A Guide to Upgrading Your Engagement Ring
Thinking about upgrading your engagement ring to a new design? You’re not alone. Whether your style has evolved, your circumstances have changed or you simply want a ring that better reflects who you are today, upgrading is a personal and exciting decision. Before you begin, it’s worth considering a few key things: from how to honour the sentiment of your original ring to exploring your design options and understanding the costs involved.
Is it common to upgrade an engagement ring?
Absolutely. Upgrading an engagement ring is more common than you might think, and it’s often a deeply sentimental decision. For many couples, an engagement ring upgrade marks a meaningful moment: a milestone anniversary, a change in personal style or a financial chapter that allows for a little extra sparkle.
Modern couples are embracing the idea that your engagement ring doesn’t have to stay the same forever. With a growing focus on personal expression and bespoke design, upgrading an engagement ring is now seen as a celebration of how far you've come together. And you don't have to look far to find examples – many celebrity engagement rings have been upgraded or redesigned in recent years, setting the trend for a more personal and flexible approach to tradition.
When should you upgrade your engagement ring?
The short answer? Whenever you want to. Upgrading your engagement ring is a personal decision, and for many, it’s about marking a meaningful moment in their lives. Whether it’s your 10, 20 or 30year anniversary or the arrival of a new baby, a refreshed or redesigned ring can become a symbol of everything you’ve built together. Model and Rhode Founder Hailey Bieber's upgraded engagement ring is just one of many high-profile examples setting the trend.
It's rare, but if you don't like your engagement ring, it’s okay to feel that way. While a proposal is a deeply thoughtful gesture, it can be difficult to get the design exactly right without your input. Turning the experience into a shared one by choosing a new ring together, can be a meaningful way to make sure the design feels truly personal to you both.
From a practical point of view, some people wait until they’re financially ready to opt for a larger diamond or a higher-quality setting. Others want a design that better reflects their evolving style, lifestyle or status – whether that’s a modern minimalist look, a bold bespoke design or switching to a lab grown diamond.
If you’re upgrading with Queensmith, the best approach is to commission an entirely new ring as we don’t reuse gemstones or metal from your original ring. You can either keep your current ring as a sentimental keepsake, wearing it on another finger, or sell it privately. A lost or stolen ring can also be an opportunity to start fresh, while for others, an upgrade ring represents a renewed commitment – a modern “I still do”.
Upgrading your engagement ring isn’t about replacing the memory, it’s about celebrating how far you’ve come. Keeping your original ring and creating a new design for your next chapter can be a meaningful and exciting part of your journey together.
Will upgrading your ring affect its sentimental value?
It’s completely natural to feel a little uncertain about changing something so meaningful, but upgrading your engagement ring doesn’t take away from its sentimental value. The love and memories it symbolises aren’t tied to just one design; they evolve with you.
For many people, keeping their original ring is the best way to preserve that sentiment. You may choose to wear it on another finger, pass it down in future or simply treasure it as it is. Creating a new ring for this next chapter in your life can add another layer of meaning, reflecting not just how your story began, but everything you’ve experienced since and where you’re headed next.
How does an engagement ring upgrade work?
Upgrading your engagement ring with Queensmith is all about creating something that feels right for you now, but it’s important to understand the process before you start. We don’t part-exchange rings, reuse existing stones or work with metal from your current ring. The structural integrity of a ring depends on using freshly prepared alloys – reusing old metal requires refining, which is a complex process and doesn’t guarantee you’ll get the same metal back. The best way to upgrade is by commissioning an entirely new ring, while either keeping your original for sentimental reasons or selling it privately.
For many people, keeping their original ring is the most sentimental choice. Not only will you avoid the lower-than-expected resale value – rings typically lose around 30% over time – but you may also find you still want to wear it on another finger. It’s a beautiful way to honour the piece that started your story, while enjoying a fresh design that reflects who you are today.
Once you’ve decided how to move forward, you’ll meet with one of our gemmologists and design consultants to discuss your budget, style preferences and the features you’d love in your new ring – whether that’s a larger diamond, a different cut or a completely new setting. With the lower cost of lab grown diamonds, you may even be able to upgrade to a larger or higher-quality stone than you first imagined. From there, our bespoke design process begins, complete with CAD designs to help you visualise your future ring before it’s brought to life in our Hatton Garden workshop.
10 different ways to upgrade your engagement ring
If you’re ready for a change but not sure where to start, there are plenty of creative ways to upgrade your engagement ring. Whether you're after a subtle refresh or a bold transformation, here are ten inspiring engagement ring ideas from our expert gemmologists to consider for your new ring design. . .
1. Upgrade the centre stone
Opting for a larger or higher-quality diamond or gemstone can make the biggest visual impact in your new ring. You might upgrade to a higher colour or clarity grade, or simply choose a stone with a bit more presence.
2. Opt for a different cut or shape
A diamond’s shape can dramatically affect the overall look and feel of a ring. If you originally chose a round brilliant, you might now prefer an elongated oval or modern emerald cut diamond – each shape offers a unique character and can bring a fresh perspective to your design. Changing the shape of your centre stone is a great way to reflect your evolving taste, and keep your ring in step with current engagement ring trends.
