Guide to Engagement Ring Styles

Guide to Engagement Ring Styles

 

Choosing an engagement ring is one of the most exciting and meaningful decisions in a person’s life. With so many styles, finding the perfect one that reflects your partner and matches their taste can feel overwhelming.

To help with the process, we’ve compiled a guide to the most popular engagement ring styles, each with unique charm and appeal.

Other blogs that may be usefull to read:

Engagement Rings Buying Guide

Wedding Bands Explained

Natural vs Lab Created Diamonds

The 4 C’s Explained

Solitaire Rings

Solitaire rings are perfect for those who appreciate simplicity and elegance. The minimalist design ensures all the attention is on the Diamond, making it a versatile option that pairs beautifully with any wedding band.

Solitaire rings can be enhanced with diamond-set shoulders, adding sparkle and sophistication while maintaining their classic appeal.

Solitaire Rings

Solitaire rings are perfect for those who appreciate simplicity and elegance. The minimalist design ensures all the attention is on the Diamond, making it a versatile option that pairs beautifully with any wedding band.

Solitaire rings can be enhanced with diamond-set shoulders, adding sparkle and sophistication while maintaining their classic appeal.

Solitaire Rings

Solitaire rings are perfect for those who appreciate simplicity and elegance. The minimalist design ensures all the attention is on the Diamond, making it a versatile option that pairs beautifully with any wedding band.

Solitaire rings can be enhanced with diamond-set shoulders, adding sparkle and sophistication while maintaining their classic appeal.

Specialist Insight

A diamond’s cut influences its brilliance and sparkle. Its shape defines its overall appearance and how it sits in the ring’s band. Choosing the ideal cut and shape for an engagement ring transforms it into a one-of-a-kind masterpiece, infusing it with a unique personality.

Three Stone Rings

Three-stone engagement rings, or Trilogy rings, feature three stones set side by side. The stones are often said to represent a relationship’s past, present, and future, making this style deeply symbolic. Many couples choose to personalize their three-stone ring with different gemstones or cuts to add a meaningful touch.

Three Stone Rings

Three-stone engagement rings, or Trilogy rings, feature three stones set side by side. The stones are often said to represent a relationship’s past, present, and future, making this style deeply symbolic. Many couples choose to personalize their three-stone ring with different gemstones or cuts to add a meaningful touch.

Three Stone Rings

Three-stone engagement rings, or Trilogy rings, feature three stones set side by side. The stones are often said to represent a relationship’s past, present, and future, making this style deeply symbolic. Many couples choose to personalize their three-stone ring with different gemstones or cuts to add a meaningful touch.

Specialist Insight

Trilogy rings are also available in a mixture of cuts; for example, the centre stone can be an emerald cut, and the side diamonds can be brilliant round cuts. The mix of shapes creates stunning rings. Just keep in mind how the ring would sit next to a wedding band. If the centre stone is a different shape, you may require a shaped band to match it.

Halo Rings

Halo engagement rings are known for their dazzling sparkle. This style features a centre stone surrounded by a “halo” of smaller diamonds or gemstones, which amplify the brilliance and create the illusion of a larger centre stone. Halo rings are ideal for those who love glamour and want their ring to make a bold statement.

Hidden halo rings offer a modern twist on the traditional halo design. In this style, a delicate ring of diamonds is placed just beneath the centre stone, adding an extra layer of sparkle that is visible from the side but remains subtle from above. This design enhances the overall brilliance of the ring while maintaining a sleek and elegant look. Hidden halo rings are perfect for those who appreciate a touch of hidden beauty.

Halo and Hidden Halo designs can be paired with plain or Diamond set shoulders.

Halo Rings

Halo engagement rings are known for their dazzling sparkle. This style features a centre stone surrounded by a “halo” of smaller diamonds or gemstones, which amplify the brilliance and create the illusion of a larger centre stone. Halo rings are ideal for those who love glamour and want their ring to make a bold statement.

