Something Traditional, Something Modern: A Guide to the Finest Luxury Engagement Ring Designers

      I just got engaged! Although I was aware that my fiancé had plans to propose for some time, the thrill I felt when he got down on one knee and asked me to marry him in Tokyo, Japan was still exhilarating. I'm absolutely thrilled to be entering my bridal chapter with my high school sweetheart, but let's be honest: I was *a little* more excited to showcase my stunning engagement ring, which he custom designed with a friend of mine, jeweler Steph Mazuera based in New York. If you've ever been ring shopping, you know it can be quite the journey. From last summer leading up to my engagement, I was eagerly searching for the perfect luxury engagement ring. My Pinterest board was filled with enchanting, custom designs from both emerging and established ring designers. I visited an impressive ten jewelry boutiques in pursuit of the ideal diamond engagement ring that I would cherish for years to come. My then-boyfriend, now fiancé, indulged my fashion fantasies as I dragged him through Manhattan, while also sharing his strong opinions on the search for "the" ring. After numerous appointments and trying on over fifty rings, I've gained a solid understanding of the best luxury engagement ring designers and houses. With summer wedding season approaching, if you’ve been with your partner for a while, you might be eager to don something sparkly on your finger soon. Luckily, I documented the process in detail so you won't have to. Below, you can find my comprehensive guide to the brands and designers that offer the finest luxury engagement rings available. Whether they are renowned houses with a rich legacy or new designers with a fresh outlook, these names are essential to keep in mind as you embark on your journey to find your dream engagement ring.

      **Tiffany & Co.**

      Tiffany & Co. has essentially set the standard for engagement rings. Established in 1837, this NYC institution introduced the iconic six-prong Tiffany Setting in 1886, revolutionizing the presentation of diamonds forever. The brand’s bridal collection continues to expertly merge innovation with tradition. Whether you prefer a solitaire or a vintage-inspired halo, Tiffany & Co.'s craftsmanship and ethically sourced diamonds guarantee an impressive effect. Recent collections like Tiffany True provide a contemporary flair with clean lines and low-set designs. Celebrities such as Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Mila Kunis have turned to Tiffany & Co. for dazzling pieces, so you’ll be in esteemed company. Moreover, the brand's signature Robin's Egg blue box is so iconic, you'll be overjoyed when your partner reveals it.

      **Harry Winston**

      Harry Winston has always been the destination for stunning diamonds. Founded in 1932, the American jeweler quickly became known for acquiring some of history’s most legendary stones—including the Hope Diamond—and has been a staple on red carpets from Hollywood to the Met Gala ever since. Their engagement rings embody the same glamour, combining classic design with exceptional quality. Expect to find cushion-cut solitaires, vintage-style settings, and halos that radiate from all angles. From American legends like Jackie O to current pop icons like Jennifer Lopez, Harry Winston engagement rings have demonstrated their lasting charm. The brand’s "diamond first" approach focuses on enhancing brilliance and light in every setting. For a ring that resembles something from a classic film, Harry Winston is unmatched.

      **Cartier**

      Few names resonate with timeless luxury like Cartier. Founded in 1847 by Parisian watchmaker Louis-François Cartier, it has long been the jeweler of choice for the elite and royals. When it comes to engagement rings, Cartier skillfully balances classic and modern elements. Their Solitaire 1895 style is a beloved choice: understated, elegant, and impeccably cut—while collections like Étincelle de Cartier and Cartier Destinée bring a contemporary sparkle. Celebrities such as Grace Kelly and Mary-Kate Olsen have been seen in Cartier’s iconic creations, confirming that a Cartier ring is always fashionable. Renowned for meticulous detail and clean, architectural settings, the brand’s bridal offerings are effortlessly stylish—ideal for the minimalist bride who appreciates heritage. If you seek a bolder fashion statement for your luxury engagement ring, consider one of the brand's signature tri-color Trinity rings or the renowned Panthère de Cartier ring.

      **Jessica McCormack**

      Jessica McCormack’s bridal jewelry is where Georgian romance fuses with modern London style. Established in 2008, her brand has become a favorite for its blend of antique influences and contemporary designs. McCormack’s engagement rings typically incorporate old-mine or rose-cut diamonds set in blackened gold or her distinctive “button back” mount, lending each piece an heirloom quality. Her rings have been featured in proposals from fashion icons like Zoë Kravitz and Zendaya, both of whom define modern style. What distinguishes her rings is their unique allure, appearing as if they've been retrieved from a family jewelry trove. If you desire a ring that looks like it has been