A Guide to the Best Quality Engagement Rings for Your Proposal

There aren’t as many moments in life as memorable as a marriage proposal. At Forever Diamonds, NY, we believe every love story deserves the best quality engagement ring that captures a promise, a memory, and a future in one piece of jewelry. 

In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know to make an informed and confident decision. From understanding diamond quality and ring styles to selecting the right type of metal for the band, this comprehensive resource will help you find the perfect ring that truly shines as bright as the love between you and your partner. 

Understanding Engagement Ring Quality

Quality is everything when shopping for an engagement ring. But what exactly defines the best quality engagement rings?

Well, it starts with understanding the Four Cs: cut, color, clarity, and carat weight. These global standards assess a diamond’s quality and value.

• Cut: The cut of a diamond is perhaps the most important factor in brilliance. A well-cut diamond reflects light beautifully, giving the stone its signature sparkle. Poorly cut diamonds, even if large, can appear dull or lifeless.
• Color: Diamonds range in color from colorless to faint yellow. The more colorless the diamond, the higher its value. 
• Clarity: Refers to the absence of internal flaws (inclusions) or surface blemishes. While most imperfections are microscopic, they can impact a diamond engagement ring's overall look and price.
• Carat Weight: Refers to the weight of the diamond, not its size. A higher-carat diamond is often more expensive, but size isn’t everything. A well-balanced ring considers both carat weight and how the stone is set. The center stone should complement the wearer's hand and overall ring design.

Popular Engagement Ring Styles

Once you understand the basics of diamond quality, the next step is choosing a style that reflects your partner’s personality and your shared love story. Today’s engagement ring styles range from the classics to more bold, modern designs, each offering its own unique charm.

Halo Rings

These are one of the most popular choices in recent years. They feature a central diamond surrounded by a ring of smaller stones. This style adds extra sparkle and makes the center stone appear larger. Halo settings work beautifully with both natural and lab-created diamonds, and they pair well with a variety of metals, including white gold and rose gold.

Vintage-Inspired Designs

For those who love old-timey romance and antique charm, vintage-inspired rings are the perfect choice. These rings often have intricate detailing, filigree work, and milgrain edges. They’re ideal for couples who want something with character and a nod to the past.

Solitaire Rings

These rings are the definition of elegance through simplicity. A single-cut diamond, beautifully set, puts all the focus on the stone’s brilliance and shape. This style is especially popular in yellow gold and white gold bands for a clean, classic look.

Three-Stone and Side-Stone Rings

Three-stone rings represent the past, present, and future of your relationship. Side-stone styles add smaller diamonds along the band which enhance its brilliance without taking attention away from the center stone.

Custom and Personal Styles

If none of these designs appeal to you, you can always go custom. Whether that means mixing metals, using a lab-grown diamond, or designing something entirely unique, you can be sure your ring will be tailored to your personal preference. 

Choosing the Right Metal

The metal you choose for your engagement ring affects its appearance, durability, and even the appearance of the diamond. The best quality engagement rings pair the perfect stone with a metal that enhances its brilliance and fits your partner’s lifestyle.

White Gold

White gold is a sleek and popular choice for modern engagement rings. Its silvery sheen highlights the clarity and sparkle of the center stone, making it especially flattering for halo rings or cut diamonds with high brilliance. It’s a versatile option that complements both natural and lab created diamonds.

Yellow Gold

The yellow gold offers a warm, rich tone that adds vintage charm to any ring style. It tends to be more resistant to wear and doesn't require rhodium plating, making it a low-maintenance yet elegant option.

Rose Gold

For a romantic look, the soft pink hue of rose gold flatters all skin tones and brings a fresh, feminine touch to any setting. It pairs beautifully with lab-grown diamonds. 

Engagement Ring Buying Tips

Buying an engagement ring doesn’t have to be an overwhelming ordeal. With the right guidance and a thoughtful approach, you can find the best quality engagement ring that fits your vision, budget, and partner’s style. 

Here are some tips to help make your engagement ring buying experience a success. 

01. Set a Realistic Budget

First determine how much you're comfortable spending. Remember that the best quality engagement rings come at various price points, especially if you’re thinking of lab grown diamonds, which can save you a lot without compromising on beauty.

02. Learn the Basics First

Before you start shopping, understand the Four Cs (cut, color, clarity, and carat). These will help you compare stones and prioritize what matters most to you.

03. Know Your Partner’s Style

Think about their personal preference. Do they love vintage jewelry? Clean, modern lines? Soft romantic tones? Consider whether they might prefer white gold, yellow gold, or rose gold and what engagement ring style best reflects their taste.

04. Work with a Trusted Jeweler

It is vital that you choose a reputable jeweler. At Forever Diamonds, NY, our team guides you through every step, from selecting a high-quality center stone to designing a custom setting. We help you understand what makes a ring truly exceptional, and we stand behind our craftsmanship.

05. Think Long-Term

A great engagement ring should last a lifetime. Think about everyday wear, potential matching wedding bands, and how the ring might be worn over time.

06. Don’t Be Afraid to Customize

Customizing a ring allows you to create something one-of-a-kind. Whether it’s a vintage inspired setting or a modern twist with lab created diamonds, custom designs ensure your ring reflects your relationship and values.

Wrapping Up

Choosing an engagement ring is a once-in-a-lifetime decision, one that symbolizes your love, commitment, and shared future. 

At Forever Diamonds, NY, we’re here to make your journey joyful and stress-free. Our expert team is ready to guide you through every step of the engagement ring buying process, helping you find or create a beautiful piece that's built to last a lifetime.

Ready to find the ring that will start your forever? Visit our New York showroom or explore our collection online and take the next step in your love story with confidence and style.

For further reading
The Secret to Spotting a Quality Engagement Ring Without Being a Diamond Expert
How to Spot a High-Quality Engagement Diamond Ring in 60 Seconds or Less