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Photo by SASHA LANNIER
Choosing an engagement ring is an undoubtedly exciting part of marriage; however, the history is a bit less romantic. Traditionally, engagement rings have been targeted toward women, as they served as replacements for high-priced gifts and dowries and physical representations that a woman was taken. A token of ownership, if you will. Things have come a long way since then and many modern men are choosing to showcase their commitment by wearing one.
"We are finding this a more and more common practice," says Liz Ferris of Valerie Madison Fine Jewelry. "Why should only one partner get to rock some bling in advance of the wedding date?"
Meet the Expert
- Liz Ferris is a custom ring specialist at the Seattle-based sustainable jewelry brand Valerie Madison Fine Jewelry.
While some men may not be interested in a huge, sparkling rock, there are certainly those who want in on the symbolic practice of giving or receiving a beautiful engagement ring. For those who want a little (or a lot) of sparkle, the options are far from short. There are plenty of men’s bands on the market that can serve as engagement rings from brands synonymous with marriage—think Cartier, Tiffany & Co., and De Beers. Additionally, many lesser-known jewelry designers have handsome creations befitting a men's engagement ring.
Ring shopping is a very personal experience. "It's easy to feel pressure to conform to tradition or stereotypes, but only you know your exact preferences, lifestyle, and taste," says Ferris. Since there are a lot more options out there than you’d expect, the first step is figuring out what type of ring suits you or your partner.
We’ve rounded up 34 of our favorite options to inspire you.
Valerie Madison 6mm Men's Hammered Wedding Band
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Courtesy of Valerie Madison
Valerie Madison's hand-hammered wedding bands come in a variety of widths to suit each couples' unique style. A satin finish accentuates every rise and fall of the hammered texture. The band comes in six gold options, including yellow, white, or rose in either 18k or 14k. Half and quarter sizes are available in sizes 6 to 12.
Valerie Madison Mobius Band
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Courtesy of Valerie Madison
The Mobius band comes in three widths and features a mathematical twisted design. The six gold options include yellow, rose, or white in either 18k or 14k. The ring also comes in platinum and in sizes 6 to 12, with half and quarter sizes available.
Blue Nile Black Diamond Channel Set Wedding Ring
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Courtesy of Blue Nile
This elegant band is made with 14k white gold and has a matte finish. The center is channel-set with treated black diamonds for a masculine approach to traditional engagement jewelry. The ring is available in sizes 6 to 13.
Pair two wedding bands together in contrasting metals and textures, and choose one to wear as an engagement ring and save the other for the ceremony to wear as a wedding ring.
Olive Ave Jewelry Slate
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Courtesy of Olive Ave Jewelry
The Slate ring is made from black immerse-plated tungsten in a comfort-fit band. It features contour edging with a satin finish and comes in 6- or 8-millimeter widths. Sizes range from 7 to 12.
John Hardy Classic Chain Band Ring With Black Sapphire
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Courtesy of John Hardy
The sterling silver ring is hand-crafted in Bali with powerful and dramatic detailing. John Hardy's Classic Chain Collection symbolizes both eternal human connection and community bond, fitting for a lifetime commitment. The patterned detailing is set with tiny black sapphires.
De Beers Fused Lines Band
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Courtesy of De Beers
Five bands of platinum are fused together to create a rigid line finish. The fused band measures a total of 5 millimeters in width. A small, secret diamond is placed on the inside of the ring, only known to the wearer.
Olive Ave Jewelry Cannon Ring
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Courtesy of Olive Ave Jewelry
The Cannon ring is hammered with a comfort fit band. It's available in 6- and 8-millimeter widths and is made from tungsten with 18k rose gold PVD (aka, the vacuum coating process known as "physical vapor deposition"). Sizes range from 5 to 14.
Valerie Madison 4mm Birch Wedding Band
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This band is hand-textured to resemble birch bark. The hammered texture stands out against the silky satin finish. The ring comes in 14k and 18k yellow, white, and rose gold and is available in sizes 4 to 12.
Anna Sheffield Virtue Band in Rose Gold and Black Diamonds
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Courtesy of Anna Sheffield
The 7-millimeter band is flanked on a single edge with treated black diamonds. The ring is available in recycled rose, yellow, and white gold and platinum. A custom inner-band engraving and brushed or hammered side detailing can be added. White and champagne diamonds are also available.
Anna Sheffield Classic Half Round Band With Hidden Diamond
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Courtesy of Anna Sheffield
The classic half-round band features a hidden black diamond accent. The 2-millimeter ring is made from 14k recycled yellow gold and can be engraved upon request. Sizes 3 to 12 are available, including half and quarter sizes.
