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Summer may still be the most popular time of year to get married, but these days, wedding season extends across all four seasons, with people saying “I do” during the holidays, during the first blooms of Spring and every month in between. Similarly, engagements are taking place throughout the year, with the best time to pop the question seemingly just when you know it’s right.
Take it from Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce, who got engaged in the dead of summer, or Tom Holland and Zendaya, who reportedly got engaged in January. The old adage of waiting for Valentine’s Day? Consider that thrown out the window, along with old ways of buying a ring too.
Since an engagement ring is often the most significant piece of investment jewelry one will ever purchase, it’s understandable that finding the perfect one can be quite challenging. While shopping for the ring in person is a great option, we’re fortunate to live in an age where many reputable retailers make it possible to buy engagement rings online. Want to know the best places to buy a ring online? Here’s what you need to know.
Where to Buy An Engagement Ring Online
Before diving into our top places to shop (and some of our favorite engagement ring styles), there are a few things to know about shopping for this special ring online.
Measuring a Ring Size
“When trying to find the right size, you can buy an inexpensive ring sizer tool online or print a ring size chart to wrap around your finger, which will give you a great idea on what size is best,” advises Kylie Bee, the Merchandise Lead of Fine Jewelry at Quince. “However, if you need to be discreet, I recommend borrowing a ring they already wear. Ideally it would be a ring they wear on their left or right ring finger, or middle finger, to get as close as possible to the correct size (as all your fingers are different sizes). You can place it on a piece of paper and use a pencil to circle around the inside, and then measure the diameter of the circle you drew. If you’re using this method,” Bee says, “you should make sure to select an engagement ring style that is easily sizable up/down a full to half size. A representative can confirm if the style you select is sizable and by how much.”
Selecting a Ring Style
“When it comes to picking the right style, before choosing a ring, consult trusted friends and family first,” Bee recommends. “They might know her style or have access to a Pinterest board with inspiration. The most important aspects of the ring to look for clues on, are about her preferred diamond shape, carat weight, and metal color. Also try to find out if she prefers natural or lab-grown diamonds. This way, you can balance her tastes with your budget for the perfect ring.”
Lastly when making an investment online, Bee urges you to read the fine print first. “Understanding the return policy and warranty is key when investing in something as meaningful as an engagement ring.”
Now that you feel a little more prepared for your special purchase, read on for the online engagement ring retailers that we’re definitely saying “I do” to.
EDITOR’S CHOICE
Quince Diamond Emerald Petite Pave Engagement Ring
Quince believes that everyone should have access to nice things, which is why they keep prices low by using a factory-direct model that cuts out the supply-chain middlemen and reduces costs. We love their chic range of lab-grown diamond engagement rings that range between $900 and $5,000.
They also offer financing and a generous return policy. “At Quince, all engagement rings can be returned or exchanged within 60 days, and we offer a limited lifetime warranty for peace of mind,” reveals Kylie Bee, Quince’s Merchandise Lead of Fine Jewelry.
CLASSIC STYLE
James Allen 14K White Gold Petite Pavé Crown Diamond Ring
James Allen utilizes its groundbreaking 360° HD Diamond Display technology to pick the best diamonds for all your milestone moments. Once you select your base setting, James Allen offers an easy three-step customization page that allows you to select your ideal natural or lab-grown diamond carat, shape, cut, color, clarity and price.
Financing is available, as well as free shipping and hassle-free, 30-day returns – no questions asked. Lifetime warranty included.
MODERN PICK
Catbird Leda the Swan Diamond Ring
Catbird presents its debut line of engagement rings, The Swans, which they describe as “elegantly modern – instant heirloom engagement rings with classic lines and proportions. Each ring couples flawlessly with a multitude of wedding bands; shape shifting in mood and era depending upon the pairing.”
Made to last a lifetime, the collection is set and hand-finished in their Williamsburg, Brooklyn studio by their expert team of in-house jewelers. Each ring is made with 100% recycled solid 14k gold or platinum. Financing is available, as well as two-day delivery and 10-day returns or exchanges. Catbird also offers complimentary virtual or IRL appointments to help you pick out your perfect piece.
WOMEN-OWNED BUSINESS
Plum Diamonds Three Stone Marquise Engagement Ring
Plum Diamonds is a women-owned and operated business that only works with lab-grown diamonds because they believe that they’re a better bang for your buck — not to mention more eco-friendly.
Plum Diamonds offers a selection of diamonds, side views, bands, metal colors, and engraving, as well as financing, and free resizing and polishing for life. Rings are crafted from scratch in 15-17 business days.
BEST VALUE
Blue Nile Petite Split Shank Solitaire in 14k Yellow Gold
Classic, simple, and budget-friendly, Blue Nile prides itself on quality and presentation. All diamonds are ethically-sourced, and all engagement rings arrive in a deluxe ring box within an elegant presentation box ready for your proposal. The presentation box also secures your appraisal certificate and diamond grading report. Loose diamonds are presented in a velvet lined diamond case that securely holds the stone.
Blue Nile offers financing, free engraving, and a lifetime warranty. What we like: Blue Nile has the widest selection of engagement rings online right now, with various sizes, styles and cuts for every personality and budget. This one above is also available in 14k white gold as well as 18k finishes.
SUSTAINABLE PICK
Vrai The Three Stone Oval Engagement Ring
Vrai’s lab-grown diamonds are crafted from greenhouse gas crystallized in their foundry in America using zero-emission river energy. Once crystallized, the greenhouse gas can no longer go make the atmosphere reflect heat and warm the planet. What that means: each carat helps to save the climate.
Select your shape, carat, metal, and band. Full customization available. All rings are made-to-order. Lifetime warranty and value guarantee.
UNIQUE DESIGN
MiaDonna Pear Floral Engagement Ring
MiaDonna offers premium lab-grown diamonds attainable for all. Each ring showcases stunning brilliance, thoughtful design, and unmatched quality. Select from a variety of diamonds, metals and sizes. Engraving available for an additional cost.
Financing available. Shop with confidence thanks to their lifetime guarantee, 30-day returns, and 90-day complimentary ring resizing.
SHOPPER FAVORITE
Mejuri 14K Gold Diamond Cluster Ring
Mejuri’s pieces are handcrafted from precious materials like solid gold, sterling silver and diamonds — never brass or steel. Although customization options are limited to metal colors (yellow gold or silver), and engraving (free but not eligible for returns), Mejuri’s rings are chic and unique enough to be a fool-proof choice but don’t just take our word for it: these rings have been seen on everyone from Hollywood stars to top influencers.