Engagement rings are set in stone, quite literally, so buying one is one of the most important decisions a couple can make—apart from actually getting married, of course. 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.
The best places to buy engagement rings offer top-notch service combined with high-quality designs. Birthstone Jewelry Sets
“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 senior fashion editor, Kari Molvar, has spent years collecting jewelry and analyzed each selection for quality, craftsmanship, ethical practices and overall value. Ahead, the best places to buy engagement rings, whether you’re looking for lab-grown diamonds, minimalist styles or affordable options.
Price range: $250 to $40,000 | Custom options: Yes | Virtual advisors: Yes | At-home try-on: No | Return policy and warranty: 30-day returns and lifelong warranty | Financing: Yes
Blue Nile was one of the first fine jewelry retailers to embrace online shopping. It, too, offers many ways to shop for engagement rings, including a custom option. Between those, its own collection, and collaborations with designers (such as Zac Posen), the site offers a huge range of engagement rings. The brand focuses on ethically-sourced diamonds and also offers a price-match guarantee as well as a diamond upgrade program—great for those who plan on investing in the ring’s quality over time.
What the reviews say: “I recently purchased and proposed to my fiancé with a 2 carat oval cut diamond on a gold setting with 4 white gold prongs, it was absolutely stunning and we both love it. The process was super simple and easy, the selections were definitely in abundance and you could narrow down to whatever you’d like and the customer service representatives were spectacular, any question at any time of the day they were there and eager to answer.”
Price range: From $1,000 to $12,000 | Custom options: Yes | Virtual advisors: Yes | At-home try-on: No | Return policy and warranty: 30-day returns and lifetime warranty | Financing: Yes
Vrai exclusively uses lab-grown diamonds from its own foundry, meaning there’s truly no middleman between the stone’s source and its setting. The diamonds are grown sustainably in America with an entirely hydro-powered production process, which eliminates carbon emissions, and certified by gemologists for quality. Vrai also offers a wide range of styles, from timeless solitaire rings to three-stone rings with pavé bands.
What the reviews say: “I had a 2 carat princess cut set into this ring style and the diamond looked massive! She wanted something simple and I already felt like I was in trouble when I first held the ring. My expectations were exceeded and my fiancée is ecstatic. I was concerned about the comfort of her pinky and middle finger because of the knife edge, but she said it's not an issue.”
Price range: $410 to $5,000 | Custom options: Yes | Virtual advisors: Yes | At-home try-on: Yes | Return policy and warranty: 30-day returns and lifetime warranty | Financing: Yes
This top-rated online retailer offers a few ways to shop for engagement rings. First, there’s a collection of preset styles that can be ordered immediately. Second, use the custom ring tool with dozens of ways to customize the setting, diamond (including natural or lab-grown), shape, metal and so on. But what really sets it apart is the try-at-home program, where you can choose two preset 3D-printed replica rings to slip on, for free. This gives you an idea of what styles you like before creating your own order.
What the reviews say: “My fiance loves it. Everybody who sees the ring is shocked and thinks I spent a fortune. I myself am not a jewelry person but I know I had to get something good for the love of my life. The process into creating the ring was smooth and they had a nice selection of diamonds to choose from. The price beat any chain jewelry store I went to and I was able to get a bigger and nicer stone for the fraction of the price.”
Price range: $130 to $750 | Custom options: No | Virtual advisors: No | At-home try-on: No | Return policy and warranty: 365-day returns, no warranty | Financing: Yes
While Quince is not a traditional jewelry retailer, the brand offers high-quality products at fair prices—which translates to their rings. Its selection is limited but sophisticated, with most options around or under the $500 price tag. As with other (and more expensive) jewelers, the rings usually come in 14k gold, and the diamonds are ethically produced. It’s a great option for those who have a limited budget and don’t want to confront endless choices when looking for the right ring.
