for an engagement ring include enjoying the process together, determining what sort of ring fits your personality and tastes, getting information from a trusted jeweler about diamonds and other stones, and budgeting.

You’ll also be assured that you’re choosing the perfect symbol of your commitment to each other. So, if you’re looking for something special to commemorate this important chapter in your lives, why not go ring shopping together? It could be one of your most memorable and romantic moments. Plus, it’s so much more fun than doing it alone! So what are you waiting for? Start shopping today!

How Should You Go About Shopping?

One option to consider is shopping together for your rings—it’s becoming a more popular choice for couples wanting to share the experience of ring shopping together. A few advantages to shopping together include getting more insight into what your partner likes and needs in an engagement ring. Plus, you can help each other decide on the right design and budget for both of you.

How Can It Be A Romantic Experience And Not Too Transactional?

Shopping for an engagement ring together can be a romantic experience if you approach it with the right mindset. Think of it as an adventure, and make sure to enjoy the process! This is also a great opportunity to bond with each other, talk about your dreams, and get excited about what’s in store for your future.

Remember that at the end of the day, this moment is all about celebrating your love – so don’t forget to take some time to savor it!

Questions To Ask Yourselves

What ring design do you want?
Do you prefer something classic and timeless or modern and unique?
What stone shape do you like best?
Should you buy an engagement ring or a bridal set?
What’s your budget?
Can you pay for the engagement ring in installments if needed?
Do you need your ring insured as well?

Once you have answered these questions, it’s time to head out to start shopping! Before making any purchase, make sure to ask your jeweler some essential questions about the stone and setting.

Questions To Ask Your Jeweler

When visiting a jeweler, there are also a few other things to consider:

Do they offer different types of metals for rings (e.g., yellow gold, rose gold, white gold)?
What are the 4Cs used to measure the quality of diamonds (cut, color, clarity, and carat)?
Does the center stone have a grading report?
Can the ring be modified or customized in any way?
Can you inspect the stone before buying it to assess its quality and beauty for yourself?

Happy Ring Shopping

Answering these questions will help make sure that your engagement is everything you dreamed it would be. Shopping for an engagement ring is a deeply personal experience and should be treated as such. By shopping together, listening to each other’s opinions, and asking lots of questions at the store, you’ll be able to find the perfect ring for your special day.

Still need some guidance? Contact us at JamesAllen.com, and one of our experts will be happy to talk you through the ring-shopping process.

Subscribe to our email list for access to secret sales, practical ring-buying tips, and $100 off your first purchase!

The author generated this text in part with GPT-3. The author reviewed, edited, and revised the language and takes ultimate responsibility for the content.

Jessica Thomas

Jessica feels too much anxiety trying to come up with a cool bio. Read her awesome blog post instead.

9 Valentine’s Day Engagement Rings

January 17, 2022July 4, 2022Celebrity Inspired Engagement Rings, Engagement Ringscelebrity engagement rings, engagement ring advice, heart engagement rings, ruby engagement rings, three-stone engagement rings, valentine's day, valentine's day proposal

So you’ve got the romantic atmosphere, have found the love of your life, and mapped out the perfect proposal for Valentine’s Day, now you need the ring! If you are planning to pop the question, stay tuned for everything you need to know for that perfect engagement ring!

It’s here! The most romantic day of the year has finally arrived! This day that is all about love and affection is an incredibly popular time to propose. And it is no wonder, the pitter-patter of snowfall, snuggling in front of the fireplace, the afterglow of the holiday season, Valentine’s Day is not called the day of romance for nothing!

What exactly IS Valentine’s Day?

History tells us that Valentine’s Day’s romantic origins date back to Ancient Roman times, when Saint Valentine defied then-Emperor Claudius II. The Emperor had banned marriages for young men, believing they made better soldiers than husbands and fathers.

Saint Valentine felt so strongly that this decree was unfair, that he continued to perform marriages for young lovers in secret. Eventually, the Saint was caught and executed, but this day of love which some say commemorates Saint Valentine’s burial, is associated with the love he died to protect.

Valentine’s Day has since moved on from secret marriages. This day of love is often used to commemorate various milestones in a relationship……or to start one! Who doesn’t remember sticking a paper lunch bag to your desk, handing out cards and candies to your classmates. Then check your bag to see if your crush gave you one and if they wrote a special message!

The thrill of someone coming up to you in the hallway, giving you a Valentine from your crush, because they were too shy to do it themselves! Then save the card and read it over and over to your friends, talking about how cute your crush is!

Or your first Valentine’s Day with your first significant other. Buying all the traditional gifts, teddy bears, candy, flowers, ahhhhhhh young love! And now here you are, ready to pop THE big question.

Maybe you are planning a big public proposal using the jumbotron at a basketball game, or you’ll attach a ring to your dog’s collar, or perhaps you’ll go more intimate, a quiet candlelight dinner, either way, you will need the perfect engagement ring….and then wedding ring!

You have the perfect day, the perfect love, the perfect proposal, make sure you have the perfect sparkles. From asking someone out for the first time “Will you be my valentine?” to proposing to your long-time love, this is truly a day of romance.

Petite Pavé Cathedral Engagement Ring

Six Prong Solitaire Engagement Ring

Platinum 2mm Comfort Fit Solitaire Engagement Ring (Six Prong)

Holy Ring Choices!

Engagement rings have come a long way, from traditional diamond solitaire engagement rings, to engagement rings (& wedding rings) that utilize gemstones and diamonds together; the classic yellow gold band, to white and rose gold options, the ring you choose can be as unique as your love.

Engagement rings and wedding rings are symbols of your love and commitment, of your togetherness, your past, your present, and of course, your future together. This, for example, is often symbolized by a three-stone engagement ring.

You can design your ring to reflect not just your love’s style, but the romance of the day. If you want to design your own ring, we are here to help!

You can learn how to design an engagement ring, customize an engagement ring, or if it’s right for you and your partner, you can design the ring together.

But maybe you’ve used all your energies on planning the perfect proposal, then never fear! We have lots of gorgeous options for perfect engagement rings that are impossible not to love. See below for just a few of our favorite options.

Split Shank Solitaire Engagement Ring

14K Yellow Gold Classic Split Shank Solitaire Diamond Engagement Ring

Petite Diamond Halo Engagement Ring

Valentine’s Day Engagement Rings

So many engagement rings, so little time! A proposal on this day of romance should be accompanied by an engagement ring that will set your partner’s heart on fire! Here are some of our most romantic engagement ring options!

Ruby Engagement Rings

Celebrate this day of love and passion by choosing an engagement ring featuring a gemstone that does the same. Like a red rose, a warm red ruby is an ultimate choice for a romantic, gemstone engagement ring.

Three Stone Trillion Shaped Ruby Engagement Ring

Romantic Symbolism

An engagement ring, like a wedding ring, is a symbol of your commitment to your partner. It shows your love is timeless and a 3 stone engagement ring shows that your love covers the past, the present, and the future.

Three Stone Pavé Engagement Ring

14K White Gold Three Stone Pavé Knife Edge Engagement Ring

Three Stone Infinity Engagement Ring

14K White Gold Three Stone Diamond Infinity Engagement Ring

Custom-Designed Engagement Rings

Nothing screams romance more than a sentimental gift. There are plenty of custom design options available to you, especially when buying your engagement rings online. From choosing the exact diamond shape and size to the metal color and setting, you can personalize your dream engagement ring down to the very last detail.

Trapezoid Engagement Ring

Platinum Framed Trapezoid Three Stone Diamond Engagement Ring

Comfort Fit Solitaire Engagement Ring

Celebrity Inspired Heart-Shaped Engagement Rings

Take it from some of our favorite trendsetting celebs- a heart shaped engagement ring can make you glow and bring out all the aspects of your unique style. From Lady Gaga to Paris Hilton, heart-shaped sparklers are always an option!

Lady Gaga taking a ring selfie of her heart-shaped engagement ring

Paris Hilton and her fiancé drinking champagne while she shows off her diamond engagement ring

Check out our engagement ring and wedding ring guides:

Ultimate Guide to Buying an Engagement Ring Online * Maximize Your Diamond Sparkle * Gemstone Engagement Rings * Wedding Bands for the Modern Man * What Kind of Ring Shopper Are You? * Engraved Rings * Virtual Ring Try-On * Vintage Engagement Rings

Check out celebrity engagement rings and looks:

Sofia Vergara * Hailey Bieber * 2020 Oscars * Royal Engagements * Pippa Middleton * Gabrielle Union * Miranda Kerr * Gwen Stefani, Demi Lovato, & More!

Subscribe to our email list for access to secret sales, practical ring-buying tips, and $100 off your first purchase!

Sarah Axelrad

Sarah is a stickler for grammar and prefers to use the Oxford comma. She enjoys her career as a writer since being a professional snowboarder/powerlifter/pastry chef didn’t pan out.

7 Ways to Drop A Hint – And Get Your Perfect Engagement Ring

January 20, 2022July 4, 2022Engagement Ringscustomer reviews, drop a hint, engagement ring advice, engagement ring styles, instagram, pinterest

How do you tell your partner exactly what engagement ring you want without sacrificing the element of surprise? We’ve got the pro tips you’re looking to drop a hint.

7 Ways to Drop A Hint and Get Your Perfect Engagement Ring

So your engagement is in the air! Maybe you’ve talked about it at length, maybe you just know that the time is nigh, but however you know – you need a ring to get it done.

