Oval Cut

Not many things in life carry the emotional thrill that comes with buying the perfect piece for the one you want to spend forever with. With countless diamond shapes, settings, metals, and price points to consider, it's easy to wonder where to begin. Whether you're shopping together or planning a surprise proposal, understanding the basics before you visit a jewelry store will help you make the best decision for you and your partner.  

If you’re starting to venture into this world of diamond buying, let this guide help you make educated and stress-free decisions. Here are Five Tips to consider before you go ring shopping. 

Tip 1: Have a Clear Understanding of the 4 Cs of Diamond Buying 

The 4 Cs of diamond buying include Cut, Clarity, Carat and Color. Having a basic understanding of these four diamond characteristics will help you have better conversations with your jeweler and offer you the vocabulary to ask the important questions. 

Choosing a Center Stone

The center stone is the focal point of an engagement ring and deserves careful consideration. While diamonds remain the most popular choice, many couples also explore colored gemstones or lab-grown diamonds. 

Diamond vs. Gemstone Durability

For everyday wear, durability matters.

Natural and lab-grown diamonds both rank 10 on the Mohs Hardness Scale, making them the hardest gemstone available. This exceptional hardness helps resist scratching and makes diamonds ideal for rings worn daily. 

Other gemstones are beautiful but generally softer: 

• Sapphire: 9
• Ruby: 9
• Emerald: 7.5–8
• Morganite: 7.5–8
• Aquamarine: 7.5–8
• Opal: 5.5–6.5

 While sapphires and rubies are durable enough for daily wear, softer stones typically require additional care and more protective settings.

Sizing, Fit, and Practical Considerations

Professional ring sizing is one of the simplest ways to ensure long-term comfort.

Finger size changes throughout the day and throughout the year due to temperature and activity, so an in-store sizing appointment provides the most accurate measurement.

Keep in mind that some rings are easier to resize than others. 

Pavé bands, eternity bands, and rings with diamonds extending around the entire band often have limited resizing options because adjusting the ring can affect stone placement and structural integrity. 

Ring profile also affects everyday comfort. 

Lower-profile rings sit closer to the finger and are less likely to catch on clothing or gloves, while higher-profile settings provide greater visibility for the center stone but may require more awareness during daily activities.

Tip 2: Set a Budget That Works for You

Forget every rule of thumb you’ve heard in the past and instead make sure you are comfortable with the amount you’re looking to spend. This number will also enable your jeweler to show you all that’s possible. Because of our customized approach, we have engagement rings that fit every budget and style. The price could depend on if you’re looking to use either lab-grown or natural diamonds. 

Lab-Grown vs. Natural Diamonds

One of the biggest differences between natural and lab-grown diamonds is cost. 

Lab-grown diamonds generally cost significantly less than natural diamonds of similar size and quality. This often allows buyers to purchase a larger diamond or higher color and clarity grades within the same budget. 

Natural diamonds, however, formed deep within the earth over billions of years, remain rarer and often command higher prices because of their scarcity and enduring market demand. 

Custom Design and In-Store Consultations

Custom jewelry allows you to create a ring that reflects your relationship while fitting your budget and style preferences. At La Bijouterie, custom consultations include discussing inspiration, reviewing diamond options, selecting settings, and refining every design detail before production begins. Be sure to bring in; inspiration photos, preferred shapes, ring size, budget and, of course, any existing family jewelry you’d like to use.  

We do not work off commission so you can feel confident knowing that this will be a stress-free experience. 

Tip 3: Decide Which of the 4 Cs Will be Most Important to You and Your Partner 

For some, carat size is the most important, while others focus on color or clarity, but the “C” that determines the sparkle/luster and beauty of a diamond is the cut. Some other things to also consider are colored diamonds or fancy cut non-traditional diamonds. In addition to the 4 Cs, the ring style can be classically traditional or uniquely yours.

Popular engagement ring styles include:

• Solitaire rings
• Halo engagement rings
• Three-stone rings
• Pavé bands
• Vintage-inspired designs
• Hidden halo settings
• Cathedral settings
• Modern bezel settings

Many couples also choose to personalize every detail through our custom jewelry services, allowing them to select the center stone, setting, metal, and finishing details.

