TL;DR: an engagement ring price is made up of the stone, the metal, the craftsmanship and the costs of running a business, and understanding each part helps you judge value. The stone is often the largest part, and its price depends on cut, colour, clarity, size and origin. We explain each part of a quote in writing, and pieces start from £600.
The stone
For most rings, the stone is the largest single cost. For a diamond, the price depends on the four Cs: cut, colour, clarity and carat weight. It also depends on whether the stone is natural or lab grown, with lab grown generally costing less for similar quality. Cut affects how lively the stone looks, so it is where many people choose to spend. See natural vs lab grown diamonds, and the hardness chart if you are considering other stones.
Price jumps at round weights
Diamond prices tend to step up at popular weights such as half a carat and one carat, because many buyers look for those numbers. A stone just under one of these weights can look almost identical on the hand while costing noticeably less. If you are flexible on the exact figure, ask us to show you stones either side of the line.
The metal
The metal you choose, such as platinum or gold, affects the price through the cost of the material and the weight used. A heavier band uses more metal. Higher purity gold costs more than lower purity. We state the metal and purity in writing for every design.
The making
A setting takes skilled work to make: modelling, casting or fabrication, finishing, stone setting and polishing. A simple setting takes less time than one with many small stones or fine detail. Hand work costs more than machine work, and a bespoke ring involves design time as well as making time.
The business behind the ring
The price also covers costs such as insurance, premises, tools, staff and the time spent talking with you. A business with large shop fronts and heavy advertising has more of these to cover, which is one reason prices differ between sellers.
What a clear quote includes
- A description of the stone, with its report where there is one.
- The metal and its purity.
- The setting and any additional stones.
- Delivery, and what is separate such as duty and tax.
- When payments are due.
Ask for it in writing. Our guide to reading your invoice and certificate explains how to read the details.
Comparing prices fairly
Compare like with like: the stone's quality, the metal, whether the ring is made to order or ready made, and what is included. A low headline price can hide extras. A very low price for a stone can mean a poor cut or an uncertain description. Be wary if you cannot get a clear explanation.
Where to spend and where to save
Most people get the best result by putting money into cut quality first, since it affects sparkle more than any other grade. Colour and clarity can often come down a step without any visible difference once the ring is on the hand. Side stones, a halo or a detailed band all add cost, so decide which details matter most to you. See how much should you compromise on colour and clarity.
Bespoke pricing
With a bespoke ring, you direct the spend, so you can see how a choice changes the price. Pieces start from £600, and each design is quoted individually. We make nothing until you approve the design in writing, and standard making time is 5 to 6 weeks, varying with your location and how busy we are.
Frequently asked questions
Why do prices vary so much?
Stone quality, metal, craftsmanship and the seller's costs all differ.
What is the biggest part of the price?
Usually the stone.
How can I tell if a price is fair?
Compare like with like and ask for a written breakdown.
Is a stone just under one carat good value?
Often, since it can look almost the same as a full carat for less.
Does overseas delivery add cost?
The customer pays import duty and tax, which differ by country, and delivery is insured and tracked with FedEx.