Does the carat size matter?

When it comes to diamonds, it's easy to think that bigger is better. However, carat size should be considered with the cut and clarity of the diamond. A bigger diamond will show imperfections if the stone is of low quality. So, when choosing your carat size, make sure to consider all of the four Cs of your diamond.

Is the color or clarity more important to consider?

When choosing your diamond, it's important to consider both color and clarity, although, depending on the shape of your diamond, one may be more relevant than the other. The bottom line is that a perfect diamond takes into account both color and clarity.

What elements should I look out for to ensure it remains timeless?

The trendier the style of your ring is, the more likely it will go out of style as time passes. Do some research and see if the style you are after is considered "trendy" or if it has ever fallen out of style in the past. Opting for a solitaire ring, like David Yurman's Unity Ring , is sure to remain timeless while choosing a style like a cluster ring may not.

The 41 Best Classic Engagement Rings of 2023

Sure, we love a trend-driven sparkler, but nothing says "I'm engaged" quite like a classic engagement ring. Defined by simplicity and sophistication, these rings are classics for a reason: A traditional diamond cut with a no-frills design never goes out of style.

Since you're planning on wearing that rock around your finger for the rest of your life, it only makes sense to choose something you will still love when you're celebrating your 50th wedding anniversary. "Pick from the heart," advises Corina Madilian, one-half of the husband-wife duo behind Single Stone. "Find a ring that you love and speaks to you. Don't get too caught up in the specifics of a center stone only. I encourage my clients to pick something they love, within their budget, and not to focus too much on what they think they 'should' be buying.

From modern jewelry designers, such as Anna Sheffield and Vrai to veteran brands, there are so many options. With the help of Madilian, we found the best classic engagement rings in a variety of metals, shapes, sizes, and budgets. You can't go wrong with a simple solitaire like Vrai's Signature Radiant Engagment Ring or you can switch it up with a halo-style from Gemist.

Introducing VRAI x Brides: Shop our exclusive collection of lab-grown diamond jewelry, perfect for the big day and beyond.

Read on for the best classic engagement rings on the market. From round-cut (the perennial favorite) to oval shaped, emerald cut, radiant cut, and princess cut, you'll gush over these rings 'til death do you part.

classic gold diamond vrai engagement ring

Courtesy of VRAI

View On Vrai

Metal: 18K Yellow or White Gold, 14K Rose Gold, or Platinum | Stone: Round Brilliant | Stone Size: 0.10 cw

Classic, clean, and utterly elegant, we absolutely love this unisex ring from the VRAI x Brides Collection. It features a semi-rounded polished surface for the band and a single round brilliant diamond to add the perfect touch of sparkle and sophistication. Wear it solo or stack it with other rings for a dynamic look.

Price at time of publish: $1,400

Vrai

View On Vrai

Metal: Platinum, 18k Yellow or White Gold, 14k Rose Gold | Stone: Radiant Cut Diamond | Stone Size: 0.65-4.03 cw

This radiant cut diamond is undoubtedly an eye-catching and timeless piece. Vrai's signature style sits low on your finger and is flush with your wedding ring. It is the perfect way to symbolize you and your partner's love.

Price at time of publish: starting at $1,050

Zales

View On Zales.com

Metal: 14k White Gold | Stone: Oval Cut Diamond | Stone Size: 2 cw

There's a good reason why oval-cut engagement rings continually come back into popularity. This 14k white gold solitaire piece is incredibly classic and doesn't lack any sparkle either.

Price at time of publish: $7,500

Anna Sheffield

View On Annasheffield.com

Metal: 14k White, Yellow, or Rose Gold | Stone: Round Diamonds | Stone Size: 1.20 cw

Similar to the heirloom-inspired solitaire, this white solitaire ring is flanked by diamond side stones and set in 14k yellow gold. The delicate proportions of the band perfectly balance out the heaviness that can sometimes be present in three-stone designs.

Price at time of publish: $16,900

Brilliant Earth

View On Brilliant Earth

Metal: Platinum, 18k White, Yellow, or Rose Gold | Stone: Emerald Cut Diamond | Stone Size: 0.50-2 cw

For the bride who is not only timeless but chic and refined, this one's for you. An emerald cut never fails to exude utter sophistication, and this 18k yellow gold solitaire ring does just that.

