Choosing an engagement ring is more than just a purchase—it’s a heartfelt moment and a symbolic start to your forever. Whether you’re ready to propose or shopping together as a couple, finding the perfect ring requires equal parts emotion and informed decision-making.
At Prins & Prins, we believe that buying a diamond ring should be as memorable and meaningful as the love story it represents. This guide walks you through everything you need to know—from diamond quality to trusted retailers—so you can choose a ring that truly reflects your unique bond.
1. Understand the Basics of Diamond Selection
Engagement ring shopping is thrilling, but it can also feel overwhelming with so many styles, settings, and stones available. The key is to find a ring that reflects your partner’s personal style while also holding lasting value. Whether you’re drawn to classic solitaires or vintage-inspired halos, let your search be guided by both aesthetics and quality.
2. Learn the 4Cs of Diamonds
A diamond’s value is determined by a globally recognized system known as the 4Cs: Cut, Colour, Clarity, and Carat weight. These characteristics, alongside polish, symmetry and proportions, are what you’ll find detailed in a diamond grading report from a reputable laboratory such as the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or the European Gemological Laboratory (EGL).
Diamond engagement ring tips – 4Cs of Diamonds:
Cut impacts how brilliantly a diamond reflects light.
Colour ranges from colourless to faint yellow, with less colour generally being more valuable.
Clarity refers to internal flaws (inclusions) or surface blemishes.
Carat weight reflects the diamond’s size, but remember—bigger isn’t always better.
Ask your jeweller to walk you through these elements using real stones, so you can see the difference with your own eyes.
3. Think Beyond the Report
Grading reports offer a technical assessment, but they don’t tell the full story. For example, a diamond with slightly lower clarity might still appear flawless to the naked eye—and could be more affordable. Likewise, a smaller diamond with excellent proportions may outshine a larger one that lacks brilliance.
Before making your decision:
View diamonds in person to appreciate their sparkle and character.
Trust your instincts and choose a diamond that resonates emotionally, not just logically.
Consider your partner’s taste, lifestyle, and what style they’ll love wearing every day.
4. Natural vs Lab-Grown Diamonds
Before you visit a jeweller, decide whether you want a natural or lab-grown diamond. While lab-grown diamonds are chemically similar to natural ones, they lack resale value and rarity. This makes a difference when investing in a ring meant to last a lifetime.
Be cautious: jewellers who sell both natural and lab-grown stones may unintentionally mix them. To avoid confusion, we recommend choosing a trusted jeweller in Cape Town—like Prins & Prins—who deals exclusively in natural diamonds.
5. Ask the Right Questions
When engagement ring shopping, it’s essential to be informed. Here’s what to look out for:
Has the diamond been treated? Treatments to enhance clarity or colour can reduce a diamond’s value significantly. Only expert eyes (and a grading report) can reveal this.
Does the stone show inclusions or damage? Look at it under magnification to understand its unique “fingerprint.”
Is it milky or dull? Strong blue fluorescence can cause cloudiness in some diamonds, especially those sold online.
For more insights, request a copy of Dr Prins’s latest article, “New Factors in Diamond Pricing,” by calling 021 422 1090.
6. Choose a Jeweller You Trust
Your jeweller should be more than a salesperson—they should be your guide and confidant. A reputable jeweller has built trust through decades of service, quality, and integrity. They will:
Educate you on different diamond shapes and ring settings.
Help you find your correct ring size.
Respect your budget without compromising on quality.
Offer lifetime services like resizing, maintenance, and future upgrades.
At Prins & Prins, we believe in building relationships that last beyond the engagement. From wedding bands to anniversary gifts, we are here to celebrate every chapter of your love story.
7. Shop Smart, Stay Informed
Beware of red flags like “below wholesale prices” or “direct from the mine” deals. If a diamond’s price seems too good to be true—it likely is. Ask for proof of certification and always compare similar stones before making a decision.
Begin Your Forever with Confidence
The perfect engagement ring is out there—and it’s waiting to be found by someone who shops with both heart and knowledge. Whether you’re selecting a timeless solitaire or a bespoke design, the journey should be as meaningful as the moment itself.
Ready to find the one?
Visit our Cape Town showroom for a personal consultation, or contact our team to explore the possibilities of custom design and heirloom-quality diamonds.
💎 Prins & Prins Jewellers – Where Love is Crafted.