Many people, although they know exactly which ring they want, aren’t sure how to get the message across to their partner without spoiling the surprise. That “OMG!” face just can’t be faked, after all!

It’s a tricky tightrope to walk between planned and unplanned. On the one hand, it’s crucial that both partners are on the same page regarding wanting to get married. On the other hand, popping the question – as the phrase implies – is an exciting, explosive event. To many, it’s just as crucial to creating the toe-tingling, je-ne-se-quois atmosphere of an unexpected proposal.

Most of the below tips can be dropped subtly or obviously, and we’ll tell you how.

Use James Allen’s Drop-A-Hint Feature

Good for when:

You know exactly what you want

JamesAllen.com comes with a ready-made suggestion feature. Above each ring on the site is a small heart-shaped icon. Simply click on this “Drop a Hint” icon and you’ll be prompted to choose a platform over which to send your hint: Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, or Gmail. Or, you can simply copy the link and send it however you’d like.

14K Gold Two Tone Ribbon Bypass Solitaire Engagement Ring

“Everyone was impressed with the ring. It was simple but elegant. The tension band highlighted the diamond.” -Karine I.

Try James Allen’s Wishlist Feature

Good for when:

You and your partner are looking for a ring together
You love more than one ring

14K Rose Gold Pavé Twist Diamond Engagement Ring

“Photos don’t ever do rings justice, but let me say this ring sparkles even in the darkest of nights. You will have heads turning.” -Monica L.

Sometimes it’s hard just to pick one ring! If you’re in love with more than one exquisite sparkler, here’s what you should do:

Create a JamesAllen.com account
Browse ring candidates
Click on the heart icon beside the “select this setting” button on any ring page to add that particular model to your wishlist
Give your partner your JamesAllen.com password
They see your wishlist and surprise you with one of your dream rings!

Pro tip: This is a way to get the best of both worlds: you get a ring you love + you don’t know which one you’ll get! Surprise ensured.

Use Pinterest To Drop A Hint

Good for when:

You’re an avid, organized researcher

Pinterest is an incredible tool for dropping a hint! There are two ways to use Pinterest to drop a hint:

Save specific rings to your “Engagement Ring” Pinterest board, just as you would on your James Allen wishlist.
Save engagement ring characteristics on different boards, and then let your partner choose the ring themselves.

Let’s focus on option #2. For each characteristic, make a titled board. For example, you may want a yellow gold solitaire engagement ring with a high, diamond-encrusted basket. In this case, you’ll make 4 boards: “Yellow Gold Rings,” “Solitaire Engagement Rings,” “Rings with High Baskets,” and “Rings with Diamond Baskets.”

Diamond Pave Basket Engagement Ring

“Beautiful, blindingly shiny! The pave on the basket is so unique, we love how it lets the solitaire diamond take center stage when viewing the ring from the top, but adds extra sparkle from the side.” – Joshua L.

Pave Adorned Cathedral Engagement Ring

“As it glistens on her hand, she smiles. This ring was everything she wanted, and it makes me happy to see her happy. Looks great, fits great, and putting it on for the first time is unforgettable.” -Marcus S.

Don’t forget to get your partner to follow you on Pinterest! Either tell them up-front what your profile name is, or get a good friend to tip them off.

Pro tip: For specifics on how to use Pinterest to the fullest, read up on Using Pinterest To Find Your Partner’s Dream Ring.

Drop A Hint On Instagram

Good for when:

You’ve got a good community on social media.

Are you and your partner both on Instagram? Or do you have a good friend who can pass along your messages? Whenever you see a choice engagement ring on IG, tag your special someone.

Pro tip: Here’s a good start: follow @jamesallenrings on Instagram. Every James Allen post includes the specific model name and number so your follower(s) know exactly what to look for.

Triple Diamond Engagement Ring

“These diamonds dance with the light with the slightest movement of my finger! The triple white diamonds on each side are the perfect compliment to the yellow diamond. The package box my beautiful ring came in is like none I have ever seen!” -Debra H.

Graduated Pavé Engagement Ring

“My ring is even more stunning in person compared to the photos online. I whole-heartedly recommend this style for someone who loves antique/traditional styles but still wants something different.” – Anne S.

The Double Date

Good for when:

Your partner’s perceptive
You’ve got mutual friends with good taste.

Go out on a double date with engaged/married friends, preferably ones who are in on your drop-a-hint plan. Now it’s go time: strike up a conversation about engagement rings! Compliment the ring they chose, ask them what they like about it, and most importantly: talk about the specific elements of their ring that you love. Your partner will definitely get the hint.

Feel free to punctuate this conversation with heavy winks and emphatic throat-clearing.

Pro tip: this doesn’t necessarily have to be a date with an engaged friend. It also works with a mutual friend, so long as you talk about engagement rings in general.

Channel Set Engagement Ring

14K Rose Gold Channel Set Princess Cut Diamond Engagement Ring

“The diamonds in the channel are the perfect petite size but still dazzle. Paired with the main stone it turned out better than I had hoped. She fell in love with the ring. Couldn’t be happier.” – Edgar L.

Accents Pavé Engagement Ring

14K White Gold Marquise Diamond Accents Pave Basket Engagement Ring

“This ring is gorgeous! The diamond sits up much higher than I thought it would. It looks fantastic though. The way the ring is put together, with the diamond sitting so high, really makes the diamond stand out.” – Amber L.

Tell a friend

Good for when:

Your partner is well-meaning, but not so perceptive.

Enlist a good friend’s help to drop a hint! Tell them exactly what you want. Include links, photos, and celebrity engagement ring examples, as well as a sub-list of ring elements that you definitely don’t want in your ring.

Cathedral Pavé Engagement Ring

14K Yellow Gold Cathedral Pave Halo Diamond Engagement Ring

“Absolutely stunning ring. Everyone who sees it is complementary and thinks it is much larger than it is!” -Meagan L.

Magnolia Engagement Ring

“I love how the princess cut diamond is put cocked, it makes it look so different than other rings I’ve looked at!” – Kay M.

Write a list

Good for when:

Your partner really doesn’t want to make a mistake!

Ok, so your partner needs a little help. Writing a list is a good way to drop a hint and let your partner know the nuances of your ring preferences. This is more than a simple collection of rings; writing a detailed list lets them know where they have a bit of wiggle room to be creative.

Elements of a good engagement ring list:

Specific ring models. You can rank your list of preferences or let your partner know that you love them all equally. Either way, be sure to specify your level of desire for each ring.
A list of must-have ring elements
A list of must-NOT-have ring elements

Pro tip: Accompany your list with a little love note and get creative with how you deliver it; text, email, or a hand-written letter! No miscommunications, no way.

Channel Set Diamond Engagement Ring

14K White Gold Channel Set Round Shaped Diamond Engagement Ring

“Spoiler Alert! This ring is bold and makes quite the statement. IF you like flashy rings, this is perfect for you. I am very happy with it, just know it’s a lot of bling!” – Maxine L.

Three Stone Scroll Undergallery Engagement Ring

14K Yellow Gold Three Stone Diamond Engagement Ring With Scroll Undergallery

“I really love this ring, simple but stunning. I just can’t stop looking at it, especially those 4 perfect heart prongs around the middle diamond.” -Jane O.

Ring In The New

Choosing a ring while keeping the mystery alive is no easy feat. But there are ways to do it – and well. Use some of JamesAllen.com’s built-in features to virtually wink-wink at your partner, use social media, recruit friends, or write an old-fashioned list!

And if you’re really in a pickle, don’t hesitate to reach out to our legendary customer service team. They’re available 24-7 and have a trove of ring ideas.

Subscribe to our email list for access to secret sales, practical ring-buying tips, and $100 off your first purchase!

Rachel Hoar

Rachel is an unabashed linguistics fanatic who can identify the ancient Greek root of any word. She promises not to spray you with Windex.

Keeping The Ring a Secret

August 3, 2022August 3, 2022Engagement Rings, Proposal, Top postscustomer story, diamond engagement rings, engagement ring advice, keeping the ring a secret, men's FAQ, proposal ideas

Now that you’ve successfully chosen the perfect sparkler, the next challenge is to keep the ring a secret so you can successfully pull off your surprise proposal.

Clever ways to keep the engagement ring a secret

Buying the engagement ring was way easier than you thought! Maybe you even designed it yourself! But the hard work isn’t over! Now you have to keep it a secret from your SO. You’re up against an opponent whose curiosity knows no bounds. To pull this off, you’re going to need an airtight game plan and nerves of steel!

How To Shop For Your Engagement Ring In Secret

We’ve already discussed the benefits of shopping for a surprise ring versus collaborating with your SO. If you’re going the route of keeping the ring a secret, you’ll want to ensure you don’t leave a footprint – digital or otherwise – that could blow your cover.

Shopping For The Ring Offline

First, never use a joint bank account! One option is to set up a new account specifically for buying the ring (you can close it once they say Yes!). Or you can pay with an old credit card that only you know about. Oh, and don’t withdraw a large sum of money from the ATM; that’s a dead giveaway.

Shopping For The Ring Online

When ring shopping online, if you share computers/devices with your SO, make sure you sign out of all their accounts before starting to plan your surprise proposal. If you absolutely must print something out, don’t leave that smoking gun sitting in your printer tray.

The Best Places To Hide Your Engagement Ring

Normally there’s no safer place to store your ring than the ring box it came in. However, there’s no getting around the fact that it’s still a box that will draw curiosity, and unless your partner is already aware of the ring, you might want to consider switching the box for something less obvious.