Leo Ingwer GX178 Diamond Wedding Band
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Courtesy of Leo Ingwer
Pictured in white gold, this band is available in several different metals and widths. The ring has a comfortable fit and details a channel-set diamond melee. A bright finish step-edge contrasts the main piece's matte finish.
Anna Sheffield 4mm Brushed Soft Square Band
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Courtesy of Anna Sheffield
The 14k recycled brushed rose gold band is also available in silver and yellow gold. The soft square shape is modern while remaining comfortable and can be engraved. The ring is available in sizes 3 to 12.
Capucinne Personalized Men's Ring
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Courtesy of Capucinne
A champagne gold band is inlaid with crushed natural black spinel. Metal options are 14k or 18k solid yellow, white, or rose gold, or platinum. Sizes options are 3 to 11.5.
Anna Sheffield 5mm Brushed Soft Square Band With Diamond Accent
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Courtesy of Anna Sheffield
A unique square shape with a 5-millimeter band width, this ring puts a masculine twist on a traditional engagement ring. It features a champagne diamond baguette accent in brushed recycled 14k yellow gold, rose gold, or sterling silver. It's available in sizes 3 to 12 and can be engraved.
Brilliant Earth Horizon Sapphire Wedding Ring in 18K White Gold
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Courtesy of Brilliant Earth
The modern band has a softened edge for comfortable wear and features a matte brush finish in 18k white gold, 14k rose gold, 18k white gold, or platinum. A thin vertical row of deep-blue sapphires sits in a single channel setting. This ring comes in any size; however, it cannot be resized after it is made.
Capucinne Dylan Wedding Band With Gemstone
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Courtesy of Capucinne
The Dylan band features a dual finish in solid 14k rose gold with a morganite baguette. Other stones are available per request, and the ring can also be made in 14k or 18k white or yellow gold, 18k rose gold, or platinum.
Olive Ave Jewelry Ridge Band
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Courtesy of Olive Ave
Available in sizes 6 to 14, the Ridge band comes in tungsten with 18k rose gold PVD. The band is eight millimeters wide, and due to the materials, it cannot be resized. You may exchange sizes for a $25 fee.
Bario Neal Milla Square Rims Band
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Courtesy of Bario Neal
This handmade square band has 14k gold rims with a platinum matte finish. Width options are 4, 5, 6, or 8 millimeters and can be custom engraved. Bario Neal is a sustainable jewelry brand, making all rings from either 100 percent recycled metal or fair-mined gold.
Porter Gulch Narrow Comfort Fit Band With Distressed Finish
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Courtesy of Porter Gulch
An ideal choice for the active man, the rounded inner edges and narrow design give this ring a comfortable fit on the finger. Each ring is unique with individual hand-distressing. Metal choices are sterling silver, 14k yellow gold, or 14k palladium white gold, all with a high-polish finish. The bands are made to order with an option for engraving.
Otem Signature Ring II with Black and White Diamonds
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COURTESY OF OTEM
This chunky silver ring boasts a square silhouette with a gapped top. The shape widens to 3 millimeters at the open end and narrows to 1.5 millimeters at the closed end. The piece is made from recycled sterling silver with a brushed matte finish and features black-and-white diamonds.
Lane + Lanae Tag You're It Ring
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Courtesy of Lane + Lanae
This unique piece features a cutout with a .07ct round brilliant-cut diamond. The band is made from 14k white gold is also available in yellow and rose gold. Order from size 4 to 12 with half sizes available.
Nora Kogan Ridgeback Ring in Yellow Gold (4mm)
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Courtesy of Nora Kogan
The handcrafted ring comes in both 14k and 18k solid yellow gold. Ridged edges add interest and contrast to the high-shine finish of the classic and simple design. Available in sizes 8 to 10.
Tiffany & Co. Double Milgrain Ring
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Courtesy of Tiffany & Co.
The engravable unisex ring is textured with a double milgrain motif. A .01ct round brilliant-cut diamond sits centered on the platinum band. The ring is 4 millimeters wide and comes in sizes 3 to 13 with half sizes available.
David Yurman Men's Streamline Narrow Band Ring
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COURTESY OF NEIMAN MARCUS
Handcrafted in sterling silver, this band from David Yurman combines a classic look with an element of surprise. The ring's shank features Yurman's classic rope detailing on both the top and the bottom.
Mejuri Black Onyx Square Signet Ring
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COURTESY OF MEJURI
How can you go wrong with black onyx and gold? The pair come together in this square signet ring that is perfect for a timeless engagement ring with a bit of edge. Sizes range from 7 to 12.
Catbird Classic Wedding Band
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COURTESY OF CATBIRD
Rose gold has risen in popularity over the past few years, and it's not hard to see why. The blush hue perfectly embodies the love between you and your partner and pairs well with both silver and gold jewelry. Engraving options are also available.
