Choosing an
Engagement Ring

When it comes to choosing an Engagement Ring for your partner, yourself, or together as a couple, the most important thing to remember is there is no set formula...and what is right for one person, will be completely different for another. However, with just a few key considerations in mind, your journey to finding your dream engagement ring will be a much smoother process!

Our wonderful Fine Jewellery & Bespoke manager Susie Ekeland has worked with so many of our customers over the years on their proposal jewellery. Read on to discover her take on finding (or commissioning) the perfect ring!

Our Signature Style Rings
model holding solid gold one of a kind rings by alex monroe

How much do I spend?

Over the years we’ve heard a lot about how much you should spend on an engagement ring, but our perspective will always come down to one thing - how much do you feel comfortable spending? Of course, this is going to vary from person to person, but we think it’s really important not to compare yourself or feel pressured to spend a certain amount. Focusing on meaningful design details which don’t have to cost the earth can ultimately create a much more expressive and thoughtful ring!

model holding solid gold one of a kind rings by alex monroe
Lock and Key Necklace gold plated silver with black seed pearls displayed on vintage books with peach coloured flower

The perfect gemstone

The stone in an engagement ring is often seen as the central feature, so it’s always important to think about what type of gemstone you want and why. Not all engagement rings have diamonds, and there’s a huge variety of other gems to choose from, ranging from the brightly coloured to the subtly sparkling.

In finding a place to start, think about your partner’s style - for example, the colours they love or if they have an affinity for a certain part of the world. Gemstones come from all over the world and many are specific to just a few special regions - Tanzanites are only found in Tanzania for example.

'Meaningful design details don't have to cost the earth, and can ultimately create a more expressive and personal ring.'

Baroque Fruit Baskets silver gold plated Earrings with Large freshwater pearls and rhodolite garnet gemstones

Ring Style

When imagining an engagement ring, many people think of the diamond solitaire - a simple band with a single stone. This is a great place to start, but don’t be nervous to explore other design options. Rings with multiple stones can be a great way to add colour and sparkle, and of course, you also don’t have to have a gemstone in the design at all!

It’s so important to consider the wearer and their lifestyle. Highly detailed rings can be a little more catchy than others and could be less suitable for someone very hands-on and active in their day-to-day. It also helps to consider the wedding band and how this might sit alongside the engagement ring. The two rings are traditionally worn in tandem, and often feature complimentary design details so they work as a unified pair.

Baroque Fruit Baskets silver gold plated Earrings with Large freshwater pearls and rhodolite garnet gemstones

Alex's Favourite Engagement Rings

When imagining an Engagement Ring...

emerald diamond ring being worked in alex monroes workshop

Handmade in England & Ethical

At Alex Monroe, we have been proudly hand making jewellery in England using a mix of traditional and specifically developed techniques, for over 30 years. From the inspiration behind our collections, to how our collections come to life, read on to discover the making process behind every piece of Alex Monroe jewellery.

bespoke set up with green gemstones and ring

Bespoke

Alex’s signature natural style has been reimagined by our design team as a stunning selection of One of a Kind hairpieces. Completely handmade, each piece and sets of pins features a unique configuration of florals, leaves and vines, with a few of our favourite creatures dotted here and there.

bespoke set up with green gemstones and ring
Bespoke commission with green gemstone

large emerald bespoke commission by alex monroe
Bespoke commission of Tanzanite halo earrings by alex monroe

Bespoke Inspiration

Over the years the Bespoke team have made so many stunning pieces, here are just a small selection to help inspire your own Bespoke Alex Monroe design.

Large white gold diamond and sapphire ring bespoke commission ring by Alex Monroe jewellery
Small Spring Halo Ring with Natural green Diamond  bespoke ring by Alex Monroe Jewellery
large apricot bespoke commission by Alex Monroe Jewellery

Personal Shopping

Discover our jewellery in more detail, either in person or on a video call with a member of our expert team.

Book a Personal Shopping Appointment

Shop via our US store to see pricing options specific to your location.