Hidden halo rings offer a modern twist on the traditional halo design. In this style, a delicate ring of diamonds is placed just beneath the centre stone, adding an extra layer of sparkle that is visible from the side but remains subtle from above. This design enhances the overall brilliance of the ring while maintaining a sleek and elegant look. Hidden halo rings are perfect for those who appreciate a touch of hidden beauty.

Halo and Hidden Halo designs can be paired with plain or Diamond set shoulders.

Halo Rings

Halo engagement rings are known for their dazzling sparkle. This style features a centre stone surrounded by a “halo” of smaller diamonds or gemstones, which amplify the brilliance and create the illusion of a larger centre stone. Halo rings are ideal for those who love glamour and want their ring to make a bold statement.

Hidden halo rings offer a modern twist on the traditional halo design. In this style, a delicate ring of diamonds is placed just beneath the centre stone, adding an extra layer of sparkle that is visible from the side but remains subtle from above. This design enhances the overall brilliance of the ring while maintaining a sleek and elegant look. Hidden halo rings are perfect for those who appreciate a touch of hidden beauty.

Halo and Hidden Halo designs can be paired with plain or Diamond set shoulders.

Get the perfect fit with our Ring Size Guide

Coloured Gemstone Rings

Coloured gemstone engagement rings are a stunning and unique alternative to traditional diamond rings. Whether set in classic solitaires, vintage-inspired halos, or modern minimalist designs, coloured gemstones add a distinctive touch to an engagement ring. These rings celebrate individuality while making a lasting statement, perfect for those seeking something bold and meaningful.

 

Coloured Gemstone Rings

 

Coloured gemstone engagement rings are a stunning and unique alternative to traditional diamond rings. Whether set in classic solitaires, vintage-inspired halos, or modern minimalist designs, coloured gemstones add a distinctive touch to an engagement ring. These rings celebrate individuality while making a lasting statement, perfect for those seeking something bold and meaningful.

Coloured Gemstone Rings

Coloured gemstone engagement rings are a stunning and unique alternative to traditional diamond rings. Whether set in classic solitaires, vintage-inspired halos, or modern minimalist designs, coloured gemstones add a distinctive touch to an engagement ring. These rings celebrate individuality while making a lasting statement, perfect for those seeking something bold and meaningful.

Specialist Insight

Coloured gemstones can reflect a partner’s personality or favourite colour or even symbolise their birthstone. Choosing a birthstone adds more profound significance, making the ring even more special. 

Split Shoulder Rings

Split shoulder engagement rings feature a band that gracefully splits into two or more strands as it approaches the centre stone. They incorporate pavé, micro-claw, or channel-set diamonds, adding extra sparkle to the ring. The split band offers a contemporary twist on the classic solitaire, making it a stylish choice for those who want something a little different. Depending on personal style preferences, you can choose a delicate, subtle split or a bold, wide separation.

Split Shoulder Rings

Split shoulder engagement rings feature a band that gracefully splits into two or more strands as it approaches the centre stone. They incorporate pavé, micro-claw, or channel-set diamonds, adding extra sparkle to the ring. The split band offers a contemporary twist on the classic solitaire, making it a stylish choice for those who want something a little different. Depending on personal style preferences, you can choose a delicate, subtle split or a bold, wide separation.

Split Shoulder Rings

Split shoulder engagement rings feature a band that gracefully splits into two or more strands as it approaches the centre stone. They incorporate pavé, micro-claw, or channel-set diamonds, adding extra sparkle to the ring. The split band offers a contemporary twist on the classic solitaire, making it a stylish choice for those who want something a little different. Depending on personal style preferences, you can choose a delicate, subtle split or a bold, wide separation.

Learn more about how the cut affects the Diamond here.

Vintage or Pre-Owned Engagement Rings

 

Opting for a vintage or pre-owned engagement ring is a wonderful wayto embrace

history, craftsmanship, and sustainability while choosing a ring with a unique story.

