Engagement Ring FAQs

Planning a surprise proposal? One of the most important (and romantic) parts is choosing an engagement ring that truly reflects your partner’s unique style. From their choice of metal to their fashion sense, there are subtle clues all around. Pay attention to what metal tones they wear most - white gold, yellow gold, or a mix of both - and consider whether a classic diamond or a meaningful gemstone might suit them better.

Their accessories and wardrobe can also offer helpful insights. A round watch face might hint at a love for curved diamond shapes like oval or pear, while a rectangular face suggests a preference for angular cuts like emerald or princess. Likewise, a bold, expressive wardrobe might call for a vintage-inspired halo design, while a minimalist dresser may love a timeless solitaire.

Still unsure? Affinity Diamonds is here to help. As one of the only jewellers in Australia to have our own onsite workshop, Affinity Diamonds is able to customise and resize your ring even after the proposal, so your partner never has to be without their ring for long. Book a consultation with our expert diamond merchants and start designing a bespoke piece that tells your love story - visit our appointment page here to book your initial consultation today.

The Four C's of a diamond refer to the universally recognised criteria used to assess and describe a diamond's quality. They are:

1. Cut: The cut of a diamond refers to how well it has been shaped and faceted. It affects how effectively the diamond interacts with light and determines its brilliance, sparkle, and overall beauty. A well-cut diamond allows light to reflect and refract in the most desirable way.

2. Colour: The colour grade of a diamond determines its presence of colour. The Gemmological Institute of America (GIA) grades diamonds on a scale from D (colourless) to Z (light yellow or brown). The closer a diamond is too colourless, the higher its grade and value.

3. Clarity: Clarity assesses the presence of internal and external flaws, known as inclusions and blemishes, respectively. These are natural characteristics that formed during the diamond's creation. Clarity grades range from Flawless (no visible imperfections under 10x magnification) to Included (noticeable flaws).

4. Carat Weight: Carat weight is a measure of a diamond's size and weight. Larger diamonds generally have a higher carat weight, but it's important to consider the other C's as well since the value is determined by a combination of all factors.

It is important to note that each ‘C’ carries its own significance, and finding the right balance among them is key to selecting a diamond that meets individual desires and requirements. 

For more information on selecting the perfect diamond, visit our diamond guide page.

The right diamond carat size depends on your personal style, budget, and how you want the ring to look on the hand. Larger carat weights offer more impact, while smaller stones can be just as beautiful and elegant with the right cut and setting. Our experts will guide you to find the perfect balance between size, sparkle, and overall design. Book an appointment with our diamond experts to help you choose the best colour to suit your style and setting.

Diamonds are like fingerprints—no two are exactly alike, and the ideal colour really comes down to personal preference. For a bright, classic sparkle, near-colourless diamonds in the G–H range offer excellent value and beauty. If you're setting the diamond in yellow or rose gold, warmer tones like I–J can still appear beautifully white. Our diamond experts are here to help you choose the best colour to suit your style and setting - visit our appointment page here to make a booking.

Like love itself, the right diamond cut is all about brilliance and balance. The most popular choice is the round brilliant cut, known for its unmatched sparkle and timeless appeal. For something more unique, oval, pear, or emerald cuts offer distinct beauty and character. The best cut is one that reflects your partner’s style and compliments the qualities of the diamond you have selected perfectly. Our diamond experts at Affinity Diamonds are here to help guide you to choose the best cut to suit your style - visit our appointment page here to make a booking.

Diamonds and Moissanite differ significantly in composition and appearance. 

Diamonds, whether natural or lab-grown, are made of pure carbon, giving them exceptional hardness (10 on the Mohs scale) and a crisp, white sparkle. 

Moissanite, on the other hand, is not a diamond but a distinct gemstone with its own unique characteristics - it is made of silicon carbide. It’s slightly softer and displays more fire (colourful rainbow flashes), which gives it a different kind of brilliance.

Lab-grown diamonds are chemically and optically identical to natural diamonds, indistinguishable to even a professional eye without specialist equipment. Lab diamonds offer the same durability and beauty, but without the mining process.

Authenticity starts with certification. A genuine diamond (whether natural or lab-grown) should come with a grading report from a trusted gemological authority like GIA or IGI. This report confirms the diamond’s characteristics, including cut, colour, clarity, and carat weight. A diamond’s authenticity may also be verified with professional tools like a diamond tester, or through assessment by a certified gemologist. 

When purchasing a diamond, having a certificate from an independent authority such as GIA or IGI can provide assurance about the diamond's quality and characteristics.  

Every diamond purchased from Affinity Diamonds comes along with an independent grading report.  

Affinity Diamonds, as a member of the Diamond Dealers Club of Australia, sources all natural diamonds in accordance with the Kimberley Process. This United Nations initiative ensures that rough diamonds are mined and traded through non-conflict means, with these diamonds being certified by the country of origin. 

A conflict-free diamond is a diamond that has been ethically sourced and traded without funding violence, exploitation, or human rights abuses. These diamonds are mined and sold under strict regulations that ensure fair labour practices and traceable supply chains.

Purchasing a diamond is a significant and personal decision. At Affinity Diamonds, we guide you through every step to ensure your choice reflects both quality and individuality.

