Proposal Season Is Here: A Guide to Choosing the Perfect Engagement Ring

There’s something magical about the holidays — the lights, the traditions, the family gatherings — and it’s no surprise that December is the most popular month of the year for engagements. From cozy winter proposals to destination celebrations abroad, this season is filled with moments that become lifelong memories.

At Monarch Jewelry, we’ve been part of these stories for over 27 years. Whether you’re planning a surprise proposal or designing a ring together, we’re here to help make the experience joyful, stress-free, and meaningful.

If you’re ring shopping this holiday season, here’s everything you need to know to choose the perfect engagement ring.

 
1. Start With the Shape: The Diamond Silhouette Says a Lot
The diamond shape is often the first thing people fall in love with — and the one element that defines the entire ring’s personality.

Here are a few of the most popular choices:

• Round Brilliant: Classic, timeless, unmatched sparkle
• Oval: Elegant, elongating, modern favorite
• Cushion Cut: Romantic, soft edges, vintage charm
• Emerald Cut: Clean, sophisticated, confident
• Pear: Bold, unique, eye-catching
• Marquise: Dramatic, flattering, vintage revival

If your partner has a Pinterest board? Pay attention.
If not, look at the jewelry they already wear — it often gives clues.

 
2. Decide on a Setting Style
The setting shapes the overall look of the ring. A few favorites:

• Solitaire: Classic and minimal — diamond-forward and timeless
• Halo: Extra sparkle with a soft, romantic glow
• Three-Stone: Past, present, future symbolism
• Vintage-Inspired: Milgrain, filigree, and Art Deco details
• Hidden Halo / Peek-A-Boo Diamonds: Modern sparkle they’ll love (and yes — we do these beautifully!)

Your partner’s style plays a big role here. Are they minimal? Bold? Trendy? Sentimental? We help you narrow it down quickly.

 
3. Choose the Metal: The Foundation of the Ring
Each metal offers a different feel:

• Platinum: Durable, premium, naturally white
• 14k or 18k Yellow Gold: Warm, trending, vintage-modern
• White Gold: Bright, timeless, versatile
• Rose Gold: Romantic, soft, feminine

In Florida’s sunlight, every metal comes alive — it’s just about choosing the one that matches their everyday style.

 
4. Lab-Grown or Natural Diamond? Here’s the Simple Breakdown.
We keep this explanation easy, honest, and informative.

Natural Diamonds:
Formed over billions of years in the earth. One-of-a-kind. Traditionally symbolic.

Lab-Grown Diamonds:
Same sparkle, same durability, same chemistry — created using advanced technology and more budget-friendly.

Both are real diamonds.
Both are beautiful.
The choice simply depends on preference and price point.

And with John and Shawn — both Graduate Gemologists — you’ll receive accurate education and transparent guidance.

 
5. Want Something Truly Unique? Go Custom.
This is where Monarch shines.

Our creative team specializes in:

• Custom designs from scratch
• Transforming heirloom stones
• Resetting existing diamonds into modern designs
• Sketching, CAD modeling, and creating one-of-a-kind rings

If you can dream it, we can build it — right here in our shop.

Many of our favorite holiday proposals begin with a ring created from a meaningful family piece or a completely new design made just for them.

 
6. Consider a Matching Wedding Band Early
This is an often-forgotten detail, but thinking about the wedding band now saves stress later! Some engagement rings require:

• A curved band
• A contoured band
• A shadow band
• A flush straight band

And trending right now?
Stacking multiple bands for an elevated bridal look.

 
7. Take Advantage of Holiday Promotions
This season at Monarch:

20% Off Select Engagement Rings & Bands
Perfect timing for December proposals.
A stunning selection of lab-grown and natural diamonds
Newly added estate rings for the vintage-romantic customer
Plus — complimentary gift wrap in the signature Monarch orange box with cream interior.

 
? Ready to Find The Ring?
Whether you’re just beginning or already have a design in mind, our team is here to help you find (or create) the perfect engagement ring. No stress. No pressure. Just expertise, honesty, and a truly personal experience.

Stop by our Winter Park showroom or message us anytime — and let’s make this proposal season unforgettable.