Vintage or Pre-Owned Engagement Rings

 

Opting for a vintage or pre-owned engagement ring is a wonderful wayto embrace

history, craftsmanship, and sustainability while choosing a ring with a unique story.

Vintage or Pre-Owned Engagement Rings

Opting for a vintage or pre-owned engagement ring is a wonderful wayto embrace

history, craftsmanship, and sustainability while choosing a ring with a unique story.

Visit us in-store or make an appointment by contacting us via email at [email protected]

Valentine’s Day Gifts 2025

Valentine’s Day Gifts 2025

 

Valentine’s Day is around the corner, and there’s no better way to say “I love you” than with a gift that sparkles. Whether you’re shopping for a partner, spouse, or someone special, we have the perfect token of affection for everyone.

Gifts Under £50

Valentine’s Day is all about showing love, and you don’t need to break the bank to make it special! There are plenty of thoughtful gifts under £50 that can leave a lasting impression.

Pink Cubic Zirconia Huggie Hoops £28

Silver Pink Cubic Zirconia Huggie Hoops

These Silver huggie hoops are the perfect finishing touch to so many outfits. Made in Sterling Silver, these small hoops have alternating pink and clear Cubic Zirconia’s. I have them in Green and they are my daily go-to!

 

Amber Tree of Life Necklace Small £40

Silver Amber Tree Of Life Pendant Small

This Tree of Life pendant features a pretty design crafted from Sterling Silver with Cubic Zirconia over Baltic Cognac Amber, renowned for its warm and captivating hues. It is perfect for any nature lover.

Hot Diamonds Tender Earrings £50

Silver Hot Diamonds Tender Studs

Wonderful White Topaz gems, symbols of love and affection encapsulated in Sterling Silver. As with all Hot Diamonds jewellery they are adorned with a real Diamond and presented in a luxury gift box.

Gold Plated Pink Ocean Bracelet £35

Hot Diamonds X JJ 18ct Gold Plated Ocean Bracelet Pink

These bright coloured beads are crafted from enamel and are set in 925 sterling silver and 18ct gold plate. Add a pop of romantic pink to any outfit, perhaps for an intimate Valentine’s Day meal.

 

Gifts Up To £150

If you’re looking to go the extra mile this Valentine’s Day, gifts under £150 offer a range of luxurious and meaningful options that are sure to impress. Strike the perfect balance between thoughtfulness and sophistication, making this Valentine’s Day truly unforgettable.

Gold Diamond Cut Hinged Hoops £105

9ct Gold Diamond Cut Hinged Huggie Hoops

These 9ct Gold Hoops are perfect to wear day or night. The Diamond cut detailing adds a bit of extra Valentine’s sparkle.

 

Silver Amore Ruby Necklace £100

Silver Amore Forever Red Necklace

Rubies are the gemstone of love, what better gift to give on Valentine’s Day? Paired with Cubic Zirconia.

Hot Diamonds Entwine Bangle £130

Hot Diamonds X JJ 18ct Gold Plated Entwine Bangle

Crafted from Sterling Silver, plated with 18ct Gold and hand-set with a real diamond, this bangle is a favourite.

Fresh Water Pearl Drop Earrings £150

9ct Gold Fresh Water Cultured Pearl Drop Earrings

Beautiful White, Fresh Water Cultured Pearl earrings with 9ct Gold. Perfect for a romantic night out, or in, together.

Gifts Up To £500

For those looking to truly spoil their loved one this Valentine’s Day, a budget of up to £500 opens the door to unforgettable gifts that exude luxury and romance.

White Gold Sapphire Studs £210

9ct White Gold Amore Sapphire Studs

 Give beautiful Sapphire gemstones this Valentine’s, they will be very well recieved,

 

Gold Open Eye Link Bracelet £395

9ct Gold Open Eye Link Bracelet

 You would be very popular indeed with this fabulous 9ct Gold bracelet.

