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Courtesy of Parade / Design by Bailey Mariner
Sure, we love a trend-driven sparkler, but nothing says "I'm engaged" quite like a classic engagement ring. Defined by simplicity and sophistication, these rings are classics for a reason: A traditional diamond cut with a no-frills design never goes out of style. Since you're planning on wearing that rock around your finger for the rest of your life, it only makes sense to choose something you will still love when you're celebrating your 50th wedding anniversary. "Pick from the heart," advises Corina Madilian, one-half of the husband-wife duo behind Single Stone. "Find a ring that you love and speaks to you. Don't get too caught up in the specifics of a center stone only. I encourage my clients to pick something they love, within their budget, and not to focus too much on what they think they 'should' be buying."
From modern jewelry designers, such as Anna Sheffield and VRAI to veteran brands, there are so many options. With the help of Madilian, we found the best classic engagement rings in a variety of metals, shapes, sizes, and budgets. You can't go wrong with a simple solitaire like Vrai's Signature Radiant Engagement Ring, or you can switch it up with a halo-style from Beverly K.
From round-cut (the perennial favorite) to oval-shaped, emerald cut, radiant cut, and princess cut rings, you'll gush over these rings 'til death do you part. Read on for the best classic engagement rings.
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There's a good reason why oval-cut engagement rings continually come back into popularity. This 14k white gold solitaire piece is incredibly classic and doesn't lack any sparkle either.
Who It's For: The bride who likes a lot of sparkle
Metal: 14k White Gold | Stone: Natural Oval Cut Diamond | Stone Size: 2 cw
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Similar to the heirloom-inspired solitaire, this white solitaire ring is flanked by diamond side stones and set in 14k yellow gold. The delicate proportions of the band perfectly balance out the heaviness that can sometimes be present in three-stone designs.
Who It's For: Those who prefer a classic vintage design
Metal: 14k White, Yellow, or Rose Gold | Stone: Natural Round Diamonds | Stone Size: 1.20 cw
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For the bride who is not only timeless but chic and refined, this one's for you. An emerald cut never fails to exude utter sophistication, and this 18k yellow gold solitaire ring does just that.
Who It's For: The bride who wants and elegant and glamorous ring
Metal: Platinum, 18k White, Yellow, or Rose Gold | Stone: Lab-created or Natural Emerald Cut Diamond | Stone Size: 0.50-2 cw
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A sweet and endearing touch to a minimalistic design that is bound to exude long-lasting beauty. This oval peach sapphire ring is adorned with a diamond on either side of the center stone in addition to a solid rose gold band.
Who It's For: Anyone looking for a unique but classic style
Metal: Platinum, 18k White, Yellow, or Rose Gold, 14k White, Yellow, or Rose Gold | Stone: Oval Peach Sapphire and Natural Diamonds | Stone Size: 0.6-0.65 cw
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As graceful as a swan, this three-stone engagement ring elegantly drapes over the ring finger like a bejeweled cloak. A brilliant-cut white diamond is fringed with two horizontally-set, pear-shaped side stones.
Who It's For: Those looking for an heirloom-style and quality ring
Metal: Platinum, 14k White, Yellow, or Rose Gold | Stone: 1 Brilliant Cut Recycled Natural Diamond, 2 Brilliant Pear Cut Natural Recycled Diamonds | Stone Size: 1.27 cw
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For a modern yet timeless option consider this rounded diamond engagement ring. The delicate stone is paired with diamond accents on the gallery and shoulders of the ring.
Who It's For: The bride seeking a timeless and elegant ring
Metal: Platinum, 18k White or Yellow Gold, 14k White, Yellow, or Rose Gold | Stone: Lab-created Round Diamond | Stone Size: 0.2 cw
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David Yurman's iconic cable detailing has always been indicative of love's union of two separate entities. This diamond solitaire may seem exempt from its cable-clad counterparts, but a closer look will show a platinum band with hidden cable detailing. Sometimes the greatest beauty of all is hidden in the details.
