Three Things to Consider When Shopping for Your Engagement Ring

Designing your engagement ring is one of the most exciting (and personal) parts of your love story. Whether you’re creating something custom or shopping for the perfect setting, your ring should fit your life, your style, and your values.

At Julez Bryant, every engagement ring we design starts with a conversation. We talk about how you live, what you love, and what details make something truly yours. Here are three key things to keep in mind when choosing or designing your engagement ring.

Lifestyle

Your engagement ring should work with your lifestyle, not against it.
If you’re someone who has an active lifestyle, travel, or work with your hands, a low-set or bezel design will give you comfort and protection for everyday wear. These settings keep your diamond secure and sleek while still feeling elegant and refined.

But maybe you’re the kind of woman who lives for a glam moment. You want height, sparkle, and a little drama, something that catches light from across the room. A higher setting or a bolder band might be exactly what feels right for you.

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to engagement rings. The goal is to design something that reflects how you actually live (and love), so it feels just as natural on your busiest days as it does when you’re dressed up.

Diamond Origin

The next decision is choosing between a natural or lab-grown diamond.
Both are real diamonds—identical in beauty and durability—but each carries a different story.

Natural diamonds have that heirloom quality and one-of-a-kind character that comes from being formed deep within the earth over billions of years. Lab-grown diamonds, on the other hand, are created with modern technology in controlled environments, offering the same sparkle and clarity, often with a larger size for the same budget.

There’s no wrong choice here. It comes down to your values, budget, and what feels most meaningful to you. What matters most is that your diamond is graded by a trusted source (we use GIA and IGI) and meets the quality standards you deserve.

Custom Design

There’s nothing quite like designing your own ring.
Working one-on-one with an artisanal jeweler allows you to create a piece that’s intentional from start to finish. One that fits your hand, your lifestyle, and your story perfectly.

When you go custom, look for a designer who uses traceable stones and ethically sourced materials, and who takes the time to understand how you’ll wear your ring every day. Expect the process to take 6–8 weeks from your first appointment to your finished piece, depending on sourcing and design details.

That time is worth it. Every sketch, CAD render, and fitting is part of the experience. 

In the End

The best engagement ring isn’t necessarily the biggest or flashiest.
It’s the one that fits your life, your love, and your sense of self.
Whether it’s an heirloom diamond reimagined or a brand-new design built from scratch, the right ring will always feel like you.