White Gold Ruby & Diamond Pendant £495

white gold ruby and diamond halo pendant

A stunning 0.65ct Ruby sits within a halo of Diamonds in this romantic pendant. 

Gold Diamond Huggies Small £275

9ct Gold Diamond Small Huggies

Hoops are always in style and these are stunning. Featuring 9 pave diamonds set in yellow gold.

Hearts

 

Heart jewellery, a classic symbol of love and currently on-trend, makes the perfect Valentine’s Day gift to express your affection with style and sentiment.

Silver Open Heart Drop Earrings and Pendant

Silver Open Heart Drop Earrings

 

The elegant design of these earrings and necklace are perfect for Valentine’s Day gifting. The Silver Open Heart Drop Earrings, £65, showcase delicate heart-shaped silhouettes that add a touch of sophistication and charm to any outfit.

Paired with the Silver Open Heart Drop Pendant Necklace, £50, this set creates a cohesive and meaningful look, symbolizing love and connection. Both pieces are crafted in sleek Sterling Silver, making them versatile accessories that can be cherished every day.

These stunning heart-themed designs are not only a thoughtful gesture but also a stylish way to celebrate love on Valentine’s Day.

Silver Open Heart Drop Pendant

Silver Amethyst Heart Earrings and Pendant

Silver Amethyst Heart Drop Earrings

 

Beautiful heart drop earrings made from Sterling Silver, with a dreamy purple, tear-shaped natural Amethyst gemstone in the centre. A perfect pair of earrings for any hopeless romantic, £50.

The perfectly paired pendant completes the set for £50. Amethyst is a wonderfully calming crystal said to bring clarity and restful sleep. It is also the birthstone for February, ideal if your beloved has a February birthday!

If they are a lover of blues and not purples, this magical set is also available in Turquoise.

Silver Amethyst Heart Pendant

Fiorelli Silver, Rose Plated Double Heart Earrings and Necklace

Fiorelli Silver Rose Plated Double Heart Drop Earrings

Why give roses when you can give Rose Gold?

These polished Sterling Silver and Rose Gold plated hearts interlocked, symbolising the eternal strong bond between loved ones, £98.

The accompanying necklace brings the look together. Add a touch of romantic charm to their day with this meaningful set.

Fiorelli Silver Rose Plated Double Heart Necklace

Hot Diamonds Togetherness Open Heart Studs and Pendant

Two hearts become one in these Sterling Silver and White Topaz Togetherness earrings. Each stud is also set with a one-point Diamond to make them extra special, £80.

The matching necklace is just as special, £85. Set with White Topaz and a Diamond, the pair together look beautiful and can be worn daily as a constant reminder of your special day together.

Topaz is the birthstone for the month of November, making this set extra thoughtful if they celebrate their birthday at the end of the year.

Silver Hot Diamonds Togetherness Open Heart Pendant

Engagement Rings

 

Valentine’s Day is the perfect occasion to propose, as it’s a day dedicated to celebrating love and romance. The warm, affectionate atmosphere creates an ideal backdrop for making lifelong memories with your partner. Proposing on Valentine’s Day adds another layer of meaning to an already special occasion, turning it into an anniversary you’ll cherish forever.

Take a look at some of our most romantic styles, and don’t forget to read our blogs to help with your selection:

Engagement Rings

Wedding Bands Explained

Natural vs Lab Created Diamonds

The 4 C’s Explained

Three Stone Trilogy Ring

valentines day gifts 2025

A centre 0.5ct oval cut Diamond sits between two claw set, pear cut Diamonds.

Diamond Set Split Shoulder Ring

Valentine's Day gifts 2025

A 0.33ct round brilliant cut centre Diamond with 0.15cts of micro claw set and grain set shoulders.