Who It's For: Those who want a classic engagement ring with intricate details
Metal: Platinum | Stone: Natural Round Diamond | Stone Size: 0.7+ cw
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The Ashoka cut is widely recognized for its very distinct prismatic brilliance that gives the stone a fiery quality. Here, an Ashoka-cut diamond is encircled by a pavé halo and set on a platinum, pavé band.
Who It's For: Those looking for a classic engagement ring with a unique style
Metal: Platinum, 18k Yellow or Rose Gold | Stone: Ashoka-Cut Natural Diamond | Stone Size: 1-4+ cw
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David Yurman's iconic cable designs are symbolic of the emotional connection in a relationship—the perfect sentiment for an engagement ring. Here, a diamond solitaire is set on an 18k yellow gold cable band.
Who It's For: Brides who want a high-quality understated ring
Metal: Platinum, 18k Yellow or Rose Gold | Stone: Natural Round Diamond | Stone Size: 0.7+ cw
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A criss-cross shank to represent the interwoven love that you and your partner share. A round, brilliant solitaire is set on a platinum pavé band.
Who It's For: Anyone who wants an engagement ring that truly stands out
Metal: Platinum, 18k Yellow or Rose Gold | Stone: Round Brilliant Diamond | Stone Size: 1-4 cw
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A round diamond is framed by milgrain detailing and a diamond pavé halo. The negative space between the halo and the center stone creates the illusion of a floating gem, untethered by the mount. This classic engagement ring is set in a choice of platinum or 18k gold.
Who It's For: Brides looking for a simple ring with elegant details
Metal: Platinum, 18k Yellow, White, or Rose Gold | Stone: Natural or Lab-created Round Diamond | Stone Size: Center Stone: 0.78 to 1.28 (sold separately), side stones: 0.08 cw
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"A classic three-stone, the emerald-cut ring is always a favorite," says Madilian. "The simple lines of the shank and prongs make this a classic option for someone preferring a timeless ring." An emerald-cut diamond center stone is flanked by two diamond baguettes on each side, set in 18k yellow gold.
Who It's For: Anyone seeking a classic, statement ring
Metal: 18k Yellow Gold | Stone: Natural Emerald Cut Diamond, Baguette Cut Diamonds | Stone Size: 2.38 cw
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With a diamond center stone flanked by diamond side stones and a 14k white gold band completely encrusted with micropavé diamonds, this classic engagement ring is very much inspired by distinctive couture pieces.
Who It's For: Brides who want a delicate ring in a classic style
Metal: Platinum, 18k Yellow or White Gold, 14k Yellow, White, or Rose Gold | Stone: Natural or Lab-created Brilliant Round Cut Diamond | Stone Size: 0.20 cw
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Cushion cuts are known for their sweet shape and compounded brilliance. Here, a cushion-cut diamond is framed by a pavé halo, adding to the overall glimmer of the design. The mounting sits on a channel-set pavé band.
Who It's For: A bride who wants a new ring with vintage details
Metal: Platinum, 18k or 14k White Gold | Stone: Natural Cushion Cut Diamond | Stone Size: 0.27 cw
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Timeless sophistication, but make it modern. This contemporary design is comprised of two bands interlocking to create one unified band—there's that matrimonial symbolism again. A diamond center stone sits on the two joined bands of smooth and pavé encrusted textures, set in 18k rose gold.
Who It's For: Those looking for a delicate ring with a lot of sparkle
Metal: 18k Rose Gold | Stone: Natural Round Brilliant Cut Diamond | Stone Size: 0.31 cw
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Halos are exceptional at maximizing a center stone by creating the illusion of higher carat weight, which makes them ideal for stretching an engagement ring budget. Here, a cushion-cut diamond solitaire is framed by a micropavé halo and set on a platinum micropavé band.
Who It's For: Brides who prefer a classic cushion-cut diamond with an updated style
Metal: Platinum | Stone: Natural Cushion Cut Diamond | Stone Size: 0.5-2.54 cw
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A feminine and dainty style to truly withstand the test of time. A diamond solitaire is flanked by a row of three diamond accent stones on each side, and set on the most delicate 14k yellow gold band.