With Trusted Family/Friends

Storing the ring with a trusted friend or family member until you’re ready to pop the question is great because it literally keeps the ring off your property. They can’t find something that isn’t there! Just be careful not to choose anyone who would be tempted to “spill the beans.”

Hard-To-Reach Places

Every home has a nook and cranny your partner just can’t reach, or a dark closet they never go in. These can be great options! Just make sure there is NOTHING in there they will need to go searching for! Pick the deepest, darkest, least convenient place and you will be good to go.

In An Old Pair Of Shoes

Finally, those old shoes you never wear have a purpose! Make sure it’s a pear your partner never touches, would not clean, and would not throw out! (Can you imagine?!) Throw in some potpourri, so the shoe stink doesn’t transfer, put them in a secure place, and wait for that big moment!

At Work

If your office is secure or there is a secure option, your work can be a great place to store the ring! After all, even if your partner is visiting, they are not rifling through your office! And if they are, try a co-worker’s office, a safe, or similarly secure place at work.

In A Gym Bag

Whether you’re a gym junkie, a little league coach, or have a leftover gym bag from your high school glory days, this is another great option. Just make sure it’s not in a pocket where your partner might need something, say your water bottle or to get your gym towel for the laundry.

In A Book

Make sure you are choosing a book that 1) your partner does not use (like a cookbook) or 2) was intending to read. 3) Make sure it is not a book they would recommend to a friend, and 4) choose a book you don’t mind cutting a ring-box size hole in!

How To Hide A Ring While Traveling

Whether going by car, train, plane, or even by foot, if you are planning to pop the question while traveling, you’ll want to review our tips below to ensure your partner gets the surprise of a lifetime!

How to hide an engagement ring while traveling

Pack the Ring in a Carry-On Bag

Pack the ring in your carry-on, never a checked bag. Unfortunately, bags get lost all the time. Don’t chance it. Make sure the ring is always with you!

Follow Airport Security Rules

Don’t let a TSA agent blow your surprise proposal! Make sure you know airport security rules and make sure it’s very secure. And, of course, follow all airline security rules to avoid being stopped and searched.

So pack it discreetly! Your bag may be searched and you don’t want your cover blown! Consider using non-traditional packing in case this happens.

Look Into Engagement Ring Travel Insurance

Safety first! Another option is travel insurance for your engagement ring. James Allen has partnered with Jewelers Mutual Insurance Company to help you protect your ring with comprehensive coverage.

Anything can happen at any time, and this can be especially useful if you or your beloved are frequent travelers. Be sure to check if coverage is domestic, international, or both.

Find a Discreet Safe

Once you arrive at your destination, you need to keep the ring both hidden and secure. If you are staying at a hotel, find out in advance if there is a hotel safe you may store the ring in.

Another option is to keep the ring in an indiscreet spot in your suitcase. Once you have unpacked, slip the ring into a location your SO won’t be checking, and keep the suitcase tucked away until it’s time!

Keeping The Ring A Secret: Unboxing Your Engagement Ring

The Hidden Presentation Box

Only once you peel back the outer carton does it start to get more interesting.

The first thing you’ll notice is an elegant presentation box embossed with the James Allen logo. This doubles as a jewelry box and even has a drawer for keeping your diamond certificates, cleaning cloth, and whatnot. Nestled on top is a small red box that houses the main attraction: the engagement ring.

Keeping the Ring A Secret: Customer Service

If the logistics of keeping the ring a secret seem like Mission Impossible, our Customer Service reps are on hand to help. These masters of misdirection can be reached 24/7 via live chat, phone, and email. They know every trick in the book and can even suggest ways to distract your unsuspecting SO.

Keeping The Ring A Secret FAQs:

What if my partner receives the package?

It’s worth noting that our packages require a signature upon delivery. If you’re uncomfortable receiving yours at home or are worried that your partner or someone else might intercept it, we can help you find the best place to ship to.

What about the safe in the hotel room?

Don’t leave it in your hotel room safe if your SO is likely to use it; instead, ask the concierge if you can leave it in the safe at the front desk.

Is it safe to leave the ring unattended?

If you need to leave the ring unattended, just make sure it is safe. Invest in a VERY good lock, ensure it is a secure location, or leave it where someone is around 24/7 to guard it.

Final Thoughts

Perfect partner? Check! Fabulous ring, stashed safely? Double check! Now just wait for that big moment. They’ll say yes, start showing off the ring, and you can sit back and revel in a job well done! Let us know where you stashed your sparkler on Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, or Twitter.

Subscribe to our email list for access to secret sales, practical ring-buying tips, and $100 off your first purchase!

Sarah Axelrad

Sarah is a stickler for grammar and prefers to use the Oxford comma. She enjoys her career as a writer since being a professional snowboarder/powerlifter/pastry chef didn’t pan out.

Engagement Ring Advice from Real Couples

May 18, 2019August 26, 2021Engagement Rings, ProposalAffordable engagement rings, customer story, diamond education, diamond engagement rings, diamonds, education, engagement ring advice, proposal ideas, ring styles

Engagement ring advice from our customers, including how to nail the ring and why the proposal matters!

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Our customers are basically pros by the time they propose. In fact, we’d say their engagement ring advice is 10x more valuable than those random articles you find online. Here are the dos and don’ts from James Allen customers who got it so, so right:

Engagement Ring Advice: Do Your Research

“I went with a diamond ring, so I made sure to read up on the 4 C’s, what clarity/color goes with each shape/setting color.”- Nikolaos C.
“Ask what style ring she likes! Research the diamond certification! Ask for ideas on proposals but make it special to the two of you!”- Chad M.

14K White Gold Cushion Outline Pave Engagement Ring

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“I watched lots of YouTube videos on diamonds and ring buying tips in order to get the right diamond.”- Fernando M.
“Do your research! I’ll save you the hassle – just go through James Allen 😊”- Breanna R.

18K Yellow Gold 2mm Knife Edge Solitaire Engagement Ring

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Start with Engagement Ring 101

Engagement Ring Advice: Ask the Experts

“Get in touch with the gemologists and customer service. They’re outstanding.”- Cesar U.
“Definitely talk about your expectations for everything! Use a website like JamesAllen.com that will guarantee a PERFECT ring or your money back. Their customer service was top-notch and we were thrilled with both the process of finding the ring and the end result.”- Josh E.
“Take your time! Don’t rush it. Ask questions if you have any and have fun!”- Ana-Alicia S.

14K White Gold Petite Pave Crown Diamond Engagement Ring

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“The chat feature is so helpful! Sharing a screen with the consultant helped me find the best diamond within my budget by pointing out differences between the stones that I wouldn’t have noticed on my own.”- Abigail A.

Reach Out to Our Diamond Experts

Engagement Ring Advice: Narrow it Down

“Pick out some rings that you wouldn’t normally and compare and contrast them for a while. I started with 6ish all different styles and I would look at them for a few days and then slowly take one away until I had the one.”- William B.
“First, set a budget aside. With the budget, you can start looking for what kind of diamond you want based on the 4Cs. When you have selected the diamond you want, then look for the design.”- Cynthia L.

18K White Gold Round Split Band Diamond Halo Engagement Ring

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“Take your ego out of the equation. Size is not the most important aspect when buying a diamond so don’t go for the biggest carat.”- Steven J.

Find Your Partner’s Engagement Ring Style

Engagement Ring Advice: Design It Together

“Teamwork! Pop the question then include them in the purchase. It’s too important a financial move to make on your own. It’s the first step towards union.”- Benjamin S.

Platinum Infinity Solitaire Engagement Ring

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“Let her decide the style if possible, as she is the one that will wear it. Listen carefully to her likes and dislikes.”- Steven J.
“The whole process for us of ‘building’ my ring was so easy. And doing it together was fun and romantic! When we looked into each other’s eyes and my fiance told me to ‘click on it!’, it was just AWESOME!”- Debra F.

14K White Gold Engraved Solitaire Engagement Ring

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Should You Collaborate on the Ring or Make it a Surprise?

Engagement Ring Advice: Rock the Proposal

“Keep her in the loop when it comes to the ring and diamond, then surprise her with when and where you propose! Her favorite flower is tulips…so I decided that we would go to the Netherlands and attend the tulip festival in April!”- Rob B.

Platinum French Cut Pave Diamond Engagement Ring

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“Don’t focus on the ring and miss everything else! Make it a memorable experience, something that is you. A ton of people will be asking you afterwards on how it went down, so a nice story goes a long way.”- Nikolaos C.
“Make sure you remember to inform all her family members, especially parents, before proposing.”- Sherman L.

Go Through All Our Proposal Tips

Engagement Ring Advice: You Do You!

When it comes down to it, you two are the only ones who know what you want.

“You should know her better than anyone. Think of something and make it your own.”- Fernando M.
“Follow your heart, always.”- Jordan R.

dog proposal pave engagement ring advice

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Ready to design the perfect proposal? Let’s do this!

Start with a Diamond

Start with a Ring Setting

More Key Engagement Ring Advice

Helpful tools to find the ring:

Virtual Try-On * Interactive Diamond Inspection * Drop a Hint

Fact or rumor? Which of these Engagement Ring Rules prove true?

Have more engagement ring tips or questions? Reach out to us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, or Snapchat!

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Tova Kamioner

Tova is a lover of fantastic stories, and although she is skeptical of romantic comedies, she can quote most of the classics by heart.

