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Courtesy of Parade / Design by Bailey Mariner
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.
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.
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 Madilian. "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.
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.
Best Simple Yet Elegant
VRAI The Round Inlay Band
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Courtesy of 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
Best Radiant-Cut
Vrai The Signature Radiant Engagement Ring
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COURTESY OF 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
Best Oval-Cut
Zales 2 CT. T.W. Oval Diamond Engagement Ring in 14K White Gold
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Courtesy of Zales
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 Hazeline Three-Stone Engagement Ring
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Anna Sheffield
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
Best Emerald-Cut
Brilliant Earth Simply Tacori Delicate Drape Diamond Engagement Ring
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Courtesy of 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)
Best Gemstone
Capucinne Keya Peach Sapphire Diamond Ring
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Courtesy of Capucinne
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
Best Round-Cut
Catbird Juno The Swan
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Courtesy of Catbird
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
Best Diamond Accents
Clean Origin Dylan Ring
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COURTESY OF 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
Most Timeless
David Yurman Eden Engagement Ring in Platinum
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Courtesy of David Yurman
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.
Best Halo Setting
Gemist The Round Halo
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Courtesy of Gemist
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
Best with Baguettes
Danhov Baguette Diamond Engagement Ring Setting
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Courtesy of Greenwich St. Jewelers
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
Most Sparkly
Kwiat ASHOKA Diamond Engagement Ring with Pavé
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Courtesy of Kwiat
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.
Most Unique Band
David Yurman Unity Cable Solitaire Engagement Ring
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Courtesy of David Yurman
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.
Best Criss-Cross Band
Kwiat Engagement Ring with a Round Brilliant Diamond and Pavé Band
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Courtesy of Kwiat
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.
Best Milgrain Style
Brilliant Diamonds Beverly K Halo Engagement Ring
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Courtesy of Beverley K
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.
Most Sleek Three-Stone
Single Stone Amelia
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Single Stone
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.
Best Micropavé Band
James Allen 14K White Gold Three Stone Micropavé Diamond Engagement Ring
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Courtesy of Blue Nile
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)
Best Cushion-Cut
Christopher Designs Crisscut Cushion Engagement Ring
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Christopher Designs
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.
Traditional with a Twist
David Yurman Crossover Micro Pavé Engagement Ring in Platinum, Cushion
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Courtesy of David Yurman
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.
Most Unexpected
De Beers The Promise Small Round Brilliant Diamond Ring
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Courtesy of De Beers
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
For a Hint of Whimsy
Forevermark Integre Cascade Engagement Ring
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Courtesy of Forevermark
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
Best Bling
De Beers Aura Cushion-Cut Diamond Ring
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De Beers
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
Most Delicate
Jennie Kwon Diamond Hope Ring
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Courtesy of Greenwich St. Jewelers
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
Most Romantic
Jade Trau Parasol 1 Ring Setting
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Courtesy of Greenwich St. Jewelers
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
For the Traditional Bride
Harry Winston Classic Winston Oval-Shaped Engagement Ring with Tapered Baguette Side Stones
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Courtesy of Harry Winston
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
Understated Yet Striking
Jack Kelége KGR 1069 Engagement Ring Setting
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Courtesy of Jack Kelége
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
Best Vintage-Inspired
Michael M Define Engagement Ring R737-2OV
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Courtesy of Michael M
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
Most Eye-Catching
Lizzie Mandler Emerald Cut Diamond with Rose Gold Signature Knife Edge Band
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Courtesy of Lizzie Mandler
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.
Best Rose Gold
Penny Preville Liat Ring Setting
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Courtesy of Penny Preville
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
Best Split-Shank
Sylvie Clarinda Setting
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Courtesy of Sylvie
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)
For the Glam Bride
Penny Preville Penelope Round Ring Setting
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Courtesy of Penny Preville
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
Best Mixed Stones
Sylvie Unique Double-Halo Mixed Color Diamond Engagement Ring
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Carroll's Jewelers
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
Most Refined
Tiffany & Co. The Tiffany Setting Engagement Ring
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Courtesy of Tiffany & Co.
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.
Most Feminine
Uneek Oval Diamond Three-Stone Engagement Ring
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Courtesy of Uneek
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)
For the Minimalist
Van Cleef & Arpels Perlée Solitaire
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Courtesy of Van Cleef & Arpels
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
Best Princess-Cut
Bario Neals Avens Diamond Princess Ring
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Courtesy of Bario Neal
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
Most Enduring
De Beers Classic Round Brilliant Diamond Ring
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Courtesy of De Beers
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
Most Lustrous
Hearts on Fire Illustrious Engagement Ring
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Courtesy of Hearts on Fire
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
Most Clean & Classic
De Beers Classic Oval-Shaped Diamond Ring
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Courtesy of De Beers
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
Best Mixed Diamond Shapes
Harry Winston Tryst Emerald-Cut Diamond Engagement Ring
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Courtesy of Harry Winston
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
Most Geometric
De Beers Classic Princess-Cut Diamond Ring
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Courtesy of De Beers
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
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.
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.
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