A Guide by Odrie
An engagement ring is not just any piece of jewelry; it’s a symbol of love, commitment, and a future together. At Odrie, we believe that the perfect engagement ring should reflect your unique relationship while also being a timeless piece that will be cherished for years to come. Whether you’re drawn to a classic design, a modern twist, or something entirely custom, we offer a wide selection of engagement rings crafted from 18ct recycled gold and set with stunning lab-grown diamonds. We also specialise in creating bespoke rings that perfectly match your vision.
To help you navigate the exciting process of choosing the perfect engagement ring, we’ve put together this detailed guide.
1. Timeless elegance: choose a ring that lasts a lifetime
When selecting an engagement ring, think beyond trends. You want a ring that will not only reflect your (or your partner’s) personal style today, but also evolve with your tastes over time. A timeless design ensures that the ring will remain as beautiful as the love it represents.
- Material of the stone: Diamonds are the traditional choice for engagement rings due to their symbolism of strength, durability, and eternal love. As the hardest substance on Earth, they signify a commitment that lasts forever. However, some brides opt for alternative stones, like rubies, sapphires, or emeralds, which carry their own unique meanings and charm.
- Colour of the band and setting: The color of the band—whether white gold, yellow gold, rose gold, or other—will reflect your partner's style and personality. Each material carries its own significance, with yellow gold symbolising tradition, white gold for modern elegance, and rose gold for a soft, romantic look.
- Design of the band and setting: Traditionally, ring bands are closed, with engagement rings having a circular form due to the symbolism of eternity. However, as of recent, some opt for different, contemporary designs that do not necessarily feature a closed design for the band. This offers more room for creative, modern expressions of commitment, allowing for open-ended designs that feel fresh and unique. Side stones or diamonds along the band can add an extra touch of sparkle and create a more personalised look. The setting also plays a key role in the ring's overall style, whether you opt for a classic prong setting, a more modern bezel, or something intricate like a halo setting.
2. Choose a ring you can wear every day
An engagement ring is something that will be worn daily, so it’s crucial that it’s both beautiful and practical. You want a ring that not only looks stunning but also holds up to everyday wear.
If you’re unsure about how to assess the quality of a diamond, take a look at our previous blog post on the 4Cs (cut, clarity, color and carat weight). These factors are crucial to ensuring that your diamond has the brilliance and durability to stand the test of time.
At Odrie, we use lab-grown diamonds and 18ct recycled gold to create pieces that are not only ethical and sustainable but also durable and of the highest quality. Lab-grown diamonds are indistinguishable from natural diamonds, offering the same brilliance and strength without the environmental impact.
3. Consider finger shape and size
The perfect engagement ring should complement the shape and size of the wearer’s finger. Different ring designs can enhance or alter the appearance of the finger, making it look more elegant or elongating the hand.
- Smaller Hands: If your partner has smaller hands, you may want to consider a more modest design. A large stone could overwhelm a smaller hand, so opt for a ring with a delicate band and a smaller diamond for a balanced look. An oval cut diamond could work well to create an elegant, timeless feel.
- Longer Fingers: For those with longer fingers, a ring with a more intricate design or a longer setting can elongate the finger even further, creating a sleek, sophisticated look. Designs with a longer central stone or more elaborate settings, like a three-stone or halo design, can add depth to the ring.
4. Pick a diamond shape that reflects your style
One of the most exciting parts of choosing an engagement ring is deciding on the diamond shape. The shape you select will not only affect the overall design but also the way the ring reflects light and its symbolism.
- Brilliant Cut: This is the most popular diamond shape for engagement rings. The brilliant cut is designed to maximise light reflection, offering exceptional sparkle and brilliance. Its round shape is classic and timeless, making it an ideal choice for someone who loves traditional elegance.
- Oval Cut: Oval diamonds are gaining popularity for their ability to appear larger than other cuts of the same carat weight, thanks to their elongated shape. They also create the illusion of longer, more slender fingers, making them a perfect choice for those looking for a more modern and sophisticated style.
- Emerald Cut: The emerald cut is known for its elegant, vintage-inspired design. It offers a more subtle brilliance compared to the round brilliant, with long, clean lines that emphasise clarity and transparency. This cut is perfect for someone who wants a classic yet eye-catching design with a nod to old-world glamour.
5. Get the right ring size
One of the most crucial aspects of choosing an engagement ring is getting the correct size. A well-fitting ring ensures that it’s both comfortable and secure. We recommend visiting Odrie’s store to get your partner’s finger professionally measured.
It’s important to keep in mind that fingers can change size with the seasons—during warmer months, for example, fingers tend to swell slightly. We’re happy to assist with sizing, and most rings can be resized if needed.
6. Personalisation: make the ring even more meaningful
At Odrie, we also offer custom-made services, which helps couples create rings that are as personal and unique as their love story. You can personalise the inside of the band with an engraving—a special date, phrase, or initials—to make the ring even more meaningful. If you are feeling inspired, we can help you craft a bespoke ring, using labgrown diamonds and 18ct recycled gold, that perfectly reflects your vision.
The Perfect Ring Awaits
Choosing the perfect engagement ring is a deeply personal and exciting experience. At Odrie, we are dedicated to helping you find a ring that reflects your love, style and values.
Explore our assortment of rings!