What our fashion editor says: “Quince has become extremely popular in the last year or so for their extremely well priced and high-quality items, including jewelry. The price can’t be beat on this ring, even though it’s on the small side. Plus, the one-year return policy is so generous that there’s very little risk to trying out anything that catches your eye.”
Price range: $550 to $144,000 | Custom options: Yes | Virtual advisors: Yes | At-home try-on: No | Return policy and warranty: 30-day returns and lifetime warranty | Financing: Yes
Brilliant Earth was founded on the principles of ethical diamond sourcing, including mined, recycled and lab-grown gems. (For the record, lab-grown stones have the same chemical composition as natural ones, making them virtually indistinguishable.) The brand’s “Beyond Conflict Free” mined diamonds take its commitment to transparency in ethical sourcing further by working with carefully vetted suppliers who demonstrate robust diamond tracing protocols and work with mines that support fair labor practices. From one-of-a-kind custom pieces to classic solitaire styles, Brilliant Earth’s ethical diamond engagement rings fit a wide range of tastes and budgets.
Price range: $550 to $18,750 | Custom options: Yes | Virtual advisors: Yes | At-home try-on: No | Return policy and warranty: 100-day returns and lifetime warranty with Forever Service Plan | Financing: Yes
With plenty of setting options starting at less than $1,000, Clean Origin is a good choice for those on a tighter budget. You’ll find both traditional and unconventional engagement rings in a range of shapes, cuts and colors, and the option to customize styles as well. Clean Origin’s lab-grown diamonds are ethically creating using High Pressure-High Temperature (HPHT) or Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD).
What reviews say: “I can’t say enough, first off, how perfect the ring came out as described. The diamond was exactly as advertised and my fiancé couldn’t be happier. The service was tremendous, as I had to reroute the delivery and the team was incredibly responsive and helpful through it all.”
Price range: $225 to $3,700 | Custom options: No | Virtual advisors: Yes | At-home try-on: No | Return policy and warranty: 30-day returns and two-year warranty | Financing: Yes
Direct-to-consumer fine jewelry brand Mejuri manages to make engagement rings that are both affordable and interesting, featuring clusters of gemstones and diamonds in artful settings that feel utterly contemporary. Forget about the classic solitaire: These rings have a modern sensibility, and while mostly minimal, they all feature a design twist that will allure the most fashionable brides-to-be.
What the reviews say: “This ring is absolutely gorgeous and Mejuri was wonderful to work with. I purchased it for my upcoming wedding and had engraving added. The engraving came out close but not quite right the first time, and Mejruri replaced it with correct ring quickly and easily. A wonderful experience!”
Price range: $1,125 to $23,730 | Custom options: Yes | Virtual advisors: Yes | At-home try-on: No | Return policy and warranty: 45-day returns and lifetime warranty | Financing: Yes
Grown Brilliance is best known for its Truly Custom program: Send in inspiration photos and sketches and the jeweler creates a highly personalized piece. There’s also a wide variety of pre-designed engagement rings, including a collection from couture fashion designer Badgley Mischka. Grown Brilliance is also committed to sustainability: The jewelry is made with ethically sourced lab-grown diamonds and 100% recycled gold.
What the reviews say: “My fiancé absolutely loved this 2 carat ring for our engagement. It came in the timeframe promised and was sent securely. The engraving on this ring was beautiful and makes this moment special for the both of us. The ring seems very high quality at an affordable price.”
Price range: $250 to $29,000 | Custom options: Yes | Virtual advisors: Yes | At-home try-on: No | Return policy and warranty: 30-day returns and lifetime warranty | Financing: Yes
James Allen’s extensive range of engagement rings is ideal for those who aren’t quite sure which style they’d like to commit to yet—you’ll find minimalist, contemporary designs alongside ornate, vintage-inspired pieces. You also have the option to customize your ring, which includes selecting either a lab-grown or natural diamond. The James Allen website is equipped with an interactive 360-degree preview feature, so you can get a glimpse of each ring from any angle.
