The team at Unique Diamonds, are one of Canberra’s most recommended engagement ring specialists. Photo: Michelle Kroll.
Of all the gemstones, few are treasured as much as diamonds. Formed over 3 billion years ago deep underground, these gems of brilliance and fire are truly breath taking. Since Archduke Maximillian of Austria presented the first known engagement ring to show his love for Mary of Burgundy in 1477, the diamond engagement ring has grown into a global tradition. Rare, pure, and everlasting, it stands as a universal symbol of eternal love gracing the hands of many.
Enduring through the ages this wonderful gem has earnt a special place within our hearts and minds. And, while diamonds are customary, today the choices of gemstone are endless when it comes to engagement ring design. Be it a stone of any colour to organic shapes and more, they can defy conventions in more ways than one.
Whether you are future planning or ready to pop the question finding the perfect engagement ring can feel overwhelming. The secrecy, the anticipation, and the investment, all add to the weight of this monumental purchase. To make getting down on one knee that little bit easier, a wonderful jeweller can help. From knife edge solitaires opulent green-blue Sapphires, here is our pick of the best engagement ring specialists in Canberra.
What makes a great engagement ring specialist?
Great engagement ring specialists are more than simply great jewellers. Their strength lies in sourcing and creating the ring your partner will cherish forever. Here is what we think separates the best from the rest:
- Artisanal masters. The best engagement ring specialists appreciate that each purchase is an investment in quality. They strive to deliver the highest standards of craftsmanship, sourcing certified materials of superior quality to meet client need. Their industry wide connections with diamond merchants and gemmologists help to secure the right stones at the right price. While their full-service studios hand craft each piece in spectacular form.
- Prestigious & principled. Often, the best engagement ring specialists have a reputation for being the most prestigious and principled in their field. Indeed, these jewellers are known for the calibre and quality of their engagement ring creations. With a strong reputation amongst clients, their credentials extend into the broader jewellery and bridal industries. Look for affiliations with the likes of GIA and Jewellers Association of Australia, and seek personal recommendations from others.
- Off the shelf & bespoke collections. While some buyers desire a design of their creation, others prefer the guesswork removed with a ready-to-wear alternative. Be it predesigned, precast, or off the shelf and ready to go, they make finding that elusive design so much easier. And, to cater to those who prefer a bespoke creation, their end-to-end capabilities shine. From sketching and 3D visualisation to melting, forming, setting, and polishing these handcrafted masterpieces are one of a kind.
- Stellar services. An engagement ring stands as one of the largest jewellery purchases made in a lifetime. Such a significant buy need only be accompanied by the absolute best in client service. From the first enquiry to ring care thereafter, the best engagement ring specialists pull out all the stops. This means taking the time to educate clients, ensuring they make informed decisions. It also means carefully and methodically working through each step of the engagement ring journey. From sourcing a selection of stones to the final clean and polish they are forever at your service.
- Sustainable & ethical. Leading engagement ring specialists recognise the importance of social and environmental stewardship within the broader industry. Rather than shy away, they openly embrace sustainable practices from procurement right through to design and manufacture. Whether this be a focus on ethical diamonds, recycled gold, or lab grown gems, they do their part to ensure the engagement tradition continues.
The best engagement ring specialists in Canberra
Riotact’s editorial team has combed through 20 years of on-site comments to compile a list of the most recommended businesses according to you.
To be listed in our Best of Canberra series, each business needs to have consistently received positive feedback on Riotact and maintain a minimum average of 4/5 stars on both Google and Facebook reviews.
Diamond Boutique
Diamond Boutique understand the sentiment jewellery holds. Master jeweller, gemmologist, diamond broker and valuer, Olivia Hutchinson began creating bespoke designs over twenty-three years ago.
As diamond specialists, the Diamond Boutique has a glowing reputation for their engagement ring and wedding band services. Striving to match each client with the perfect engagement piece they offer a range of consultative services and craft each piece by hand.
As Brad Fenech stated on Google, “Olivia and the team at Diamond Boutique are so wonderful! From the day I first called about an engagement ring to now I felt welcome as if I was part of the family. Everything was explained to me in the perfect amount of detail, and I was offered all of the costs and considerations upfront with no pressure. I recommend these guys to anyone I hear talking about jewellery and I’m a lifelong customer now.”
