Welcome to the ultimate step-by-step ring guide–learn more about metals, gemstones and diamonds, design basics, how our rings are made and how to look after them.
From classic solitaires to magnificent halo designs, each setting style adds its own unique touch to the centrepiece of your ring. Discover the advantages, disadvantages and versatility of different settings as we delve into the captivating details that make your engagement ring truly extraordinary.
Diamond shapes are the defining feature of a diamond engagement ring’s appearance and play a profound role in its overall beauty. Understanding the characteristics of different diamond shapes will help you choose the perfect stone that reflects your individuality and creates a lasting impression.
Ethical sourcing should be the first step in creating any piece of jewellery. We believe it’s the right thing. We know it’s the right thing. Using sustainable materials and creating ethical business partnerships is the way forward not just for Taylor & Hart but for our peers across the jewellery supply chain, and our customers should expect nothing less.
The engagement ring is traditionally worn on the third finger of the left hand. To determine the ring size, you can visit us for a consultation, if you’re based in London or New York City, to get measured with a ring sizer. If that’s not possible or you want to maintain the surprise, you can download our printable ring sizer and measure an existing ring’s inner diameter at home. You can also send us a photo of your partner’s hands along with their approximate height–our skilled team of professionals are usually pretty spot on with their estimates.
Your rings have been crafted to last a lifetime, and with a little TLC you can keep them looking their best for years to come. Many customers ask us, is it safe to clean my engagement ring at home? The answer is yes, it’s easy to maintain and clean your rings. Pair this process with our complimentary lifetime annual care package* to protect your diamond ring’s longevity.
*This ring lifetime annual care package service is free of charge to UK, US & EU customers.
Discover our most cherished engagement ring designs – . From delicate solitaires to intricate floral-inspired creations, our top ten engagement rings have captured the hearts of couples worldwide. Each engagement ring is thoughtfully crafted with meticulous attention to detail.
There are many options for pairing an oval diamond engagement ring with a wedding band. There’s rounded classic polished bands, flat bands, full eternity diamond pavé bands, twisted bands, different textures, chevrons, curved bands. Ultimately, your perfect match is entirely dependent on your personal taste and how you want to curate a cohesive bridal set. Here are some factors to consider and a range of options to help you choose the best wedding band to complement your oval diamond engagement ring.
The elongated cushion cut diamond is a magnificent variation of the traditional cushion cut, featuring a stretched silhouette. When it comes to cushion cuts, you’ll find that the traditional and more popular ratio of 1:1- 1:1.05 makes up the majority of the market. The ratio for elongated cushion cut diamonds are usually at 1:1.15 up to 1:1.30 or higher if you want something that’s incredibly elongated. This results in a stone shape that more closely resembles the octagonal silhouette of a radiant cut diamond or an emerald cut diamond (rectangular from a distance).
Timeless, radiant, and extravagant, the hidden halo engagement ring is a contemporary rendition with unmatched beauty. A sparkling style to love and to cherish, the hidden halo engagement ring is a modern take on the conventional halo design and is currently enjoying a renaissance, having re-entered the spotlight in 2022.
A double halo refers to the placement of two concentric circles of smaller stones around a centre diamond or gemstone–essentially two rows of smaller gemstones that hug the centre stone. It enhances the overall appearance and brilliance of the ring. The two rows of smaller diamonds surrounding the centre stone create a halo effect, amplifying its sparkle and creating a visually impactful piece of jewellery.
Claws or prongs are wrapped over the centre diamond to secure it in place and this is what’s known as a prong or claw ring setting–’prong’ most prominently in the US and ‘claw’ most prominently in the UK. When you think of the iconic solitaire engagement ring style, you’ll always think of the classic four or six claw/prong setting. This setting style can accommodate a range of stone shapes and sizes while positioning the stone on centre stage.
Sparkly, beautiful and unique, cluster engagement rings are perfect for those who want to bring a magical element to their engagement ring. Whether it be a cluster of diamonds, emeralds or sapphires, there are a limitless amount of stylish ways that you can craft a constellation of gemstones to feature on your engagement ring.
A one carat diamond is often seen as a benchmark diamond size when it comes to engagement rings. But in truth, there’s no concrete reason why one carat is the best size for an engagement ring. We always let our customers know that because of the reputation it’s garnered over the years, a one carat diamond will actually fetch a cost premium due to its popularity. So we recommend thinking hard about the other aspects of your overall design and then picking a diamond size that serves your ring the best.
While both metals have a similar white, silvery finish, the difference between white gold and platinum is that each metal is made of a completely different mineral and alloy. White gold is created out of a composition of 75% pure gold, and 25% palladium. Platinum jewellery is made out of 95% platinum and 5% cobalt. White gold has a slightly warmer hue, and then is usually plated in rhodium to give it a silver finish. Platinum has a naturally-occurring silver grey hue when shined and polished.
