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VettedFashion
Molly Calhoun Contributor Opinions expressed by Forbes Contributors are their own.
Forbes Vetted
Claire Epting Forbes Staff
Forbes Vetted
Few pieces of jewelry carry such weight and significance as an engagement ring, which is why picking the right one can feel so important. The best engagement rings match your partner’s style and your budget. Fortunately, modern jewelers—from Blue Nile to Vrai—have revolutionized the process of shopping for engagement rings online, and the experience is just as good as (if not better) than browsing in a store. At Forbes Vetted, we have tried and tested many pieces of jewelry and ahead you’ll find our top recommendations for the best engagement rings.
All of the jewelers in this guide have been vetted by the Forbes team, including our resident jewelry expert and deputy editor Kari Molvar, for the quality of their designs and craftsmanship, ethical sourcing and sustainability, and customer satisfaction (an engagement ring is designed to last a lifetime, after all). Whether you prefer classic or unique styles, we have options for a wide range of preferences. Here, the best engagement rings:
- Best Halo Engagement Rings: Blue Nile Classic Halo Diamond, Vrai Halo Cushion
- Best Solitaire Engagement Rings: Brilliant Earth Petite Esme Solitaire, Blue Nile Petite Solitaire, Quince 14K Gold Solitaire Diamond
- Best 3-Stone Engagement Rings: Grown Brilliance Round Lab Grown Diamond Three-Stone, Clean Origin Odyssey
- Best Classic Engagement Rings: James Allen Cushion Cut Diamond Pave, Jean Dousset Chelsea Solitaire
- Best Modern Engagement Rings: Mejuri Diamonds Cluster, Angara Oval Sapphire Solitaire
- Best Vintage-Inspired Engagement Rings: Catbird Daphne Solitaire, Plum Diamonds Pear Shaped
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Halo Ring Styles
One of the most popular ring style, a halo design features a center stone surrounded by a “halo” of smaller gemstones in a pave setting, which adds sparkle and also enhances the appearance of the center stone.
Blue Nile: High Sparkle And Glamour
MOST POPULAR
Engraving Offered:Yes |360 Degree Viewing:Yes |Shipping:Free shipping (speed depends on ring cost) |Return policy:Free 30-day returns |Virtual consultations:Yes
Blue Nile earned the top spot on our list of thebest places to buy engagement rings online, based on its impressive selection and customization options. If you’re looking for halo rings, the jeweler has more than 1,300 options to choose from, including this classic setting with pave diamonds wrapping halfway around the band and fully circling the perimeter of a round-cut diamond in the center. For convenience and white-glove service, Blue Nile offers free overnight shipping and hassle-free returns, along with complimentary engraving and a lifetime warranty.
Vrai: Glittery Cushion-Cut Diamond And Pave Band
Engraving Offered: Yes | 360 Degree Viewing: Yes | Shipping: Made to order ships in approximately two weeks; $50 for overnight and $10 for two-day| Return policy: 30-day returns; full return policy on website | Virtual consultations: Yes
Vrai specializes in sustainable lab-grown diamonds, which they produce in their emissions-free foundry in the Pacific Northwest, using greenhouse gas. This halo ring features a cushion-cut center diamond—a square shape with rounded corners that resembles a cushion—that’s designed to sit low on your finger and flush with a wedding band. The sling that runs underneath the ring allows light to pass through, so the diamond shines extra bright.
Solitaire Ring Styles
With a single stone set on a classic plain band, solitaire rings are extremely popular and timeless. The center stone is often held in place by either six or four prongs that elevate the diamond and allow it to catch the most light.
Brilliant Earth: Catches The Light Just Right
Engraving Offered: Yes | 360 Degree Viewing: Yes | Shipping: Free shipping in two weeks, depending on center stone | Return policy: Free 30-day returns | Virtual consultations: Yes
This sleek ring from Brilliant Earth features a round diamond that’s precisely cut to feature more than 56 facets that allow for optimal sparkle. The symmetrical, eye-catching shape is matched with a minimalist band that comes in yellow gold, rose gold, white gold and platinum. Delicate and feminine, this pick has classic prongs that hold the center stone in place—both lab-grown and natural options are available.
Blue Nile: Classic Sparkler In A Minimalist Setting
Engraving Offered: Yes | 360 Degree Viewing: Yes | Shipping: Free shipping (speed depends on ring cost) | Return policy: Free 30-day returns | Virtual consultations: Yes
When you think of an engagement ring, this style is likely one of the first to pop into your head. This particular setting from Blue Nile is both timeless and simple, letting the round stone itself take center stage. You can pick from platinum, rose gold, yellow gold and white gold options, depending on the recipient’s preferences; then, pick your desired diamond or gemstone.
