Buying an Engagement Ring – A Step-by-Step Guide

How much should an engagement ring cost?

The most important thing is that the budget feels reasonable for you. A smart approach is to set a maximum amount and then prioritize:
Want a larger diamond? You can choose slightly lower color/clarity while keeping an excellent cut.
Want maximum sparkle and overall quality? Prioritize Cut, since it has the biggest impact on how much the diamond shines.
In our atelier, we can help you balance the 4Cs so you get the most ring for your budget—at any level.

 

What ring style is the safest choice if I don’t know exactly what they like?

If you want to play it safe:
Solitaire (one stone): timeless and suits almost any style.
Thin band + classic setting: elegant and easy to pair with a wedding band.
Subtle side stones: adds extra sparkle without being “too much.”
Tip: look at their jewelry, do they prefer minimalist, romantic, or statement pieces?

Which metal is best—white gold, yellow gold, rose gold, or platinum?

The “best” option depends on style and everyday life:
Yellow gold: classic and warm—often for someone who likes tradition.
White gold: modern, enhances the diamond’s look.
Rose gold: soft and romantic.
Platinum: durable and exclusive—great for an active lifestyle.
Not sure? Come try them on at our atelier in central Stockholm—skin tone and personal style make a big difference in real life.

 

How do I choose a diamond? What does a GIA-certified diamond mean?

A GIA-certified diamond means the diamond has been graded by GIA (Gemological Institute of America)—one of the world’s most established and respected diamond grading organizations. The certificate describes, among other things, the diamond’s 4Cs.
The 4Cs—simply explained
Carat (ct): weight/size.
Cut: how well the diamond is cut—affects sparkle the most.
Color: how white/colorless the diamond is.
Clarity: how few inclusions it has.
For a safe choice: prioritize Cut first, then balance the other Cs based on budget.

Which diamond shape should I choose?

Here are the most common choices—and what they signal:
Round brilliant: maximum sparkle, timeless, most popular.
Oval: elegant, often looks larger per carat.
Princess (square): modern and defined.
Emerald: sophisticated, mirror-like shine (often requires higher clarity).
Cushion: soft, romantic vintage feel.
Pear: unique, a “statement” yet still classic.

How do I secretly find out the ring size?

Three common ways:
Borrow a ring they already wear (from the correct finger) and bring it in.
Ask a friend/family member to help.
Guess and resize afterwards (common and often easy).
We’re happy to help with sizing advice—and since the rings are handmade, we can often fine-tune the fit beautifully.

 

Can I change the design? Or create a completely custom engagement ring?

Yes. You can either:
Start from a model and adjust it (e.g., stone size, band width, setting, metal, details), or design a completely custom ring with us.

Because we have our own atelier in central Stockholm and make our rings by hand, the process can be both personal and precise.

How long does it take to get the ring?

Handmade rings typically take longer than mass-produced ones. Think of it like this:
If you have a fixed deadline (trip, proposal, birthday), plan as early as you can.
For custom design, it’s especially important to allow extra time.
Tip: book an appointment early and we’ll create a plan that matches your date.

How do I know the diamond will look good in real life—not just on paper?

The certificate is the foundation, but the overall impression is everything:
How the diamond sparkles in different lighting.
How it sits in the setting.
How it suits the wearer’s hand and style.
That’s why it’s smart to try on and compare in-store/at an atelier before deciding.

Which setting is best for everyday wear?

If the ring will be worn daily:
Choose a setting that protects the stone and feels practical.
Consider lifestyle: work, training, hands-on hobbies.
We’ll guide you to a design that’s both beautiful and practical.

 

Checklist: before you decide

Budget: max amount + priorities.
Style: solitaire/halo/side stones/minimalist/vintage.
Metal: yellow/white/rose/platinum feel.
Diamond cut: round cut, oval shape, pear shape, emerald cut or cushion cut.
Diamond: 4Cs + GIA certificate.
Ring size: secure it or plan resizing.
Timeline: when will the proposal happen?
Customization: adjust an existing design or create your own.

Why many choose to buy an engagement ring at our Stockholm atelier.

GIA-certified diamonds for clear, trusted quality.
Own atelier in central Stockholm—close dialogue and control throughout the process.
Handmade rings with a focus on craftsmanship and finishing.
Redesign or custom design—flexibility for your style and budget.

Next steps: how to get started

Save 2-3 inspiration images of rings you like.
Think about metal color and an approximate budget.
Book an appointment and try options—we’ll help you find the right diamond and design.