Marquise Cut Morganite Ring

A stunning 1.60ct Morganite with 0.50cts of round brilliant cut, micro claw set Diamonds in surrounding halo and shoulders.

Emerald Cut Sapphire Ring

valentines day gifts 2025

A 1.15ct emerald cut Blue Sapphire sits between two 0.16ct Diamonds, the result is a show-stopping trilogy ring.

 

Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Pinterest for more inspiration!

How To Sell My Jewellery and Scrap Gold

How To Sell My Jewellery and Scrap Gold.

 

Have old or broken jewellery collecting dust in your drawer? Maybe a single earring that lost its other half, an outdated gold chain, or even a family heirloom that doesn’t match your style? At HC Jewellers, we’re here to help and advise you when selling your unwanted jewellery and precious metals. We can help turn them into funds so you can buy something you’ll genuinely love.
Here’s everything you need to know about how we purchase unwanted jewellery and scrap metals like Gold, Silver, Platinum, and Palladium.

Why Sell Your Unwanted Jewellery?

 

Unwanted jewellery often carries value when there is no sentimental worth. The precious metals and gemstones can be repurposed, recycled, or melted down to create something entirely new.

The benefits of selling your unwanted jewellery:

  • Declutters Your Collection: Free up some precious space in your jewellery box.
  • Offers Immediate Cash: Turn unused and unwanted items into quick funds for bills, travel, or jewellery that you will love.
  • Is Eco-Friendly: Recycling metals reduces the need for mining, contributing to a more sustainable future.

Whether you’re cleaning out old pieces or have inherited items you don’t necessarily need or like, we make selling your jewellery simple and rewarding.

What Do We Buy?

 

We specialise in purchasing a variety of precious metals, including:

  • Gold: Any carat (9ct, 14ct, 18ct, 22ct, etc.), in any condition. White, Yellow or Rose Gold.
  • Silver: Sterling Silver jewellery, flatware, coins, and more.
  • Platinum: Can be found in rings, necklaces, bracelets or earrings. It is also used in medical and industrial equipment.
  • Palladium: Is becoming a more popular choice for jewellery due to its durability.

Even if your items are broken, tarnished, or missing pieces, we’ll evaluate them for their precious metal content and offer you a fair price.

Our Simple Purchase Process.

how to sell my  jewellery and scrap gold

We’ve streamlined the selling process of your unwanted jewellery to make it as easy and transparent as possible.

1. Bring in Your Items. Visit us in our Royston or Biggleswade store with the items you want to sell. Whether it’s a single piece or an entire collection, no item is too small or large for evaluation.

2. On-Site Evaluation. Our experienced team will test your jewellery to determine the type of metal and purity (carat). We use industry-standard tools and methods, such as electronic testing and professional scales, to ensure accuracy. Our graduate gemologist is trained to identify and grade different gemstones and Diamonds. With this expert knowledge, you can be confident that you will receive a fair market value for your unwanted jewellery.

3. Get a Fair Offer. We’ll provide a competitive offer free of charge based on the current market price of Gold, Silver, Platinum, and Palladium. We’re happy to explain how we value your items, and there is no obligation to sell. If we think your unwanted jewellery would sell in one of our stores, we may offer you a higher price, not just the scrap value of your item.

4. Instant Payment.If you accept our offer, you’ll receive immediate funds using the method that suits you best.

Why Choose Us?

 

With years of experience in the jewellery industry, we pride ourselves on fair and honest evaluations; we also stay updated on live precious metal market rates to ensure you get the best value. Our consultations are free, and there’s no obligation to sell if you’re not satisfied with our offer. By recycling your unwanted metals, we can all contribute to reducing environmental impact, and you can feel good about participating in a sustainable practice.

FAQs About Selling Jewellery:

  • What do I need to sell my jewellery?  You will need to bring a form of ID with you, such as a driving licence or utility bill.

 

  • Can I sell broken or mismatched items? Absolutely! We accept broken chains, single earrings, or items with missing stones. What matters is the precious metal content.

