4 Easy Steps to Choose the Perfect Engagement Ring and Keep the Proposal a Surprise

Planning to propose can be one of the most exciting and nerve-racking times; you want everything to go as planned and for your partner to love the ring you selected for them. If you are trying to keep an element of surprise and don’t want to pry your partner for ideas on style.

Here are some great next steps to take that should help you when browsing for the perfect halo engagement ring.

1. What Jewellery Do They Already Own?

One way to get a good idea of someone’s taste is to closely look at what they already wear day to day. Start by looking beyond the rings, but what necklaces, watches, bangles, and earrings do they wear? Do you find that your partner wears more white than yellow gold, or do you find it is a mix? Are the designs of their jewellery simplistic or minimalist, or more bejeweled and detailed?

Additionally, take a look and see what gemstones are in these pieces. Do they wear a specific type of stone consistently, or perhaps a birthstone or family heirloom that holds sentimental value? Being observant as a partner of their style and jewellery is a great place to start; observe what they wear the most.

2. Find a Trusted Friend or Family Member

If you feel comfortable, the single most effective step is to enlist a trusted family member or close friend as your undercover ally. Your partner has likely already divulged their ring preferences, favorite cuts, or even specific rings to this person.

They can provide essential, concrete details about your partner's taste and style that you cannot observe yourself. Choose someone who is excellent at keeping secrets and can act as a subtle go-between to confirm details like metal preference, stone shape, or even ring size, ensuring the final ring is a perfect, personalized surprise.

If you do not have someone that will know, you could always make them plan a shopping trip where they try on expensive jewellery or go past jewellery shop windows.

3. Look for clues.

In the age of social media, your partner has likely left a trail of digital hints. The best place to start is on platforms like Pinterest or Instagram, where people save ideas for major life events. Check to see if they have any hidden wedding, jewellery, or "someday" boards where they may have pinned their dream ring. Observe their overall aesthetic, from their fashion choices to the non-ring jewellery they wear: Are they drawn to simple, sleek minimalist pieces or more intricate, vintage-inspired designs?

4. Discuss Friends' Engagements or Weddings

This method allows your partner to give you honest feedback without realizing they are being interviewed. When you see a friend or if a celebrity gets engaged, pay close attention to the feedback you receive. You could say, "Sarah's ring is stunning! I love the oval diamond on her hand, but I wonder if the rose gold is a bit too trendy?"

Listen carefully for their unfiltered opinions on: