Wedding Collection

Birks Blue engagement ring and wedding band on a blue background.

Diamond Engagement Guide

Choosing an engagement ring is one of life’s most meaningful moments. Let us accompany you every step of the way as you discover the diamond and design that will beautifully symbolize your love and commitment.

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Colour
Clarity
Cut
Carat

Colour refers to the natural hue of a diamond, ranging from completely colourless to light yellow. The GIA colour scale grades diamonds from D (colourless) to Z (light yellow), helping determine the purity and value of the stone.

D-F

Diamonds within the D to F grade are the most sought-after diamonds for their near colourless quality. Not visible to the naked eye, the colour ranges in these grades can only be distinguished by an electric colorimeter to spot the slight variations. Choosing a D, E or F-coloured diamond ensures that you’re purchasing an optimal diamond.

G-H

The colour grades within this category have a warmth to them that is almost indistinguishable, unless placed next to a D-F colourless diamond. A diamond within this colour range are still considered an exceptional choice when selecting your diamond engagement ring.

I-J

Diamonds with colour grades in this category begin to show a noticeable hue that may be distinguished with Diamonds with colour grades in this category begin to show a noticeable hue that may be distinguished with the naked eye. Depending on your preference, you may vary between colour, clarity, cut and carat-size to find the perfect diamond for you.

Birks Standard

Diamonds set in Birks engagement rings are carefully selected within a D–I colour range, reflecting the brand’s commitment to exceptional quality and beauty.

D-F
G-H
I-J
Birks Standard

Clarity refers to the presence of natural inclusions and blemishes formed during a diamond’s creation deep within the earth. The GIA clarity scale ranges from Flawless (FL) to Included (I), grading diamonds based on the visibility and impact of these characteristics on a diamond’s purity and appearance.

FL/IF - Flawless/Internally Flawless

These gradings are attributed to what is considered a flawless diamond. Particles on these diamonds are not visible to the naked eye and they hold no inclusions. FL-IF grades represent the perfect diamond clarity, making these diamonds rare.

VVS1/VVS2

Inclusions in these grades are minimal. Only a strong microscope can reveal the pinpoints of inclusion. VVS1-VVS2 grades offer an excellent choice when considering clarity.

VS1/VS2

Inclusions become more visible in these grades. However, they are still tiny enough that they would not be caught by the human eye. This grade is still considered an optimal choice in clarity.

SI1

Small spots and dots will make up this clarity grade but will likely not be visible to the human eye. The diamond may still be acceptable and a good choice, especially when combined with a higher colour grade.

SI2

An SI2 clarity will show inclusions for certain shapes of diamonds, particularly for emerald-cut diamonds. However, this grade is still a suitable choice for round cuts.

Birks Standard

Diamonds selected for Birks engagement rings range from IF (Internally Flawless) to SI1, ensuring exceptional visual purity and quality.

FL/IF
VVS1/VVS2
VS1/VS2
SI1
SI2
Birks Standard

Cut refers to the proportions, symmetry, and polish of a diamond, all of which influence how effectively it reflects and refracts light. A well-cut diamond allows light to return through the top of the stone, maximizing brilliance, fire, and scintillation.

Too Deep

When a diamond is cut too deep, light can escape through the sides or bottom of the stone instead of returning through the top. This can make the diamond appear darker and less brilliant.

Too Shallow

When a diamond is cut too shallow, light may pass through the bottom of the stone too quickly. This reduces the diamond’s sparkle and can make it appear less lively.

Birks Standard

Birks artisans cut diamonds to precise proportions—never too deep or too shallow—allowing light to be captured and reflected at its fullest. This careful balance of angles and symmetry ensures exceptional brilliance across Birks engagement rings.

Carat

Carat refers to the unit of weight used to measure diamonds, with one carat equal to 200 milligrams. While carat weight indicates a diamond’s size, the visual appearance can vary depending on the shape and cut of the stone, and larger carat weights are typically rarer.

Choose the Perfect Shape

A diamond’s shape is a reflection of personal style and individuality. From the timeless brilliance of the round cut to the refined elegance of emerald, the modern silhouette of oval, the distinctive pear, and the soft romance of cushion, each shape offers its own unique character. Choosing the perfect shape is a personal expression of the one who will wear it.

Round

Oval

Birks North Star Round Solitaire Diamond Engagement Ring

Emerald

Pear

Birks Nordic Light Round Solitaire Diamond Engagement Ring

Princess

Birks Square Phillips Emerald Diamond Engagement Ring with Pavé Band

Cushion

Understanding Diamond Beauty

Birks Blue diamond engagement ring and wedding band on a blue background.

BRILLIANCE

The white light reflected from a diamond, creating its overall brightness and driven by the precision of the cut.

Two Birks wedding rings stacked on a blue background.

FIRE

The dispersion of light into flashes of spectral colour, producing vivid rainbow reflections.

Birks diamond solitaire pendant on a blue background.

SCINTILLATION

The sparkle created when a diamond moves, defined by the contrast between light and dark reflections.

Three Birks diamond engagement rings on a white background.

Explorer Diamond Settings

The setting defines how your diamond is presented, shaping the overall design and character of your ring. A solitaire highlights a single centre stone with timeless elegance, while a halo setting surrounds it with smaller diamonds for added brilliance. A three-stone design features a central diamond framed by two side stones, symbolizing the past, present, and future of your love story.

Three Birks diamond engagement rings on a blue background.

Understand Metals

The metal you choose influences the overall tone and character of your ring. From luminous platinum to classic white gold, warm yellow gold and romantic rose gold, each offers a distinct expression of colour, strength, and refinement, allowing you to choose the metal that best reflects your personal style.

The Final Reveal

For over a century, the Birks Silver Bell Box™ has accompanied every Birks engagement ring. After every thoughtful step in choosing the perfect ring, it becomes a precious keepsake and symbol of love passed down through generations.