Engagement ring buying guide: what you need to know when planning your engagement ring shopping trip

Posted on: 30/07/2025

Engagement ring shopping is an exciting milestone for couples, often filled with anticipation and joy. However, it can also feel like a daunting task, especially when you're trying to surprise your partner. With so many designs, sizes and prices to consider, it's easy to feel overwhelmed, leaving you wondering how to buy an engagement ring.

With a little planning for your engagement ring shopping trip, you can feel confident and excited. Our jewellery experts at F.Hinds are here to guide you through the process, ensuring that you find the perfect ring for your partner and make the experience as stress-free as possible. Consider this your engagement ring buying guide.

Know the styles

One of the first steps in choosing an engagement ring is understanding the different styles available. There are many options to choose from, so here are a few popular styles to consider:

• Solitaire: The solitaire setting features a single diamond or gemstone on a simple band. It's perfect for understated elegance and letting the beauty of the stone shine.
• Halo: The halo setting surrounds the centre stone with a ring of smaller diamonds, creating a sparkling and eye-catching effect. This style adds extra glamour and makes the centre stone appear even larger.
• Three-stone: Representing the past, present and future of a couple’s relationship, the three-stone ring features a trio of diamonds or gemstones. It's a romantic choice, symbolising the journey you've shared and your future ahead.
• Cluster: Cluster engagement rings feature several smaller stones grouped to form a larger, more dramatic appearance. This style is perfect for someone who loves sparkle and wants something eye-catching.

You may be wondering, where do most people buy an engagement ring? Well, at F.Hinds, our wide collection of engagement rings offers styles from classic solitaires to dazzling halo and three-stone designs. Whether you're looking for something simple or more elaborate, we have the perfect ring to suit your taste.

Understanding diamonds: The 4 Cs

When you start looking at engagement rings, you’ll quickly encounter the concept of the "4 Cs" – cut, colour, clarity and carat weight. These four factors determine the overall quality and price of the diamond. Here’s a breakdown of what each C means:

• Cut: The cut refers to how well the diamond has been shaped and faceted. The better the cut, the more sparkle the diamond will have.
• Colour: Diamonds come in a range of colours, with the most valuable being completely colourless. The colour scale ranges from D (colourless) to Z (light yellow or brown). A diamond with less colour typically costs more, but many people prefer the slightly warmer hues of diamonds further down the scale.
• Clarity: Clarity refers to the presence of imperfections or inclusions inside the diamond. The fewer inclusions or blemishes, the higher the clarity grade. However, many inclusions are microscopic and not visible to the naked eye.
• Carat: Carat measures the weight of the diamond, not the size.

At F.Hinds, we take things one step further with our 5th C: Confidence. We are committed to offering diamonds that are ethically sourced, so rest assured that your purchase will align with your sustainability values. This additional C means you can shop with peace of mind, knowing that you’re supporting responsible practices in the jewellery industry.

Ring sizing 

A common concern when shopping for an engagement ring is knowing your partner’s ring size, especially if the proposal is meant to be a surprise. While it’s always ideal to have your partner’s ring size handy, you can make an educated guess based on rings they wear. If you’re unsure, F.Hinds offers a free ring sizing service that can help size men and women.

Remember, if the fit isn’t perfect, we offer free ring adjustments within 30 days to ensure your partner’s ring fits comfortably and securely.

Enjoy the experience

Choosing an engagement ring is a significant decision, and it should be a memorable and enjoyable experience. Remember, this is a celebration of your love and commitment. Take your time and don’t be afraid to ask questions.

When planning your shopping trip, avoid rushing, and consider whether you want to shop alone or with a trusted friend or family member. The more informed and relaxed you feel, the better your experience will be.

Get help with finding the perfect engagement ring from F.Hinds

If you're unsure where to start, F.Hinds is here to help. Visit us in-store or browse our collection online to find the perfect engagement ring for your proposal. As certified members of the Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC), we uphold high ethical and environmental standards across all our diamond jewellery. If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. Our experts are always here to help you make the perfect choice for your engagement.