HOW TO CHOOSE YOUR ENGAGEMENT RING IN PARIS - THE COMPLETE GUIDE 2026

Choosing an engagement ring is one of the most important decisions of your life. Between choosing the metal, the stone, the style, and the budget, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. At Fremont, jewelers in Paris 10 for 35 years, we assist couples every day during this unique moment. Here is our complete guide to making the right choice.

 

1. WHICH METAL TO CHOOSE FOR AN ENGAGEMENT RING?

18-carat gold is the benchmark choice for an engagement ring. With its 75% gold content, it offers the best balance between purity, strength, and durability. It is the standard used by all major French jewelry houses.

18-carat yellow gold: the timeless classic. Its warm and luminous color highlights all precious stones, from diamonds to sapphires and rubies. A timeless choice that spans generations.

18-carat white gold: very popular since the 2000s, it gives the ring a modern and elegant look. Please note: white gold is rhodium-plated on the surface to give it its brilliant appearance; this rhodium plating wears off over time and requires maintenance every 2-3 years at your jeweler.

18-carat rose gold: trendy for several years, its romantic and warm hue is attracting more and more couples. It pairs particularly well with diamonds and pink stones like morganite.

 

2. WHICH STONE TO CHOOSE?

Diamond remains the engagement stone par excellence. Its incomparable hardness, 10 on the Mohs scale, makes it the most resistant stone in the world, ideal for a ring worn daily. Its value is defined by the 4Cs: Carat (weight), Cut (shape), Clarity (purity), and Color (color).

Colored stones are gaining popularity. The blue sapphire, notably worn by Kate Middleton, symbolizes fidelity and eternity. The ruby represents passion and love. The emerald evokes hope and renewal. These stones allow for a unique ring, often more affordable than a diamond of the same size.

Semi-precious stones: aquamarine, amethyst, topaz offer remarkable colors for more accessible budgets.

 

3. WHICH ENGAGEMENT RING STYLE?

The solitaire: a single central stone mounted on a simple setting. It is the absolute classic, elegant and timeless. It highlights the stone and suits all styles.

Paving: small diamonds set all around the band or setting. It creates a sparkling and luminous effect that is much appreciated.

The daisy ring: a central stone surrounded by small stones forming a flower. This vintage style has made a very strong comeback in recent years.

The Art Deco ring: inspired by the 1920s-1930s, it is characterized by its geometric lines and refined ornaments. A unique choice for lovers of pieces with a history.

The pavé wedding band: between a wedding band and an engagement ring, it combines sobriety and elegance with small diamonds set on the band.

4. WHAT BUDGET TO PLAN?

The budget for an 18-carat gold engagement ring varies considerably depending on the materials and style chosen.

For a new ring with a quality diamond, expect generally between €1,500 and €5,000 for a reasonable budget. Beyond that, prices can rise very quickly depending on the size and quality of the diamond.

The pre-owned engagement ring, a smart alternative

At Fremont, we offer a wide selection of pre-owned 18-carat gold engagement rings, solitaires, daisy rings, and Art Deco rings at prices up to 60% lower than new. Each ring is expertly appraised, certified, refurbished by our jewelers, and guaranteed for 2 years. It's the ideal solution to offer an exceptional piece without compromising on quality.

 

5. HOW TO FIND OUT YOUR PARTNER'S RING SIZE?

This is often the big question! Here are some tips:

• Discreetly borrow a ring she wears on her right hand and have it measured by a jeweler
• Ask a trusted friend or family member
• Choose a slightly larger size; it's always easier to resize a ring down than up

At Fremont, resizing is offered free of charge on all rings purchased in-store. So you can choose the ideal ring and have it adjusted on-site for free.

 

6. NEW OR PRE-OWNED: WHICH TO CHOOSE?

This is a question many couples ask themselves. A pre-owned engagement ring is not a second choice; quite the opposite. A vintage piece from the 1920s or Art Deco from the 1950s has a soul and a history that new jewelry cannot offer. It is often more intricately crafted, more unique, and available at a much lower price than new.

Provided it is purchased from an expert jeweler who certifies it, refurbishes it, and guarantees it, as at Fremont.

COME DISCOVER OUR SELECTION IN PARIS 10

At Fremont, we welcome you without an appointment at 1 Boulevard de Magenta, Paris 10, a stone's throw from République metro, Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 6:30 pm. Our jewelers will personally and freely advise you to find the perfect engagement ring, new or pre-owned, according to your style and budget.

Fremont Jewelry, specialist in 18-carat gold engagement rings in Paris since 1990. New, pre-owned, and vintage rings, free appraisal, free resizing.