The Best Places To Buy Engagement Rings, According To Jewelry Experts (2024)

Engagement rings are set in stone, quite literally, so buying one is one of the most important decisions a couple can make. Choosing what style and look to commit to can be daunting, but the best places to buy engagement rings have simplified the process and made it less intimidating. Now you can find a variety of prices and ring styles, as well as services and guarantees to give you peace of mind. The first step: Ask a lot of questions.

“When it comes to engagement rings, there is no such thing as a silly question," says New York-based jewelry consultant Mirta de Gisbert. Many retailers offer online consultations, where you can talk about ring styles, your budget and return policies. At Forbes Vetted, we are experts in jewelry, having tested first-hand many of the retailers in this story. Our deputy fashion editor, Kari Molvar, holds a certificate in jewelry essentials from the Gemological Institute of America, and analyzed each selection for quality, craftsmanship and overall value. Ahead, the best places to buy engagement rings, whether you’re looking for lab-grown diamonds, customized styles or affordable options.

• Best Engagement Rings Overall: Blue Nile
• Best Lab-Grown Diamond Engagement Rings: Vrai
• Best Traditional Engagement Rings: James Allen
• Best Natural Diamond Engagement Rings: With Clarity
• Best Affordable Engagement Rings: Clean Origin
• Best Value Engagement Rings: Quince
• Best Minimalist Engagement Rings: Mejuri
• Best Customized Engagement Rings: Grown Brilliance
• Best Engagement Rings For Variety: Zales
• (PAID PLACEMENT) You May Also Like: Brilliant Earth

Why Trust Forbes Vetted

For this piece, the author Andrea Servert Alonso-Misol spoke with gemologists and jewelry designers to get their insights and advice on choosing rings and diamonds—along with other gemstones—for a variety of styles and budgets. This includes New York-based jewelry designer and branding expert Stéphane Krumenacker as well as jewelry consultant Mirta de Gisbert, who holds a graduate degree in gemology from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). In addition, Forbes Vetted’s deputy fashion editor Kari Molvar oversaw this guide, and holds certificates in lab-grown diamonds from the International Gem Society as well as jewelry essentials from GIA.

This story is regularly updated to guarantee all prices, availability and the best versions of the products are as current as possible. It was last updated in January 2024.

How We Chose The Best Places To Buy Engagement Rings Online

There are hundreds (even thousands) of online retailers where you can purchase an engagement ring. Our team extensively researched the online jewelry shops to verify they are a reliable seller with quality products. We also sourced experts to understand how to make the best engagement ring purchases online. Before you commit to a ring you’ve been eyeing, below are a few things to consider:

Reputation

First things first: When buying an engagement ring online, give the retailer a call and ask about their history, their company and any press they have received. These details will provide you with an immediate sense if the retailer is an authentic seller, or not. You can also research and look at reviews online from actual customers to give you a better idea of the jeweler and their products.

Service

Look at the retailer's policies before making a selection on an engagement ring. With most of the country still experiencing shipping delays, you will want to know how long it will take the ring to get to you and the costs associated with shipping. Learning the return policy is also key. There’s always a chance the ring may not be what you ordered or expected (think unexpected flaws or damage). Ask if the retailer has any procedures in place if the ring is damaged, lost or stolen.

Quality

Always check the quality of the jewelry and diamonds with a certified expert. If a retailer cannot guarantee the authenticity of the ring and stones, you want to steer clear of purchasing from them. A good engagement ring should have the best stones and carats available, especially if you're customizing a ring.

Our Best Buying Advice For Engagement Rings

• The Four Cs: If you go down the diamond route, you’ll encounter descriptions that refer to the diamond’s color, cut, clarity and carat—the four Cs. The color judges how colored the diamond is (colorless being the most valuable). The cut speaks of its polishing, distinguishing between round brilliant (which reflects more light and is therefore more precious) and fancy cuts. The clarity refers to the presence or lack of inclusions (or marks) in the stone ("flawless" being the clearest diamonds). And finally, the carat refers to the weight of the diamond: The more carats, the more expensive. While it might seem easy to choose a diamond based on these set parameters, jewelry designer Stéphane Krumenacker suggests focusing on the stone itself. "There’s a tendency to search for perfection based on a chart, but that can end up feeling a bit clinical,” he says. “Asymmetries and imperfections make the stone unique, which can be even more beautiful."
• Sustainability: When you’re buying gold or diamonds, consider its provenance and read the fine print. "There’s a big movement to trace where the gold and diamonds have come from, and certain companies focus on ethically-sourced stones or diamonds," says Krumenacker. Lab-grown diamonds are a good alternative that skips the mining process altogether, and reclaimed materials such as heirloom diamonds or old family jewels are not only sustainable but also a meaningful approach to buying an engagement ring.
• Setting: The setting speaks of the presentation of the stone on the metal band where it sits (which is usually gold or platinum). The most simple setting is the solitaire. "In a lot of modern settings, the idea is to hold up the stone in the cleanest possible way,” says Krumenacker. “That’s why if you see a very thin engagement band, the stone is what really catches your eye." To give presence to a small stone (or to create a more statement piece), one can add a halo of pavé around it, or complement it with other diamonds or colored-stone accents. "Nowadays there’s a trend around delicate Victorian-style designs,” finds Krumenacker, adding that beauty is created by “a smaller diamond that’s held in place by a lace of intricate metalwork."
• Shape: Stones come in a variety of shapes. "Round shapes are the most iconic because they maximize the potential brilliance of the diamond," explains Krumenacker. But once again, other shapes (such as pear, oval, cushion or marquise) can give character and uniqueness to a ring. Square cuts, such as the Asscher, typically are thought of as streamlined and clean where as curvy styles are more whimsical and less traditional.

