Where to buy engagement rings for women: From diamonds to gold to emerald
ENGAGEMENT rings are having a moment. From bold emeralds to chunky gold bands and vintage styles, the latest trends are all about personal style and flair.
Whether you're after something timeless or something new, we've rounded up where to buy engagement rings from right now.
Buying an engagement ring is a very important process, almost as important as the wedding dress.
From dazzling diamond rings and rich, on-trend emeralds to rich sapphire tones, engagement ring options can cater to every taste and budget.
Some people are choosing to go full contemporary with gold engagement rings, or you can even design the ring completely from scratch.
Here are popular spots where you can buy engagement rings.
Where to buy an engagement ring online
Mejuri
Shop engagement rings at Mejuri
For something modern yet timeless, and with a big focus on sustainability, have a look at Mejuri's selection of rings.
With just 17 engagement ring styles, it's not a huge selection, but they're guaranteed to delight any fashion-forward newlywed-to-be.
Mejuri's designs are created with their impact on the planet and its people in mind, with an ongoing commitment to reduce waste where possible.
Goldsmiths
Shop engagement rings at Goldsmiths
Goldsmiths is a popular place to buy all types of jewellery items, including engagement rings – for him and her.
From cluster designs to solitaires and gold bands to platinum, Goldsmiths has you covered.
You may even be able to pick up your wedding bands here, as well as eternity rings and other jewellery you may want to wear on the big day.
We think Goldsmiths does traditional styles of engagement rings really well and is a great place to look.
Ernest Jones
Shop engagement rings at Ernest Jones
Ernest Jones is another firm favourite for engagement, promise, and eternity rings as well as wedding bands.
From cluster designs and solitaire rings to bridal sets, there are plenty of styles to shop for that are guaranteed to impress your loved one, especially for those wanting alternative stones like sapphire.
Not only does Ernest Jones have a huge selection, but there's also a guide to tailor the perfect engagement ring to your partner.
Ernest Jones often runs sales on its rings, so keep an eye out if you want to save a few pennies.
Ania Haie
Shop engagement rings at Ania Haie
Ania Haie is another place to head to for fine jewellery items, and that includes engagement rings.
What we love about Ania Haie is that there's everything from bold statement designs to more simplistic and minimalist styles.
It's also a great place to shop for those looking for an engagement ring with a slightly lower price tag (as we all know, these can come with a pretty hefty price tag).
H. Samuel
Shop engagement rings at H. Samuel
H. Samuel is a longstanding high street jeweller that many will be familiar with and is often the go-to for engagement rings, with starting prices more affordable than many of the big designer names.
Shoppers can opt for pre-made designs in silver, gold, rose gold, platinum, and a selection of stones, including the popular emerald stone.
Alternatively, you can shop vintage styles and matching bridal sets, which will take the pressure off finding a wedding band to match your engagement ring when the time comes to walk down the aisle.
Buying engagement rings FAQS
How much do engagement rings cost?
The price of an engagement ring can vary from £100-odd from high street retailers to thousands of pounds – or even tens of thousands.
The end price is limitless, especially if you want to design a bespoke engagement ring.
The cost of your engagement ring varies depending on the metal you opt for the band, as well as the cut, carat and clarity of the diamond or precious stone.
Even high-quality vintage and antique rings can cost anything from £1,000 to £20,000+, depending on age, size, style, and gem - sapphires, emeralds, amethysts, and garnets are all popular choices.
What your partner likes and what you're able to afford will largely determine what kind of price you should expect to pay.
How much to spend on an engagement ring
Again, this answer is completely up to you and will depend on varying factors, so it's best to think before you buy.
According to research, the average cost of an engagement ring in the UK in 2020 was £1,865 - however, what you spend is completely up to you, your style preferences and, most importantly, your budget.
Another factor to keep in mind is whether you want one diamond or numerous, as that can also increase costs.
You mustn't spend beyond your means, as ultimately your partner loves you for you and not the size of the rock on their finger.
Choose something special, thoughtful, and within your means to start your next chapter together.
What is the "3-month" rule for buying a ring?
The “3-month rule” is a popular guideline that was formed for the fiancé-to-be, it suggests you spend about three months’ salary on an engagement ring.
It’s not a hard-and-fast rule; and many couples choose to spend more or less depending on their financial situation and priorities.
While it can serve as a helpful budgeting level, it’s not a requirement and shouldn't influence how you go about ring shopping.
The key is finding a ring that feels meaningful without causing financial strain.
Ultimately, the value of the ring lies in the love the two parties have for one another, not the purchase price.
Is Hatton Garden cheaper for engagement rings?
Hatton Garden in London is renowned as the UK’s historic jewellery district, so if you're into shiny things, it's definitely worth exploring.
Many shoppers believe it offers better prices compared to high-street retailers, thanks to all the independent jewellers, wholesalers, and diamond dealers within a stone's throw of each other.
This competitive environment means you can often find a wider range of styles and some engagement rings at more affordable rates.
Prices will still vary depending on the quality, design, and retailer, so it’s important to shop around and compare.
Hatton Garden isn't guaranteed to be cheaper on every ring.
Are lab diamonds as good as real diamonds?
We'd say yes, they are. Lab-grown diamonds are as good as the real thing.
They are chemically, physically, and visually identical to natural diamonds, with the key difference being where they come from.
Natural diamonds are often sourced unethically from the earth, while lab diamonds are created in controlled environments using technology.
The sparkle, durability, and overall appearance of lab-grown diamonds are nearly identical to their mined counterparts, even for a trained jeweller without specialist equipment.
What's more, lab-grown diamonds are also graded in the same way as natural stones, based on the 4Cs, which include cut, colour, clarity, and carat weight.
Lab-grown diamonds are often more affordable and considered a more sustainable, ethical option.