What the reviews say: “I was initially terrified during my ring shopping experience. It can be incredibly overwhelming for an individual like me who knew nothing about where to start. James Allen was great—it simplified the process and made it far easier than I had anticipated. The ring itself was better than expected. My fiancé (who said yes!) absolutely adores it.”
Price range: $45 to $70,000 | Custom options: Yes | Virtual advisors: Yes | At-home try-on: No | Return policy and warranty: 30-day returns and lifetime diamond commitment | Financing: Yes
If you aren’t afraid of too much choice, Zales offers nearly ten thousand engagement rings on its site. From minimal solitaires to ornate halo rings, it’s a treasure trove that covers multiple styles, including those designed by Vera Wang, at every price range. Although the focus is on diamonds, you can find plenty of other gemstones, and options to customize your ring, too.
What our fashion editor says: “Zales has been around for a while but is constantly updating their styles to include modern picks, such as this beautiful ring designed by Vera Wang. I love the frame of blue sapphires around the center diamond—it’s so unique and eye-catching.”
Price range: $800 to $13,700 | Custom options: No | Virtual advisors: No | At-home try-on: No | Return policy and warranty: 100-day returns and 100-day product warranty | Financing: No
Sorting through loose diamonds and hundreds of ring settings is not for everyone. Stone And Strand aims to simplify the process: The NYC-based jeweler has a beautiful collection of modern-classic engagement rings in the most popular settings, already designed and made with ethically-sourced diamonds. Simply choose your setting, your preferred carat weight (1 or 1.5 carats) and ring size, and the rest is all set. Each ring is still made to order and ships out in 8 weeks.
What our fashion editor says: “While I don’t own one of Stone And Strand’s engagement rings, I do have their lab-grown diamond earrings, and they are stunning. The cut and precision of the design is flawless. I also love that the brand is a woman-founded small business.”
Price range: $340 to $12,750 | Custom options: Yes | Virtual advisors: Yes | At-home try-on: Yes | Return policy and warranty: 30-day returns, add-on 5-year warranty program | Financing: Yes
Verlas is an online-only jewelry retailer that puts an emphasis on sustainability and it currently holds a Butterfly Mark certification from Positive Luxury. Made with ethically sourced natural diamonds, Verlas’ engagement rings are conveniently customizable. If you’re stuck between a few different designs, try the company’s complimentary try-at-home program. Just note that Verlas’ offerings are more traditional and classic—you won’t find many unconventional designs or diamond alternatives.
What the reviews say: “It is perfect! Thank you for delivering excellence despite these times we're living in. The ring is great, perfect size and color.”
Price range: $100 to $7,000,000 | Custom options: No | Virtual advisors: No | At-home try-on: No | Return policy and warranty: Depends on seller | Financing: No
For authenticated antique jewelry online, there’s no match for 1st Dibs. The company works with a trusted network of top vintage and contemporary sellers across the world to source pieces you really won’t see anywhere else, with styles from the 18th century to modern day. The selection of engagement rings is enormous and the price range is broad, starting around $100 and reaching into the millions (yep, plural). Everything is thoroughly vetted and all purchases include buyer protection for a stress-free shopping experience.
What our fashion editor says: “Buying a vintage ring is such a special idea but you definitely want to know the ring is authentic and in excellent condition. 1st Dibs is highly trusted within the fashion industry and I appreciate how you can live chat with sellers to ask questions. This particular ring is stunning and comes with an authenticity certificate and full lab report on the diamonds.”
Price range: $150 to $23,000 | Custom options: Yes | Virtual advisors: Yes | At-home try-on: No | Return policy and warranty: 30-day returns and one-year warranty | Financing: Yes
Whether you’re interested in natural or lab-grown diamonds, all of Helzberg Diamonds’ stones are ethically sourced and conflict-free. The retailer’s pre-set designs are breathtaking, but you also have the option to customize your ring, if you wish. Helzberg Diamonds frequently collaborates with designers such as Jenny Packham and Zac Posen; those interested in wallet-friendly diamond alternatives should shop the moissanite collection.