Where Is The Best Place To Buy An Engagement Ring?

The best place to buy an engagement ring will vary depending on your preferences, budget and priorities. Online jewelers provide a wide range of options, often at competitive prices. They offer convenience and the ability to compare different designs and prices easily. Reputable retailers like Blue Nile, Vrai and Brilliant Earth are known for their quality and transparency. Antique and vintage shops offer a selection of unique and timeless engagement rings with character and history—these rings often have distinctive designs and can be eco-friendly options. Ultimately, the best place to buy an engagement ring is where you feel comfortable, confident in the quality and ethics of the purchase, and you find a ring that matches your style.

How Do I Choose An Engagement Ring?

Online, the options might seem endless, but Krumenacker starts with this piece of advice: "It’s a heavily marketed world, so it’s easy to get pushed in one direction or another.” As clichéd as it might sound, he says, “I really would recommend following your heart."

It also helps to do some research beforehand. “You might want to have a conversation with your partner around the engagement ring and find out whether or not this person prefers to have input on it—after all, they’re going to be the one wearing it," says de Gisbert. Some people might have a very specific preference for a certain stone, setting or design. Trying on a few rings in advance is also another must for de Gisbert, even for those who have a precise idea of what they want. "Different stone shapes can be more flattering than others on some hands. You might be surprised at what feels good when worn and what looks great on your hand versus what you initially had in mind."

How Far In Advance Should I Look For An Engagement Ring?

If you’re ready to pop the question—or even if you’re just thinking about it—you don’t want shipping times on a potential ring to put a damper on your big moment. "To be extra cautious and mindful of potential delays, I recommend giving yourself three months,” says de Gisbert. “That way, it can be a relaxed experience versus rushing to get something done.” Keep in mind the return policy of your chosen retailer. Although, hopefully, there’ll be no reason for the ring to go back to the store.

What Size Should The Engagement Ring Be?

Generally, ring sizes for women go from 4 to 10, corresponding to different ring diameters: The bigger the ring, the bigger the size. The easiest way to figure out your size (or that of the person you’re buying the ring for) is by measuring the diameter of a ring that fits well. Many retailers also offer sizing charts, like this one from Blue Nile, or even ring sizers to try at home. If all else fails, in most cases, a ring resizing is possible, and sometimes it’s even offered as a complimentary service by the jewelry retailer.

What About Vintage Engagement Rings?

If you’re interested in natural diamonds but want a sustainable option, or one with sentimental value, buying a vintage engagement ring can be a good choice. Our top pick for finding top-quality, authentic, pre-owned rings is 1st Dibs, since the reseller conducts a thorough inspection process and only accepts vintage jewelry that meets its high standards. If you’re considering this option, here’s what to weigh:

Value For The Money: Depending on the size and quality of the diamond, vintage rings can cost less than newly crafted ones with similar gemstones and materials. Many vintage rings also often feature unique and intricate designs that set them apart from their modern counterparts, and convey a sense of history and emotional value. Importantly, purchasing a previously-owned ring can be a more ethical and environmentally conscious decision than buying a new ring with mined diamonds or even lab-created diamonds, which can contribute to energy consumption and carbon footprints.

Limited Options And Availability: Finding the perfect vintage engagement ring that matches your preferences can be challenging. Vintage rings are pre-designed, so you have limited options for customization. Resizing an antique ring can also be complex and costly, potentially affecting its integrity.

Quality Craftsmanship: Many vintage rings display a high level of craftsmanship and durability. But they may show signs of wear or require maintenance due to their age. For that reason, check to see if you’ll need to make repairs to the ring—especially to the prongs or setting—and ensure that your pick is in good condition.

Certification And Documentation: Authenticating the provenance and quality of a vintage ring can be tricky. Make sure to ask for certificates or documentation when possible to verify the authenticity of the gemstones and materials.

How To Clean Your Engagement Ring

If you want your engagement ring to sparkle like the first day you slipped it on, follow these pointers from our resident jewelry expert and deputy fashion editor Kari Molvar.

Prep And Materials Needed:

• Small bowl filled with warm water
• Mild dish soap
• Soft-bristle brush or toothbrush
• Lint-free cloth

Prepare The Cleaning Solution: Fill the small bowl with warm water and add a few drops of mild dish soap. Mix it gently to create a soapy solution.

Soak The Ring: Place your engagement ring in the soapy water and let it soak for about 20 to 30 minutes. This will help loosen any dirt or residue.

Brush Gently: After soaking, use the soft-bristle toothbrush to gently scrub the ring, paying special attention to the setting and any crevices where dirt might accumulate. Be careful not to use too much pressure, as it could scratch the metal or damage delicate stones.

Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the ring under warm running water to remove any soap residue. Use a fine-mesh sieve or a plug in the sink to prevent accidental drops down the drain.

Dry And Polish: Pat the ring dry with a lint-free cloth, making sure to remove all moisture. You can also use a jewelry polishing cloth to bring out the shine and remove any remaining fingerprints. Whatever you do, don’t rub the ring dry with a paper towel since that can scratch gold and silver settings.

Optional: Professional Cleaning: If your ring has stubborn dirt or is set with fragile stones, consider taking it to a professional jeweler for a thorough cleaning. You can also use a specialized cleaner at home. Based on the reporting in our guide to the best jewelry cleaners, the top pick for diamonds is Juli Diamond Cleaning Kit.

More Stories To Shop:

• Best Engagement Rings
• Best Places To Buy Diamonds Online
• Best Wedding Bands For Men
• Best Simple Wedding Rings
• Best Everyday Jewelry
• Best Jewelry Brands