Your Guide to Buying the Perfect Engagement Ring

Choosing an engagement ring is one of the most exciting (and nerve-wracking) parts of the journey.

But don’t worry—we’ve got you covered!

Follow these 8 simple steps, and you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect ring without the stress.

Before you start scrolling through endless ring options, take a moment to decide how much you're comfortable spending.

There’s no magic number — it’s all about what makes sense for you.

Your budget will help guide decisions on diamond size, quality, and setting, so it's a great place to start.

The diamond shape is commonly referred to as the diamond cut but is not to be confused with the cut discussed under the 4C’s of Diamonds.

The shape of the diamond is a huge part of a ring’s personality. Do you want something classic? A round brilliant is the go-to. Prefer something trendy? Oval and pear shapes are super popular right now. Want a bold, sophisticated look? An emerald or princess cut might be your best bet.

Different shapes also affect how big the diamond looks on the finger—oval and marquise cuts appear larger per carat than round diamonds. Think about style, hand appearance, and sparkle factor when making your choice!

This unique shape is a square emerald, with linear facets.

A contemporary cut, with optimal fire and brilliance.

With soft corners, a beautiful alternative to a round or princess cut.

There are also other, less popular diamond cut shapes such as the Baguette, Trilliant, Principle, Briolette, Trapezoid and also hybrid diamond cut shapes such as the Radiant-Cut Modified Brilliant

Some classic cuts include Old European and Old Mine Cut.

The diamond is the showpiece upon which the rest of the ring is built. We have a large selection of loose natural diamonds for sale.

Carat weight determines how big the diamond looks, but it’s not the only thing that matters.

Keep these factors in mind:

• Budget – Larger diamonds cost more, so balance size with other factors.
• Finger size – A 1-carat diamond looks bigger on smaller fingers.
• Shape – Some shapes maximize carat weight better than others (oval, pear, and marquise look bigger than round or princess cuts).

Once you’ve settled on size, focus on the the res of the Four Cs:

• Cut (most important!) – Always prioritize an Excellent or Ideal cut for maximum brilliance.
• Color – G-H color diamonds give you near-colorless beauty at a better value.
• Clarity – VS1-VS2 or SI1-SI2 stones look flawless to the naked eye without the hefty price tag.

Below is a summary of the basic elements we discuss with our clients during our consultations.

We also have a more in-depth discussion of the 4 C’s of diamonds that determine their characteristics.

When choosing an engagement ring, two key elements shape its overall look: the style and the setting.

The ring style defines the overall design and vibe—whether it’s classic and timeless, modern and sleek, or vintage and intricate. It’s all about the ring’s personality and how it reflects your (or your partner’s) taste.

The ring setting, on the other hand, refers to how the diamond or gemstone is secured to the band. This affects both the ring’s durability and how much sparkle it gives off. From elegant solitaires to dazzling halo settings, the setting plays a big role in the ring’s overall beauty.

Together, the style and setting create the perfect engagement ring that feels just right for you.

All of these stunning diamond engagement rings are available from our Pittsburgh Jewelry store.

Although cost might play a role in deciding the metal you would like to use, this decision is mainly influenced by personal preference and style.

This one’s easy to overlook, but it’s crucial! Especially when you are planning a surprise!

You want the ring to fit perfectly—snug but comfortable.

In the United States, ring sizes are typically measured using the numerical scale.

The standard US ring size chart ranges from size 3 to size 13.5, with each whole and half-size representing a specific circumference or diameter of the finger.

To measure your ring size, you can purchase a ring sizer. You could also measure by using a string, paper or existing ring that fits the intended finger well.

Tips for accurate ring measurement

• Measure your finger at room temperature; fingers can swell in heat.
• Measure your finger at the end of the day when it's typically the largest.
• Consider the width of the band; wider bands generally require a larger size.
• Ring sizes can vary between countries, so make sure you're using the correct measurement system (US, UK, European, etc.).
• Some fingers on the dominant hand may be slightly larger, so measure the specific finger you plan to wear the ring on.

For the most accurate measurement however, we advise you visit us for a professional measurement.

Where you buy your ring matters just as much as the ring itself!

A trustworthy jeweler will ensure you get top-quality craftsmanship, ethical sourcing, and great after-sales service.

Look for:

• A strong reputation (check reviews!)
• GIA Certified diamonds
• Good after-sales jewelry services

Diamonds by Rothschild is a reputable jeweler that can assist you with specialized engagement ring guidance, and exceptional after-sales service.

Not only do we offer an exceptional range of engagement rings, we also offer professional guidance and craftmanship on any custom designs.

Oh, and we have the brightest natural diamonds!

You’ve done the research, picked the perfect ring, and now all that’s left is to plan the proposal!

Whether it’s an intimate moment or a grand gesture, your partner will love the thought and effort you put into finding a ring that’s just right for them.

Once she says yes, remember that we are also the best place in Pittsburgh to buy your wedding rings.