diamond certificate with loose diamond in tweezers

Can I buy a ring mount without a diamond?

There are almost limitless possibilities when it comes to creating your dream engagement ring. Together, we can help find your ideal stone and craft the perfect ring mount for it to be set into.


But what about if you want to purchase a ring mount separately, without the diamond? We may be able to help. Let’s explore…

Diamond being viewed via a loupe

Can I buy a ring mount without a diamond?

A mount refers to the ring minus its stone, including the setting and band. Ring mountings are crafted individually, chosen or created to fit the gemstone you choose.


At Harper Tait, we provide finished rings - that is, rings that are ready to wear. We consider a ring finished when it is perfectly set and polished, ready for your finger. We don’t sell our mounts separately for someone else to set and finish, because the Harper Tait quality and attention to detail are all part of our signature promise.


But this doesn’t mean your only option is to buy both stone and mount from us. If you already have diamonds or gemstones you’d like to use, we’ll be open to using them in our designs.

Using your own stone

You may have an antique or gifted stone, or your own diamond, that you’d like to use in your engagement ring. There is something special about using an heirloom stone - it already has a legacy of love.


We appreciate the special value of these stones, and are more than happy to use them in our designs. This way, you get to enjoy the sentiment of your heirloom stone with the beauty of our craftsmanship.


In order to accommodate an heirloom gemstone, we will first measure the stone and assess its suitability for setting. We may already have a mount size in our collection to fit, or we can create a completely bespoke piece in which it will be set.


When it comes to setting the stone, we prefer to manage this ourselves. Every aspect of our jewellery is crafted to our high standards, and we want to ensure the setting is done to perfection. Our expert setters finish every ring with the signature Harper Tait touch.


We offer a lifetime guarantee on all our engagement and wedding rings . To stand by this promise, we oversee the entire crafting process to our meticulous standards. If your ring ever needs a repair in future, we want it to be on our watch!

Proposing with a diamond

Perhaps you want to buy your diamond and ring mount separately because you have not yet decided on the design for your diamond ring. These days, many engaged couples prefer to purchase their ring together, or even create a bespoke piece.


Proposing with a loose diamond can be a romantic way to enjoy a surprise proposal while allowing your intended to choose or design their own ring.


We love this idea too, so when you buy a diamond with us we’d be delighted to offer it set in a temporary engagement ring crafted in silver. With your chosen diamond set into the silver mount, your partner can enjoy both a traditional engagement and complete influence over their dream ring!


With the silver ring serving as a placeholder for the proposal, later you can both work with our expert jewellers to create your forever ring.

Finding the perfect diamond

Finding the perfect diamond for your engagement ring can be a big task, but with our knowledge and guidance, we can make you make the perfect decision. Below are some of our tips to help you find the perfect diamond:


  1. Consider the 4Cs : The 4Cs of diamonds are cut, color, clarity, and carat. Each of these factors determine the diamond’s appearance and value. 

  2. Think about the shape : Diamonds come in a variety of shapes, for example round, radiant, and oval.  Consider what shape will complement your partner’s style and preferences. For example, a round diamond offers timeless elegance, while a princess cut provides a more modern look.

  3. Certification : Make sure to look for diamonds that are certified by a reliable organisation, such as the GIA or IGI. Read our blog to find out more about GIA inscriptions.

  4. Consider the setting : Think about the type of setting you want for your diamond. Different settings can enhance or detract from the diamond’s appearance, so choose a setting that complements the diamond’s shape and style. For instance, a halo setting can make a smaller diamond appear larger, while a bezel setting offers a modern and secure option.

  5. Choose the right metal : The type of metal used for the band can affect the overall appearance of the ring. Choices include white gold , yellow gold , rose gold , and platinum. The colour of metal you choose is a personal choice - so choosing the right one is important. 


By considering these factors, you can find the perfect diamond for your engagement ring and create the perfect ring for your proposal. 

Can I buy only a ring setting?

It’s possible to buy engagement ring settings and diamonds separately, but you will still need to have the stone set by a professional setter.


We have specific standards for our setting and finishing, so although we are very happy to use your own stones in our mounts, we do not provide them unfinished.

Can you buy a ring mount from one place, and a stone from another?

There are plenty of stone dealers and jewellers who can provide separate stones and semi mount rings.


However, it is not always easy to navigate buying loose stones and component parts, and you will still need an expert setter to set your stone. Additionally, if you have any issues with your ring it may be harder to pinpoint where responsibility lies if a number of different craftspeople have been involved in your ring.


We recommend choosing one jeweller for your engagement ring. Most will be open to using your own stone, whether it’s one you bought, were gifted, or inherited.

Can a jeweller change a ring setting?

Absolutely! In fact, we have a blog on that topic , discussing how semi mount ring settings can be customised to fit your needs.

How we can help!

We understand the importance of creating a ring that is personal to you. Our mission is to craft engagement rings that tell the story of your love, from the sentiment to the style.


So whether you're using an heirloom stone or proposing with a diamond, we're here to help. Reach out to us on info@harpertait.com and we’ll help you navigate the process with ease!


Or find your perfect diamond wedding ring or diamond engagement ring in our collection

What Our Customers Think

"We went to Harper Tait to get an engagement ring. Although we didn't quite know what we wanted, Paul was so patient and helpful to figure that out. He made sure we knew all the options and all had the information we could want without any pressure or frustration. He was keen to help in any way he could and was in constant communication with us. Most importantly, we couldn't be happier with the ring we ended up with - truly beautiful!"

Guy Gopitch , June 2023