The Collection: Romantic Engagement Rings
Introducing Romantic Engagement Rings. Born from decades of stories told at our Atelier that shaped the designs that help you tell yours.
Introducing Romantic Engagement Rings. Born from decades of stories told at our Atelier that shaped the designs that help you tell yours.
Learn more about our Atelier:
—About: Our Custom Jewellery Atelier at Lessard Coutu
—Custom Online Jewellery That Inspires with Lessard Coutu
More helpful resources
—What is a Romantic Engagement Ring?
—Engagement Ring Buying Guide
—Various helpful engagement ring readings
Introduction
A Brief History of Romance
Why Romantic Engagement Rings Matter
Key Elements of Romantic Engagement Rings
Metals
Stones
Settings
Design Trends for Romantic Engagement Rings
Three Ways to Personalize Your Ring
Buying Guide: Romantic Engagement Rings
The Product Section: “A Diamond for Forever”
About the Author, Nick Coutu
FAQ
Summary
A Heartfelt Call to Action
I am on a mission to collect the world's love stories and turn them into engagement rings. Join me at our Atelier, on my podcast where I listen to your love story and create an engagement ring for you live on the show. Or shop the collection and see if there's a ring that resonates with your love story.
Like La Toscane
Introduction
When you first think about an engagement ring, you might picture a sparkling diamond on a metal band. But there’s more to romantic engagement rings than just their sparkle. Romantic engagement rings carry stories, emotions, and traditions that have been woven through centuries of human history. In this post, we’ll explore everything from the earliest origins of engagement rings to modern design trends, ensuring you know how to pick a ring that truly captures your love story.
I’m Nick Coutu, your guide through this enchanting journey. Every couple’s love story is distinct, and so should be the ring that symbolizes it. From vintage-inspired pieces to minimalist solitaires, let’s shine a light on the varied ways you can say “I do” to a lifetime of commitment.
Throughout history, couples have sealed their promises with rings. Rings date back as far as ancient Egyptian times, where circles symbolized eternity. The Romans eventually adopted the tradition, using iron rings as tokens of union. Over time, diamonds and other precious stones became symbols of wealth and promise.
By the Victorian and Edwardian eras, ornate designs with filigree details were popular. Many of these antique designs still influence the creation of romantic engagement rings today.
The first recorded diamond engagement ring was given by Archduke Maximilian of Austria to Mary of Burgundy in 1477.
Heart-shaped diamonds began trending in the late 16th century among European royalty.
Engagement rings were once worn on the right hand in some cultures before traditions shifted to the left ring finger, believed by many to have a direct vein to the heart.
Romantic engagement rings aren’t merely ornaments; they’re physical manifestations of love. Think of them as miniature time capsules—each ring holds personal meaning, cultural history, and the unique taste of both partners.
Emotional Significance: A ring is a daily reminder of the commitment you’re making.
Cultural Heritage: Many designs pay homage to centuries of artistic and family traditions.
Personal Style: No two rings need to be the same, just as no two love stories are the same.
If you’re curious about how different ring metals can add unique touches to your ring, check out my other blog post: “All About Ring Metals: Gold, Platinum, and More”. It offers a closer look at how metal choice can amplify the romance factor.
Gold remains a classic choice for many couples, be it yellow gold for vintage charm, white gold for simplicity, or rose gold for a touch of softness.
Platinum is another highly durable and hypoallergenic choice.
Mixed metals can offer a two-tone effect, giving your ring an innovative style.
From our Lab Grown Diamonds vs. Natural Diamonds post, you’ll discover that both types share the same chemical composition, optical properties, and hardness. The distinction lies in their origin: while natural diamonds form deep within the Earth over billions of years, lab grown diamonds are created using advanced technology that replicates these conditions in a controlled environment. Because they skip the complexities of the traditional diamond supply chain, lab grown options often come at a more budget-friendly price. Meanwhile, natural diamonds carry an ageless, organic allure that many couples find irresistibly romantic. Whichever path you choose, both can be equally stunning symbols of commitment.
If diamonds fascinate you, be sure to explore my Education blog at https://lcjewellery.com/blogs/education. It offers insight into selecting a stone that not only fits your budget but also sparkles just right for your forever moment.