Selecting the Right Shape

Or perhaps the cut is what’s most important in your ring. Different diamond shapes complement different hands and personal styles.

Popular shapes include: 

• Round Brilliant
• Oval
• Cushion
• Emerald
• Radiant
• Pear
• Marquise
• Princess
• Asscher
• Heart

Longer shapes such as oval, marquise, and pear often create the illusion of longer, slimmer fingers. Round and cushion cuts offer timeless appeal, while emerald and Asscher cuts highlight clean architectural lines and understated elegance. 

Some shapes require more protection than others. Diamonds with pointed corners or tips; including pear, marquise, princess, and heart shapes—benefit from protective settings that shield vulnerable edges. V-shaped prongs, bezel settings, or specially designed protective prongs help reduce the risk of chipping during everyday wear.

Settings, Side Stones, and Protection

Side stones can dramatically change an engagement ring's appearance. 

Halo Settings

A halo surrounds the center diamond with smaller diamonds, increasing sparkle while making the center stone appear larger. 

Pavé Settings

Pavé settings feature numerous small diamonds set closely together along the band, creating continuous brilliance with minimal visible metal. 

Channel Settings

Channel settings place diamonds securely between two strips of metal, providing a sleek appearance while protecting the stones from everyday wear. 

Matching Side Stone Color

For the most cohesive appearance, side stones should closely match the center stone's color. Consistent color grades create a balanced, harmonious look and prevent noticeable differences between the center diamond and accent stones.

Protecting Pointed Shapes

Pear, marquise, princess, and heart-shaped diamonds benefit from additional protection through V-prongs or bezel settings that reinforce vulnerable points without sacrificing beauty.

Tip 4: Understanding the Role Table Size Plays in a Diamond 

Table size or table percentages indicate the ratio of the width of the diamond's top facet (table) in relation to the width of the entire stone. When it comes to diamond tables, bigger is not always better. If the diamond table is too large, the upper facets on the crown will lack the room to disperse light. Generally, the best-looking diamonds have table sizes in the range of 55% to 60% (measured as a percentage of the diameter of the diamond). The size of the table is more important in larger diamonds, say over 1/2 ct. 

The setting, metal and band types will also affect the overall size and shape.  

Setting, Metal, and Band Choices

The setting influences both the appearance and durability of your engagement ring.

Prong Settings 

Prong settings use small metal claws to hold the diamond securely while allowing maximum light to enter the stone. This style maximizes brilliance and remains one of the most popular engagement ring settings.

Bezel Settings

A bezel setting surrounds the diamond with a protective rim of precious metal. It provides excellent protection against everyday impacts and is ideal for active lifestyles or occupations requiring frequent hand use.

Flush Settings

Flush settings position the diamond nearly level with the band's surface, creating a sleek, modern appearance while offering outstanding protection from accidental bumps and snags. 

Consider your partner's existing jewelry when selecting metal. Common options include, platinum, white gold, yellow gold, rose gold. If they primarily wear white jewelry, platinum or white gold often creates the most cohesive look. Those who favor warmer tones may prefer yellow or rose gold.

Band Width and Comfort

Band width affects both appearance and wearability. Narrow bands create a delicate look and can make the center stone appear larger, while wider bands provide greater presence and durability. Comfort-fit bands feature rounded interiors that make everyday wear more comfortable, especially for rings worn continuously.

Wedding Band Compatibility

Think ahead to how the engagement ring will pair with a wedding band.

Some elaborate settings require specially shaped wedding bands, while low-profile or flush settings may limit stacking options. Discuss wedding band compatibility during the design process to ensure both rings fit beautifully together.

Tip 5: Verify That It Is a GIA Certified Diamond 

Feel confident asking to see the diamond certificate. This is a monumental purchase so, of course, you want to know that what you’re buying is authentic and conflict free. GIA tests every diamond submitted to establish its authenticity as a diamond and whether it's been subjected to treatments. GIA reports provide a full description of the diamond, including color, weight, measurements, and cutting style, and will disclose any known treatments.

It’s wise to be aware of the several types of diamonds available on the market. 

