đź’Ť How to Choose an Engagement Ring: Expert Advice from Aril Jewels
Choosing an engagement ring is one of the most meaningful decisions you’ll make—it’s not just a piece of jewellery, but a symbol of your love story.
Whether you’re drawn to something antique-inspired or sleek and modern, the right ring should feel timeless, personal, and uniquely you.
To help couples navigate the process, I spoke with Chloë Woodmansterne and Kayla Rimmon, co-founders of Aril Jewels, an award-nominated jewellery brand celebrated for its heirloom-worthy designs. With backgrounds in gemmology, traditional design, and a shared love of antique jewellery, they’ve built a brand around craftsmanship, meaning, and beauty that lasts.
Here, they share their expert advice on finding an engagement ring you’ll treasure for a lifetime.
1. Follow Your Heart, Not the Trends
Trends come and go, but your ring will stay with you forever. Instead of what’s fashionable right now, think about:
Colours you naturally gravitate toward
Shapes that flatter your hand
Metals that complement your skin tone
How your ring will pair with your wedding band
“An engagement ring should feel like a reflection of you—whether that’s a timeless diamond solitaire or a vibrant coloured gem.”
2. Prioritise Craftsmanship and Quality
A ring is only as enduring as the craftsmanship behind it. A beautifully handmade piece will not only stand up to daily wear but can also be resized, repaired, and passed down through generations.
3. Consider Lifestyle and Practicality
If you plan to wear your ring every day, choose a setting that works for your lifestyle. For example:
Bezel (rub-over) setting: frames the stone in metal, protecting it from all angles.
Georgian “cut-down” setting: combines durability with antique charm.
Both are elegant yet secure—perfect for active lifestyles.
4. Choosing Your Gemstone
Diamonds may be classic, but they’re far from the only option. Consider:
Natural diamonds: timeless and durable
Coloured gems: sapphires, rubies, or emeralds for more personality and better value
Antique diamonds: sustainable, full of history and character
Lab-grown diamonds: an option if budget is key (though their eco credentials are complex)
5. Setting a Realistic Budget
The cost of a ring depends on the gems, the metal, the design, and—most importantly—the craftsmanship. Aril Jewels recommend focusing on quality and longevity rather than size alone. If your budget is limited, a coloured gemstone may give you more impact for your spend than a diamond.
6. Ethics and Sustainability
Couples today are more conscious than ever of the story behind their jewellery. Aril Jewels use recycled gold, antique diamonds, and ethically sourced gemstones, with options for Fairtrade and Fairmined gold.
“Beautiful jewellery shouldn’t cost the earth. A sustainable ring becomes even more meaningful, knowing it was created with care for both people and planet.”
7. Caring for Your Ring
To ensure your engagement ring lasts a lifetime:
Clean it regularly with warm water, washing-up liquid, and a soft brush.
Always clean over a closed plug or bowl.
Have it checked annually by your jeweller to secure settings and avoid costly repairs.
Insure your ring with a specialist jewellery policy to protect against loss or damage.
Final Words of Advice
“Choosing your engagement ring should be joyful and meaningful—it’s not just about the perfect stone, but the memories you create along the way. Take your time, enjoy the process, and make it something that feels uniquely yours.”
💌 If you’re starting your search for the perfect engagement ring and want expert support, I’d love to connect you with trusted jewellers like Aril Jewels. [Get in touch here]