Who It's For: Anyone looking for a simple take on a classic engagement ring style
Metal: 14k Yellow, White, or Rose Gold | Stone: Natural Brilliant Cut Diamond | Stone Size: 0.50 cw
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You can never go wrong with the enduring sophistication of an oval-shaped stone. This refined style features an oval diamond center stone fringed with tapered baguette side stones and set in platinum.
Who It's For: The bride looking for a timeless design
Metal: Platinum | Stone: Natural Oval Diamond Center, Baguette Side Stones | Stone Size: 1-3 cw
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A glimmering solitaire is truly ageless. A round center stone is mounted on a pavé basket and matching band, set in 18k white gold.
Who It's For: Those looking for a delicate ring with stunning details
Metal: 18k White Gold | Stone: Natural Round Diamond (Not included) | Stone Size: 0.75-1.25 cw
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Vintage-inspired designs have already proven their age-defying charm, making them the perfect choice for a piece that will last a lifetime. This classic engagement ring features an oval center stone with pavé halo and band. All set in 18k gold or platinum.
Who It's For: Brides who prefer a timeless style with an oval diamond
Metal: Platinum, 18k White, Yellow, or Rose Gold | Stone: Natural Oval Cut Center Stone (Not included) | Stone Size: 0.67 cw
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A stunning emerald-cut diamond solitaire set in 18k rose gold. The band is created with a knife-edge design that gives it a peaked look rather than the conventionally rounded surface.
Who It's For: Those who want a ring with a classic but unconventional style
Metal: 18k Rose Gold | Stone: Natural Emerald Cut Diamond | Stone Size: Custom
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A classic solitaire, but make it regal. This brilliant solitaire is cradled in a crown of diamonds and set on a diamond-encrusted band with a beautiful filigree design. All set in a choice of 18k gold or platinum.
Who It's For: Brides who prefer engagement rings with special details
Metal: Platinum, 18k Rose, White, Green Gold | Stone: Natural Round Brilliant Cut Diamond (Not included) | Stone Size: 0.34 cw
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Vintage inspiration basically ensures a ring design will be exalted to the immortal ranks of treasured family heirlooms. This piece features an emerald-cut center stone framed by a pavè halo and set on a pavé, split-shank band.
Who It's For: Anyone looking for a ring with a unique design that can support a larger stone
Metal: Platinum, 18k or 14k White, Yellow or Rose Gold | Stone: Natira; Emerald Cut Diamond (Not included) | Stone Size: 2 cw
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A halo is an oh-so sweet and romantic addition that has demonstrated its reluctance to ever go out of style. Here, a round center stone is encased in a diamond pavé halo and set on a pavé band of 18k gold or platinum.
Who It's For: Brides looking for a round stone with lots of embellishments
Metal: Platinum, 18k White, Green, or Rose Gold | Stone: Natural Round Brilliant Cut Diamond (Not included) | Stone Size: Custom
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Why not add a little something blue to a classic engagement ring that will undoubtedly become your family's something old one day. This round diamond center stone is framed by not one but two halos of diamonds and sapphires, set on a diamond-accented band.
Who It's For: Anyone who wants to take a classic style and add some extra color
Metal: 14k White Gold | Stone: Natural Round Brilliant Cut Diamond (Not included) | Stone Size: 1.61 cw
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In the world of bridal jewelry, iconic is synonymous with enduring style and legacy—exactly what we want out of an engagement ring. And no one does iconicity better than Tiffany & Co with their 130-year old, namesake setting. Here, a diamond solitaire sits on an 18k rose gold band.
Who It's For: Those looking for traditional, timeless, high-quality ring
Metal: Platinum, 18k Rose or Yellow Gold | Stone: Natural Round Diamond | Stone Size: 1.0-1.34 cw
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The inspiration for this double-shank silhouette comes from the undulating curves of the female physique. The curvaceous appeal is carried over to the oval diamond center stone flanked by oval side stones, set on diamond-encrusted, 18k gold bands.
