The Best Nail Colors to Make Your Engagement Ring Pop

Take your sparkler to the next level with a color-coordinated mani that will amp up the shine factor.

Nude nail polish with silver engagement ring

Photo: Pe Dra / Shutterstock

Updated Nov 14, 2023

One of the most exciting things about getting engaged is showing off your stunning ring to your family, friends, and of course, your Instagram feed. With all eyes on your dazzling gem, there's nothing like a fresh manicure in a bold color to make your sparkler truly pop.

When it comes to finding the most complementary polish, start by identifying your ring type. The best shade for you should accentuate the band's metal (rose gold, yellow gold, white gold, etc.), ring setting, and color of your diamond or gemstone. Once you have an idea of the hues that work best, it's time to have fun experimenting with different palettes. While our suggestions are meant to inspire you, remember that your personal aesthetic and the occasion should also influence your choice. Ultimately, the best colors will be the ones that excite you every time you look down.

Below, we've rounded up the best nail polish colors for 10 different engagement ring styles, so all you need to do is pick a shade and hit your favorite salon.

The Best Nail Color for Rose Gold Engagement Rings

For rose gold rings, go with warm shades that bring out the bronzy tones of the metal. For a hint of drama, try an elevated shimmery hue, like champagne pink.

Our favorite pink and coral polish

OPI Infinite Shine Metallic Composition

$14 | OPI

Gucci Peggy Sunburn Vernis à Ongles Nail Polish

$35 | Gucci

The Best Nail Color for Yellow Gold Engagement Rings

To make your gold ring really pop, paint on a bright crimson polish with yellow undertones. This combination is the epitome of glamour. If ruby red is too bold, a sunset-inspired nude color is a fantastic choice.

Our favorite crimson and nude polish

Hermès Rouge Casaque

$55 | Hermès

Ella + Mila A La Nude Polish

$11 | Ella + Mila

The Best Nail Color for White Gold Engagement Rings

It doesn't get more versatile than white gold. Compliment the yellowish-white look of the metal with icy tones—like light blue or lavender. These airy colors will make your ring look absolutely ethereal.

Our favorite sky blue and lavender polish

Nailtopia Passion Player Nail Lacquer

$10 | Nailtopia

Butter London Candy Floss Nail Lacquer

$18 | Beyond Polish

The Best Nail Color for Silver Engagement Rings

We suggest adding some contrast to silver with cool-tone, darker colors, like deep navy or plum. Not only will these rich colors make the silver glisten, but they also make a quiet style statement without being too obnoxious. As a bonus, the rich tones are perfect for colder seasons.

Our favorite blue and plum polish

Sally Hansen Blueberry Tart Polish

$10 | Ulta

Sephora Collection Dream Escapade Hit Mini Nail Polish

$5 | Sephora

The Best Nail Color for Mixed Metal Engagement Rings

Coordinating colors that work well with multiple metal colors can be tricky. So, we suggest keeping it simple with refined gold or silver options that match the chrome details. Your unique ring design won't be the only thing reflecting the light.

Our favorite metallic polish

Dior Vernis Polish

$30 | Dior

Essie Jingle Belle

$10 | Essie

The Best Nail Color for Classic Solitaire Engagement Rings

Capture the timeless elegance of classic solitaire rings with barely-there powder pinks. The angelic shade keeps the focus on your radiant rock. It's also versatile enough to work with all metal types and any colored stone.

Our favorite pale pink polish

Orly Kiss The Bride Polish

$11 | Orly

Nailberry Lait Fraise Polish

$21 | Nailberry

The Best Nail Color for Halo Setting Engagement Rings

Halo Settings are all about enhancing the center stone, so opt for a less noticeable shade like sheer white. Not only will the color emphasize your diamond, it will give your hands a manicured clean look. So, you're left with a timeless, clean aesthetic that oozes sophistication.

Our favorite sheer polish

Revlon Pure Pearl Nail Polish

$6 | Amazon

Jin Soon

$18 | Jin Soon

The Best Nail Color for Vintage-Inspired Engagement Rings

Whether you have a vintage-inspired, antique, or heirloom ring, consider polishes that match the era's old-world style. We love charming deep reds that exude romance and complement the nostalgic design. These reds look especially beautiful with gold rings.

Our favorite red polish

Essie Gel Couture Bubbles Only Polish

$13 | Target

Duri 782 Hear Me Roar Polish

$10 | Duri

The Best Nail Color for Modern Rings

There are no color rules when it comes to styling modern rings. In fact, take it as an opportunity to create an eye-catching pairing that reflects your personal style. Make it fun by experimenting with trendier shades to find your perfect match.

Our favorite rust and cornflower blue polish

Emelie Heathe Public Nail Artist Polish

$30 | Emilie Heathe

Deborah Lippmann My Blue Heaven Polish

$20 | Deborah Lippmann

The Best Nail Color for Colored Gemstones Engagement Rings

If your ring has vibrant gemstones, colorful polish may detract from the ring's beauty. Instead, look for milky nudes that best flatter your skin tone and leave your nails looking healthy and natural. Whether it's emerald, ruby, or sapphire, neutral polish will keep the spotlight on any of these captivating colors.