Engagement ring shopping has evolved dramatically in recent years, with modern couples embracing new approaches that blend tradition with contemporary values. As reported by jewellery retailers across the UK, engagement ring purchases continue to remain strong, with couples increasingly prioritising sustainability, personalisation, and meaningful design over outdated conventions.
If you’ve decided it’s time to pop the question, you may be feeling a little overwhelmed by the choice available when buying an engagement ring. There once was a time where choosing an engagement ring only needed a few questions answered; white or yellow gold? Emerald or princess cut? What size? Now there are a whole host of new things you need to consider before you take the plunge and buy a ring.
When it comes to important purchases in your life, engagement rings can be one of the most stressful and exciting items you’ll ever buy, especially when combined with planning the proposal. Confidence is vital, and we’re here to help you feel less overwhelmed. With that in mind, here’s how to buy the perfect engagement ring in 2025.
Budget Expectations
There has always been conflicting information out there about how much you’re expected to spend on an engagement ring. Some say you should spend at least £3,000 and others claim it should be at £1,000, at the very least. Both figures were likely dreamt up by Big Jewellery, but there you go…
According to recent industry data, the average spend on engagement rings in the UK sits at around £2,000, though this varies considerably depending on the retailer, style, and materials chosen.
Considering that back in 2016 the average spend of an engagement ring was just £573, the increase over the past decade has been notable. However, this rise doesn’t necessarily mean people are spending more out of pocket. The introduction of lab-grown diamonds has revolutionised the market, allowing buyers to purchase larger, higher-quality stones for significantly less than natural diamonds would cost.
Don’t be sucked in by ‘average spend’ or swayed by peer pressure; the actual amount you should spend on an engagement ring is whatever you are comfortable with spending, and you should create a budget early on to understand what you can reasonably afford, whether that’s £100, £1,000 or £10,000.
Everyone’s magic number is different. Most jewellers can advise you on what options fit your budget; whether you are looking for a bespoke package or a ring you can walk away with the same day, there are engagement rings that will suit every level of funds.
The Changing Rules Of Proposals
Modern relationships are built on equality and expression, so it’s only natural that proposals reflect that too. The days of one-size-fits-all traditions are fading fast, with many couples now taking a more collaborative approach to choosing the ring and planning the moment.
For some, that means designing the ring as a team – combining ideas, trying on styles, and discussing what fits their shared aesthetic and values. For others, it’s about being part of the planning process without knowing every detail, keeping just enough surprise to make it memorable.
An engagement ring chosen together carries a sense of unity – a symbol not just of love, but of teamwork. It says, this is our story, our way. And there’s no “wrong” way to propose anymore. A quiet moment at home can be as meaningful as a mountaintop view. The key is intention, not expectation.
The Right Style
It can be stressful when choosing jewellery for someone, but it can be an extremely daunting process when it comes to the engagement ring. When someone is buying a ring, they want to be sure that the recipient will love the style. You know your partner better than you think, but we have some helpful tips:
Current jewellery: take note of what your partner already wears; what style do they choose for watches, rings, bracelets, necklaces, or earrings? Is there a pattern or particular metal they tend to go for? All of the pieces they wear daily or own will tell you what you need to know about what they like.
Take pictures: If you’re still unsure, take some pictures and show a jeweller; they will be able to spot distinctive styles that your partner likes and direct you to the closest matches in rings. And if that match just isn’t close enough, then rest assured that you can find custom engagement rings, designed to your most detailed of specifications.
Ask their friends or family: confide in your partner’s close friends or family that you plan to propose. They will be able to help you with styles and can tell you what your partner likes. If you want to keep things a surprise, be sure to swear them to secrecy.
Hints: a great way to piece together what your partner’s dream ring will look like is to pay attention to any hints they may be dropping or drop some yourself to gauge their reaction. Comment on rings you’ve seen family and friends wearing that have recently gotten engaged as a good way to get their opinions without them knowing what you’re planning.
Stone Choices
There are many choices when it comes to what stone to choose for your engagement ring, whether you’re looking for a timeless classic aesthetic or you want something more unique and elegant with a little colour.
Lab-Grown Diamonds
This earth-friendly stone is one of the most popular choices for couples in 2025, due in part to the sustainability of lab-grown diamonds as well as them having identical brilliance and fire to mined diamonds at a fraction of the cost. Indeed, according to CNBC, lab-grown diamonds are now favoured by 52% of engagement ring buyers.
