Choosing an engagement ring is one of the most exciting steps in your love story. It’s a symbol of everything you’ve built together and the future you’re about to begin. But with so many beautiful options to choose from, finding the one can feel a little overwhelming.
The truth is, the perfect engagement ring doesn’t have to follow tradition, it simply needs to reflect who you are as a couple. Every design choice, from the stone to the setting, tells part of your story. So rather than following trends, think about what makes your relationship special. Here’s how to find an engagement ring that feels as personal and meaningful as the love it represents.
Think About Your Story Together
Every relationship is unique, and the best engagement rings tell that story. Before you start shopping, take a moment to think about what makes your connection different. Did you meet while travelling, bond over a shared hobby, or grow together through life’s challenges? These moments can all inspire the kind of ring you choose.
For example, if you met by the sea, you might gravitate towards soft blue sapphires or aquamarine tones. If you both love vintage style, an art deco-inspired ring could be a perfect nod to your shared aesthetic. Many jewellers even offer bespoke design services, allowing you to incorporate personal touches like birthstones or hidden gems inside the band, little details only the two of you will know about.
Choose a Stone That Matches Your Personalities
The gemstone you choose can say so much about your relationship. While diamonds will always be timeless, other stones bring their own special meaning.
- Diamonds symbolise strength and resilience, the perfect match for couples who have grown together and stood the test of time.
- Sapphires represent loyalty and truth, ideal for relationships built on trust and honesty.
- Emeralds are linked to renewal, passion, and vitality, often chosen by couples who bring out the best in each other.
- Moissanite is known for its incredible brilliance and sustainable origins, a wonderful choice for couples who care about both style and ethics.
Each gemstone tells a different story, so choose one that feels right for you. You can explore a range of meaningful designs in Lily Arkwright’s engagement ring collection, where every piece is crafted to celebrate individuality and love.
Pick a Metal That Suits Your Style
The band of the ring is more than just a setting, it sets the tone for the entire design. Metals, like gemstones, carry their own symbolism and personality.
- Yellow gold has a warm, timeless glow that symbolises tradition and enduring love.
- White gold or platinum feel modern and sleek, perfect for couples who value understated elegance.
- Rose gold is soft and romantic, a favourite for those who love a vintage touch.
- Mixed metals are becoming more popular too, reflecting couples who like to do things a little differently.
When choosing a metal, think about personal style and everyday wear. Platinum, for example, is a brilliant option for durability, while yellow gold adds warmth and nostalgia.
Consider the Setting
The setting, how the gemstone is positioned and framed, gives the ring its character. It’s often the detail that makes one ring feel classic and another feel completely unique.
- Solitaire settings are beautifully simple and timeless, letting the stone shine as the centrepiece.
- Halo settings add a touch of glamour, surrounding the centre stone with smaller gems for extra sparkle.
- Trilogy rings, with three stones, represent a couple’s past, present, and future together.
- Asymmetrical or bespoke settings are ideal for those who love creative, one-of-a-kind designs.
Think about what feels true to your relationship. Is your love story all about timeless simplicity, or does it have a modern, adventurous edge? The right setting will capture that essence.
Add a Personal Touch
An engagement ring becomes even more special when it’s infused with personal meaning. You might include:
- Hidden gemstones representing your birth months or initials.
- Engravings of a favourite lyric, a memorable date, or even coordinates of where you first met.
- Family heirlooms reimagined into new designs, combining sentimental history with fresh craftsmanship.
These small details make the ring deeply personal, something that’s truly one of a kind, just like your relationship.
Don’t Forget Practicality
While beauty and symbolism matter, practicality is just as important. An engagement ring is worn every day, so it needs to be comfortable and suit your lifestyle.
If your partner has an active job or works with their hands, a lower-profile setting might be best to protect the stone. Platinum is an excellent choice for strength and durability, while moissanite offers sparkle that lasts beautifully over time.
The right ring will look stunning and stand the test of everyday life.
An engagement ring is more than a piece of jewellery, it’s a reflection of your relationship, your memories, and your future together. From the sparkle of the stone to the metal of the band, each element tells part of your love story.
Whether you choose a timeless diamond, a colourful gemstone, or a bespoke creation filled with personal meaning, the most important thing is that it feels right for you. Because when a ring reflects your relationship, it becomes more than a symbol, it becomes a beautiful reminder of the love you share, every single day.