  • What if I don’t know the carat of my jewellery? Don’t worry! We’ll test your items on-site to determine their purity and value.

 

  • Do you also buy gemstones? Diamonds and gemstones may need to be assessed by our in store graduate gemologist. 

  • Do you only buy jewellery? We purchase most things as long as they are made from Gold, Silver, Platinum or Palladium. We have even purchased Gold teeth and fillings!

 

  • What if I have a mixture of carats? That’s not a problem, we will go through it all and seperate the different carats of Gold, ensuring you get the correct price for each.

 

 

  • My jewellery says 375, what does this mean? This is relating to the carat of the Gold. 9ct Gold will have the hallmark 375, 14ct will state 585, 18ct will state 750. Sterling Silver will have the 925 stamp.

If you found this blog helpful, you may also want to read our blog on “Jewellery Repairs”

Christmas Proposal Ideas

Christmas Proposal Ideas

Christmas is a magical time for a proposal! The festive atmosphere, sparkling lights, and cosy nights make it an ideal setting for such a special moment.

If you are thinking of proposing this Christmas, let us help you with some creative and heartwarming Christmas proposal ideas.

Under a Christmas Tree

At Home.

Decorate your Christmas tree with beautiful ornaments, including one that says, “Will you marry me?”. Make it the last ornament you hang together and present her with the engagement ring of her dreams.

In Public.

Propose under a grand, twinkling Christmas tree in a public square or park. Make sure someone you know is hiding there to capture the moment so that you can keep the romantic picture forever.

Ornament Inspired Engagement Rings
christmas proposal ideas
christmas proposal ideas
christmas proposal ideas

In the Snow

Build a Snowman.

If you are lucky enough to have a white Christmas or you are away for a Christmas break in the snow, build a snowman! Have him hold the ring on his little branchy fingers or make a sign asking for her hand in marriage. Lead her out to your creation, and let the snowman do the talking.

A Christmas Walk.

If building snowmen is not your forte, take a walk in a pretty park and write your message in the snow. Plan ahead and use LED tealights to surround your message in a beautiful glow.

Snow Inspired Engagement Rings
christmas proposal ideas
christmas proposal ideas
christmas proposal ideas

A Shared Tradition

Get the Family Involved.

Incorporate a Christmas tradition you enjoy, such as baking cookies. If you have children, get them to help you decorate Christmas biscuits that spell out the words “Marry me” so that your family is part of the special moment.

When You’re Alone.

Hang some mistletoe in front of the tree. When your partner thinks you are simply going for a Christmas kiss, get down on one knee and pop the question!

Traditional Engagement Rings
christmas proposal ideas
christmas proposal ideas
christmas proposal ideas

Christmas Morning

A Big Reveal.

Proposing on Christmas morning can be incredibly special and intimate when it’s just the two of you. Wrap the ring box inside progressively larger boxes. Add sentimental notes, photos, or keepsakes in the smaller layers leading up to the ring for a big surprise!

An Unexpected Surprise.

If that sounds like a lot of wrapping, try hiding the ring box inside a pair of slippers or something boring like socks. It would be a very unexpected surprise when they stumble across an engagement ring!

Christmas Inspired Engagement Rings

With Lights

At Night.

Nothing embodies Christmas like Christmas lights. String fairy lights to spell out your proposal in your garden, on a fence, or even indoors. Then, lead your partner outside for the big reveal at night.

Light it Up.

If that sounds fiddly, light boards are a great alternative. Spell the words out on the board and surround it with flowers, candles, and, of course, the ring front and centre.

Christmas Lights Inspired Engagement Rings

I hope we have given you some romantic ideas for your Christmas proposal and that they say YES!

Remember to take a look at our “Guide to Engagement Ring Styles” and “Engagement Rings” blogs. They will take you through the selection process so that you can find the perfect ring to fit your style and budget.