When it comes to ring shopping for the very best engagement rings, even the most radical, non-conforming couples are intrigued. While some traditions have been gleefully thrown into the dustbin of history—I mean, who can even imagine promising to “Obey” anymore?—the desire for the dream engagement ring endures. Whether your ceremony is a barefoot beach affair or a black-tie blowout in a hotel ballroom, those celebrations may be short-lived, but your diamond is forever. (So long as you follow your jeweler’s advice and invest in the warranty.)
Vogue’s Guide to the Best Engagement Rings:
- The Classic Choice: Brilliant Earth east-west aria three stone diamond engagement ring, $2,490
- Traditional With a Twist: Blue Nile GIA-certified oval lab-created diamond twist ring, $4,610
- Dramatic Bands: Sydney Evan 14kt fishnet diamond eternity ring, $2,995
- Vintage-Inspired: Mejuri diamonds cluster ring, $2,300
- Avant-Garde Rings: Brent Neale Knot 18kt gold diamond ring, $9,980
What kind of engagement ring is “best?” It may seem obvious, but it’s the one that reflects your own distinct personality, that speaks directly to your soul—the one you’ve always dreamed of (maybe as much as you’ve dreamed up a dreamy partner.) It could be a classic version, with a center stone plopped upon a gold band; it could be a slightly quirkier iteration of an emerald, princess, marquis, or cushion cut diamond—it could be a three-stone engagement ring doubling as a wedding band; or it could be something totally wild, totally nutty and customizable, that speaks to you in a language only you two understand.
If you are right about now feeling overwhelmed by this vast plethora of choices—in every price point, in every metal, lab-grown or natural diamond, there is an enormous variety of good, better, best engagement rings out there. Would it help if you knew a little history of engagement rings?
It all began, at least allegedly, in 1477, when Archduke Maximillian of Austria commissioned the very first diamond engagement ring for his intended, Mary of Burgundy. Members of the European nobility soon copied his idea, but the notion of a diamond engagement ring was far out of reach for most people, at least until the Victorian era, when a burgeoning middle class had the buying power for such trifles. (If you couldn’t afford a vrai diamond, you could have one of paste.)
Of course, the most revered engagement rings in history were made of the finest materials. French Emperor Napoleon gifted Empress Josephine with the first toi et moi ring, with a pear-shaped sapphire and diamond to symbolize their two hearts; Queen Victoria opted for a snake ring, an unorthodox choice even if it was accented with a large emerald, rubies, and diamonds. Audrey Hepburn brandished a trio of studded bands; Jackie Kennedy rocked an emerald. And Lady Diana Spencer’s famous engagement ring consisted of 14 diamonds surrounding 12 carat oval blue Ceylon Sapphire, set in 18-karat white gold. (Kate Middleton has it now.)
So, how much should you spend on an engagement ring? Forget about the outmoded three-month salary rule. Born in The Great Depression to boost diamond sales, this marketing ploy has has nothing to do with today's economic landscape. Your engagement ring budget should be influenced by your personal financial circumstances and the wedding priorities that matter most to you.
If we learn anything from these lessons in jewelry lore, it is this—there is no one “best engagement ring.” Whether you opt for a classic diamond, a traditional version with a twist, a vintage-inspired design, a dramatic all-in-one band, or something unexpected and truly wild, your ring will be as glorious, and, we hope, as long-lived!–as the relationship it celebrates.
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Classic Rings
For the traditionalist, these engagement rings have stood the test of time. Clean lines, solitaire settings, and pavé accents, allowing the brilliant cut diamond to take center stage.
Traditional with a Twist
Beyond the classics, whether it's white gold, yellow gold or rose gold, these enduring styles have been reinterpreted with radiant new design details.
Dramatic Bands
These studded lovelies combine the beauty of an engagement ring with the grandeur of a wedding band, perfect for a bold statement. If you're a bride who loves to layer their jewelry, these chunky bands are an excellent fit.
Vintage-Inspired
The glories of decades past are embodied in these special creations. Brides who are drawn to the grace and elegance of bygone times will adore the opulent details of these vintage rings.
Avant-Garde Rings
For brides-to-be looking to break away from the typical best sellers, these ultra-cool rings embrace unconventional gemstone arrangements, unique shapes, and often carry symbolic elements. Who says your engagement ring has to color within the lines?