Who It's For: Brides who want a bold, yet classic engagement ring style
Metal: 18k White, Yellow, or Rose Gold | Stone: Natural Oval Cut Diamond (not included) | Stone Size: Custom
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A humble band can make just as much of a statement as a brilliant center stone. This classic engagement ring features a diamond solitaire on a white gold, beaded "perlée" band. The band adds tons of dimension and texture to the otherwise simple design.
Who It's For: Those looking for an engagement ring with a stylish band
Metal: 18k White or Rose Gold | Stone: Brilliant Cut Diamond | Stone Size: 0.3-1 cw
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A classic, princess-cut diamond solitaire with a creative twist. Unlike prototypical bands that are fleshed out vertically, this gold band is forged horizontally to show only a razor-thin edge at eye level with the majority of its width visible only from the profile.
Who It's For: Brides who prefer an understated band paired with a solitaire
Metal: 18k White or Yellow Gold, 14k White, Yellow, or Rose Gold | Stone: Lab or natural Princess Cut Diamond | Stone Size: 0.5 cw
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Simplicity is key when it comes to longevity, and solitaires will forever stand the test of time. Here, a round solitaire diamond is set on an 18k yellow gold band.
Who It's For: Brides looking for a ring with a modern, classic style
Metal: 18k Yellow Gold | Stone: Natural Round Brilliant Cut Diamond | Stone Size: 1-1.24 cw
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This may look like an ordinary pavé band at first glance, but closer inspection will show a design that is completely flush with diamonds on all three visible sides. Now that's a lot of sparkle! A round diamond solitaire picks up all of that extra light and refracts in a brilliance that could probably be seen from miles away.
Who It's For: Those looking for a classic engagement ring that sparkles from all sides
Metal: Platinum, 18k White, Yellow, or Rose Gold | Stone: Natural Round Diamond | Stone Size: 0.5-3 cw
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And if yellow gold isn't exactly your speed, this oval diamond solitaire set in platinum will be sure to dazzle for all of eternity. Unlike round stones, the oval shape is ideal for elegantly elongating fingers in the most sophisticated way.
Who It's For: Anyone looking for a contemporary take on the classic design
Metal: Platinum | Stone: Natural Oval Cut Diamond | Stone Size: 1-1.81 cw
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It's hard not to catch a glimpse of this striking emerald-cut ring. The four brilliant round diamonds perfectly framing the center stone is utter perfection.
Who It's For: Brides who want a distinctive and delicate ring
Metal: Platinum | Stone: Natural Emerald Cut Diamond | Stone Size: 0.70-0.99 cw
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With stunning geometric composition, clean lines, and so much brilliance, princess-cut diamonds have the perfect combination of classic style and contemporary modernity to span the ages. Here, a princess-cut solitaire is set in platinum.
Who It's For: Brides looking for a classic engagement ring with an elevated style
Metal: Platinum | Stone: Princess Cut Diamond | Stone Size: 0.76-2.11 cw
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This classic engagement ring from Blue Nile looks stunning with your choice of stone. The elegant ring has a thin shank with a hidden halo design. Choose from a yellow, white, or rose gold, or platinum setting, and add a lab-created diamond solitaire in round, oval, emerald, or several other shapes.
Who It's For: Brides who want a classic ring in a contemporary setting
Metal: 14K Yellow, White, or Rose Gold, 18K Yellow or White Gold, Platinum | Stone: Lab-created Round, Cushion, Princess, Emerald, Oval, Radiant, Asscher, Marquise, or Pear Cut Diamond (not included) | Stone Size: 0.25-8.0 cw
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Featuring a 2.75 cw round center moissanite stone, this split shank engagement ring adds an element of interest to the classic engagement ring. Set in white or yellow gold, the pavé accent stones give this ring major sparkle.
Who It's For: Those looking for an engagement ring with lots of style and sparkle
Metal: 14K Yellow or White Gold | Stone: Lab-created Round Moissanite | Stone Size: 2.75 cw
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This classic engagement ring from With Clarity is a true sparkler. The center stone (lab or natural diamond) sits in a four-prong setting flanked by channel-set baguettes along both sides of the band. You have a choice of yellow, white, rose gold, or platinum set with a round, radiant, cushion, emerald, or oval center stone to truly make this ring your own.
