5 Engagement Ring Regrets We See Too Often (and How to Avoid Them)
After designing thousands of bespoke engagement rings in Singapore, we see a clear pattern: most engagement ring regrets are avoidable. They don’t come from bad intentions — they come from rushed decisions, unclear priorities, or outdated advice. At Diamond Ateliers, we design 80–100 custom rings every month, which gives us a front-row seat to what couples later wish they had done differently.
This guide breaks down the five most common engagement ring regrets we hear — and exactly how to avoid them. If you’re buying an engagement ring in Singapore, this will help you make a confident, future-proof decision without overpaying or second-guessing yourself.
1. Choosing the Ring Before Understanding the Diamond
The regret
Many clients come to us after buying a ring they don’t love — not because it’s unattractive, but because they don’t understand why it looks the way it does. Most were sold a certificate, not an education.
How to avoid it
Before choosing a setting, understand the diamond itself. Cut quality affects sparkle more than any other factor. Clarity should be eye-clean, not flawless. Colour should be selected based on metal type and personal sensitivity — not salesperson pressure.
Our approach: We begin with side-by-side diamond comparisons so clients can see real differences in actual lighting, not just on paper.
Read our full guide on lab grown vs natural diamonds in Singapore
2. Overpaying for a Branded Ring
The regret
Branded retail rings often carry a 2–3× markup for a name — not better materials or craftsmanship. Many clients only realise this after comparing specifications later.
How to avoid it
Focus on diamond quality, craftsmanship, and aftercare — not logos. In Singapore, a 1.5ct lab grown diamond engagement ring typically ranges from S$6,000–S$9,000 depending on cut and design. If pricing is significantly higher without clear justification, you’re paying for branding.
The Diamond Ateliers difference: Founder-led sourcing, transparent pricing, and no retail middlemen.
See how our bespoke engagement ring process works
3. Ignoring Lifestyle and Daily Wear
The regret
Rings that snag on clothing, sit too high, or feel uncomfortable during daily tasks often end up unworn — or redesigned later