Lab-grown diamonds are second to none on the hardness scale, making them extremely durable and resistant to scratches. Because they’re created in controlled environments, you can be positive they’re created in an ethical and sustainable way – the same often can’t be said for mined diamonds.
Natural Diamond
A classic choice for engagement rings, natural diamonds remain popular for those who value traditional prestige, though many couples now opt for lab-grown or synthetic varieties that offer the same beauty at a more accessible price point and with clearer ethical sourcing.
Sapphire
Sapphires have become increasingly popular since we saw one on the hand of Kate Middleton. This elegant stone is a wonderful option when you want to add a little colour to an engagement ring.
Who says your engagement ring has to be a diamond? Some clever marketing back in 1947 saw the rise of diamonds becoming the staple for engagement rings. But now, couples are choosing gemstones that mean more to them, such as sapphire engagement rings which have grown in popularity since Princess Diana, and indeed now Kate Middleton’s beautiful sapphire halo engagement ring.
Ruby
When looking for a romantic alternative, rubies are a fantastic choice. The deep red looks impressive in any setting, especially when surrounded by a halo of small clear-coloured stones.
Emerald
The unique bright colour of an emerald ring is bound to catch the attention and bring out the green envy of your partner’s friends or family.
Cut Styles
If you’re buying a ring that will hold a stone, you’re bound to be asked what style of cut you want for the stone. Surprisingly, this question stumps most people. The cut will determine the overall aesthetic of the engagement ring you buy, but we’re here to help explain some of the more popular styles of cut available:
Round: A traditional shape for engagement rings, you can’t go wrong with this look as it allows plenty of light into the stone for a fantastic sparkle.
Radiant: This cut has a square shape with cropped, flat corners. Often the cut of choice for those who prefer quirky styles.
Oval: Similar to the round shape, the oval cut allows more light to pass through for a more brilliant finish. Oval cuts were the most popular choice in 2024, according to anecdotal evidence of jewellery insiders.
Emerald: If your partner is a fan of vintage styles, the emerald cut is perfect for them. A stylish and sleek cut traditionally used for emeralds that compliments any type of stone.
Princess: A sharp, square shape, the princess cut is a popular choice for engagement rings, especially if it is accompanied by multiple stones in the same cut.
Pear: Also known as the teardrop cut, this shape is more unusual and is often thought of as a quirky take on the round or oval cut.
The Rise Of Vintage Rings
Consider buying vintage or second hand for sustainability and unique character. People increasingly value the unique character and history of antique pieces, as well as the sustainable appeal of giving existing jewellery new life.
When buying online, it’s hard to get proper advice on buying second hand engagement rings, not least that you can’t try the ring on. A trip to the jewellery Lanes of Brighton, London’s Hatton Garden or Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter could be just the ticket on your quest to find the ideal ring for you, allowing you to sample a few before you buy.
Vintage and antique rings offer unique character that you simply can’t find in modern pieces, often featuring intricate craftsmanship and distinctive design elements from different eras. They’re also typically more affordable than buying new, and you’re giving existing jewellery new life rather than requiring new materials to be mined or manufactured.
Rings That Reflect Your Values
The ring remains the heart of the proposal, but its meaning has transformed. Modern couples are choosing designs that reflect both their style and their story.
Sustainability is a growing focus, with lab-grown diamonds and recycled metals offering a way to combine beauty with responsibility. Bespoke designs are also on the rise, giving couples the chance to weave personal touches – from hidden gemstones to engraved initials – into every detail.
It’s no longer about following trends or ticking boxes. It’s about wearing something that feels like you.
The Bottom Line
Buying an engagement ring in 2025 is about finding what feels right for you and your partner, not following outdated rules or arbitrary spending guidelines. Whether you opt for a lab-grown diamond, a colourful sapphire, a vintage treasure, or a fully bespoke creation, the most important thing is that the ring represents your unique story and values.
Take your time, do your research, communicate with your partner if that feels right for your relationship, and remember that the best engagement ring isn’t the one that costs the most – it’s the one that means the most. Because when it comes to love, there’s no right way – only your way.
And that’s what makes saying yes more beautiful than ever.