The Top 10 Solitaire Engagement Rings

March 25, 2019July 4, 2022Engagement Rings, Trending RingsAffordable engagement rings, customer story, diamond engagement rings, engagement ring advice, princess cut, ring styles, rose gold, solitaire, top 10 solitaire engagement rings, trends, vintage rings

Classic, unique, or totally modern – solitaire rings let your diamond take center stage. And if there’s anything we love more than this can’t-go-wrong setting style, it’s your glowing reviews! To keep it real, we’ve rounded up our top 10 solitaire engagement rings according to you.

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“Really liked the simplicity of the top and the intricacy of the etching and milgrain.”- Joshua R.
“Lovely etched detail. I get compliments about it every time! Fits amazingly and sparkles!” Sarah T.

Inspired by these top 10 solitaire engagement rings? Ready to rock?

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Top 10 Solitaire Rings: Read On

Learn more about timeless solitaire diamond rings, find your partner’s engagement ring style, see the best engagement rings for active lifestyles, or start with buying an engagement ring 101!

Obsessing over one (or more) of the solitaire rings in this post? Share the love on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, or in the comments below!

Pin this to return to our top 10 solitaire engagement rings:

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Tova Kamioner

Tova is a lover of fantastic stories, and although she is skeptical of romantic comedies, she can quote most of the classics by heart.

take care of your diamond jewelry cleaning insurance

How to Take Care of Your Diamond Jewelry

December 28, 2018July 4, 2022Diamonds, Education, Engagement Rings, Fine Jewelrybridal jewelry, diamond education, diamond engagement rings, diamonds, education, engagement ring advice, fine jewelry, gemstones, insurance, rose gold, ruby, sapphire, take care of your diamond, wedding rings

You’ve got that gorgeous rock – now how do you keep it looking incredibly bright? Follow this guide for clear and helpful ways to take care of your diamond jewelry!

BRILLIANT TIPS FOR DIAMOND CARE

Take Care of Your Diamond Cleaning

No need to bring your diamonds in for cleaning – here are the DIY methods to keep your diamond engagement ring and diamond jewelry looking just like new:

1. Soak and Scrub

Everyone can use a good bubble bath, and your jewelry is no exception! Take care of your diamond rings and jewelry with a little TLC, making sure no gems come loose.

Soak your jewelry in a solution of mild dish soap and warm water for a few minutes. Afterward, carefully scrub the metal using a soft cloth, cotton swab, or gentle toothbrush, then rinse.

2. Get Intense Shine

For extra shine in your yellow gold, rose gold ring, or platinum jewelry, you can follow up the mild dish soap soak with window cleaner. Do not use window cleaner with white gold – the rhodium plating won’t be able to handle such harsh chemicals. Limit this soak to one minute at a time.

take care of your diamond cleaning engagement ring wedding ring

After the window cleaner, dip your ring into the mild dish soap solution, rinse it with warm water, then dry it completely.

3. Shield the Shade

You can use ionic cleaners to clean most diamond jewelry, but the electrical current may mess with the hue of certain gemstones. Consider other cleaning methods for colorful gemstone engagement rings and gemstone jewelry

take care of your diamond cleaning gemstone earrings jewelry

Take Care of Your Diamond Insurance

1. Insure Your Diamond Jewelry

Better sparkly and safe than sorry! It might feel weird to prep for the worst when you’re still perfecting the filter on your ring selfie, but trust us – make sure to insure your jewelry right away in case it gets lost or stolen. Find out how much your homeowner’s and renter’s policies cover, then look into additional policies like Jewelers Mutual.

take care of your diamond insurance pave engagement ring

2. Choose the Right Policy

Make sure you know what you’re getting into! Here are some good questions to ask while you’re researching diamond jewelry insurance policies:

Do they offer a deductible or discount if you have a home security system?
Does the policy cover you fully if the item is damaged or lost overseas?
Is the diamond jewelry covered at the full replacement cost, and will they give you a cash settlement or a replacement item?
Which appraisal reports does the insurance company accept, and how often do you need to provide them?

take care of your diamond insurance split band pave engagement ring

There’s more to taking care of your diamond jewelry, including when to wear your diamonds and where to store them. Read on!

7 Things to Do After Getting Engaged | Engagement Ring Care: Have Bling, Will Travel

You know what they say: pairing is caring 😉 Take care of your diamonds by finding them a perfect match.

Shop Wedding Rings – Shop Diamond Jewelry – Shop Gemstone Jewelry

The first step to take care of your diamond jewelry: pin this!

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Subscribe to our email list for access to secret sales, practical ring-buying tips, and $100 off your first purchase!

Tova Kamioner

Tova is a lover of fantastic stories, and although she is skeptical of romantic comedies, she can quote most of the classics by heart.

engagement ring etiquette rules questions

Engagement Ring Etiquette: 5 Big Questions

February 1, 2019April 11, 2021Education, Engagement Rings, ProposalAffordable engagement rings, diamond education, diamond engagement rings, diamonds, education, engagement ring advice, engagement ring etiquette, proposal ideas, romance, survey, trends

The results are in! We surveyed 2,800 women about engagement ring etiquette – what are the rules for getting engaged, and which of those rules are meant to be broken?

Engagement Ring Etiquette: “The 2 Months’ Salary Rule”

There’s an age-old myth that you’re supposed to decide how much to spend on the engagement ring based on how much you’d earn in two months. However, when we actually asked, 69% of women disagreed. The engagement ring etiquette consensus: a ring should cost whatever you can afford – the relationship is the most important thing.

engagement ring etiquette 2 months salary

Read on: How Much to Spend – How to Budget – How to Make Your Ring Look Bigger

Engagement Ring Etiquette: Forgo the Flash Mob

It might be best to stay away from dramatic and/or jumbo-tron proposals; 56% of women surveyed said they prefer an intimate proposal with just the two of you, while 28% said they want something small with close friends and family. Only 4% told us they’d rather go big than go home.

Read on: How to Propose – 10 Essential Proposal Tips – Proposal Inspiration

Engagement Ring Etiquette: Who Proposes?

So when it comes to heterosexual partnerships, are guys always supposed to be the ones to pop the question? In this modern age, survey says… mostly yes. 79% of women said the guy should propose. On the other hand, 12% said they have no problem with a woman proposing to the man, while 9% said they’d only propose if their guys waited around for too long.

engagement ring etiquette women proposing

Read on: Winter Proposal Ideas – Summer Proposal Ideas – Unique Places to Propose

Engagement Ring Etiquette: Have Your Sparkly Say

Collaboration is key! 84% of women surveyed said they’d be happy to drop hints, provide pictures, or tell friends/family about the engagement ring they prefer. Might as well make it a date night activity; 15% of women surveyed said they want to look at rings with their partners. Meanwhile, only 3% of women said they’d keep it straightforward and tell their partner their exact ring choice.

engagement ring etiquette women collaboration

Read on: Engagement Ring Shopping: Collaboration vs. Surprise – Keeping the Ring a Secret – Virtual Ring Try-On

Engagement Ring Etiquette: Splitting the Cost

The answers to this one were surprisingly split – 58% said they think their partner should save up and pay for the engagement ring alone, while 42% are open to sharing the check (with 26% adding the caveat that he can’t afford it on his own). Looking for the absolute best engagement ring option for your budget? We’re here for you, 24/7 – chat with customer service now.

Tova Kamioner

Tova is a lover of fantastic stories, and although she is skeptical of romantic comedies, she can quote most of the classics by heart.

unique-engagement-rings-ballerina-oval-halo-morganite-diamond-ring-cover

Unique Engagement Rings That Chic It Up

January 19, 2020July 26, 2022Education, Engagement RingsAffordable engagement rings, alternative engagement rings, anniversary, birthstone rings, birthstones, Cushion Cut, education, engagement ring advice, engagement ring education, engagement rings, gemstone rings, gemstones, non-traditional engagement rings, Pear Shape, princess cut, radiant cut, ring styles, solitaire, stackable rings, unique engagement rings, vintage rings

Unique engagement rings are the perfect statement pieces for couples who want to stand out from the crowd.

2018 is all about celebrating diversity; the things that allow you to shine as an individual. And what better way of expressing your individual style than with a non-traditional engagement ring?

Unique Engagement Rings: Vive la Différence!

While traditional diamond engagement rings are certainly beautiful in their own way, the world would be a boring place if everyone rocked the same rings. That’s why many couples are drawn to alternative engagement rings. They’re every bit as sparkly and romantic, and they are often better valued too.

Take a peek at these sleek and utterly unique engagement rings.

Unique Engagement Rings: In Love with the Shape of You

Pinned your hopes on a diamond solitaire but not feeling the traditional round cut? You’re not alone. Many couples today are opting for alternative diamond cuts such as cushion, princess, radiant, and pear.

Unique Engagement Rings: Alternative Rock

Diamonds and engagement rings may go together like a horse and carriage, but there are plenty of non-diamond options that will take you on an equally romantic ride. Besides being a bold look, gemstones tend to be easier on the wallet, so you can afford a larger stone.

Hue and Eye

Show your attention to detail by matching a gemstone to your partner’s eye color. Sapphires, for example, are known to bring out the blue in the wearer’s eyes, whereas emeralds perfectly accentuate green eyes. For the rest of us beautiful brown-eyed folk, it’s a bit more subjective, but amethyst and garnet are both solid choices.

