Engagement Rings
Explore our wide range of beautiful engagement rings, and find the perfect piece to symbolise your love.
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What are the different types of engagement rings designs?
At Michael Hill we offer a wide range of different engagement ring designs to account for the many different styles and personalities of the men and women who wear them.
Most engagement rings feature a central stone, usually a diamond - though gemstones such as sapphire and morganite are also popular. Some engagement rings feature a centrepiece with a cluster of smaller stones that are set to give the look of a larger stone, or to create a unique shape, called cluster engagement rings. Engagement stones come in a range of cuts, including pear, round brilliant, princess, oval cut and more. These can be set in a solitaire style, with the stone taking centre stage on a white, rose, or yellow gold band, or in a hidden halo, or halo style, surrounded by a ring of smaller diamonds for added sparkle. Vintage-inspired engagement rings are a popular choice, offering a uniquely romantic charm. Bohemian inspired engagement rings are also growing in popularity, offering unexpected details, such as fancy cut diamonds. Whether looking for a diamond engagement ring, a colourful gemstone ring, something quirky and unique, a beautiful vintage inspired piece or a traditional best selling engagement ring, we have a range of engagement ring styles to suit your tastes.
How do I choose the right diamond cut?
Choosing the right diamond cut for your engagement ring is a deeply personal decision, so be sure to follow your heart and select the cut you love, rather than what might be fashionable or popular.
The cut you choose will depend on the style you like, whether that be contemporary or traditional, classic elegance or maximum impact. A round brilliant or princess cut diamond is a timeless choice, while a pear or emerald cut diamond in a halo ring setting can give a more contemporary feel. When selecting your diamond cut, make sure you choose something you will love wearing for a lifetime. For more information on diamond cuts, consult our diamond guide.
What finger is an engagement ring usually worn on?
While the engagement ring is often worn on the fourth finger of the left hand, also known as the ring finger, this may vary depending on your culture and beliefs.
In many countries around the world, engagement and wedding rings are worn on the right hand, and the increased popularity of men’s engagement rings has meant many men choose to wear their engagement ring on their right hand, and their wedding band on their left hand.
How do I choose an engagement ring?
The most important part of choosing an engagement ring is that it is a piece you or your partner will love, and will want to wear for life. Selecting a beautiful ring that suits your partner’s style and that is appropriate for your budget are the main considerations, and you do not necessarily need to stick to a certain number of diamond carats or to the latest trends.
Among our most popular diamond engagement ring styles are halo, cluster, and other multi-stone designs. These stunning rings are popular because they offer eye-catching sparkle and a large look, while still being affordable.
If you are choosing a ring to surprise your partner with when you propose, think about their personal style. If they like a classic, elegant look, a timeless solitaire ring is ideal. For someone who loves to sparkle, multi-stone rings such as halos are the perfect choice. And if they love to stand out from the crowd, unique looks such as vintage-inspired designs, baguette or emerald cut diamonds, or rings with a coloured centre stone are sure to delight them. Check out our Proposal Guide for more inspiration and tips on selecting the perfect engagement ring.
Does an engagement ring have to be diamond?
An engagement ring does not have to feature diamonds, and a coloured stone option is a beautiful and sophisticated choice. Ruby, amethyst and sapphire engagement rings are particularly popular, and allow the wearer to express their unique style. Morganite engagement rings and aquamarine engagement rings are also popular choices for engagement rings.
How do I choose the diamond quality for my engagement ring?
Selecting the carat, colour and clarity of your diamond will come down to your budget and personal style. You may choose a lower carat diamond that has a purer colour and clarity, or be willing to select a more imperfect diamond that is larger in carat size. For help navigating this important decision, book your free virtual appointment with one of our expert advisors.
What is the difference between a promise and an engagement ring?
While visually there are many similarities between a promise ring and an engagement ring, the intent is quite different. Engagement rings are given to signify your intent to marry and the beginning of the wedding planning process, while promise rings are given as a promise of a committed, long-term relationship that may or may not include marriage one day.
Which diamond shapes are the most popular for engagement rings?
There are a number of popular diamond shapes, but the diamond shape you choose will ultimately come down to your personal style. Pear, brilliant (or round), square, oval, emerald, and cushion-cut diamonds are all popular choices. When selecting the diamond shape for your engagement ring, it’s important to choose a shape you love, rather than what is most popular.
What is an engagement ring?
An engagement ring is a ring given to someone as a symbol of their upcoming marriage. It is typically presented during a marriage proposal, and is worn on the left ring finger.
Engagement rings come in a wide variety of styles, but they typically feature a central gemstone, such as a diamond, sapphire, or ruby. The metal band can be made from gold, platinum, or other materials.
Our engagement ring guide covers the basics you need to know when starting to browse engagement ring options.
Can an engagement ring be simple?
An engagement ring can definitely be simple. In fact, many people prefer a simple and elegant design for an engagement ring because it often symbolises timeless beauty and can easily complement various styles and occasions. The simplicity of an engagement ring can manifest in several ways: Solitaire setting: As mentioned earlier, a solitaire engagement ring, with a single stone, is a classic example of simplicity. It's both elegant and timeless, focusing on the beauty of the central stone. Minimalist design: A minimalist ring might feature a small stone or a simple band without a lot of embellishments. The focus is on clean lines and understated elegance. Band style: A simple band made of gold, platinum, or another metal without excessive decoration or intricate designs contributes to a ring's simplicity. A split shank engagement ring with a solitaire can also be an elegant simple ring style. Less ornate stones: Opting for a ring without a large or overly ornate diamond or gemstone can also keep the design simple. Some people choose smaller stones or alternative gemstones like sapphires, rubies, or even non-traditional stones for a more understated look. Quality over size: Focusing on the quality of the material and craftsmanship rather than the size or number of stones can result in a simple yet high-quality ring. A simple engagement ring can be a beautiful and meaningful symbol of commitment, reflecting a sense of elegance and personal style. It's also versatile enough to be worn comfortably in everyday life and can easily be paired with other jewellery. The key is to choose a design that resonates with the personal taste and values of the person who will be wearing it.