"After designing hundreds of Engagement rings with clients over the past 10 years, I've learnt that the best rings don't begin with a Diamond. They begin with understanding the person who will wear it."— alexandra Olsen, violet gray
The Art of Choosing an Engagement Ring
Choosing an Engagement ing is one of life's most meaningful decisions. It can also feel like one of the most overwhelming.
Whether you've been researching for months, have just started exploring your options, or found yourself here thanks to a not-so-subtle hint from your partner - welcome. At Violet Gray, we believe choosing a ring should feel exciting, not intimidating.
This guide has been created to help you navigate the process with confidence, sharing the same advice we give our clients every day.
Together, we'll explore the questions that matter most, from understanding your partner's style to choosing a Gemstone, selecting the right metal, and creating a ring they'll love for a lifetime.
Part I: Understanding The Person You're Choosing For
Before thinking about diamonds, budgets or settings, consider the person who will wear it every day.
The rings that feel the most special aren't chosen because they're fashionable. They're chosen because they feel unmistakably like the person wearing them.
Personal Style
One of the easiest places to begin is by looking at the jewellery they already love and wear. Ask yourself:
• Do they prefer delicate, understated pieces or jewellery with more presence?
• Do they wear yellow gold, white gold or mixed metals?
• Is their style classic and timeless, or contemporary and expressive?
• Do they wear jewellery every day, or only for special occasions?
Lifestyle & Everyday Wear
An Engagement ring is designed to be worn every day and their lifestyle matters just as much as their personal style.
If they're highly active, work with their hands or spend a lot of time outdoors, a lower-profile setting or bezel design may provide greater durability and comfort.
If they love statement jewellery, a taller setting or more sculptural design may suit beautifully.
A well-designed ring balances beauty with practicality.
What Matters Most To Them
Every person values something different.
For some, it's a large Diamond.
For others, it's craftsmanship, sentiment, sustainability or choosing something completely unique.
Perhaps they've always dreamed of an Australian Sapphire?
Maybe they would love incorporating a family heirloom into a new design?
The most meaningful Engagement rings reflect the values of the person wearing them - not current trends.
Part II: The Practical Decisions
Once you've considered who you're designing for, the practical decisions become much easier.
Budget
There is no perfect amount to spend on an Engagement ring. Forget outdated rules and arbitrary formulas.
Choose a budget that feels comfortable for your circumstances.Sometimes the perfect ring costs less than expected and that's something to celebrate.
We'd much rather help you create the right ring than encourage you to spend beyond what feels right.
Choosing A Gemstone / Diamond
Diamonds aren't the only beautiful option.
Many of our clients choose Australian Sapphires for their remarkable colour, durability and individuality.
Others are drawn to Champagne or Salt & Pepper Diamonds, coloured Gemstones or repurposed heirloom stones that carry a story of their own.
There is no right choice.
Only the one that feels right for you.
Choosing Your Metal
Your partner probably already knows which metal they love - even if they haven't realised it themselves.
Take a look at the jewellery they wear every day.
Yellow Gold feels warm and timeless.
White Gold offers a bright, contemporary finish.
Rose Gold has a softer, romantic warmth.
Platinum is naturally white and exceptionally durable.
If you're unsure, we'll happily help guide your decision.
Ring Size
Don't let ring sizing become the thing that keeps you awake at night.
It isn't an exact science.
Finger shape, temperature, band width and personal preference all influence sizing.
If you're planning a surprise proposal, we can guide you through the best ways to estimate their size, and if adjustments are needed afterwards, we'll help make that process as seamless as possible.
Part III: Creating Something That Lasts
Aesthetics & Wearability
The most memorable Engagement rings aren't simply beautiful, they're deeply personal. They're designed around a person - not a trend. And they are wearable.
Whether you're choosing from our Ready to Wear collection or creating something bespoke together, our goal is always the same: to create a ring that feels like it could belong to no one else. One that will be worn through ordinary mornings, extraordinary milestones and every chapter that follows.
Because while we love jewellery but what we truly love is everything it represents.
Begin your Journey.
If you have questions, need guidance or simply want to explore what’s possible, we’d love to hear your story.