How to Choose the Perfect Custom Engagement Ring: A Step-by-Step Guide

There’s no more meaningful and emotional purchase than an engagement ring. It’s a powerful symbol of love and commitment, yet often a process shrouded in secrecy. Many men approach this moment feeling overwhelmed, unsure, and rushed. That’s why I want to simplify it for those of you just starting out. An engagement ring is a reflection of your relationship, making it the perfect opportunity to infuse personal touches that tell your unique story. This is exactly why bespoke is the way to go. Your partner is one-of-a-kind, and so should be the ring you give them.

Step 1: Drop Subtle Hints!

While you want the proposal to be a surprise, it’s always a good idea to have a rough idea of what your partner wants. After all, she’ll be wearing the ring for the rest of her life, and the last thing you want is for that magical moment of you getting down on one knee to be met with a frown and a “yes to you, no to the ring!” If you’re already at that stage in your relationship, she’s likely dropped hints on Instagram, but if not, perhaps enlist her best friend to do a little discreet digging for you! What is her style-classic, modern, or vintage? What shaped diamond is she after-round or pear? Is she more of a yellow gold gal, or does she prefer platinum? As we’re creating the ring from scratch, we can design the perfect piece that reflects her taste and personality.

Step 2: Find the Right Business/Designer

This step is crucial, as the experts you work with will guide and inspire you throughout your ring journey! Trust is key when making this decision, so take the time to research the company-are their diamonds certified? Do they have a solid reputation? Are their stones ethically sourced? Ultimately, people buy from people, and if you meet a salesperson or designer who makes you feel comfortable, educates you, and creates a memorable experience, that’s a great sign. At Mills & Beau, most of our business comes from referrals, which shows that our clients trust us enough to recommend us to their friends and family. So always ask people you know who’ve been through the process before.

Step 3: Choose the Design

The design of your engagement ring is where personal style meets meaning. The setting-whether a classic solitaire, a sparkling halo, or a symbolic trilogy-shapes the ring’s overall look. Take current trends into account, like chunkier statement jewellery and the growing love for yellow gold, but remember, this is a ring she’ll wear forever. Aim for a timeless design that reflects her unique style. Subtle hints from your partner, like the type of metal or stone they’ve mentioned liking, can help guide your choice. Stick to her preferences to ensure the ring feels personal and meaningful.

Step 4: Choose the Stone

When selecting the perfect engagement ring, there are three main things to consider: gem material, shape, and style. Diamonds are the most popular choice due to their durability, they’re the hardest gem, making them practical and versatile. However, coloured stones like Sapphire, Emerald, and Ruby are beautiful alternatives, though they can be riskier, Emeralds are more brittle and require extra care. If you go with a diamond, you’ll need to decide between mined or lab-grown. While there’s a lot of debate around this, consider your budget, whether you want the ring to hold value, and the ethical and environmental factors. Finally, the shape of the stone defines the overall design. Round and cushion cuts offer a softer, symmetrical look, while emerald or asscher cuts bring a more angular, art deco feel.

Step 5: Add Personal Touches

At Mills & Beau, we believe this is the most important part of the process! Your engagement ring should be a reflection of your unique relationship and love story. Adding personal touches makes it even more meaningful. Consider engraving a special phrase only the two of you share on the inside of the band, or placing your birthstone close to her skin so it feels like you’re always with her. Even something as personal as a fingerprint can make the ring feel extra special. These hidden details create a bond that’s uniquely yours.

This process is an exciting journey that allows you to create a ring that’s not only beautiful but also deeply meaningful-one that tells your unique love story. At Mills & Beau, we understand that this is a once-in-a-lifetime moment, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way. From selecting the perfect design to adding personal touches, we ensure your ring reflects the bond you share with your partner. With our expertise and passion for craftsmanship, Mills & Beau is the perfect place to bring your dream ring to life, making it a symbol of love that will last forever. Good luck, and enjoy it!