Engagement Rings
Explore timeless designs and exclusive diamond shapes.
You made the decision. You found the right one.
Now, it’s time to find the perfect ring. Luckily, you just found the perfect jeweler. Right here in downtown San Diego. When you walk into Harold Steven’s you’ll see the differences right away. We’re not some impersonal, enormous store. We don’t boast thousands of engagement ring settings and diamonds to choose from. What you will find is a warm showroom with just the perfect amount of exceptional diamonds that meet our exacting standards. Engagement ring settings you simply won’t find in any run-of-the-mill store. Stop in. Make a private appointment, or find that perfect ring online. We’re here to help you every step of the way.
The HS Guide to Buying a Diamond.
Everyone has heard of the 4C’s - cut, clarity, color, and carat. They are the foundation in the jewelry industry, and the basis for what you need to know before making your decision to buy. All true, but any educated, reputable jeweler can show you a diamond and discuss the 4C’s. We can do the same. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is by far the global authority on diamonds.You can read more about the 4 C’s here.
Equally important, is going beyond the 4C’s. It’s the other “C’s”, you need to pay attention to when you’re considering buying a diamond.
Here's an interest fact.
Only 3 C’s actually determine the quality of any diamond. That being cut, color, and clarity. The carat size does not. A small diamond can be equally beautiful as a much larger diamond! Of the 4C’s, the cut is not only the most complex, but the one that determines its beauty and value.
It Starts with the Cut.
When you are thinking about “cut”, going beyond the technical qualities, you are mostly thinking about the shape of the diamond. Of which there are many. The most popular cut is round, primarily because it has the most scintillation and sparkle. Rising in popularity and back on the scene are ovals and marquis. Some of our favorite diamonds are vintage cuts which are highly sought after for their romantic look and charm. Selecting the right cut for you has everything to do with your personal style. Every diamond we carry is stunning. There is truly no bad choice.
Popular Diamond Shapes
Round Brilliant Cut
A classic shape that maximizes brilliance and light return.
Oval Brilliant Cut
The oval cut diamond was created in 1957 by famed Lazare Kaplan. It has spectacular brilliance and has recently become one of the most popular cuts. We love the look and are so glad it’s made a comeback. We also love setting it in an east-west mounting.
Emerald Cut
Emerald cuts are classic, sophisticated and increasing in popularity. They are also considered one of the oldest diamond shapes.
Asscher Cut
The asscher cut is also similar to the emerald cut, but it’s much more square than elongated and has a more vintage look and feel.
Cushion Cut
Cushion cut diamonds combine the look of the round and oval cut diamond with rounded corners. The larger facets increase their brilliance and we love how this diamond looks in many of our vintage settings.
Marquise Cut
This cut features 58 facets and its elongated style will provide a bigger look. Another cut that was most popular in the 1970’s and 1980’s, it is making its resurgence once again making it a timeless treasure.
Princess Cut
The princess cut is one of the newest, contemporary shapes combining the brilliance of a round with a square cut diamond.
Heart Cut
We don’t see a tremendous amount of these diamonds, mainly because they are one of the most difficult diamonds to cut. Let's be honest, nothing says “I love you” more than something heart-shaped!
Pear Cut
The pear combines everything we love about a round brilliant and a marquise cut diamond. It was very popular in the 1970’s, and we’re seeing a resurgence back to this beautiful cut.
Radiant Cut
Radiant diamonds are similar to an emerald cut, but because of the facet pattern (70 facets to be exact), they have a more brilliant look.
Search our online inventory of loose diamond cuts.
Engagement Ring Styles & Trends
Trends come and go. And, then come back again. Suffice to say, when you walk into Harold Stevens you’ll find both. What’s on-trend and those styles that will always remain a classic. Read more about what’s trending now!
All About Vintage & Antique Diamond Engagement Rings.
Every diamond cut from brilliant rounds to marquise are stunning. But, here at Harold Stevens, we pride ourselves on carrying some of the finest and rarest vintage cuts you simply won’t find at your typical jeweler. Alluring old mine cuts, artistic rose cuts to the broad facet patterns in old European cuts. We’ve curated the most majestic collection you will find anywhere. Read more about our collection.
Colored Engagement Rings
Living Colorfully.The ultimate expression of love can also happen in color. Color center stones couldn’t be more popular. Precious gemstones like sapphire, ruby and emerald express individuality and are a departure from the ordinary. Other colored gems such as tanzanite, garnet and opal offer a rainbow of brilliance that can be considered for a ring’s center stone or as colored accents. Colored diamonds are more rare, and yes, a little more expensive. But, the look is extraordinary! They range from soft browns of champagne to vivid yellows, pinks, blues, and many other hues. Is it an alternative from the traditional white diamond? You bet.
Take a peek at some exceptional color engagement rings.
What's the right type of metal for your ring?
Select what fits your personal needs.There are many options in the world of precious and non-precious metals when it comes to your engagement ring. What suits the look you are going for and what suits your lifestyle? Are you very active and need something durable? Is your skin very sensitive? Platinum might be the perfect choice for you since it’s hypo-allergenic. These are all questions we will ask so that you find the right engagement ring setting to last a lifetime.
Here’s a little information on the most popular metals to help you get started.
Lab Grown Diamond Engagement Rings
Everything you Need to Know. Lab-grown diamonds are becoming more popular every year. They’re appealing because they are less expensive and do have the same physical and chemical properties of a natural diamond. At Harold Stevens, we sell both lab-grown and natural diamonds. Are they worth the purchase? What are the differences between natural diamonds and lab-grown? These are the questions we get everyday. There is no wrong or right decision if you decide to go either route, but if you’re interested in knowing more, you can find it here.
Custom Designed Engagement Rings
Tell your brand's story through images.
Say I Do.
Wedding Bands
A long history leading up to today.Wedding bands are considered the ultimate expression of love, dating back 5,000 years to ancient Egypt where couples would exchange ‘rings of love’ made of woven reeds or leather. Thankfully, the ritual has changed just a little. Now you can find wedding bands in a multitude of metals, gemstones, and styles. Many women choose a wedding band that matches their engagement ring, while others select or create a band that is unique or stand-alone. Traditional metals of gold and platinum remain the most popular for men, yet contemporary metals such as tungsten, stainless steel or titanium are other options. No matter what you prefer, no matter what your budget may be, you’ll find some of the most unique wedding bands right here.
Jewelry Financing Options
Special financing for 6 months* | Convenient monthly payment available* | Ask about our financing options*
*With approved credit.
Stop in and we’ll be happy to talk about all the details.