Christmas is one of the most popular times of year to propose. Family is together, the lights are up, and the whole season feels a little magical. If you're planning to ask the question this Christmas, the ring is the one thing you can't leave to the last minute. Here's how to choose it, step by step, and when to order so it arrives in time.
Step 1: Choose the shape
The shape of the centre stone sets the style of the whole ring.
- Round is the classic choice and shows the most sparkle.
- Oval looks larger for its carat weight and flatters the finger.
- Emerald cut is sleek and elegant, with a hall-of-mirrors sparkle.
- Pear, marquise and cushion are romantic, vintage-inspired options.
Look at the jewellery she already wears. If it's minimal and modern, a round or oval solitaire is a safe choice. If she loves vintage pieces, consider a cushion or emerald cut.
Step 2: Choose the stone
Lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds, chemically and optically identical to mined diamonds, at a far lower price per carat. All of ours are IGI certified. Browse lab-grown diamond engagement rings.
Moissanite is its own gemstone with more fire (rainbow sparkle) than diamond, and it's very hard-wearing. Ours are GRA certified. Browse moissanite engagement rings. For a detailed comparison, read moissanite vs diamond.
Step 3: Choose the setting
A solitaire puts all the attention on one stone. A halo surrounds it with small diamonds for extra sparkle and a bigger look. A three-stone ring represents your past, present and future. Popular designs include the 3.00ct Emerald Cut Moissanite Engagement Ring and the Lab-Grown Diamond Oval Meridian Solitaire Ring.
Step 4: Choose the gold
Every ring is solid gold in yellow, white or rose. 14ct is the most popular for engagement rings as it balances colour and durability. 18ct is richer in colour, and 10ct is the hardest-wearing and most affordable.
Step 5: Get her ring size, secretly
- Borrow a ring she wears on her ring finger and measure it against a UK ring size guide.
- Ask a close friend or family member, who may already know.
- If you can't find out, choose a common UK size (around L to N) and have it resized after the proposal if needed.
Our rings are available in UK sizes D to Z+1.
When to order for a Christmas proposal
Each ring is made to order and dispatched within 4 working days, with free tracked delivery. For a Christmas Day proposal, order by Friday 11 December. For a Christmas Eve or pre-Christmas proposal, order earlier so you're not cutting it fine. We offer free returns within 60 days.
Explore all our Christmas proposal rings and start planning the moment.