Brilliant Earth Matte Baguette Men's Ring
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COURTESY OF BRILLIANT EARTH
This matte brushed band features a single baguette-cut diamond. The ring is available in 18k white gold, 18k yellow gold, 14k rose gold, and platinum.
Blue Nile Satin Finish Wedding Ring
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Sleek and polished, this polished yellow gold ring from Blue Nile is inset with a band of lightweight titanium with a satin finish. It is also available in white 14k white gold.
Tiffany & Co. Men's Engagement Ring
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COURTESY OF TIFFANY & CO.
Go bold with this platinum, emerald-cut diamond ring from Tiffany & Co. This crisp style is a unique twist on a traditional signet ring.
Brilliant Earth Mountain Wedding Ring
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COURTESY OF BRILLIANT EARTH
Nature-lovers will fall for this mountain landscape ring. Crafted in 18k yellow gold, this unconventional band features Mount Everest in a brushed matte finish. The ring is also available in 14k rose gold, 18k white gold, and platinum.
David Yurman Classic Band in Black Titanium
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COURTESY OF DAVID YURMAN
Sometimes less is more, which happens to be the case for this black titanium ring from David Yurman. The ring features the iconic David Yurman rope design on the inside of the band. It is available in sizes 5 to 13.
Piaget Silver Possession 12-Karat White Gold Ring
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COURTESY OF NET-A-PORTER
As a part of Piaget's Possession collection, the brand writes that this ring represents "infinite play of love in motion." Two 18k white gold bands are bonded together in this ring, but they "rotate separately."
Angara Comfort-Fit Arrow Pattern Men's Milgrain Wedding Band
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COURTESY OF ANGARA
For a twist on tradition, consider this arrow pattern ring from Angara. The band also features milgrain detailing for an elegant touch. The comfort-fit ring comes in your choice of yellow gold, white gold, and platinum.
Miansai Silver Duo Sterling Silver and Gold Vermeil Ring
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COURTESY OF MR. PORTER
If you're looking for a two-band ring—perhaps one to represent engagement and the other marriage—consider this duo ring from Miansai. One band is crafted in sterling silver and the other in gold vermeil.
What to Look for When Purchasing a Men's Engagement Ring
Metal
The type of metal you choose will help define your engagement ring's aesthetic, especially if you decide against diamonds or other gemstones. When it comes to metals, there is no shortage of options. Platinum has long been a popular choice for men's rings because it is a subtle and timeless look. On the other hand, gold is also a popular choice that is eye-catching and elegant. For a more romantic look, you may also choose to go with a rose gold ring, which has increased in popularity over the past few years. Sterling silver is another option you might choose, which is crisp and a bit more cost-efficient.
Stones
Diamonds and gemstones are popping up in many men's engagement rings. Traditionally, diamonds were not the center of attention in men's rings, but that is quickly changing. Now you may see rings with a large center stone or even a pavé band for all-around sparkle. If you decide to choose a diamond engagement ring, take into account the 4Cs: color, cut, clarity, and carat weight. These four qualities in a diamond will guide you in the right direction when choosing your ring. For other stones, like black onyx, sapphire, morganite, etc., keep in mind that they are softer stones—meaning they could scratch easier—so they should be held in a safe setting, such as a bezel setting.
Style
In the past, men's wedding rings were standard without many different options outside of metal options. Now, men's engagement rings are more customizable than ever. For example, you may find that you prefer a thinner band compared to a thicker option. Signet rings are also a popular option, especially because there is room for engraving.
FAQs
- Can men wear both an engagement ring and a wedding band? Yes, you can wear both a wedding band along with an engagement ring. Just keep in mind the thickness of each band, so they fit together nicely. If you choose to do both an engagement ring and a wedding band, consider a fused band, so the rings move together on your ring finger.
- What is the average ring size for men? The average ring size for men is a size nine. Most men's engagement rings range in sizes. Generally, you'll be able to find rings in sizes 4 to 13. If your ring size happens to change over time, not to worry. If you bring your ring to your local jeweler, they will slightly stretch the ring for you without trouble.
- How much do men's engagement rings generally cost? Pricing can start around $250 for men's engagement rings and can range up to $2000. Cost depends on the type of metal you get and if you choose a ring with diamonds or other gemstones. Platinum and gold rings tend to be on the pricer side while silver and titanium rings are less costly.
- Where can I shop for a men's engagement ring? Typically, a men's engagement ring can also be marketed as a wedding band, so you can look for your ring at any jeweler that sells men's wedding bands. For a more unique look, brands like Bario Neal, Valerie Madison, and Anna Sheffield are all great places to start. Tiffany & Co., Mociun, and Angara are popular options for a more traditional look.