What the reviews say: “Beautiful ring, it looks stunning and even better in person. The diamonds on it sparkle from any angle. I’m in love!”
Price range: $300 to $15,500 | Custom options: No | Virtual advisors: Yes | At-home try-on: Yes | Return policy and warranty: 10-day domestic returns and one-year warranty | Financing: Yes
Catbird began as a little storefront in Brooklyn that became popular locally for its ultra-dainty jewelry with names like the threadbare ring and sweet-nothing choker. In addition to its own Catbird line of jewelry, the boutique has engagement rings from independent jewelry designers, such as Sofia Zakia and Jennie Kwon. There’s a substantial collection of ready-to-ship diamond rings, as well as designs with sapphires, rubies and emeralds, as an alternative to more traditional styles.
What our fashion editor says: “I have worn and collected Catbird jewelry for years. I own many, many of their rings, and love the quality and delicate styles. Just keep in mind that the rings are more on the subtle side, so they’re best for someone who appreciates less showy jewelry.”
Price range: $1,700 to $88,800 | Custom options: Yes | Virtual advisors: Yes | At-home try-on: No | Return policy and warranty: 14-day returns and lifetime warranty | Financing: Yes
Jean Dousset’s stunning lab-grown diamond engagement rings are categorized by collection, ranging from the timeless, elegant Audrey to the iconic, bestselling Chelsea (pictured). Once a ring catches your eye, you have the option of virtually trying it on using a QR code on the website. Most customizable rings are also eligible for complimentary engraving, so you can add a personalized touch to your piece.
What the reviews say: “I cannot commend the Jean Dousset team enough for their amazing service throughout the entire experience. Not having much knowledge of engagement rings or the process going into it, the team enthusiastically assisted me and helped craft the perfect ring for my fiancé. I'm always catching her staring at it with a big smile on her face.”
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 senior fashion editor Kari Molvar oversaw this guide, tapping into her own experience covering the best online jewelry stores on the market.
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 November 2023.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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."
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.
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.
Selecting an engagement ring is more than a purchase; it's a symbol of your life together as a couple. Here’s how to simplify the process and make it a memorable experience.
Forget the “two months’ salary” myth of how to spend on an engagement ring. Determine what you're comfortable spending without financial strain. Then manage expectations. Communicate with your partner about price and budget to ensure you're on the same page.
Each diamond shape has its own character and significance. For instance, oval diamonds can appear larger than round ones of the same carat weight. Align the diamond's shape with your partner's style. Consider their lifestyle, profession and fashion sense.
From classic prongs to modern bezels, each engagement ring setting tells a different story. A halo setting, for instance, can make the center stone appear larger. Then, choose a setting that complements your partner's lifestyle and daily activities. Active types might benefit from a more secure, snag-free design.
Explore beyond traditional gold and platinum. Metals like palladium offer a unique look and durability. Also, consider how different metals complement your partner's skin tone. Rose gold, for instance, offers a warm hue.
Pay attention to your partner’s current jewelry. Do they prefer modern or vintage? Bold or understated? If this engagement ring is a surprise, creatively find out your partner’s ring size. Use an existing ring as a reference, or involve their friends in the quest.
Compare local jewelers, national chains and online retailers. Each has unique advantages in terms of service, selection and price. Don’t overlook online stores for better deals and wider selections. Look for ones with top-notch customer support and 360-degree virtual views of engagement rings as well as online consultations.
Ensure your engagement ring and the diamond come with certification from reputable labs like Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and American Gem Society (AGS). Be clear about return policies, resizing options and warranties.
You’ll want to protect any engagement ring with appropriate insurance coverage. It’s a small price for peace of mind against loss or damage, whether it’s during shipping or 10 years down the road.
Essential styles In the end, an engagement ring is a symbol of your journey. Consider customizations that add personal significance, like engravings or using a family heirloom diamond. The best places to buy engagement rings make the process enjoyable and help you choose a ring that not only looks beautiful but also holds deep personal value.