Who It's For: Brides who want a ring with elegant details
Metal: 14K or 18K Yellow, White, or Rose Gold, Platinum | Stone: Natural or Lab-created Round, Radiant, Cushion, Emerald, Oval (not included) | Stone Size: Center stone: 0.25 - 20 cw (sold separately), side stones: 0.5 cw
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With tapered baguettes set on either side of a classic solitaire, this classic engagement ring has a graceful and romantic design. The slim band comes in your choice of white, yellow, rose gold, or platinum, and it’s easy to stack with a wedding band. The center stone can be a round, oval, emerald, princess, cushion, or asscher lab-created or natural diamond.
Who It's For: Those looking for a graceful ring with a timeless style
Metal: 14K Yellow or White Gold, 18K Yellow, White, or Rose Gold, Platinum | Stone: Natural or Lab-created Round, Oval, Emerald, Princess, Cushion, Asscher (not included) | Stone Size: Center stone: 2 - 3 cw (sold separately), side stones: 0.31 cw
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If you’re in search of a classic engagement ring, but want to find one with a bit of flair, the De Beers Forevermark ring adds a bit of whimsy to the traditional sparkler. The intricately designed, stackable band features eight individual smaller diamonds on each side set in delicate curves. The round diamond solitaire is bezel-set in yellow, white, or rose gold.
Who It's For: Brides who want a ring with petite stone in a stylish setting
Metal: 18K Yellow, White, Rose Gold | Stone: Natural Round Diamond | Stone Size: 0.36 - 0.49 cw
Other Options You Might Like
VRAI The Round Inlay Band
Classic, clean, and utterly elegant, we absolutely love this unisex ring from VRAI . It features a semi-rounded polished surface for the band and a single round brilliant diamond to add the perfect touch of sparkle and sophistication. Wear it solo or stack it with other rings for a dynamic look.
Sydney Evan Gold & Diamond Marquise Eye Cluster Ring
This dainty pick is made from 14k yellow gold and features a diamond marquise eye bezel prong cluster. It's perfect for those looking to make a subtle statement that's modern and unique.
What to Look for When Choosing a Classic Engagement Ring
- Cut: While some cuts come and go, others will always remain timeless. Round-cut diamonds, like Catbird's Juno the Swan Ring, will never go out of style because of their versatility and their elegance. Oval cuts are classic in the same way. Emerald cuts, while bolder, still make a statement that can withstand the test of time, like this one from Brilliant Earth. Trendier cuts, such as a marquise cut or an Asscher cut, may fall in and out of style over the years. "Trend-driven styles are great if you are committed to these elements and committed to loving them for the duration," says Madilian. "If you are picking something of the moment just because you are currently seeing and liking it, you may not feel the same down the line, which is perfectly fine if you are comfortable knowing you may be resetting your stone or replacing the ring entirely when you are over it."
- Setting: For the ultimate classic look, you can't go wrong with a solitaire setting, like Vrai's Signature Radiant Engagement Ring. But a timeless engagement ring doesn't mean that you have to sacrifice a bit of sparkle. Pavé or halo settings, like Beverly K's Halo, are also a great option to highlight your center stone. If you aren't looking to break the bank on an engagement ring right now, then choosing a simple design is the perfect option. Down the line, you will be able to add a halo setting or a few more diamonds to your classic ring for a bit more sparkle.
- Quality: The quality of your classic engagement ring comes from a balance of the 4Cs of buying a diamond: cut, color, clarity, and carat. It's important to find a trusted jeweler to work with you to find a ring that combines all those qualities. If buying an engagement ring online, make sure your ring comes with a certificate of authentication to ensure the quality of your stone.
Why Trust Brides
Shane Clark is a former fashion and accessories editor at Brides, InStyle, and Harper's Bazaar. She is now a brand and creative consultant for the fashion, bridal, and fine jewelry industries. For this article, Clark interviewed jewelry designer Corina Madilian.
- Corina Madilian, one-half of the husband-wife duo behind Single Stone, has over 15 years experience designing heirloom-quality jewelry for the brand and over 30 years in the industry.
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