Natural Diamonds

Natural diamonds are created beneath the Earth's surface over billions of years through intense heat and pressure. Each stone is unique and carries geological history that many buyers value.

When purchasing a natural diamond, certification is essential. Reputable grading reports verify the stone's quality according to the 4 Cs and confirm that the diamond matches its documented characteristics.

Always ask your jeweler about the diamond's origin and request documentation regarding ethical sourcing and responsible supply chain practices.

Lab-Grown Diamonds

Lab-grown diamonds have the same chemical, optical, and physical properties as natural diamonds. They are genuine diamonds created in controlled laboratory environments rather than mined from the earth.

They offer exceptional value for buyers who prioritize size or budget while still wanting a diamond with the same sparkle and durability as a natural stone.

Diamond Alternatives

Some couples choose alternative center stones such as: 

• Sapphire
• Ruby
• Emerald
• Moissanite
• Morganite

Each offers a unique appearance, though durability, maintenance requirements, and long-term wear vary. 

Aftercare, Insurance, and Maintenance 

Regular maintenance helps preserve your engagement ring's beauty and brilliance.

A simple weekly cleaning routine using warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft toothbrush removes oils and everyday buildup that can reduce sparkle.

Professional inspections once or twice a year allow jewelers to check prongs, tighten stones, and identify normal wear before problems develop.

If your ring is crafted in white gold, remember that it may require periodic rhodium plating to maintain its bright white appearance over time. 

Jewelry insurance provides valuable protection against loss, theft, accidental damage, or the ring being lost. Many policies can be added to homeowners or renters’ insurance, or you can purchase specialized jewelry coverage for broader protection. 

Questions to Ask Your Jeweler 

After purchasing your ring, obtain an independent appraisal for insurance purposes. An appraisal documents the ring's value and provides important information if the jewelry is ever lost, stolen, or damaged. Our knowledgeable jewelers will welcome your questions regarding appraisals, custom orders and any other queries you may have. 

• What warranty coverage is included?
• How long will a custom order take?
• Are rush services available?
• Can I see a design rendering before the ring is created?
• Where did this diamond originate? 

Bring inspiration images and accurate ring size information to your appointment. Having visual references and sizing details allows your jeweler to recommend designs that align with your vision while ensuring a comfortable fit. 

At La Bijouterie, our sole purpose is to help couples achieve a milestone moment in their lives any way we can. We believe in quality over quantity and educating our customers in what’s the best ring for them. Before committing to such an important decision, book a worry-free, 30 minute, 1:1 appointment with us. 

At Your Service,

Set F.

Founder, La Bijouterie

By now most have heard the exciting news that Prince Harry has proposed to American actress and humanitarian, Meghan Markle. The ring he designed for the proposal is nothing shy of dazzling! It incorporates a large center stone from Botswana (a place near to both of their hearts), and two smaller size diamonds from his late Mother, Princess Diana.

The value of such a ring is quite simply put-- priceless. This is primarily due to the history of the side diamonds, as well as the size of the center stone.

According to an article written by Real Men, Real Style, in “British law, heirlooms were moveable properties that had to be inherited through the family estate. You could sell one that you owned while you were alive, but once you died, it couldn’t be willed away from the family.

These days, the law is obsolete, even in Great Britain’s landed classes. But the concept — a piece of moveable property tied by tradition to the family — is still strong in Western culture”.

The wonderful thing about heirloom diamonds is that they are so versatile. They can be added to other pieces of jewelry or can be reset into a completely new piece. When needed, they can also be sold in order to buy a newer, more modern piece that better suits the purchasers taste. Over time they become much more than a beautiful sparkling stone, they become a piece of history to be passed down from generation to generation-- a true family heirloom.

If there is a precious piece of jewelry that you or your family owns, you just may want to hold onto it. Someday it may just be priceless too.

LB

It’s hard to believe a new year will be here before we know it! The holiday months are typically filled with celebration and champagne, and end of year marriage proposals are no exception. This month we wanted to share our Top 5 engagement ring trends for 2017 that are sure to sparkle their way into the next year.

Oval Cut Diamonds

Engagement Eternity Bands

Halos and Double Halos

Two-Toned Metals

Colorful Center Stones

Which ring is your favorite? Comment below and let us know!

LB