Born to Shine

If your SO is into astrology, choosing the birthstone that’s associated with their birth month can make your gift even more meaningful. Ever since biblical times, birthstones have been renowned for their therapeutic and healing properties. Kings and queens throughout the ages have adorned themselves with these majestic stones, believing them to bring great wealth and power. Legen… wait for it… dary!

Unique Engagement Rings: Hello, Sparkle, My Old Friend

Vintage style engagement rings boast some of the most unique design elements we’ve seen. Intricate detailing and romantic flourishes that harken back to the glitz and glamour of eras past. If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind sparkler that transcends time, these vintage style engagement rings are where it’s at.

Unique Engagement Rings: A Lustrous Lineup

Engagement rings typically feature a large center stone that serves as the focal point. But what if you were to forgo the main attraction and instead opt for a ring that features several smaller stones? Radical, I know! Anniversary rings and stackable rings make for unique engagement rings as the stones are often displayed in creative and eye-catching ways.

Unique Engagement Rings: Glow Your Own Way

On a mission to break with tradition? Tell us which ring speaks to you in the comments below or on Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, or Twitter.

Dare to be different with a nontraditional sapphire and diamond engagement ring.

Save this inspo for some other shine (Pin it!)

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Jonny Hart

Jonny is passionate about puns, adores alliteration, and finds diamonds positively facet-nating! Since joining James Allen, he has written the word 'sparkle’ 9,732 times and counting.

twisted-engagement-rings-abbraccio-swirl-danhov-ring-cover

Twisted Engagement Rings: That Spiral Style

November 5, 2018August 17, 2021Engagement Ringsdiamond engagement rings, diamonds, engagement ring advice, engagement ring education, engagement ring styles, engagement rings, halo, halo engagement rings, matching wedding bands, Pavé, pavé engagement rings, princess cut, princess cut engagement rings, ring styles, solitaire, split shank engagement ring, split shank halo engagement rings, tension engagement rings, twisted engagement rings

Twisted engagement rings put a new spin on the classic solitaire ring setting.

twisted engagement rings abbraccio swirl danhov cover ring — Abbraccio Swirl Engagement Ring by Danhov

Everything is more interesting with a twist: gin and tonic with a twist of lime, M. Night Shyamalan movies, those poles outside barber shops. The same goes for jewelry – namely, twisted engagement rings. Their updated design adds a whimsical and utterly unique touch to an otherwise basic band.

View these twisted beauties in 360° HD

Twisted Engagement Rings: It’s All in the Twist

Twisted engagement rings can be fashioned out of one solid metal band, two tightly wound bands, or an open split shank that intersects with itself. For an eye-catching enhancement, choose one that’s studded with pavé diamonds or sporting a shimmering halo.

The Bold & The Beautiful 💍

14K White Gold Contoured Twist Tension Set Engagement Ring — Contoured Twist Tension Set Engagement Ring

Twisted engagement rings are already a bold look, and silvery metals are in, but this modern tension-set ring brings added drama and sophistication. The wide, sleek band, with its striking contours, is one of the fiercest settings we’ve seen! Can you feel the tension?

The Tulip from Amster-dayum! 🌷

twisted engagement rings milgrain twist tulip basket ring — Milgrain Twist Tulip Basket Engagement Ring

This one-of-a-kind solitaire ring has milgrain detailing along the shanks and can be set with a round or princess-cut diamond. Where’s the tulip, you ask? Ah, that’s the twist! It forms the basket for an extra-romantic surprise.

The Pretzeled Pavé 🥨

14K Rose Gold Pave Twist Diamond Engagement Ring — Pavé Twist Diamond Engagement Ring

This delicious-looking setting features a liberal sprinkling of pavé diamonds along each of its interwoven bands. These serve to gently accent the center stone… like grains of salt on a pretzel!

The Simply Di-vine 🍃

14K Yellow Gold Twisted Vine Engagement Ring — Twisted Vine Engagement Ring

There ain’t no shine like a twisted vine! This bewitching nature-inspired ring showcases two marquise-shaped pavé-set accents on either side. These leaf-like flourishes flow together seamlessly on a band of lustrous gold.

The Spiraling Solitaire 🌀

14K White Gold Cable Solitaire Engagement Ring — Cable Solitaire Engagement Ring

Throw your partner a rope in the form of this charming twisted cable solitaire engagement ring. Tightly interwoven gold cables are a subtle way to let the wearer know you won’t ever let them down. Pair with the matching cable wedding band when you’re ready to tie the knot.

The Coiled Crossover 🔀

14K White Gold Pave Halo And Twisted Shank Engagement Ring — Pavé Halo and Twisted Shank Engagement Ring

Keep your fingers crossed for this gorgeous split-shank engagement ring. A pavé halo surrounds the center stone, while additional pavé diamonds line one of the shanks for maximum sparkle.

Twisted Engagement Rings: Give Us a Twirl

Is a ring with a twist top of your list? Let us know in the comments below or over on Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, or Twister.
Er… Twitter.

Discover the crossover appeal of split shank and infinity engagement rings.

Let’s twist again! (Pin it!)

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Jonny Hart

Jonny is passionate about puns, adores alliteration, and finds diamonds positively facet-nating! Since joining James Allen, he has written the word 'sparkle’ 9,732 times and counting.

Finding Her Engagement Ring Style: A Wink & A Smile

October 15, 2018July 4, 2022Education, Engagement Ringsbaguette diamond rings, channel-set engagement rings, Cushion Cut, cushion cut engagement rings, diamond engagement rings, diamonds, education, engagement ring, engagement ring advice, engagement ring education, engagement ring style, engagement ring styles, engagement rings, halo, halo engagement rings, men's FAQ, Pavé, pavé engagement rings, princess cut, ring styles, Round Cut, round engagement rings, side-stone engagement rings, solitaire, tension engagement rings, vintage, vintage engagement rings, vintage rings

Whether you’re a secret agent or a straight shooter, check out our pro tips for finding her engagement ring style.

Everyone has a personal style. Some are more understated than others and, therefore, harder to discern. Your job as Buyer of Rings, Proposer of Marriage, is to hone in on that style by whatever means necessary. Put on your detective hat and do some snooping around or straight up ask your partner what she’d like. Either way, finding her engagement ring style needn’t be a chore with our handy guide. Just pop on some good music and get sleuthing.

Finding Her Engagement Ring Style: Cut to the Chase

Let’s start by clearing something up: the ring doesn’t have to be a complete surprise.

There, we’ve said it.

These days, it’s perfectly acceptable – preferable even – to bring your partner into the design process. No one knows the wearer’s style better than the wearer herself, so why not involve her in the decision making? Goodness knows you’ll need all the help you can get when confronted with terms like pavé, halo, and tension! (That last one’s a setting style btw, not a headache.) By promoting your partner to Chief Ring Adviser, you’ll come across as the sensitive and considerate human being you are while eliminating much of the guesswork. It’s a win-win.

Now, the direct approach won’t work for everyone, mind you. Some customers – proposer and proposee alike – have their hearts set on a solo ring selection, culminating in the Big Reveal. To those irrepressible romantics, we say… read on!

Finding Her Engagement Ring Style: A Spy on the Wall

finding her engagement ring style spy on the wall

Like all good detectives, you’ve been waiting for the right case to come along; a case worthy of your powers of deduction. Finding her engagement ring style is right up there with #WhoBitBeyoncé and that whole Yanny vs Laurel thing – except the odds of you solving this one are far higher!

Seriously though, your partner’s online and offline activity might give away key clues about her ring preferences. If she has a Pinterest account, it’s worth checking to see if she’s created any boards with sparkle-related titles or pinned any specific rings. Assuming you have access to her Facebook account, check her profile and activity log for any ring posts she’s liked or shared.

What’s the Buzz?

Even if she’s been careful not to leave a digital trail, she may have confided in her best friend or sibling. Once you’ve got a sparkly bee in your bonnet, it’s almost impossible to keep it to yourself! Listen for subtle hints that might come up when she’s chatting with her inner circle, especially if the topic of celebrity engagement rings comes up.

Finding Her Engagement Ring Style: How She Rolls

When finding her engagement ring style, it often helps to draw on your own personal experience. Presumably, you’ve spent a fair bit of time with your SO and have gleaned an insight or two about her day-to-day.

What kind of lifestyle does she lead? If she has a job or hobby that requires her to wear gloves, she’d be better off with a setting that doesn’t have exposed diamonds on the band. Solitaire and channel-set rings are both practical options as they minimize the risk of the diamonds getting caught or falling out. A less hands-on lifestyle would allow for more exposed diamonds on the band – pavé being the obvious example.

Extra! Extra! Read All About It!

14K White Gold Vintage Inspired Floral Bouquet Engagement Ring — Vintage Inspired Floral Bouquet Engagement Ring

14K White Gold Spiral Tension Set Engagement Ring — Spiral Tension Set Engagement Ring

If your girl is more Devil Wears Prada than Devil Wears Nada, you might consider a more daring setting. Pay close attention to her wardrobe. If she dresses to impress and won’t touch anything unless it’s by a top designer, go for something with character, such as a vintage engagement ring or hyper-modern tension ring.

Glow-Key Glam

14K White Gold Baguette Diamond Engagement Ring — Baguette Diamond Engagement Ring

If, on the other hand, her idea of glamour is a pair of old jeans and a t-shirt, we’d recommend opting for something simple like a baguette side-stone engagement ring. Understated yet elegant.