Price at time of publish: starting at $2,150 (setting only)

Capucinne

View On Capucinne.com

Metal: Platinum, 18k White, Yellow, or Rose Gold, 14k White, Yellow, or Rose Gold | Stone: Oval Peach Sapphire and Diamonds | Stone Size: 0.6-0.65 cw

A sweet and endearing touch to a minimalistic design that is bound to exude long-lasting beauty. This oval peach sapphire ring is adorned with a diamond on either side of the center stone in addition to a solid rose gold band.

Price at time of publish: $1,450

Catbird

View On Catbirdnyc.com

Metal: Platinum, 14k White, Yellow, or Rose Gold | Stone: 1 Brilliant Cut Recycled Diamond, 2 Brilliant Pear Cut Recycled Diamonds | Stone Size: 1.27 cw

As graceful as a swan, this three-stone engagement ring elegantly drapes over the ring finger like a bejeweled cloak. A brilliant-cut white diamond is fringed with two horizontally-set, pear-shaped side stones.

Price at time of publish: $12,500

Clean Origin

View On Clean Origin

Metal: Platinum, 18k White or Yellow Gold, 14k White, Yellow, or Rose Gold | Stone: Round Diamond | Stone Size: 0.2 cw

For a modern yet timeless option consider this rounded diamond engagement ring. The delicate stone is paired with diamond accents on the gallery and shoulders of the ring.

Price at time of publish: $1,585 for 14k white gold

David Yurman

View On Davidyurman.com

Metal: Platinum | Stone: Round Diamond | Stone Size: 0.7+ cw

David Yurman's iconic cable detailing has always been indicative of love's union of two separate entities. This diamond solitaire may seem exempt from its cable-clad counterparts, but a closer look will show a platinum band with hidden cable detailing. Sometimes the greatest beauty of all is hidden in the details.

Courtesy of Gemist

View On Gemist.co

Metal: Sterling Silver, 14k White, Yellow, or Rose Gold | Stone: Round, Emerald, or Oval Cut Stone | Stone Size: 1-2 cw

Crafted in Los Angeles, this classic ring comes with a choice of a round, emerald, or oval diamond. It sits in a halo setting on a 14k white gold band.

Price at time of publish: starting at $1,500

Danhov Baguette Diamond Engagement Ring Setting

Greenwich St. Jewelers

View On Greenwichjewelers.com

Metal: 18k White Gold | Stone: Baguette Diamonds | Stone Size: 1.5 cw

A band of channel-set, baguette diamonds gives this traditional solitaire a flair of masculinity for a modern, androgynous aesthetic. The center stone is sold separately.

Price at time of publish: $5,080 for setting only

Kwiat

View On Kwiat.com

Metal: Platinum, 18k Yellow or Rose Gold | Stone: Ashoka-Cut Diamond | Stone Size: 1-4+ cw

The Ashoka cut is widely recognized for its very distinct prismatic brilliance that gives the stone a fiery quality. Here, an Ashoka-cut diamond is encircled by a pavé halo and set on a platinum, pavé band.

Courtesy of David Yurman

View On Davidyurman.com

Metal: Platinum, 18k Yellow or Rose Gold | Stone: Round Diamond | Stone Size: 0.7+ cw

David Yurman's iconic cable designs are symbolic of the emotional connection in a relationship—the perfect sentiment for an engagement ring. Here, a diamond solitaire is set on an 18k yellow gold cable band.

Kwiat

View On Kwiat.com

Metal: Platinum, 18k Yellow or Rose Gold | Stone: Round Brilliant Diamond | Stone Size: 1-4 cw

A criss-cross shank to represent the interwoven love that you and your partner share. A round, brilliant solitaire is set on a platinum pavé band.

Brilliant Diamonds

View On Brilliantdiamonds.us

Metal: Platinum, 18k Yellow, White, or Rose Gold | Stone: Round Diamond | Stone Size: 0.08 cw

A round diamond is framed by milgrain detailing and a diamond pavé halo. The negative space between the halo and the center stone creates the illusion of a floating gem, untethered by the mount. The ring is set in a choice of platinum or 18k gold.

Single Stone

View On Singlestone.com

Metal: 18k Yellow Gold | Stone: Emerald Cut Diamond, Baguette Cut Diamonds | Stone Size: 2.38 cw

"A classic three-stone, the emerald-cut ring is always a favorite," says Madilian. "The simple lines of the shank and prongs make this a classic option for someone preferring a timeless ring." An emerald-cut diamond center stone is flanked by two diamond baguettes on each side, set in 18k yellow gold.