Quince: Minimalist, Affordable Pick
Price range:$130 to $750| Custom options:No| Virtual advisors:No| At-home try-on:No| Return policy and warranty:365-day returns, no warranty| Financing:Yes
Quince, although not a conventional jewelry store, provides top-notch rings at reasonable prices, and this extends to their engagement-style rings. The designs are modest but elegant, with most options priced at or below $900. Similar to pricier jewelry stores, their rings are typically made of 14k gold, and they ensure their diamonds are sourced responsibly. Overall, Quince is a solid choice for buyers on a budget who prefer a streamlined selection and minimalist styles.
Three-Stone Ring Styles
Sophisticated and stunning, three-stone rings symbolize a couple’s journey together, with each stone representing the past, present and future. Traditionally, the diamonds are the same shape with the center diamond larger than the two sidestones.
Grown Brilliance: Dazzling As Far As The Eye Can See
Engraving Offered: Yes | 360 Degree Viewing: Yes | Shipping: Free FedEx 2-day shipping | Return policy: Free 30-day returns | Virtual consultations: Yes
This design is ideal for a sentimentalist: The three stones represent the couple’s past memories, the present love and the future together, which has a striking visual impact. The way the two smaller stones flank the central stone also enhances its appearance and makes the ring especially eye-catching, whether you opt for a yellow gold, rose gold, white gold or platinum setting.
Clean Origin: A Sophisticated Ring That Brings The Glamour
Engraving Offered: Yes | 360 Degree Viewing: Yes | Shipping: Free FedEx 2 Business Day shipping | Return policy: 100-day returns in original condition | Virtual consultations: Yes
Not all three-stone designs feature round cut diamonds: Instead, Clean Origin’s design features a trio of lab-grown emerald cut diamonds, with a single stone placed in the center and one on each side of it. The finished design is mounted on a simple, elegant plain band, making this ring just sparkly enough without being too flashy or ostentatious.
Classic Ring Styles
Classic rings can be understated or eye-catching but always emphasize timeless designs that never go out of style. Typically, the ring’s setting emphasizes the beauty of the center stone without too many showy embellishments.
James Allen: Chic And Swoon-Worthy
Engraving Offered: Yes | 360 Degree Viewing: Yes | Shipping: Free overnight shipping | Return policy: 30-day returns in original packaging | Virtual consultations: Yes (real time diamond inspection)
As the name implies, cushion cut diamonds are meant to look like a cushion—since from the side it looks like an actual pillow. James Allen’s ring shows off this classic shape beautifully, and can be designed with either lab-created or natural diamonds. A halo of diamonds around the center stone adds a touch of dramatic flair, while the pavé band bestows a feeling of elegance. Cushion cuts were originally used in royal crowns, which explains their undeniably regal appearance.
Jean Dousset: Elegant Classic With Brilliant Sparkle
Engraving Offered: Yes | 360 Degree Viewing: Yes | Shipping: Made to order in 3-4 weeks; insured 2-day shipping | Return policy: 14-day returns and exchanges | Virtual consultations: Yes
Jean Dousset’s lab-grown diamond ring features a stunning diamond flanked by three rows of pavé. The radiant cut features beautiful faceting, which makes it shine and sparkle with a timeless shape. Keep in mind that this stone is a bit larger than other options, which may not suit a minimalist’s taste. Still, for fans of romantic rings, it doesn’t get much better.
Modern Ring Styles
Sleek, striking and minimalist, modern rings feature standout details, such as distinctive bands, colored gemstones and non-traditional details that highlight your individual style.
Mejuri: Geometric And Striking
Engraving Offered: No | 360 Degree Viewing: No | Shipping: Free expedited shipping; $15 express shipping | Return policy: Free 30-day returns in original condition | Virtual consultations: Yes
Featuring conflict-free natural diamonds in a distinctive cluster design, this modern ring from Mejuri is perfect for those who want something unexpected, but still subtle enough to blend in with the rest of their jewelry. All of the diamonds are Kimberley-Process-compliant while the band is made with 14k solid gold band , set with
Angara: Stunning Sapphire Design
Engraving Offered:Yes |360 Degree Viewing:Yes |Shipping:Free shipping |Return policy:Freewithin 30 days
Not all engagement rings need to feature just diamonds. Angara specializes in colored gemstone engagement rings and wedding jewelry. The options range from sapphires, emeralds, rubies and other stones, all handcrafted and highly customizable, according to your budget and style preferences. This oval sapphire solitaire style features a horizontally-set lab-grown sapphire, accented by three diamonds on either side, for a look that’s mesmerizing and unique.
