25 Classic Engagement Rings That Will Never Go Out of Style

Timeless elegance? Yes, please.
Monica Mercuri - The Knot Assistant Fashion Commerce Editor
by
Monica Mercuri
Monica Mercuri - The Knot Assistant Fashion Commerce Editor
Monica Mercuri
Assistant Fashion Commerce Editor
  • Monica writes articles for The Knot Worldwide, specializing in fashion commerce content
  • Before joining The Knot Worldwide, Monica was an assistant style and market editor at House Beautiful
  • Monica holds a bachelor's degree in journalism and mass communication from George Washington University's School of Media and Public Affairs
Updated Dec 08, 2022
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A diamond, like your marriage, is meant to last forever. It's the one piece of jewelry (besides your wedding band) that you'll wear every day for decades to come. If you want a sparkler that will never go out of style, consider opting for a classic engagement ring. While the term is open to interpretation, a few key qualities set classic rings apart from others.

First, classic engagement rings are all about the center stone. A sparkling diamond is a must, which will be influenced by the shape that you choose. Meanwhile, trendy engagement ring accents (think: halos, side stones and maximal band designs) are typically kept to a minimum, so as to not take away from the show-stopping center stone. And while any diamond shape can be considered classic, solitaire round brilliant cuts are traditionally the most popular, but there are actually a range of classic rings available in every style—for example, a three stone round cut or an emerald cut with smaller side baguettes.

What matters most, though, is that you absolutely love the classic engagement ring you choose. If you're ready to start shopping for classic engagement rings, we've rounded up effortlessly elegant natural and lab-grown rings that you can add to your cart right now.

1. Verlas Six-Pronged Round Ring in 14-Karat Yellow Gold

classic six-pronged round engagement ring

This classic six-pronged round engagement ring is one of the most iconic styles on the market. With a few simple clicks, you can customize your diamond clarity, carat weight and metal color to create your dream ring. (Psst: Increase the carat size to upgrade the center stone's wow factor.)

2. Ritani Solitaire Diamond Gallery Engagement Ring in 14-Karat White Gold

emerald-cut solitaire engagement ring on platinum band

Elizabeth Taylor's emerald-cut engagement ring from Mike Todd brought widespread popularity to the style in 1957. Today, this cut is still synonymous with elegance and glamour. Choose the classic platinum or white gold material—or yellow gold for a contemporary feel.

3. De Beers Classic Pavé Round Brilliant Diamond Ring in Platinum

classic pavé round brilliant diamond engagement ring

Nothing gets more classic than a diamond ring from De Beers. Looking for more sparkle beyond the center stone? Shop for an engagement ring with an embellished band that's tasteful yet balanced. A twinkling row of round brilliant micropavé diamonds are placed on the platinum band, allowing it to shimmer from every angle.

4. Aurate Cushion Cut Tri-Diamond Ring in 14-Karat Yellow Gold

5.5-millimeter square cushion with two side stones

A cluster of diamonds doesn't take away from this ring's classic feel. The sparkling 5.5-millimeter square cushion is complemented by two dainty side stones that enhance the centerpiece, rather than overshadow it. You even have the choice of a natural or lab-grown diamond ring.

5. With Clarity Sleek Cathedral Solitaire Engagement Ring in 14-Karat Yellow Gold

classic princess-cut engagement ring with cathedral band

With its sharp corners, a princess-cut diamond's sparkle will take your breath away. If you're looking for a classic diamond engagement ring with a hint of modernity, consider a princess-cut solitaire ring like this style from With Clarity. Bonus: Use the code "TIETHEKNOT" to receive $100 off any purchase of $1,000 or more in their vault collection.

6. Brilliant Earth Luxe Viviana Diamond Engagement Ring in 18-Karat White Gold

four-prong classic oval engagement ring with pavé diamond band

A four-prong oval stone sits atop a scalloped pavé diamond-encrusted setting in this breathtaking classic engagement ring design. It's an excellent choice for those who adore intricate jewelry—and a whole lot of sparkle.

7. Oscar Massin Lumière Engagement Ring in 18-Karat White Gold

classic lab-grown engagement ring

Created using climate-neutral lab-grown diamonds, this delicate stone rests on a polished platinum, 18-karat white, yellow or rose gold band. Even with its modern touches, this ring will always be a stunner. It also comes in other classic shapes, including round, emerald and cushion.

8. Kwiat Round Brilliant Diamond Engagement Ring in a Four-Prong Setting in 18-Karat Yellow Gold

classic round brilliant engagement ring with gold band

This ring's minimalist gold band allows the round brilliant diamond to truly stand out. Or, you can select from a range of other classic diamond shapes, including oval, emerald, pear, marquise and more.

9. Diamond Nexus Endless Days Round Cut Engagement Ring in 14-Karat White Gold

classic engagement ring with alternative diamond and two side stones

Two exquisite baguette diamonds flank the round center stone on this unique and classy engagement ring. It's set with the brand's lab-created diamond simulant that's more affordable than natural stones. And, with the ability to also choose the band's color, it can be personalized to fit the wearer's precise taste.

10. Zales Oval Diamond Engagement Ring in 14-Karat White Gold

timeless oval engagement ring with embellished band

As one of the more extravagant classic engagement rings in our roundup, this diamond design features an oval center stone accented with ten smaller diamonds on the band. Despite the number of diamonds, this sparkly style still gives off a sophisticated finish.