James

View On Jamesallen.com

Metal: Platinum, 18k Yellow or White Gold, 14k Yellow, White, or Rose Gold | Stone: Brilliant Round Cut Diamond | Stone Size: 0.20 cw

With a diamond center stone flanked by diamond side stones and a platinum band completely encrusted with micropavé diamonds, the ring is very much inspired by distinctive couture pieces.

Price at time of publish: $1,720 (setting only)

Christopher Designs

View On Merryrichardsjewelers.com

Metal: Platinum, 18k or 14k White Gold | Stone: Cushion Cut Diamond | Stone Size: 0.27 cw

Cushion cuts are known for their sweet shape and compounded brilliance. Here, a cushion-cut diamond is framed by a pavé halo, adding to the overall glimmer of the design. The mounting sits on a channel-set pavé band.

David Yurman

View On Davidyurman.com

Metal: Platinum | Stone: Cushion Cut Diamond | Stone Size: 0.30+ cw

A traditional mainstay takes on a delicate disposition with a split shank and negative space giving off a dainty look. The cushion-cut center diamond seems to be mounted on a crossed micropavé double band, set in platinum.

De Beers

View On Debeers.com

Metal: 18k Rose Gold | Stone: Round Brilliant Cut Diamond | Stone Size: 0.31 cw

Timeless sophistication, but make it modern. This contemporary design is comprised of two bands interlocking to create one unified band—there's that matrimonial symbolism again. A diamond center stone sits on the two joined bands of smooth and pavé encrusted textures, set in 18k rose gold.

Price at time of publish: $3,300

Forevermark

View On Shopidc.com

Metal: White Gold | Stone: Round Diamond | Stone Size: 0.62 cw

A classic design transforms into a whimsical display with a scalloped halo of diamonds providing a frilly, floral-like texture. A diamond solitaire is framed by the halo and set on a pavé band of white gold.

Price at time of publish: $2,600

De Beers

View On Debeers.com

Metal: Platinum | Stone: Cushion Cut Diamond | Stone Size: 0.5-2.54 cw

Halos are exceptional at maximizing a center stone by creating the illusion of higher carat weight, which makes them ideal for stretching a ring budget. Here, a cushion-cut diamond solitaire is framed by a micropavé halo and set on a platinum micropavé band.

Price at time of publish: starting at $6,400

Jennie

View On Jenniekwondesigns.com View On Twistonline.com

Metal: 14k Yellow, White, or Rose Gold | Stone: Brilliant Cut Diamond | Stone Size: 0.50 cw

A feminine and dainty style to truly withstand the test of time. A diamond solitaire is flanked by a row of three diamond accent stones on each side, and set on the most delicate 14k yellow gold band.

Price at time of publish: $3,450

Greenwich St. Jewelers

View On Jadetrau.com

Metal: 18k Yellow Gold | Stone: Halo of Diamonds (Center Stone Sold Separately) | Stone Size: 0.30 cw

There's something incredibly romantic about a satin finish that just doesn't translate in high-polished styles. Here, a round center stone with a diamond halo is set in a choice of 18k gold.

Price at time of publish: starting at $3,700

Harry Winston

View On Harrywinston.com

Metal: Platinum | Stone: Oval Diamond Center, Baguette Side Stones | Stone Size: 1-3 cw

You can never go wrong with the enduring sophistication of an oval-shaped stone. This refined style features an oval diamond center stone fringed with tapered baguette side stones and set in platinum.

Price at time of publish: starting at $22,000

Jack KelÃ©ge

View On Frankadams.com

Metal: 18k White Gold | Stone: Round Diamond (Not included) | Stone Size: 0.75-1.25 cw

A glimmering solitaire is truly ageless. A round center stone is mounted on a pavé basket and matching band, set in 18k white gold.

Price at time of publish: $2,750

Michael

View On Nefj.com

Metal: Platinum, 18k White, Yellow, or Rose Gold | Stone: Oval Cut Center Stone (Not included) | Stone Size: 0.67 cw

Vintage-inspired designs have already proven their age-defying charm, making them the perfect choice for a piece that will last a lifetime. This ring features an oval center stone with pavé halo and band. All set in 18k gold or platinum.

Price at time of publish: $5,810

Lizzie Mandler

View On Lizziemandler.com

Metal: 18k Rose Gold | Stone: Emerald Cut Diamond | Stone Size: Custom

A stunning emerald-cut diamond solitaire set in 18k rose gold. The band is created with a knife-edge design that gives it a peaked look rather than the conventionally rounded surface.