Finding Her Engagement Ring Style: A Sure Thing

14K White Gold Presentation Solitaire (Six Prong) — Six Prong Presentation Solitaire Engagement Ring

If none of the above tips speak to you, no one would fault you for playing it safe and going with a classic style such as a solitaire. This is essentially a single center diamond mounted on a plain setting. Solitaires are considered classics for a reason: they work with practically any individual style and never go out of fashion.

Once you’ve figured out your setting style, it’s time to consider the diamond shape. If you have even the slightest doubt about what shape to get, you can’t go wrong with a round cut. Round-cut diamonds are by far the most popular shape for engagement rings, owing to their perfect geometry and abundant sparkle. These timeless classics are tried and true, but if it’s a little more edge you’re after, a princess or cushion-cut diamond should suffice.

Walk a Mile in Her Style

How did you manage to pinpoint your partner’s style preference? Did you go undercover or were you upfront about it? Let us know in the comments below or over on Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, or Twitter.

For more invaluable ring-buying tips and tricks, check out the previous posts in our men’s FAQ series.

Pin the style on your fiancée!

finding her engagement ring style pinterest pin

Subscribe to our email list for access to secret sales, practical ring-buying tips, and $100 off your first purchase!

Jonny Hart

Jonny is passionate about puns, adores alliteration, and finds diamonds positively facet-nating! Since joining James Allen, he has written the word 'sparkle’ 9,732 times and counting.

secure engagement rings for active lifestyles

The Best Engagement Rings for Active Lifestyles

January 14, 2019August 17, 2021Engagement Ringschannel-set engagement rings, diamond engagement rings, engagement ring advice, engagement rings for active lifestyles, platinum engagement rings, ring styles, solitaire

Calling all glove-wearing doctors, athletes, bakers, hairdressers, researchers, gardeners, and non-stop women out there: these are the best engagement rings for active lifestyles!

If you or your SO’s day-to-day includes a lot of hands-on work, you might want to opt for a more durable engagement ring style. That doesn’t mean you need to sacrifice on sparkle! Engagement rings for active lifestyles can be just as modern, blingy, or unique as any – it’s all a matter of finding the perfect ring.

SHOP ALL ENGAGEMENT RINGS

Engagement Rings for Active Lifestyles

Bezel-Set Engagement Rings

The less the sides of the diamond are exposed, the better; and bezel settings are a super-sleek way to get that done. The bezel setting is one of those low profile engagement rings that will keep your center stone safest, encasing the diamond so that its facets shine securely.

Bezel-Set Solitaire Engagement Ring

View in 360°

Solitaire Engagement Rings

One way to prevent diamonds from falling off your engagement ring band? Go for a clean solitaire! Solitaire engagement ring settings are timeless and can minimize stress.

Half Bezel Solitaire Engagement Ring

14K White Gold Tapered Half Bezel Engagement Ring

View in 360°

Shop All Solitaire Engagement Rings

Wide-Band Engagement Ring Bands

The wider the band, the more securely it holds the center diamond. This is one of the low profile engagement rings that will never get in your way. Plus, we love how this specific ring adds a touch of bezel sparkle on the sides!

One note to keep in mind: wider bands tend to be better for those with larger hands, while they may overwhelm those with hands that are more petite.

Diamond Accent Engagement Ring

14K Yellow Gold Cross Prong Diamond Accent Solitaire Ring

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Platinum Metal Engagement Rings

Platinum is the most durable engagement ring metal, which makes it a perfect choice for engagement rings for active lifestyles.

Shop All Round-Cut Diamond Engagement Rings

Combos: Engagement Rings for Active Lifestyles

We’ve got to hand it to you! Read on for even more beautiful ring options with super-secure sparkle: gorgeous low profile engagement rings that can keep up with your crazy life!

Platinum + Solitaire + Encased Setting

Platinum Cross-Prong Solitaire Engagement Ring

Platinum 3.3mm Cross Prong Solitaire Engagement Ring

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Encased Setting + Round Diamond + Channel-Set

Baguette & Round Channel-Set Engagement Ring

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Ready to find that active lifestyle bling?

Shop All Engagement Rings

Read on about these durable ring styles: Solitaire Engagement Rings | Platinum Engagement Rings | Channel-Set Engagement Rings | Round-Cut Diamond Engagement Rings | Cushion-Cut Diamond Engagement Rings

More engagement ring advice: How to Get Started | How to Find the Ring Style | How to Choose a Diamond

Love one (or more) of the durable rings in this post? Share the love on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, or in the comments below!

Pin this to save your engagement ring inspo:

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Subscribe to our email list for access to secret sales, practical ring-buying tips, and $100 off your first purchase!

Tova Kamioner

Tova is a lover of fantastic stories, and although she is skeptical of romantic comedies, she can quote most of the classics by heart.

Engagement Ring Shopping: Collaboration Vs. Surprise

August 29, 2018April 25, 2021Education, Engagement Rings, Proposaleducation, engagement ring advice, engagement ring education, engagement ring shopping, engagement rings, proposal, proposal series

Breaking with tradition, many couples are engagement ring shopping together, leaving the element of surprise for the proposal.

The question of whether to surprise your SO with a ring or include them in the selection process is as old as time.

Well, that’s not strictly true.

It actually came about rather recently, with online engagement ring shopping offering a far more collaborative experience than traditional stores. But back to the question at hand: to surprise or not to surprise? That will largely depend on whether your SO is more of a romantic or a realist.

If they’re the type to swoon at the end of romantic movies, chances are they’re holding out for a sparkling surprise of their own. Then again, if your SO is the risk-averse type, they will probably prefer to be consulted on an item of such personal significance.

Engagement Ring Shopping: Surprise and Shine

engagement ring shopping falling edge pavé diamond — Falling Edge Pavé Diamond Engagement Ring

If your SO leaves the engagement ring shopping entirely up to you, they’re taking the jewelry equivalent of a trust fall. That is, they’re trusting you to choose what is sure to be their most prized possession; an accessory they’ll be wearing every day of their life. This might seem daunting at first, but it’s actually quite an honor and an opportunity to demonstrate how perceptive you are. If you have a tendency to notice small details, you’ll easily pick up on the trail of sparkly clues your partner has left behind.

See what happens when couples try to design their partners’ dream engagement ring (spoiler alert: hilarity ensues!).

Can You Take a Hint?

engagement ring shopping can you take hint

If only there was some way to read the inner workings of your partner’s mind… to understand what they really mean when they say, “I’m marrying you, not the ring.” While that technology may still be a few years off, we do have a nifty drop-a-hint feature on JamesAllen.com. It’s a subtle way for your SO to let you know exactly what they want without the awkwardness of them having to say it.

Of course, there are other tried-and-tested ways to drop a hint that you should be on the lookout for. “Forgetting” to close the browser is a classic, but they may share their Pinterest boards with you or casually comment on a friend’s or celebrity’s engagement ring.

Engagement Ring Shopping: Band Together

A recent study by The Knot found that roughly one third of couples collaborate on the engagement ring with their mates. People are starting to realize that the proposee is every bit as qualified to make the Big Decision as the proposer – if not more so. If your SO has expressed an interest in being involved beyond mere hint dropping, you’d be wise to take them up on the offer. After all, who better to advise you on ring style than the ring wearer herself?

Without a doubt, the best way to know your partner’s ring preferences is to have an open and honest conversation with them. If all goes well, try engagement ring shopping together and make mental notes of their ‘oohs’ and ‘ahs.’ Even if they do have a hand in selecting their ring online, they won’t know how it looks IRL until the big unveiling. With a bit of clever subterfuge, it’s still possible to throw your SO off the scent.

Help Is at Hand

If you’d rather collaborate with someone other than your SO, our Customer Service team is there for you 24/7 by live chat, phone, and email. They’ll help you pick out the ideal ring based on your partner’s particulars (don’t worry, you already know all the answers to their questions!). You can even request a Real-Time Diamond Inspection with a certified gemologist who will be happy to walk you through the finer points of your sparkler. And if you still want some face-to-face expert advice, visit our Georgetown, DC location.

Engagement Ring Shopping: Trust Your Instincts

The bottom line is that your shopping experience should be as comfortable as the ring on your true love’s finger. Go with whichever option feels right to you as a couple and then make it as gosh darn romantic as you possibly can!

Catch up on our proposal series, which covers everything from choosing the perfect sparkler to planning the magical moment itself.

Next in the series: discover the best proposal spots in major cities.

Will your ring be a total surprise or is your SO likely to advise? Let us know in the comments below or over on Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, or Twitter.

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Jonny Hart

Jonny is passionate about puns, adores alliteration, and finds diamonds positively facet-nating! Since joining James Allen, he has written the word 'sparkle’ 9,732 times and counting.

How Much to Spend on an Engagement Ring

August 13, 2018July 26, 2022Education, Engagement RingsAffordable engagement rings, diamond education, diamond engagement rings, diamonds, engagement ring advice, halo, proposal series, solitaire

We asked one of our brilliant customer service representatives how much to spend on an engagement ring. Their answer was perfect…

How Much to Spend on an Engagement Ring?

“There’s a ring and a person for everyone, and that’s also true for the price you have in mind,” says our customer service expert. “There’s no set formula for how much you have to spend on an engagement ring.” Follow her tips to buy the dream ring for your budget!

Shop Affordable Engagement Rings

Save on Your Engagement Ring with a Solitaire Setting

“To really put all the focus on the center stone, you can make an absolutely gorgeous solitaire engagement ring for under $1,000,” says our expert.

“Solitaires are also great because you can personalize them and dress them up with a wedding band.”