Vintage-Inspired Ring Styles
With a nod to chic design eras of the past, vintage-inspired rings draw on the distinctive beauty of Victorian, Retro and Art Deco jewelry, among other time periods. These rings are imbued with meaning and often feature unique, handcrafted details that add to their romantic appeal.
Catbird: Charming, Fairy-Like Design
Engraving Offered: No | 360 Degree Viewing: No | Shipping: $6 two-day shipping | Return policy: 10-day returns | Virtual consultations: Yes
Named after the ethereal nymph of streams, brooks and fountains, the Daphne ring is perfect for those who fall on the more whimsical side. Designed by Laurie Fleming, this ring features a dainty emerald cut stone that sits among clusters of delicate, ethically sourced diamonds. Choose from yellow gold, white gold, and rose gold bands.
Plum Diamonds: An Eye-Catching Style
Engraving Offered: No | 360 Degree Viewing: Yes | Shipping: Ships in 15 business days; free overnight shipping | Return policy: Free 30-day returns | Virtual consultations: No
This lab-created diamond ring from Plum Diamonds is set in a cathedral style, which accentuates the center stone by setting it higher, and is finished with a halo of pavé diamonds around it. Pear-shaped diamond rings like this are an unexpected and unique choice—famously worn by both Elizabeth Taylor and Victoria Beckham—and are a cross between a marquise and round diamond cut.
Why Trust Forbes Vetted
At Forbes Vetted, we regularly cover and report on jewelry and accessories. Our team is comprised of editors and contributors who have deep knowledge and experience in the category. When it comes to something as significant as an engagement ring, we understand the importance of making smart and informed buying decisions. When reporting our guides, we carefully research and regularly review many fine jewelry sites, drawing on firsthand testimonials, whether you’re looking for the best places to buy engagement rings or the best lab-grown diamonds. Our deputy fashion editor Kari Molvar holds certifications in lab-grown diamonds and jewelry essentials from the Gemological Institute of America and the International Gem Society. She has a keen eye for both trending and classic styles, and worked to find engagement rings for this story that are not only stunning, but designed to last a lifetime.
What To Consider When Buying An Engagement Ring
There are several factors to consider when shopping for engagement rings, from the cut of the diamond to its overall quality. Here’s what to keep in mind when browsing:
Stone Shape
Diamonds can be cut into many different shapes, and each has its own distinct look and character. Those looking for a more traditional engagement ring may be drawn to round or princess cut stones, while those craving something different may favor a pear or marquise cut. Many sites have a virtual feature that gives you a 360-degree view of the ring, so you can see how the diamond looks from every angle before making your selection.
Grading
The price of your diamond—whether it’s a natural diamond or it’s lab-grown—will be determined by its quality. Both the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and American Gem Society offer great descriptions of the 4 C’s of diamond quality: color, clarity, cut and carat weight. How colorless a diamond is, whether or not it has any blemishes or inclusions, how skilled the faceting is, and how much it weighs are all points to consider.
Return Policy
Make sure you’re aware of a retailer’s return policy before purchasing. Many companies offer 30-day returns, as long as the ring is in its original condition. To reduce the odds of returning your ring, With Clarity offers a service that allows you to try on a replica of any style at home before making your final decision.
What Is The Best Cut For An Engagement Ring?
The best cut for an engagement ring really comes down to the preference of the bride. Round diamonds are the most popular choice—this type of center stone makes for a traditionally beautiful ring. However, those who want something a little more unique may opt for a marquise or pear cut.
Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Good For Engagement Rings?
Lab-grown diamonds are a great choice for engagement rings, as they generally cost 30% to 50% less than naturally occurring diamonds. Since lab-grown diamonds and natural diamonds have the same physical, chemical and optical characteristics, only a trained expert is able to tell the difference. In addition, the process of creating a lab-grown diamond is considered to be more ethical and sustainable than mining natural diamonds from the earth.
How Long Does It Take To Make An Engagement Ring?
If you buy an engagement ring from an online retailer, you can typically receive the ring in two to three weeks. To make a custom engagement ring, it can take anywhere from two to 12 weeks because you need to source a diamond and work through the design process. If you’re planning on going the custom route, it’s always a good idea to order it well in advance of your proposal date to ensure it arrives in time.
More Stories To Shop:
- Best Lab-Grown Diamonds
- Best Places To Buy Diamonds
- Best Online Jewelry Stores
- Best Wedding Bands For Men
- Best Simple Wedding Rings
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