Penny Preville

View On Pennypreville.com

Metal: Platinum, 18k Rose Gold | Stone: Round Brilliant Cut Diamond (Not included) | Stone Size: 0.34 cw

A classic solitaire, but make it regal. This brilliant solitaire is cradled in a crown of diamonds and set on a diamond-encrusted band with a beautiful filigree design. All set in a choice of 18k gold or platinum.

Price at time of publish: $3,905

Sylvie

View On Sylviecollection.com

Metal: Platinum, 18k or 14k White, Yellow or Rose Gold | Stone: Emerald Cut Diamond (Not included) | Stone Size: 2 cw

Vintage inspiration basically ensures a ring design will be exalted to the immortal ranks of treasured family heirlooms. This piece features an emerald-cut center stone framed by a pavè halo and set on a pavé, split-shank band.

Price at time of publish: $2,530 (does not include center stone)

Penny Preville

View On Pennypreville.com

Metal: Platinum, 18k White, Green, or Rose Gold | Stone: Round Brilliant Cut Diamond (Not included) | Stone Size: Custom

A halo is an oh-so sweet and romantic addition that has demonstrated its reluctance to ever go out of style. Here, a round center stone is encased in a diamond pavé halo and set on a pavé band of 18k gold or platinum.

Price at time of publish: $3,720

Sylvie Unique Double-Halo Mixed Color Diamond Engagement Ring

Carrolls Jewelers

View On Carrollsjewelers.com

Metal: 14k White Gold | Stone: Round Brilliant Cut Diamond (Not included) | Stone Size: 1.61 cw

Why not add a little something blue to a classic engagement ring that will undoubtedly become your family's something old one day. This round diamond center stone is framed by not one but two halos of diamonds and sapphires, set on a diamond-accented band.

Price at time of publish: $2,275

Tiffany

View On Tiffany.com

Metal: Platinum, 18k Rose or Yellow Gold | Stone: Round Diamond | Stone Size: 0.2-1.86 cw

In the world of bridal jewelry, iconic is synonymous with enduring style and legacy—exactly what we want out of an engagement ring. And no one does iconicity better than Tiffany & Co with their 130-year old, namesake setting. Here, a diamond solitaire sits on an 18k rose gold band.

Uneek

View On Uneekjewelry.com

Metal: 18k White, Yellow, or Rose Gold | Stone: Oval Cut Diamond | Stone Size: Custom

The inspiration for this double-shank silhouette comes from the undulating curves of the female physique. The curvaceous appeal is carried over to the oval diamond center stone flanked by oval side stones, set on diamond-encrusted, 18k gold bands.

Price at time of publish: $6,595 (does not include center stone)

Van Cleef

View On Vancleefarpels.com

Metal: 18k White or Rose Gold | Stone: Brilliant Cut Diamond | Stone Size: 0.3-1 cw

A humble band can make just as much of a statement as a brilliant center stone. This ring features a diamond solitaire on a white gold, beaded "perlée" band. The band adds tons of dimension and texture to the otherwise simple design.

Price at time of publish: $3,650

Bario Neals

View On Bario-neal.com

Metal: 18k White or Yellow Gold, 14k White, Yellow, or Rose Gold | Stone: Princess Cut Diamond | Stone Size: 0.5 cw

A classic, princess-cut diamond solitaire with a creative twist. Unlike prototypical bands that are fleshed out vertically, this gold band is forged horizontally to show only a razor-thin edge at eye level with the majority of its width visible only from the profile.

Price at time of publish: starting at $1,920

De Beers

View On Debeers.com

Metal: 18k Yellow Gold | Stone: Round Brilliant Cut Diamond | Stone Size: 1-1.24 cw

Simplicity is key when it comes to longevity, and solitaires will forever stand the test of time. Here, a round solitaire diamond is set on an 18k yellow gold band.

Price at time of publish: starting at $12,000

Hearts on Fire

View On Heartsonfire.com

Metal: Platinum, 18k White, Yellow, or Rose Gold | Stone: Round Diamond | Stone Size: 0.5-3 cw

This may look like an ordinary pavé band at first glance, but closer inspection will show a design that is completely flush with diamonds on all three visible sides. Now that's a lot of sparkle! A round diamond solitaire picks up all of that extra light and refracts in a brilliance that could probably be seen from miles away.