14K White Gold Ladies 0.50CTW.* Contoured Common Prong Diamond Eternity Ring

When choosing how much to spend on an engagement ring, remember that you have the rest of your lives together! “As time goes on and finances change, you can always remount the center stone and add different diamond bands to create that stackable effect.”

Shop Solitaire Engagement Rings

Elongated Shapes are the Best Diamonds on a Budget

“If you want to really maximize the visual size of the diamond or finger coverage, then go with an elongated shape like an oval, a marquise, or a pear,” our expert suggests.

14K White Gold Split Shank Ribbon Engagement Ring

“Any of these shapes with a halo setting will give you the biggest wow factor and not break the bank at the same time.”

14K White Gold Pave Halo Diamond Engagement Ring (Oval Center)

Shop Elongated Shape Diamonds

Give Your Engagement Ring Diamond Some Context

“The image that you’re seeing on the screen is not the same thing that you’re going to see in person and in the ring,” says our expert. To better understand which diamond inclusions will be visible when it’s set in a ring, you can chat with us through our Diamond Consultation Service.

how much to spend on an engagement ring diamond consultation

Our non-commissioned gemologists will take you through the specs of the diamond in 360° HD so that you confidently get the best diamond for your money.

When choosing how much to spend, make sure to understand how the diamond will look in the ring setting! Diamond color is a great example to consider. Our expert explains: “For those who are more comfortable with having a bit of warmth to their center stone, it ends up working really well with a yellow gold or rose gold setting.”

14K Rose Gold Pave Halo Diamond Engagement Ring (Pear Center)

“This kind of rich appearance can help you to get a larger carat weight within the same price range.”

Browse Engagement Ring Diamonds

More affordable engagement rings await… Shop here!

(Pssst… there’s more than one way to finance your ring. Learn more about James Allen’s special financing options.)

Have advice to share about how much to spend on an engagement ring? Let us know in the comments below, or on our social channels: Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, or Twitter.

Back to the basics: Buying an Engagement Ring 101 * How to Propose

Stay tuned to this proposal series for expert advice about collaborating on the ring!

Read on: 11 Gorgeous & Affordable Engagement Rings ♦ How to Make Your Diamond Engagement Ring Look Bigger

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Tova Kamioner

Tova is a lover of fantastic stories, and although she is skeptical of romantic comedies, she can quote most of the classics by heart.

Choosing a Diamond: Be in the Glow

August 27, 2018December 2, 2021Engagement RingsAffordable engagement rings, diamond education, diamond engagement rings, diamonds, education, engagement ring advice, halo, men's FAQ

Precious advice for those who will soon be choosing a diamond for their engagement ring.

We recognize that gleam in your eye! No, we’re not talking about the way you look at your SO (although that is adorable). If there’s one thing capable of making a person’s eyes light up like that, it’s diamonds. Those pretty little stones you know nothing about, but are determined to get a good deal on.

And where better to start than our men’s FAQ series? In this first installment, we look at choosing a diamond; from understanding the 4Cs to getting the most bling for your buck.

Choosing a Diamond: Foresee the 4Cs

It’s impossible to talk diamonds without mentioning the 4Cs: cut, color, carat, and clarity. Together, these all-important characteristics influence a diamond’s quality and value. They are your new best friends. Get to know them. Go have a beer with them. Whatever you have to do.

- Cut – This refers to both the diamond’s shape and how effectively it returns light to the viewer’s eye.

- Color – This is generally something you want to avoid in a diamond, unless it’s a fancy color diamond (more on that later).

- Carat – This is the unit of measurement by which diamonds are weighed and sold.

Clarity – This refers to how clean a diamond is and whether it has visible imperfections.

When in doubt, start with a diamond cut. This is the one area you should never compromise on as it determines how sparkly the stone is.

“I want my ring to sparkle less.”
– No one, ever

If you have to compromise on anything, let it be diamond clarity. However, try to avoid going below a VS1 clarity grade; anything lower would be visible to the naked eye.

Choosing a Diamond: Appearances Can Be Gleaming

Let’s be real for a moment, shall we? No one buys a diamond engagement ring for their SO without wanting to impress their socks off. It’s the ultimate declaration of your love, so of course you’ll want to go all out and snag the biggest, most sparkly rock you can afford.

While celebs are known for flashing ridiculous amounts of sparkle, you don’t always need to pay top dollar to enjoy those megawatt flashes. If you’re on a budget, there are a number of ways to make even a modest diamond appear larger than it actually is. Sneaky, we know!

One way to get more bling for your buck is to opt for an undersized diamond. Now, that might sound counterintuitive – how can a smaller diamond appear the same size as a larger one to the naked eye? By choosing a diamond that’s just shy of the standard industry cutoff points, you could save yourself a pretty penny, without compromising on sparkle. Consider a 0.9 carat diamond and a 1 carat diamond with comparable specs. On the surface, both stones appear to be virtually the same size, but look closer at the price tags and you’ll see a considerable saving on the smaller stone. Similar carat weight, less cash. Booyah!

Another way to appear more sparkly is to choose a setting style that accentuates the center diamond. Halo engagement rings, for example, surround the center stone with an outer ring of smaller diamonds or gemstones. These peripheral stones reflect light off the center stone, giving it a greater presence on the hand. Halo engagement rings come in single and double halo varieties, depending on how far you want to glow… er… go.

For more sparkle-maximizing tips, read up on how to make your diamond engagement ring look bigger.

Choosing a Diamond: Appraise Where It’s Due

A diamond appraisal is necessary if you want to get your ring insured – which, btw, you totally should! It differs from the GIA or AGS diamond grading certificate that comes with your ring in that it provides a dollar estimate rather than the technical info.

At JamesAllen.com, we offer a complimentary insurance evaluation on any diamond engagement ring valued at $1,000 or higher. If you prefer, you’re welcome to get the diamond independently appraised as well.

Choosing a Diamond: Color Outside the Shines

If your head isn’t already spinning at 360° like our diamonds, we’re about to throw another curveball at you: fancy color diamonds. While colorless diamonds have traditionally been the objects of our affection, their colorful cousins are steadily gaining popularity. And because stones at the vivid ends of the color spectrum are quite rare, they’re more valuable too.

When choosing a diamond, pay close attention to your partner’s personal style. If they’re the free-spirited, artistic type, a diamond in their favorite color could make for an exceptionally meaningful gift. Read more about fancy color diamonds.

Choosing a Diamond: Own That Stone!

Remember – you can view all 200,000+ diamonds on JamesAllen.com in 360° HD at up to 40x SuperZoom.

Decided on a diamond dazzler? Let us know in the comments below or over on Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, or Twitter.

Don’t miss the next installment in our men’s FAQ series: How to Keep the Ring a Secret.

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Jonny Hart

Jonny is passionate about puns, adores alliteration, and finds diamonds positively facet-nating! Since joining James Allen, he has written the word 'sparkle’ 9,732 times and counting.

destination proposal diamond engagement ring map

Destination Proposal Ideas & Tips

July 16, 2018July 4, 2022Engagement Rings, Proposalcustomer story, diamond engagement rings, engagement ring advice, proposal ideas, proposal series, romance

Here’s what you need to know to plan your show-stopping destination proposal!

Destination Proposal Ideas & Tips

Want an unforgettable way to start a lifetime of adventures together (with amazing photo ops)? Think big with a travel proposal! To make sure all your surprises are planned, follow these destination proposal pro-tips:

Travel Proposal Ideas: the Plan

Consider kicking off your trip with the proposal

One out-there option: propose at the airport! James Allen customers Cristian and Shanna got to enjoy a stress-free trip to Costa Rica to celebrate their engagement moment in LAX.

Coordinate with your museum/hotel/resort

The staff of your proposal location might be able to help you get your moment! Take a cue from James Allen customer Austin – when he proposed to his girlfriend Annie at the Cliffs of Moher in Ireland, the guard held the ring and made sure they had the tower alone for peak romance.

destination proposal cliffs moher ireland nature

If you’re staying at a resort, play it like our customer Sean; he kept his engagement ring in the hotel safe before proposing and coordinated his Shangri-La beach proposal to Amy with the resort events management team!

Have a destination proposal back-up plan

Prep a proposal plan B so that you can keep it cool if something goes awry. For those super-planners, set up a back-up-to-the-back-up – this totally saved the day when our customer Tyler proposed to his girlfriend Kristyn during a trip to Seattle!

destination proposal seattle back up plan

Travel Proposal Ideas: the Ring

With destination proposals, timing is everything

Found the perfect ring? Make sure you receive it on time! The design process takes about 2-3 weeks on average, so we’d suggest ordering your ring a month in advance of your trip. If you have any questions about shipping or tracking your order, our customer service team is here for you 24/7.

destination proposal engagement ring box grass

Be prepared for whatever comes your way

Make sure that you have diamond jewelry insurance while you’re abroad, just in case! Also take a copy of your receipt or insurance policy to prove ownership in case you’re stopped at customs (no need to ruin the surprise with awkward attention!).

Travel Destination Ideas: the Pics

Travel photo shoots are awesome destination decoys

The best way to get amazing proposal shots and have your SO not suspect a thing? Propose while taking pictures together at a gorgeous locale. Get your inspiration from Briana and Maria’s picturesque Venetian proposal!

Bonus: plan the proposal somewhere your SO has always wanted to go for an extra personal touch, like Lucas’s NYC proposal to Stephanie.