11. Shane Co. Agatha Vintage Natural Diamond Engagement Ring in 14-Karat Yellow Gold

classic and vintage pear-shaped engagement ring

What about something classic and vintage-inspired? From the elegant pear-shaped center stone and timeless cathedral design to the natural diamond accents along the band, it's a foolproof option for those who like their jewelry to have a deeper meaning.

12. Aurate Cushion Cut Solitaire Diamond Ring in 14-Karat White Gold

classic cushion engagement ring with lab-created diamond

Looking for a classic engagement ring that doesn't break the bank? Opt for a lab-created diamond. While you can't physically tell the difference between a lab-grown and a mined stone, you'll know that your ring was created in a conflict-free process. This cushion-cut center stone a diamond-encrusted white, yellow or rose gold band for maximum shine.

13. Catbird Nereid Marquise Diamond Ring in 14-Karat Yellow Gold

 simple and classic marquise engagement ring

A marquise-cut diamond has serious antique flair. For those who want to nod to the past with a ring that won't go out of style, consider this simple marquise engagement ring from Catbird. We're literally obsessed with the delicate and stunning design.

14. Charles & Colvard Cushion Forever One Moissanite Four Prong Solitaire Engagement Ring in 14-Karat White Gold

classic cushion engagement ring with lab-created moissanite diamond

Between a square and a circle, a cushion-cut ring is a great choice for someone who doesn't want a round ring but isn't sold on a design with sharp edges. This classic engagement ring features a lab-created moissanite diamond alternative set on a sleek white gold band.

15. David Yurman DY Capri® Engagement Ring in Platinum with Blue Sapphire

classic sapphire engagement ring with embellishments

Sapphire jewels are considered classic engagement rings by many, especially since it's a stone beloved by royals. This deep blue gem is surrounded by hand-set pavé diamonds and set on a platinum band. We have a feeling this ring would be Kate Middleton-approved.

16. Blue Nile Classic Six-Prong Solitaire Engagement Ring in Platinum

classic solitaire engagement ring with slim platinum band

The six facets on this classic solitaire engagement ring will draw eyes to its standout design. Meanwhile, the slender platinum band ensures that the round solitaire center stone will get all of the attention it deserves.

17. James Allen Petite Pavé Cathedral Engagement Ring in Platinum

classic cathedral engagement ring

This ring's center stone rests in a cathedral gallery, so the diamond is lifted by two arch details extending from each side. It also features a twinkling pavé band, which serves as the perfect finishing touch to this classic engagement ring style.

18. With Clarity Split Shank Solitaire Diamond Engagement Ring in 14-Karat Yellow Gold

classic oval engagement ring with gold split-shank band

Want a classic diamond engagement ring that has a little something extra? Consider getting your stone set on a split-shank band. This 14-karat yellow gold ring brings a unique twist to an otherwise timeless style. Choose your favorite from two shape options: oval or cushion.

19. Blue Nile Regalia Two-Tone Diamond Engagement Ring in 14-Karat White and Rose Gold

classic two-tone engagement ring with round cut diamond and rose gold interior

Two-tone engagement rings can sometimes be perceived as modern, especially when a rose gold hue is incorporated. However, this ring has subtle rose gold lace detail on the inside, meaning you'll get to appreciate it without committing to a fully pink band.

20. VRAI The Floating Solitaire Marquise Engagement Ring in 18-Karat Yellow Gold

classic marquise-cut engagement ring with simple gold band

Like an oval cut, this classic marquise shape will also lengthen your finger and give off the illusion of a larger carat size. This timeless design is elevated with a hidden halo and shimmers brightly against the contrasting gold band.

21. Tiffany & Co. Oval-Cut Diamond Engagement Ring in Platinum

sparkly classic oval engagement ring with platinum band

We simply can't forget about Tiffany & Co.'s collection of classic and timeless engagement rings. Oval-cut diamonds help elongate the finger, making this a great choice for those who have a penchant for elegance. This simple, classic engagement ring puts all the focus on the two-carat center oval stone.

22. Brilliant Earth Eight-Prong Petite Elodie Solitaire Engagement Ring in 18-Karat White Gold

unique eight-prong round engagement ring

This ring's unique eight-prong setting securely fastens the solitaire diamond to the thin gold band while giving it a "wow" effect. It's available in round or oval shape, so choose the style that feels the most like you or your partner.

23. Marrow Fine The Posey East/West Engagement Ring in 14-Karat Yellow Gold

elegant east-west emerald diamond with simple gold band

An east/west ring simply features this emerald diamond on its side. It's the perfect choice for those who want a classic engagement ring that won't look like everyone else's—and it's a great style for stacking, too.

24. Ring Concierge Whisper Thin® with Pavé in Platinum

radiant-cut diamond engagement ring with pavé diamond band

A classic radiant-cut diamond gets a romantic upgrade thanks to the row of pavé diamonds on the thin platinum band. It's a wow-worthy style that'll remain a classic choice for years to come.

25. Melanie Casey Whisper Ring Pear Cut Diamond in 14-Karat Yellow Gold

timeless solitaire pear-shaped engagement ring

Did you know that pear-shaped engagement rings date back to the 1400s? Since the type of stone is so unique, it's typically set on a simple band. This minimalist solitaire design, set on 14-karat yellow gold, puts the focus right on the pear center stone— which is exactly where it belongs.

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