Why size matters if you want the perfect engagement ring

Quality versus size, classic or contemporary, three month’s salary or more. These are some of the questions on the minds of those looking for the perfect engagement ring.

We spoke with Andrew Coxon, president of the De Beers Institute of Diamonds, during his visit to Hong Kong to host the brand’s Diamond Masterclass at W Hotel. De Beers was behind the marketing campaign that helped make the engagement ring a necessity for couples. Coxon shared some useful tips on how to choose the right ring.

Coxon said the size of the engagement diamond matters, contrary to what most might like to believe. For many, the engagement ring will be the first piece of important jewellery in their life.

“If the stone is small, there’s a chance that the bride will grow out of the diamond as she acquires more jewellery down the line,” he said, suggesting that if you have to sacrifice between size and quality, consider going for a larger stone of a lesser grade rather than the other way round.

Another Coxon tip was: “The best way to buy a diamond is to ask to see every diamond in your budget, in every shape and every quality. It’s a big mistake to be told what to buy.” Then ask the store to set aside a few you have selected and present those to your bride when you bring her in, because “the diamond will choose you when the bride tries it on,” he said. This allows both parties to bring their own input to the table, while eliminating unwanted surprises.

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Check out the video below for more of Coxon’s tips on how to choose an engagement ring.

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