1. Understand the 4Cs

The foundation of diamond quality lies in the 4Cs: 

• Cut: Determines the diamond's brilliance and sparkle.
• Colour: Graded from D (colourless) to Z (light yellow or brown).
• Clarity: Assesses internal inclusions and external blemishes.
• Carat: Refers to the diamond's weight, influencing its size and value. 

Considering your priorities, whether they be one or a combination of these factors ensures a diamond that meets your aesthetic and budget.

2. Choose Between Natural and Lab-Grown Diamonds

Both natural and lab-grown diamonds possess identical chemical compositions and physical properties. Natural diamonds are formed over billions of years, offering unique characteristics and rarity. Lab-grown diamonds, created in controlled environments, are often more affordable for comparatively high quality. For more on Natural versus Lab Grown Diamonds, click here. 

3. Verify Certification

Ensure your diamond comes with certification from reputable gemological laboratories like GIA or IGI. These certificates provide detailed information about the diamond's 4Cs and confirm its authenticity. Affinity Diamonds provides such certifications with every purchase, ensuring transparency and quality.  

4. Consider Ethical Sourcing

Ethical sourcing is paramount. At Affinity Diamonds, we guarantee conflict-free diamonds, adhering to the Kimberley Process. This United Nations initiative ensures that rough diamonds are mined and traded through non-conflict means, with these diamonds being certified by the country of origin. We also offer lab-grown diamonds as another ethical alternative to our clients.  

5. Consider Your Design

If you are purchasing a diamond with a particular design in mind, consider the style and overall aesthetic of the piece you wish to create. At Affinity Diamonds, our diamond experts are here to guide you all the way from your design inspiration through to its creation in our on-site workshop, as well as its lifetime servicing.  

6. Plan Ahead

Custom-designed jewellery requires time. We recommend initiating the process well in advance of your special occasion to ensure every detail is perfected. For most pieces we recommend to start the process at least 3-4 weeks before the date you wish to propose, gift, or wear your bespoke piece.  

For a comprehensive understanding and to begin your journey, book a complimentary consultation with our diamond specialists. Our diamond experts at Affinity Diamonds are here to help guide you to help make an informed and confident decision.- visit our appointment page here to make a booking.

Lab-grown diamonds and natural diamonds are chemically, physically, and optically identical. The difference lies in their origin. Natural diamonds are formed deep within the Earth over billions of years, while lab-grown diamonds are created in advanced laboratories under controlled conditions that replicate the natural diamond-growing process. At Affinity Diamonds, we offer both natural and lab-grown diamonds, each meticulously hand-selected for its quality and brilliance.

Absolutely. Lab-grown diamonds are available in the same wide variety of shapes and sizes as natural diamonds. Whether you're dreaming of an elegant oval, a striking emerald cut, or a timeless round brilliant diamond, we can source or create the perfect lab-grown diamond to suit your design. Every lab-grown diamond is cut with precision, allowing for complete customisation in your bespoke piece.

Lab-grown diamonds are widely considered to be a highly ethical choice. Because they are created in controlled environments, they eliminate many of the concerns that can be associated with traditional diamond mining, including environmental disruption and labour practices. 

Affinity Diamonds, as a member of the Diamond Dealers Club of Australia, sources all natural diamonds in accordance with the Kimberley Process. This United Nations initiative ensures that rough diamonds are mined and traded through non-conflict means, certified by the country of origin. These diamonds are mined and sold under strict regulations that ensure fair labour practices and traceable supply chains.

Lab-grown diamonds are generally more affordable than their natural counterparts, offering excellent value for those seeking a larger or higher-quality stone at a more accessible price point. Whilst they share the same sparkle and structural integrity as natural diamonds, lab-grown diamonds typically cost less, which makes them an appealing option for couples who prioritise both beauty and budget.

Alternative stones for engagement rings are growing in popularity amongst couples seeking something unique, meaningful, or vibrant. Coloured diamonds - for example, champagne, pink, or blue diamonds - offer all the brilliance of traditional white diamonds with an added layer of individuality. Gemstones like sapphires, emeralds, rubies, and tourmalines are also beautiful choices, each with their own symbolism and striking hues. 

At Affinity Diamonds, we specialise in creating bespoke designs that reflect your personal style, whether that includes a classic diamond or a bold burst of colour.

To learn more, visit our page on coloured diamonds & gemstones, and to begin your journey, book a complimentary consultation with our expert team at Affinity Diamonds. We are here to guide you to help make an informed and confident decision. Visit our appointment page here to make a booking.

The best non-diamond engagement ring options are those that align with your style, values, and lifestyle. 

Sapphires are a timeless choice, loved for their durability and rich colours - from deep blue to blush pink. Emeralds and rubies bring a sense of heritage and romance, while stones like aquamarine, morganite, and tourmaline offer softer tones with distinctive charm. Whether you're drawn to vintage-inspired elegance or modern minimalism, Affinity Diamonds can guide you in designing a one-of-a-kind ring that celebrates your love story.

To learn more, visit our page on coloured diamonds & gemstones, or to begin your journey, book a complimentary consultation with our expert team at Affinity Diamonds. We are here to guide you to make an informed and confident decision. Visit our appointment page here to make a booking.