What Engagement Ring Should I Get My Girlfriend?

Popping the question is one of life’s biggest moments — and finding the right engagement ring is a huge part of that. Whether you’re planning a surprise proposal or shopping together, knowing what to look for can make the experience more meaningful and a lot less stressful.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to choose the right engagement ring for your girlfriend, how it should fit, common myths like the three-month salary rule, and why more couples are choosing lab grown diamonds.

The right engagement ring reflects your partner’s style, values, and personality. Start by observing the type of jewellery she wears: does she prefer gold or silver? Is her style minimal, vintage, bold or romantic? You could also take inspiration from her fashion sense, Pinterest boards, or ask her close friends (discreetly, of course).

The most popular ring styles include:

Solitaire: a classic single stone, such as the Oval Solitaire Engagement Ring
Halo: centre diamond surrounded by smaller ones Round Halo Engagement Ring
Trilogy: three stones, symbolising past, present and future. Try our Oval Trilogy Engagement Ring
Or look for something more unique: sleek and minimal with clean lines like our Five Stone Art Deco Engagement Ring

Many couples are now opting for lab grown diamonds over mined ones. They’re chemically identical, more affordable, and ethically sourced — making them a sustainable choice for the modern couple. You can explore our collection of lab grown diamond engagement rings here

How Should an Engagement Ring Fit?

An engagement ring should slide on easily but resist slightly when coming off. It should be snug enough to stay put but not so tight that it leaves a mark or causes discomfort.

Here are a few tips to get the size right:

Borrow one of her rings (worn on the left ring finger) and have it sized by a jeweller
Ask a friend or family member if they know her size
Use a printable ring size guide or order a ring sizer online

Don’t worry if it’s not perfect — resizing is common and is included with your purchase. For more information see our ring size guide.

What is the 3-Month Ring Rule?

The “three months' salary rule” is an old marketing idea that suggests you should spend three months’ wages on an engagement ring. But times have changed. Today, it’s about finding a ring that suits your budget, values, and your partner’s taste — not going into debt.

Lab grown diamonds offer larger, higher-quality stones for less, without compromising on sparkle or sentiment.

Should My Girlfriend Pick the Engagement Ring?

While some people love the surprise, many women prefer to have a say in their engagement ring — especially since it’s a piece of jewellery they’ll wear every day. If your girlfriend is particular about style, it might be worth involving her in the process.

One approach is to propose with a temporary or “placeholder” ring and shop for the real one together later. Alternatively, browse together casually before the proposal to get her preferences without giving the surprise away.

What Engagement Rings Do Girls Like?

Trends come and go, but most women love rings that feel personal and thoughtful. Top choices include:

Oval and emerald-cut diamonds for a modern twist
Rose gold bands for a romantic touch
Hidden halos or personalised engravings
Lab grown diamonds for their ethical and eco-friendly appeal

Ultimately, it’s about knowing her style and finding a ring that tells your story.

Do Most Girls Pick Out Their Engagement Ring?

It’s becoming increasingly common for women to be involved in choosing or designing their engagement ring. In fact, many couples treat it as a shared experience — a symbol of partnership from the start. Whether you go shopping together or get her input in subtle ways, what matters most is that she feels represented by the ring.

How to Pick a Ring for Your Girlfriend

Here’s a step-by-step approach:

Set a budget you’re comfortable with
Decide on the type of stone (natural or lab grown diamond)
Choose a metal: yellow gold, white gold, rose gold or platinum
Pick a ring style based on her taste
Find out her ring size
Choose a trusted jeweller and check for return or resize policies

And don’t forget — the perfect ring is one that reflects your love story. Don't worry, our team are always on hand to lend you a hand.

What to Avoid When Buying an Engagement Ring

Here are some common pitfalls to steer clear of:

Buying in a rush or under pressure
Ignoring her taste in favour of trends
Overspending and regretting it later
Skipping the warranty or resizing option
Buying from an untrusted or unclear source

Stick with jewellers that offer certified stones, transparent pricing, and flexible services.

How Much Should I Spend on a Ring for My Girlfriend?

Forget the outdated salary rule — the amount you spend should reflect your financial comfort and what you’re both happy with. Some couples spend £1,500, others spend £5,000 or more. With lab grown diamonds, you can often afford a larger or higher-quality stone for a lower price, offering great value without compromise.

Final Thoughts

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to “what engagement ring should I get my girlfriend” — but by considering her style, sizing it properly, and choosing a ring that reflects your values (like a stunning lab grown diamond), you’re already on the right path.

Still unsure? Visit our engagement ring buying guide or speak with our expert jewellers for personalised advice.