How to Choose the Perfect Engagement Ring
Choosing an engagement ring is one of the most meaningful decisions you'll make. We walk you through the four Cs, metal choices, and how to find a style that speaks to your partner.
Choosing an engagement ring is one of the most meaningful decisions you'll ever make — and it doesn't have to be overwhelming. At Grillo Jewelry, we've helped hundreds of couples find the ring that perfectly captures their love story.
The Four Cs
Every diamond is graded on four characteristics: Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat weight. Of these, Cut is the most important — it determines how brilliantly the diamond reflects light. A well-cut stone will outshine a larger, poorly-cut one every time.
Color is graded from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow). For most settings, a grade of G–H offers excellent value — the difference from D is invisible to the naked eye.
Clarity measures internal inclusions. VS1–VS2 grades are eye-clean and represent a sweet spot between quality and price.
Carat is simply weight. Remember that two diamonds of the same carat can look very different depending on their cut.
Choosing a Metal
Platinum is the most durable and naturally white — ideal for showcasing colorless diamonds. White gold offers a similar look at a lower price point. Yellow and rose gold are having a beautiful resurgence, lending warmth and vintage character to any stone.
Finding the Right Style
Pay attention to the jewelry your partner already wears. Do they gravitate toward classic and simple, or bold and sculptural? A solitaire setting is timeless and lets the diamond speak for itself. A halo setting adds brilliance and the appearance of a larger stone. Vintage-inspired settings with milgrain or filigree detail suit those who love old-world romance.
When in doubt, come in and talk to us. We'll help you find — or create — exactly the right ring.