Do some research into the view and surroundings

Search images of the perfect spot, or if you’re able, scout out the spot yourself in advance. Think about how easy it is to get to, the lighting, and the magic of the surroundings. Need some inspiration? Check out Jennifer and Hector’s gorgeous Iceland glacier proposal.

destination proposal iceland glacier sunset

Including a historic monument in your destination proposal? Back up!

Famous tourist spots can make for epic proposals, but they tend to be, well, monumental. Think like James Allen customer Ryan’s proposal to Jessica in front of the Eiffel tower and propose far enough away to get famous spots in the shot.

destination proposal eiffel tower paris photoshoot

Start with your passport to proposal… Shop the perfect engagement ring!

Back to the basics: Buying an Engagement Ring 101 * How to Propose

Stay tuned to this proposal series for expert advice about proposing on a budget, collaborating on the ring, and more.

Finding this travel proposal advice helpful or have tips of your own to share? Let us know in the comments below or on our social channels: Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, or Twitter.

Fly back to proposal tips anytime (pin this!):

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Tova Kamioner

Tova is a lover of fantastic stories, and although she is skeptical of romantic comedies, she can quote most of the classics by heart.

pear-shaped-diamonds-cover-pavé-halo-shank-diamond-engagement-ring

Pear Shaped Diamonds with Fruitful Flare

July 2, 2018October 4, 2021Diamonds, Education, Engagement RingsAffordable engagement rings, celebrity engagement rings, celebrity lookalikes, diamond education, diamond engagement rings, diamonds, education, engagement ring advice, engagement rings, halo, Pavé, Pear Shape, pear shaped diamonds, shape series, solitaire

Pear shaped diamonds – the only part of your engagement you’ll want to go pear shaped!

Imagine if Eve had picked a pear in the Garden of Eden instead of that darn apple. She would’ve stood out from all the other women (had there been any other women) and been hailed a trendsetter. Still, it’s never too late to make amends and pear shaped diamonds are the perfect sparkle offering.

Love is in the pear!

Pear Shaped Diamonds: Ripe for the Picking

So, what makes a pear a pear? The unique shape is achieved by combining two other diamond cuts: round brilliant and marquise. At one end, you have the gentle curves of a round cut; at the other, the pointed charm of a marquise. Best of all, it retains much of the sparkle of a round cut, despite not conforming exactly to that shape.

Grab yourself a piece of this low-hanging fruit!

pear shaped diamonds 0.72 carat k si1 diamond — 0.72 Carat K SI1 Diamond

A Diamond Beyond Compear

If further pearsuasion is needed, choosing a non-traditional diamond shape like pear can actually save you money! That’s right; because the demand for pear is lower than for round brilliant, it tends to offer better value. A pear shaped diamond could save you as much as 25% compared to a round cut of the same size and quality. How sweet is that?!

Hot take: Pair your pear with a solitaire for a classic setting that’s both affordable and offers maximum light return through the top of the stone.

Classic Knife-Edge Presentation Solitaire Engagement Ring

Pear to Spare

Thanks to their elongated lines, pear shape diamonds tend to look larger than other shapes of the same carat weight. On the other hand, they gently accentuate slender fingers and make shorter fingers appear longer and slimmer.

14K Rose Gold Pavé Halo Diamond Engagement Ring (Pear Center) — Pavé Halo Diamond Engagement Ring

Who Rocks Pear Shaped Diamonds?

2018 is shaping up to be the year of the pear! Paris Hilton (or should that be Pearis Hilton?) got the party started back in January when she said yes to a juicy 20-carat pear shaped diamond engagement ring. Of course, she’s not alone in her penchant for pear. Other personalities include Ariana Grande, Kaley Cuoco, Cardi B, Sophie Turner, Victoria Beckham, Zoe Saldana, Katherine Heigl, and Margot Robbie.

See which other non-traditional diamond shapes are in with celebs right now.

What is a Pear Shaped Diamond?

When purchasing a pear shaped diamond, it helps to know which attributes to look out for. That way, you can avoid pulling an Eve and picking the wrong piece!

Cut – To minimize the undesirable ‘bow tie’ effect commonly found in pear shaped diamonds, ensure the diamond cut is as symmetrical as possible. It’s more aesthetic plus it returns more light and sparkle back to your eyes.

Color – The pointed end of the diamond doesn’t reflect light nearly as well as the round part, so it’s more likely to reveal the stone’s true color. To avoid those ‘warmer’ yellow tones, opt for a high grade on the color scale (no lower than G).

Clarity – As with color, any inclusions are more visible if they occur at the pointed end of the diamond, where there are less sparkle and scintillation. You’re better off going for an ‘eye clean’ diamond with a clarity grade of VS2 or above.

Carat – The carat weight you choose will largely depend on your budget, but this is not the be-all and end-all. An increase in carat size will often appear negligible, yet raise the price significantly. Far more important are cut, color, and clarity in determining a diamond’s overall beauty.

14K Yellow Gold Pavé Rope Engagement Ring — Pavé Twisted Rope Engagement Ring

14K White Gold Round Split Band Diamond Halo Engagement Ring — Pavé Split-Shank Diamond Halo Engagement Ring

Looking for pear-fection? Peruse these pear shaped pretties!

Don’t forget — you can view all of the pear shaped diamonds on JamesAllen.com in glorious 360° HD at up to 40x SuperZoom.

Once you’ve picked the pear you wish to wear, feel free to share it in the comments below or on our social channels: Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, or Twitter.

Discover additional diamond cuts in our diamond shape blog series.

Pin this image to pre-pear your engagement ring:

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Jonny Hart

Jonny is passionate about puns, adores alliteration, and finds diamonds positively facet-nating! Since joining James Allen, he has written the word 'sparkle’ 9,732 times and counting.

engagement-ring-care-cover-petite-pavé-crown-diamond-ring

Engagement Ring Care: Have Bling, Will Travel

June 18, 2018May 2, 2021Education, Engagement Ringsdiamond engagement rings, education, engagement ring, engagement ring advice, engagement ring care, engagement ring education, engagement rings, travel, vacation

Slay on vacay with this essential guide to engagement ring care in the sun.

When planning a romantic getaway, three L’s come to mind: Location, Location, Location. This makes sense as without a suitable destination, you’d still be, well, at home! But there’s a fourth L that no travel checklist is complete without: Luster. As in, how to keep your engagement ring looking at its lustrous best while you and bae are off galavanting around the world.

Engagement Ring Care: Precious Cargo

18K White Gold Floral Halo Engagement Ring — Floral Diamond Halo Engagement Ring

The first thing to do before taking your sparkler on vacation is to make sure it’s covered by your insurance policy. You do have one, right? Good. Just checking. Whether it comes under your home insurance or its own separate policy, make sure that you’re covered for theft, loss, or damage while away. If not, you may need to adjust your policy to include overseas travel. It’s advisable to take proof of ownership with you on your trip in case you’re stopped at customs. A copy of the receipt or the insurance policy should suffice.

Engagement Ring Care: Off with the Ring!

When you finally receive the ring of your dreams, it’s hard to imagine ever wanting to take it off. But there are certain situations when it’s necessary to de-jewel.

Handle with Care

14K White Gold Pavé Halo Diamond Engagement Ring (Oval Center) — Pavé-Set Halo Engagement Ring

Unless you’re Mariah Carey, traveling often involves hauling your own luggage around. The stress this puts on your ring can stretch the band and even bend or break the delicate prongs. That’s why you should take extra care when lifting anything heavy.

Swimming in Sparkle

Although the beach is a romantic destination for newly engaged couples, it’s less than ideal for the engagement ring itself. If the sea is cold enough to shrink your fingers, your ring could slip right off. If you stay on dry land, grains of sand could get caught between the ring setting and the diamond. This won’t harm the stone per se, as diamonds are pretty tough, but that doesn’t mean you should put it through needless wear and tear.

What about putting your engagement ring in an airtight plastic bag, I hear you cry? This might seem like a clever hack, but the lack of oxygen together with the heat from the sun may cause the metal to fuse with the plastic. You’d be much better off leaving your diamond ring in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place, such as your hotel room safe.

Losing your ring in a swimming pool is less risky than the open sea as it would most likely turn up once the pool has been drained. However, harsh chemicals in the water like chlorine can severely discolor/corrode gold and silver over time. Only platinum is durable enough that it can withstand most chemicals.

Browse platinum engagement rings

Keep It Clean

14K White Gold Petite Pavé Engagement Ring (Flush Fit) — French Cut Petite Pavé Engagement Ring

Sunscreen. Great for your skin, not so great for your bling. By all means, slather it all over yourself (sunburn is not a sexy look), but for the love of sparkle, remove your ring first! The same goes for lotions and perfumes, which can cause your precious stone to cloud up.

Fake It, Don’t Break It!

If the thought of taking your engagement ring on vacation seems too daunting, why not switch it with a fake one? Get one that closely resembles your sparkler’s setting style and diamond cut for a fraction of the price. It’s a relatively inexpensive solution that could end up saving you sleepless nights and potential financial loss.

Engagement Ring Care: Your Passport to Sparkle

Do you give your most precious jewel enough TLC when traveling? Let us know your engagement ring care regimen in the comments below or on our social channels: Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, or Twitter.

Discover additional ring care tips in our blog post 7 Things to Do After Getting Engaged.

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Jonny Hart

Jonny is passionate about puns, adores alliteration, and finds diamonds positively facet-nating! Since joining James Allen, he has written the word 'sparkle’ 9,732 times and counting.