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How to Buy an Engagement Ring Without Her Knowing: A Secret Shopping Guide

Trying to figure out how to surprise her with the perfect engagement ring? You're not alone! From sneaking away to figuring out her ring size in secret, here's your guide to keeping the big question under wraps. Have a look at our popular engagement ring styles for inspiration on the design of your engagement ring.

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How can you secretly buy the perfect engagement ring?

Looking to surprise your partner with an engagement ring without spoiling the surprise? There are several clever ways to determine her ring size without raising suspicion. You might try the "sleeping method" by gently measuring her finger with string while she sleeps, borrowing a ring she already wears, or enlisting her best friend to gather intel during a casual shopping trip.

When it comes to the actual shopping, consider scheduling during work hours, arranging family distractions, or using gift shopping for another occasion as cover. Remember to browse in private mode, keep receipts hidden, and store the ring somewhere safe—like at a friend's house—until the big moment.

With some careful planning and discretion, you can maintain the element of surprise for a proposal she'll never forget.

How to Work Out Her Ring Size Without Her Knowing

Figure out which ring she wants. If you don’t know

1. The Sleeping Method

Want to know a sneaky way to measure her ring size? Wait until she's fast asleep and gently wrap a piece of string around her ring finger. Mark where the string overlaps and take it to your jeweller. Just make sure she's a deep sleeper!

2. The Borrowed Ring Trick

Does she have a ring she already wears? When she's in the shower or at work, borrow one that fits her ring finger. Either take it to the jeweller for a quick measurement or trace the inner circle on paper. Remember to put it back exactly where you found it!
Engaged couple wearing diamond engagement ring - Engaged couple wearing diamond engagement ring

3. The Best Friend Mission

Her best friend can be your secret agent here. They could invite her jewellery shopping "just for fun" and take notes on what size fits her best. Plus, they can subtly find out what styles she loves - two birds, one stone!

Secret Ring Shopping: How to Buy Without Her Finding Out

1. The Workday Switch

Book a "client meeting" during your lunch break and use that time to visit the jeweller. Just remember to grab lunch after - coming home hungry might raise questions!

2. The Family Setup

Get her parents to keep her busy with "family plans" while you sneak off ring shopping. Even better? Those family plans could turn into your engagement celebration later!
Man and woman admiring the engagement ring which he proposed with

3. The Shopping Cover Story

Have a birthday or holiday coming up? Perfect! Tell her you're shopping for gifts - just make sure to actually buy something else too. Empty-handed shopping trips might make her suspicious!

Quick Tips for Secret Ring Shopping Success


  • Browse engagement rings in private mode or clear your search history

  • Save jewellery websites under fake names in your bookmarks

  • Keep the ring at a friend's house until proposal day

  • Use cash or a separate credit card to avoid suspicious statements

  • Have backup plans ready if she asks questions

Remember, keeping your cool is key! The more natural you act, the less likely she'll suspect you're planning the perfect surprise proposal she’ll remember for a lifetime.

Need inspiration for that perfect ring? Take a look at our expansive collection or get in touch with our experts for personalized advice.
  • Stephanie Hesters

  • BAUNAT Antwerp
  • As the Head of Diamond Buying at BAUNAT, Stephanie has an extensive knowledge of the diamond and the evolution of diamond prices. Thanks to her broad product knowledge gained throughout her years at BAUNAT and the Diamond Foundation Course by De Beers, Stephanie advises our customers interested in the investment side of diamonds to optimize every investment. To support her skills she has a bachelor’s degree in Business Management together with her master’s in Communication.

As the Head of Diamond Buying at BAUNAT, Stephanie has an extensive knowledge of the diamond and the evolution of diamond prices. Thanks to her broad product knowledge gained throughout her years at BAUNAT and the Diamond Foundation Course by De Beers, Stephanie advises our customers interested in the investment side of diamonds to optimize every investment. To support her skills she has a bachelor’s degree in Business Management together with her master’s in Communication.