Where to Shop for a Japanese-Style Engagement Ring

Not all engagement rings are made equal, and we'd argue that Japanese engagement rings are some of the best in terms of style and quality. Often inspired by the scenic landscape and natural beauty of Japan, Japanese-style engagement rings are perfect for couples looking for a unique engagement ring. It can be especially meaningful to purchase a ring from a Japanese engagement ring brand if you plan to propose in Japan or have family ties to Japan. Even if you don't plan on incorporating any Japanese wedding traditions into your day, choosing a traditional Japanese engagement ring is a meaningful way to honor your family and history.

1. NIWAKA

Photo: NIWAKA

Founded in Kyoto, NIWAKA's expert team of artisans creates rings with rare and beautiful high-quality diamonds. Their Spirit of NIWAKA collection is inspired by the "gorgeous landscapes and traditional motifs of Japan," making it the perfect collection for couples looking for an engagement ring with Japanese influences. Every NIWAKA purchase comes packed in a beautiful purple jewelry case that represents Kyoto's ancient noble history, and the case's sides are embellished with delicate metalwork accents, "inspired by traditional Japanese containers that hold the most precious treasures."

How to shop: You can shop for NIWAKA's made-to-order engagement rings online.

Price starting at: $3,320

2. Fujimori Kajita

Photo: Fujimori Kajita

Founded in Tokyo, Fujimori Kajita is a fine jewelry brand rooted in craftsmanship, tradition and artistry. Founders Takashi Fujimori and Kengo Kajita crossed paths more than ten years ago and combined their shared passion for fine jewelry and design to create Fujimori Kajita. Their brand seamlessly combines Japanese craftsmanship techniques with unique colored stones and diamonds. They offer both ready-to-ship rings as well as bespoke design services to create your dream ring.

How to shop: You can shop Fujimori Kajita online or at one of their store locations.

Price starting at: $1,300

3. TASAKI

Photo: TASAKI

Known for its expert use of diamonds and pearls, TASAKI is a leading Japanese engagement ring and fine jewelry designer. TASAKI uses unrivaled polishing techniques that ensure your stone is polished to the world's highest grade for maximum shine. Their use of SAKURAGOLD perfectly complements their Japanese heritage designs. While diamonds are a typical engagement tradition, TASAKI has a beautiful selection of gemstones and pearls that are equally beautiful for an engagement ring. TASAKI has its own in-house pearl farming processes to ensure the utmost quality of its Akoya pearls and South Sea pearls. As the only sightholder of The De Beers Group of Companies in Japan, TASAKI has access to the highest quality rough grade stones at fair prices.

How to shop: You can inquire online or shop in person.

Price starting at: Contact for pricing

4. Jaume Labro

Photo: Jaume Labro

Jaume Labro creates high-quality engagement rings using an ancient Japanese metalworking technique called Mokume Gane. Precious metals are layered and bonded to create unique textures and patterns, and then are meticulously paired with stones that bring out the beauty of this heritage craft. Born in Spain, founder Jaume Labro was inspired by the Mokume Gane jewelry-making techniques, so he went to Japan to learn from top Japanese artisans, like the Nakamura family. In addition to their beautiful designs, Jaume Labro has an unwavering commitment to sustainability and ethical practices.

How to shop: You can shop Jaume Labro online.

Price starting at: $3,210

5. kataoka

Photo: kataoka

Founder Yoshinobu Kataoka crafts each piece of kataoka jewelry with the utmost care and attention to Japanese artistry techniques. The diamonds and metals are selected with care to highlight the beauty of nature. Kataoka's timeless engagement rings and wedding bands are instant heirloom pieces that will surely be passed on for generations to come. Kataoka will also work with you to design a custom piece if you're looking for something truly one of a kind.

How to shop: You can purchase kataoka rings online.

Price starting at: $1,800

6. Satomi Kawakita Jewelry

Photo: Satomi Kawakita Jewelry

Born and raised in Japan, founder Satomi Kawakita credits her dressmaker mother for inspiring her love of design. After college, she moved to New York City to study jewelry making and eventually became a diamond setter under the master setter Richard Scandaglia. She launched Satomi Kawakita Jewelry in 2008, inspired by organic shapes and timeless designs. Her engagement rings blend "classic elegance with exceptional comfort."

How to shop: You can shop in person at Satomi Kawakita's studio in Tribeca in NYC or at their flagship store in Tokyo, in addition to other stockists. You can also shop online.

Price starting at: $1,000

7. Mitubaci Tokyo

Photo: Mitubaci Tokyo

From the expert team of artisans at Fujimore comes Mitubaci Tokyo, a jewelry studio where customers can attend a workshop to craft their own wedding and engagement rings. Their expert team will assist you in using their professional-grade equipment to create your own engagement ring by hand. This is a great option for couples looking for something unique and memorable. You can be involved in every step of the ring-making process and even take home your creation the same day. In addition to their workshop, you can also choose an engagement ring online that's ready to ship.

How to shop: Visit the atelier in Tokyo or order ready-to-ship Fujimori rings online.

Price starting at: $447