A round cut engagement ring can vary drastically depending on the shape of the diamond, setting and metal. Two rings could look completely different despite having the same carat weight.
Round brilliant diamonds are a popular choice for engagement rings due to the way their facets are cut to give the best reflection back. However, there are factors that can affect how comfortable and practical your engagement ring is – including the height of the setting, width of the band and shape of the claws.
When looking at engagement rings, it is helpful to think about how the ring will fit into your lifestyle rather than just focussing on the first picture.
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Why a Round Engagement Ring Can Vary So Much
A round brilliant will have either 57 or 58 facets (depending on if you count the culet). This is to create a beautiful reflection and refraction effect.
However, diamonds will not always sparkle due to their shape. They will depend on the shape, symmetry and polish.
A well cut diamond of a lower carat can appear more lively than a poorly proportioned diamond of a larger carat. It is worth paying attention to the quality of the cut.
The design of the ring can also vary the appearance. A slimmer solitaire band will give most of the attention to your centre stone. Having a halo will add a circle of smaller diamonds around the centre stone or having a three stone design will create a wider design.
All of these are not an improvement over each other. Your preference and how you plan to wear the ring will determine which is best for you.
Diamond Cut vs Carat
Carat refers to the weight of the diamond. This means that not all carat one diamonds will look exactly the same diameter.
Some diamonds will have more weight in the depth making less of the diameter visible. Whereas others will have a better proportion to appear wider.
When looking at round diamonds, you should take note of:
Cut – This is an important indicator of the quality of the shape and polish of the diamond.
Table/Depth – This will affect how well the diamond reflects and how large the face of the diamond is.
Polish – The quality of the surface of the diamond.
Symmetry – How well shaped and symmetrical the diamond is.
Clarity – How many inclusions/blemishes are in the diamond.
If purchasing a round brilliant diamond, it can be helpful to see what grade the diamond is by looking at the grading report from a recognised lab such as GIA or IGI. This can be used in conjunction with pictures, videos and looking at the diamond in different lighting.
Lab Grown Diamonds
The difference between lab grown and mined diamonds can come down to your budget, personal preference and whether you care about where it came from.
They both have the same basic composition and crystal structure. Lab grown diamonds are real diamonds.
The main difference between the two is how they are formed. Mined diamonds have been created naturally underground whereas lab grown diamonds have been created in controlled environments.
When purchasing in the UK, you can view the range of diamonds available from Novita Diamonds UK.
Depending on the price differences, you may want to consider getting a larger diamond or a better setting. However, it is not always best to go for the largest possible diamond. The cut, shape and comfort of the ring will also need to be considered.
Different Metals
The colour of the metal can have a big impact on your round cut engagement ring.
Yellow gold gives a warm look and can be a great choice for traditional designs. White gold gives a cooler look however if the gold is rhodium plated you may need to get it re-plated. Rose gold gives a pinkish look and platinum will give a natural white look without needing to be rhodium plated.
In the UK, 18ct Gold and Platinum are popular choices for luxury engagement rings. Make sure to check the hallmark of the ring if required by law to show that it is the right fineness of precious metal.
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It can be helpful to view the same diamond design in different metals.
Consider Your Lifestyle
Your engagement ring will likely be worn whilst working, travelling and doing everyday tasks. If your diamond is high up it may snag onto your clothes more.
A 4 claw setting will give more of the shape of the diamond to see. Whereas a 6 claw will give more points of contact. A bezel setting will wrap the edge of the diamond with metal to give a smoother look.
When looking at round engagement ring designs from Novita Diamonds UK, take note of how high up your centre stone is.
Check if your straight wedding band will sit flush with the ring. Some settings will have a gap between them which may or may not be what you want.
Simple Considerations When Buying a Ring in the UK
It is important to consider your ring size. Your fingers can change size depending on the temperature. A wide band can also appear smaller than a thin band. Ask what options you have for resizing. If your ring has diamonds wrapping around the band then ask what options there are. Check what the returns policy is. Are there any exclusions for bespoke jewellery? Does it come with any paperwork?
Novita Diamonds UK is a great choice if you want to compare lab grown diamonds with different settings. Whichever retailer you choose, make sure to look at all the details.