Settings are the unsung heroes in a ring’s design. From prong settings that lift your diamond skyward to bezel settings that keep stones secure, the setting can transform a simple ring into a work of art. For a whimsical aesthetic, you might consider customizing your ring using our custom ring builder —or the much more fun option— booking an atelier appointment with us.
Read about our Atelier here
Vintage-Inspired: Delicate milgrain detailing, filigree patterns, and colored accent stones.
Minimalist Chic: Clean lines, solitaire stones, and thin bands.
Nature-Inspired: Leaf motifs, floral prongs, and organic shapes.
Three-Stone Rings: Symbolic of the past, present, and future.
East-West Settings: Turning an oval or marquise stone horizontally for a modern twist.
If these styles pique your interest, you might also enjoy our Cool Girl Engagement Rings.
When it comes to crafting romantic engagement rings, there are countless ways to infuse your personal touch. However, three powerful approaches often stand out for couples looking to make their ring truly unique:
Proposal Location
Think about where the big moment happened—or where you plan for it to happen. From a beachside backdrop to a cozy living room setting, weaving a detail of that special place into the ring’s design (like an engraved skyline or a subtle nod to the surroundings) can make your engagement ring a perpetual reminder of that cherished milestone.
Past, Present, and Future
This approach celebrates the timeline of your love. Consider a three-stone design where each stone represents a significant phase of your relationship: how you started, the bond you share now, and the promise of all that is yet to come. It’s a moving tribute to the journey you’ve taken—and will continue to take—together.
Story
Every love story is distinct. Whether it’s a shared passion, an inside joke, or a memory that only the two of you hold dear, let that narrative shine through. You could engrave a short phrase meaningful to both of you inside the band or choose design elements (like specific motifs or gemstones) that reflect a pivotal chapter in your relationship. Over time, this small but significant detail will become a tangible piece of your shared story.
By thoughtfully weaving these approaches into the design process, romantic engagement rings evolve into truly personalized emblems of your unique love.
Selecting the perfect ring can feel overwhelming. Here’s a quick checklist to keep you on track:
Set a Budget
Decide how much you can comfortably spend.
Remember that quality often matters more than size.
Choose a Stone Shape
Classic round, princess, cushion, or fancy shapes like pear and marquise.
Pick Your Metal
Consider durability, color preference, and any allergies.
Check Certification
For diamonds, look for GIA or AGS certification or other reputable grading labs.
Measure Ring Size Accurately
A good fit is crucial for daily comfort.
Hello! I’m Nick Coutu, a passionate jewelry designer with years of experience helping couples find the perfect symbol of their love. My journey began as an apprentice in a small family-owned workshop, where I learned the ropes of jewelry craftsmanship. Today, I dedicate my expertise to guiding clients through the sometimes daunting process of picking romantic engagement rings that resonate with their hearts. If you’d like to connect further or see more of my work, feel free to explore my site or read some of my other blog posts.
Q1: How do I determine the right ring size without spoiling the surprise?
A1: Borrow one of your partner’s rings that they wear on the same finger (if possible) and take it to a jeweler for measurement. Alternatively, you can trace the inside of the ring on a piece of paper.
Q2: Are colored gemstones suitable for engagement rings?
A2: Absolutely. Sapphires, rubies, emeralds, and even birthstones can add a unique, personalized touch. Just make sure to consider gemstone hardness and durability.
Q3: How do I keep my romantic engagement ring looking its best?
A3: Regular cleaning with mild soap and warm water goes a long way. Schedule professional inspections at least once a year to check the setting’s integrity.
Selecting romantic engagement rings is about more than following trends—it’s about understanding your partner’s style, appreciating the rich tapestry of history that shaped today’s designs, and crafting a timeless symbol of unity. From the earliest ring traditions to today’s modern twists, each style tells a story of its own. And as we’ve explored, the possibilities are endless when you blend personal touches with classic elegance.
“Time to Spark Your Story”
Ready to explore the perfect ring that truly captures your love story? Don’t wait until tomorrow to bring your dream to life. Whether you choose a minimalist solitaire or a vintage-inspired treasure, your ring should be as unique as the bond you share. Head over to my website and browse our collection of romantic engagement rings—your happily ever after begins with the perfect symbol of love.
Thank you for joining me, Nick Coutu, on this deep dive into romantic engagement rings. Here’s to finding the ring that resonates with your personal journey—and the promise of a beautiful future together.