Engagement Rings

Frequently asked questions

What types of engagement rings are available?
Our range includes the following cuts:

• Asscher — A square cut with large step facets and clipped corners, providing a deep, hall-of-mirrors effect.
• Brilliant — The most popular round cut, designed with 57 or 58 facets to reflect the maximum amount of light.
• Cushion — A square or rectangular cut with rounded corners, resembling a pillow and offering a romantic, vintage feel.
• Emerald — A rectangular step cut with long, parallel facets that highlight the clarity and natural colour of the stone.
• Marquise — An elongated shape with pointed ends, designed to make the stone look larger and the wearer's finger look slimmer.
• Millenium — A modern cut featuring more facets than a standard brilliant cut for intense sparkle.
• Oval — An elegant, elongated version of the round brilliant cut that offers a similar level of sparkle with a modern twist.
• Pear — A tear-drop shape combining the features of the round and marquise cuts for a sophisticated, feminine look.
• Princess — A contemporary square cut with sharp corners and a brilliant-style facet pattern.
• Radiant — A square/rectangular cut combining the elegance of an emerald shape with the sparkle of a brilliant cut.

How to choose an engagement ring?

Choosing an engagement ring means considering the "4Cs" of the diamond. These are:

• Cut — This determines the shape of the stone and how well it reflects light for the ultimate sparkle.
• Colour — This refers to how pure the stone looks on a scale from D (colourless) to Z (slightly yellow). The closer to translucent the stone, the better, while tinged diamonds are seen as less desirable.
• Clarity — This is how clear the stone is, meaning how free from inclusions and debris, scratches, or cloudiness.
• Carat — While many associate this with the size of the stone, it actually refers to the weight.

You can learn more about the 4 C’s with our guide here.

How much are engagement rings?

The cost of an engagement ring varies depending on the metal, the stone's quality, and whether it’s new or pre-owned.

At William May, we believe everyone should find a ring they love, regardless of their budget. Our collection includes 9ct gold bands starting from just £70, while our high-end platinum engagement rings can range up to £6,000.

Where to buy engagement rings?

We make it easy to buy an engagement ring with confidence. With over 200 years of experience in the jewellery industry, every ring is inspected by our experts, meaning you can be sure you’re getting the best quality for your budget. We also offer 0% finance options and a 30-day returns policy to give you peace of mind.