3. Add a halo setting
A halo of smaller diamonds around your centre stone can amplify sparkle and give your ring a glamorous, statement feel. Hidden halos – tucked beneath the main stone – offer a more discreet twist with a flash of brilliance from unexpected angles.
4. Change the metal
Switching the metal of your ring can completely transform the style of your ring. Platinum offers a cool-toned, durable finish; yellow gold brings classic warmth; and rose gold adds a romantic, modern touch. This change can also help your new ring coordinate perfectly with your wedding band.
5. Incorporate side stones
Adding diamonds or gemstones beside your centre stone is a subtle but effective way to elevate your ring’s design. Popular side stone options include baguette, trillion and pear cut diamonds – each creating a slightly different vibe. Side stones can make the centre stone appear larger, introduce new shapes for contrast and add extra sparkle and dimension.
6. Enhance the band
From pavé set diamonds along the shoulders to an engraved personal message inside, adding detail to the band gives your new ring a more distinctive, personal touch. It’s an easy way to weave in subtle luxury or sentiment.
7. Change the setting style
Whether you choose a more intricate vintage-inspired design, a sleek modern mount or a secure rubover setting (also known as a bezel), which surrounds the stone with a rim of metal for added protection and a clean, the setting will redefine the entire look of your new ring. Take time to consider if you want a lower profile for everyday comfort or a bolder setting that enhances brilliance – whatever you choose, let it be personal to you and your story.
8. Add coloured gemstones
Introducing coloured gemstones into your ring is a brilliant way to make the design feel more personal and distinctive. You could flank your centre diamond with sapphires, emeralds or rubies, or opt for another diamond alternative as your new focal point. Whether you choose a meaningful birthstone or a gem that reflects your favourite colour, this upgrade adds depth, symbolism and standout character to your ring.
9. Alter the band’s proportions
Over time, bands can wear thin or lose their original shape, especially with decades of daily wear. Choosing a thicker band for your new ring can improve both durability and comfort, while adjusting the width or profile allows you to better suit your current taste or finger shape. Whether it’s for added strength or simply to embrace a more modern aesthetic, it’s a practical – and perfectly valid – reason to invest in a new ring.
10. Create a toi et moi design
A toi et moi ring setting pairs two stones side by side, symbolising the unity of two individuals, and it's a perfect way to upgrade. You can combine your original ring's stone shape with a new one, such as a pear, emerald or coloured gemstone, for a truly unique and personal look. This design has seen a rise in popularity thanks to celebrities, like Em Rata and Megan Fox's engagement ring, and makes for a modern, romantic reimagining of your original ring.
6 tips for upgrading your engagement ring
A little planning goes a long way when it comes to creating your dream upgraded ring. Here are our top tips to make the process smooth and stress-free:
- Communicate with your partner
Make sure you’re both on the same page about the decision to upgrade, including the style, budget and how you’ll approach the sentimental value of your current ring. - Set a clear budget
Decide how much you’re happy to spend before you start looking at designs. This helps narrow down your options and prevents you from falling in love with something beyond your comfort zone. - Keep sentimental value in mind
Consider holding on to your original ring, as resale values are often lower than expected and you may still want to wear it on another finger or keep it as a treasured keepsake. - Research jewellers
Choose a jeweller with a proven track record in bespoke engagement ring design. Look for exceptional craftsmanship, transparent advice and the ability to offer design previews before you commit. - Consider long-term wearability
Make sure your new upgraded ring works for your lifestyle. If you’re hands-on at work or at home, consider designs like a rubover (bezel) setting or lower-profile mount for practicality. - Get a new appraisal
If your new ring includes a larger stone, a higher-quality diamond or a different precious metal, arrange for an updated valuation and insurance cover to protect your investment.
Upgrading your engagement ring should be just as enjoyable as choosing the original. Think about your lifestyle, budget and the sentimental details you want to keep, and you’ll create something you’ll love for decades.
How to sustainably upgrade your engagement ring
If you’re looking to make your engagement ring upgrade as responsible as it is beautiful, consider choosing a lab grown diamond. Created using advanced technology that replicates the conditions in which natural diamonds form, lab diamonds are chemically and optically identical to their natural counterparts, but often cost significantly less. That means you can opt for a larger or higher-quality diamond while keeping your budget in check.
For many couples, choosing a lab grown diamond for their new ring offers the perfect balance between sustainability and style. With a lower environmental impact compared to natural diamonds, this option makes it possible to enhance your ring in a way that aligns with your values. Want to learn more on how lab grown diamonds compare to natural? Our Lab Diamonds vs Real Diamonds comparison guide covers everything you need to know before making your decision.
Feeling inspired? Find the perfect engagement ring with Queensmith
Whether you’re adding a hidden halo, changing your setting or choosing an entirely new centre stone, upgrading your engagement ring is a chance to create something that’s every bit as meaningful as the original, and perfectly tailored to who you are today.
Our Hatton Garden jewellers specialise in creating bespoke designs that blend craftsmanship, personal meaning and style that lasts a lifetime. Discover more about custom engagement rings and book an appointment to start designing your upgraded ring with one of our experts.
Become an expert
Read our rich and educational engagement ring guides and diamond advice on everything there is to know about rings and diamonds, to help you create the best engagement ring for you.
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