Price at time of publish: starting at $14,650 for 18k white gold with 1 cw center stone

De Beers

View On Debeers.com

Metal: Platinum | Stone: Oval Cut Diamond | Stone Size: 1-1.81 cw

And if yellow gold isn't exactly your speed, this oval diamond solitaire set in platinum will be sure to dazzle for all of eternity. Unlike round stones, the oval shape is ideal for elegantly elongating fingers in the most sophisticated way.

Price at time of publish: starting at $11,000

Harry Winston

View On Harrywinston.com

Metal: Platinum | Stone: Emerald Cut Diamond | Stone Size: 0.70-0.99 cw

It's hard not to catch a glimpse of this striking emerald-cut ring. The four brilliant round diamonds perfectly framing the center stone is utter perfection.

Price at time of publish: starting at $9,500

De Beers

View On Debeers.com

Metal: Platinum | Stone: Princess Cut Diamond | Stone Size: 0.76-2.11 cw

With stunning geometric composition, clean lines, and so much brilliance, princess-cut diamonds have the perfect combination of classic style and contemporary modernity to span the ages. Here, a princess-cut solitaire is set in platinum.

Price at time of publish: starting at $10,400

Meet the Expert

Corina Madilian is one-half of the husband-wife duo behind Single Stone. With over 15 years of designing jewelry for the brand and over 30 years in the industry, Madilian is an expert in creating timeless, heirloom-quality styles and restoring antique pieces.

What to Look for When Choosing a Classic Engagement Ring

Cut

While some cuts come and go, others will always remain timeless. Round-cut diamonds, like Catbird's Juno the Swan Ring, will never go out of style because of their versatility and their elegance. Oval cuts are classic in the same way. Emerald cuts, while bolder, still make a statement that can withstand the test of time, like this one from Brilliant Earth. Trendier cuts, such as a marquise cut or an Asscher cut, may fall in and out of style over the years.

"Trend-driven styles are great if you are committed to these elements and committed to loving them for the duration," says Madilian. "If you are picking something of the moment just because you are currently seeing and liking it, you may not feel the same down the line, which is perfectly fine if you are comfortable knowing you may be resetting your stone or replacing the ring entirely when you are over it."

Setting

For the ultimate classic look, you can't go wrong with a solitaire setting, like Vrai's Signature Radiant Engagement Ring. But a timeless engagement ring doesn't mean that you have to sacrifice a bit of sparkle. Pavé or halo settings, like Gemist's Round Halo, are also a great option to highlight your center stone.

If you aren't looking to break the bank on an engagement ring right now, then choosing a simple design is the perfect option. Down the line, you will be able to add a halo setting or a few more diamonds to your classic ring for a bit more sparkle.

Quality

The quality of your classic engagement ring comes from a balance of the 4Cs of buying a diamond: cut, color, clarity, and carat. It's important to find a trusted jeweler to work with you to find a ring that combines all those qualities. If buying an engagement ring online, make sure your ring comes with a certificate of authentication to ensure the quality of your stone.

FAQ

Does the carat size matter?

When it comes to diamonds, it's easy to think that bigger is better. However, carat size should be considered with the cut and clarity of the diamond. A bigger diamond will show imperfections if the stone is of low quality. So, when choosing your carat size, make sure to consider all of the four Cs of your diamond.
Is the color or clarity more important to consider?

When choosing your diamond, it's important to consider both color and clarity, although, depending on the shape of your diamond, one may be more relevant than the other. The bottom line is that a perfect diamond takes into account both color and clarity.
What elements should I look out for to ensure it remains timeless?

The trendier the style of your ring is, the more likely it will go out of style as time passes. Do some research and see if the style you are after is considered "trendy" or if it has ever fallen out of style in the past. Opting for a solitaire ring, like David Yurman's Unity Ring, is sure to remain timeless while choosing a style like a cluster ring may not.

Why Trust Brides

Shane Clark is a former fashion and accessories editor at Brides, InStyle, and Harper's Bazaar. She is now a brand consultant for fine jewelry and fashion. For this article, Clark interviewed jewelry designer Corina Madilian. Madilian is one-half of the husband-wife duo behind Single Stone. With over 15 years of designing jewelry for the brand and over 30 years in the industry, Madilian is an expert in creating timeless, heirloom-quality styles and restoring antique pieces.

Diamond Engagement Rings: How and Where to Buy