Arnold & Co. Jewellers
Arnold & Co Jewellers are fine custom jewellers with over a decade’s service to the Canberra region. As certified gemmologists and bridal specialists, their unique pedigree positions them as one of the leading engagement ring specialists.
With a focus on ethical sourcing, master craftsmanship, and unparalleled quality they have quite the reputation for their custom-made designs. Offering three levels of boutique service they assist clients with pre-made custom designs, assisted custom design, or full custom design services.
Mason McDaniels shared this on Google, “Thank you to the team at Arnold & Co for working so hard to create my fiancés dream engagement ring…. We highly recommend Arnold & Co if you’re looking for an experienced and knowledgeable jeweller to bring your dream engagement ring to life!”
Harry Rose Jewellery
Since first opening its doors in Canberra in 2009, Harry Rose Jewellery has become synonymous with engagement ring design. As an internationally acclaimed award-winning jeweller, Harry has a reputation for his meticulous craftsmanship and bespoke creations.
As a diamond and gemstone supplier, Harry has crafted engagement rings in all manner of stone and metal combinations. From unheated Australian Sapphires to stunning brilliant diamonds each is a work of art. Located at City Walk all work is custom made on site.
Client Chris had this to say on Google, “Harry is a professional. He designed and made an engagement ring that was beyond all expectations. He was super communicative throughout the whole process. Will go back to Harry again.”
Harlequin Jewellers
Engagement and wedding ring specialists, Harlequin Jewellers have a reputation of excellence when it comes to gemstones and diamonds. Proprietor and jeweller, Matthew Hengge, works directly with clientele to design and hand make unique jewelled creations.
With a passion for producing master cut stones and perfecting his clients’ visions, Matthew offers complimentary design consultations and promises to help find the perfect piece. Appointments at their Braddon studio or by video can be conveniently booked online.
Client Jodi Ripoll shared this feedback on Google, “We first came across Harlequin Jewellers 7 years ago, when Matt worked with my husband to design a beautiful engagement ring. Matt has since been nothing short of amazing, designing and creating both of our wedding bands. We both feel very privileged to have him create such beautiful keepsakes for us and feel proud wearing his quality workmanship around.”
For more, take a look at the best jewellers in Canberra. To help you pop the question check out our articles on the best fine dining restaurants, the best florists, and the best hotels in the region.
Your experience with engagement rings in Canberra
Thanks to our commenters who have provided insightful feedback. If you believe we have got it wrong, please let us know.
Have you had experience with any of the engagement ring specialists listed above? If so, share your feedback in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I consider before shopping for an engagement ring?
Before embarking on your search, a bit of research an go a long way. Firstly, set a budget. Then, find an overall ring style that suits. Reflect on the desired shape of the main diamond, and whether any secondary stones will play a part. Think about how to set the stones, and on what type of metal. Knowing ring size is helpful too! Importantly, ensure you are up to speed with the four C’s and how to use these factors to maximise value or attain priorities in your diamond purchase.
How much should I spend on an engagement ring?
A general guide has traditionally been between two to three months’ salary; however ultimately it depends on your own financial situation and personal priorities. What really matters is the sentiment behind the gesture and the commitment it represents.
How are diamonds priced?
At a wholesale level, a diamonds price is generally determined by the four C’s of a stone. Diamonds are usually first priced based on their shape and sizes range. After that, they are broken down by colour and clarity and priced per carat. That price is typically multiplied by the weight of the stone. Other factors like cut, inclusions or imperfections, and fluorescence also play a role.
What is a GIA certification and why does it matter?
A GIA certified diamonds have been graded by the Gemmological Institute of America and come with a universal certification of authenticity. Grading covers a stones carat, colour, clarity and cut, along with proportions and any notable inclusions. Buying a certified diamond offers peace of mind and assurance that you are purchasing what is claimed. For larger value diamond purchases many consider it essential.
What are lab created diamonds?
Lab-created diamonds, also known as lab-grown, synthetic, artificial, cultivated, or cultured diamonds, are man-made diamonds that mirror natural diamonds. They display the same chemical and optical characteristics of natural diamonds, however, are generally lower in price. Lab created diamonds may be a good option for those prioritising ethical sourcing. Much like a natural diamond, lab created stones can also be certified.
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