Skip to Content Skip to Navigation Skip to Offers
How to Buy an Engagement Ring | Kay
Man proposing to a woman on a mountainside

Engagement Ring Buying Guide:

How to Shop for Engagement Rings in 4 Steps 

You’re ready to propose. So, the next step is figuring out how to shop for engagement rings. From setting to cut, sizing and style—there a lot that goes into choosing the one. We’ll guide you step by step through the process on when to shop for engagement rings that you’re confident they’ll love. 

 

stage one: sizing and designing

When: before you buy

 

1. Choose the shape

From classic cuts to more modern interpretations, there are plenty of diamond shapes to choose for an engagement ring. If you already have an idea of what shapes they like, use that as your guide. 

Explore Engagement ring Styles

Explore Stone Shapes and Cuts

 

2. Choose the setting style

Engagement rings come in all kinds of styles and aesthetics. Explore traditional solitaire styles, contemporary designs and even vintage-inspired settings. To choose a setting and design they’ll love, pay attention the jewelry they wear now. Remember everything doesn’t have to be secretive. You can always ask them about their favorite styles so you know you’ve chosen a ring they will love to wear.

 

3. Going Custom?

Custom rings require more time and planning. You can go completely custom and create a ring from scratch to get the exact style and gemstone shape they’ll love. Or try exploring personalization options like a custom engraving of your initials, wedding date or a special message. When is the best time to shop for custom engagement rings? Customizations of any kind can take up to 6 weeks, so you’ll need to account for that in your proposal plan. 

 

stage Two: Getting the ring

When: 1 to 6 weeks before proposing

 

4. Shop in-person or online

Sometimes seeing the one in-person can make a difference. You can always visit your local KAY jeweler for that extra level of guidance choosing the right engagement ring. And once you’re confident in your choice, it’s easy to get the ring of their dreams online and have it securely shipped to your home. When is the best time to shop for engagement rings once you know what you want? For non-custom rings you could purchase your ring on the day of your visit, or expect to wait standard shipping period when ordering online. 

Book an appointment to speak with a jewelry consultant at KAY

Speak To a Jewelry Consultant

Not sure which diamond option is right for you? Connect with KAY for one-on-one expert advice! Simply book a virtual or in-store appointment at a set time convenient for you.

 

Education From The experts

engagement Ring buying guide

Choose the one with more tips from our Engagement Ring Buying guide. 

how much should i pay for a diamond engagement Ring

Follow our tips to create an engagement ring budget that makes sense for your lifestyle. 

engagement Ring style guide

Choose the perfect engagement ring and check out the most popular ring styles. 

Explore KAYs jewelry library

Explore Our Jewelry Library

KAY’s Jewelry Library is your one-stop resource for jewelry education! Our collection of articles includes everything from jewelry basics, style guides, shopping tips, and gift-giving advice to ideas and inspiration for your milestone moments.