Engagement Rings

You have made the most important decision of your life. How are you going to express that decision? The purchase of your engagement ring will probably be the most significant jewellery purchase you’ll ever make. It will symbolise, for ever, the love and commitment you share and will remind you of the excitement and happiness of this time.

Tanzanite and Diamond Ring
Pink sapphire and diamond ring
Three stone marquise diamond ring

The tradition of giving engagement rings set with precious stones dates from mediaeval times, when lovers gave gold rings set with diamonds or coloured gemstones – not only for the beauty of the gems but for their magical properties (see The Legends of the Stones). One of the most famous early examples of giving a ring at betrothal was in 1477 when the Archduke Maximilian of Austria gave his intended, Mary of Burgundy, a gold ring set with natural, uncut diamonds. The tradition of the exquisite, fiery diamond as the perfect gem to give at betrothal has endured through the centuries to this day.

18ct yellow gold emerald and diamond ring
Platinum three stone diamond ring
Platinum octagonal cut diamond solitaire
Sapphire and diamond engagement ring
Set of three 14ct white gold rings
Platinum emerald and diamond ring
14ct white gold sapphire and diamond ring
Aquamarine 18ct yellow and white gold ring
Emerald cut diamond solitaire ring

The most popular choice for engagement ring is a diamond solitaire, which was introduced by Tiffany, the famous New York jeweller, around 100 years ago. The Tiffany setting was revolutionary in that it was the first ‘open’ mount, which allowed light to pass freely through the stone, enhancing its brilliance and ‘fire’. Previously diamonds had been set with closed backs.

Princess cut diamond solitaire
Three stone emerald cut diamond ring
Curved solitaire diamond ring
Diamond ring

The choice of styles, settings and stones for engagement rings is now wider than ever and this is where a bespoke design service really comes into its own. We offer a highly personal service, whether you live around the corner or on the other side of the globe.

We now offer a selection of engagement rings to buy online. However, if you do not see exactly what you want, we will make a ring to your design, in gold or platinum, with your choice of stones.

If you are unsure about choosing a style, we can work together to come up with the design that’s right for you.

If you are interested in commissioning a bespoke ring, please email us at enquiry@british-jewellery.co.uk, or telephone +44 1572 822051.  Commissions can be designed and agreed by email and telephone, or face-to-face in our Rutland shop