The Emily Burlington Journal

What to Check Before Buying a Diamond Ring Online

Buying a diamond ring online should feel clear and considered. Learn what to look for in the diamond, the setting and the service, and where to turn when you’d like personal advice.

The First Consideration

Begin With What Matters to You

Start by considering what matters most: the diamond’s origin, its appearance, your budget and how you plan to wear the ring. There is no single right answer. Understanding your priorities can help you compare options with confidence.

Three Things to Consider

A Closer Look

The 4Cs, Clearly Explained

Cut, colour, clarity and carat weight are useful starting points. Looking at them together helps you understand what a grading report tells you—and what questions you may still want to ask.

Made for Everyday Wear

Think about how the ring will fit into your everyday life. The setting, height and details can affect comfort, durability and how the ring sits alongside a wedding band.

A Shape That Feels Right

Try different diamond shapes and proportions to see what you enjoy wearing. Finger shape can be one consideration, but personal preference and the setting matter just as much.

The right diamond is the one that feels right to you. Our role is to offer clear advice and considered guidance, so you can choose with confidence.

The Emily Burlington Approach

A Business Built on Trust

Choosing a diamond is a significant decision. We take time to understand what matters to you, explain your options clearly and offer considered guidance before and after your purchase.

Explore Our Diamonds

A Closer Look at the Diamond

Two 1.00ct round diamonds can share the same grades—D colour, SI1 clarity, Excellent cut, polish and symmetry, with no fluorescence—yet differ considerably in price. A report is a valuable guide, but it cannot convey every nuance of a stone, such as how noticeable an inclusion may be to the eye. We examine each diamond closely and explain its character, so you can compare your options with clarity and confidence.

Explore Engagement Rings

London Workshops

Handcrafted in Hatton Garden

Exceptional Materials

Personally selected

Personal Service

One dedicated jeweller

Lifetime Care

Here long after your piece is complete

Picked by Us, Chosen for You

Each enquiry begins with understanding what matters to you. We source carefully selected diamond options and explain their qualities, character and price. Our jewellers can help you compare them, so you can choose with confidence.

Arrange Your Consultation
01

Private Consultation

Every commission begins with a conversation. We take the time to understand your ideas, style and the story behind your piece.

02

Design

Your ideas begin to take form as we develop the proportions, details and character of your design.

03

Stone Selection

If required, diamonds and gemstones are individually sourced and selected for their beauty, quality and suitability for your piece.

04

Handcrafted in London

Your design is brought to life by skilled craftspeople in our London workshops, with meticulous attention to every detail.

05

The Final Piece

Once complete, your jewellery is carefully inspected and beautifully presented, ready to become part of your story.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I look for in a diamond grading report?

Check who issued the report, then review the diamond’s carat weight, colour, clarity and cut grade. Look for the report number and make sure it matches the diamond you’re considering. A report provides useful measurements and grading information, but it cannot show every detail of how a diamond looks in person.

Can two diamonds with the same grades look different?

Yes. Grades describe defined characteristics, but they don’t capture every detail of a diamond’s appearance. Two stones with the same grades can differ in brightness, pattern, proportions or how noticeable an inclusion is to the eye. Comparing the diamonds themselves—and asking a knowledgeable jeweller what to look for—can help you understand the differences.

How can I compare natural and lab-grown diamonds?

Both are diamonds, but they form in different ways: natural diamonds develop in the earth over geological time, while lab-grown diamonds are created using technology that replicates aspects of that process. Consider what matters to you, including origin, appearance, budget and personal preference. A jeweller can explain the options clearly so you can make a choice that feels right for you.

Can I see or discuss a diamond before I buy?

You’re welcome to discuss your requirements with us before deciding. If you’d like to view a specific diamond in person, we can arrange this with a 25% deposit. If the diamond isn’t right for you, the deposit can be transferred to an alternative diamond.

How will the setting suit everyday wear?

Think about how the ring will feel and fit into your everyday life. The setting’s height, shape and details can affect comfort, how protected the diamond is and how the ring sits beside a wedding band. Your jeweller can talk through the design and care considerations for the piece you’re choosing.

What happens if I need resizing or aftercare?

Resizing options depend on the ring’s design and how much adjustment is needed. Where possible, we can discuss alterations after presentation; the first alteration is complimentary. Bespoke and personalised pieces may have different terms, so please check the applicable terms for your order. We’re also here to advise on caring for your jewellery over time.

Personal Guidance

Your Diamond Journey, Guided by Us

If you’re weighing up your options, our jewellers are happy to talk them through with you. Arrange a private consultation for clear, considered advice at any stage of your search.

Personal advice. Considered choices.