Shopping for an engagement ring is one of the most meaningful decisions you'll make, and doing it online can make the process even better. Unlike in-store shopping, which can feel rushed or overwhelming, online lets you explore at your own pace, compare diamonds side by side, and customize every detail without pressure. Whether you're shopping solo or together, it should feel exciting, not stressful.
The best part? You don’t need to be a gem expert. With the right tools and guidance (and a little inspiration), engagement ring shopping online makes it easy to find a ring that feels just as one-of-a-kind as your love story. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
Understand What You're Really Buying
Diamonds are timeless, but they are far from one-size-fits-all. When searching for the perfect centerpiece for an engagement ring, there are a few characteristics to consider: cut, color, clarity, and carat. We call these “the 4 Cs,” and each offers insights into the value and appearance of a diamond.
To shop confidently, it helps to understand the basics. Here’s a closer look at what each of the 4 Cs really means when choosing a diamond:
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Cut affects brilliance more than any other factor. A well-cut diamond will sparkle, even if it’s a bit smaller.
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Color is graded from D (colorless) to Z (noticeably tinted), but many people prefer a slightly warmer tone for a vintage feel.
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Clarity refers to imperfections. Many of these imperfections cannot be seen with the naked eye, while others may be distracting and lessen the appeal.
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Carat reflects weight, not size, so two 1-carat stones can look different depending on their cut.
Determine Your Budget
There’s no universal rule when it comes to how much you should spend on an engagement ring. While some traditions suggest setting aside two- or three months ’ salary, that guideline doesn’t work for everyone, and it shouldn’t have to.
As of recent data, the average cost of an engagement ring in the U.S. is around $5,500. However, it's important to note that this number varies widely depending on factors like location, income, and personal preferences.
When deciding how much to spend on an engagement ring, it is critical to consider your personal financial situation and the priorities you hold as a couple. For some, that might look like investing in a high-carat diamond, whereas for others it may mean choosing a more modest ring to save for the future or honeymoon instead.
Most importantly, when budgeting, remember that starting the next chapter of life with your partner shouldn’t come with unnecessary financial pressure. That noted, if you're working within a specific budget, consider lab-grown diamonds, alternative gemstones, or timeless, minimalist settings. These options can offer stunning beauty at a more approachable price point.
Learn more about setting a realistic budget: How Much Should You Spend on an Engagement Ring?
Decide on a Shopping Approach: Together or a Surprise?
When engagement ring shopping online, some couples shop together for a ring to symbolize their love as a way to ensure it reflects both parties' personalities, comfort, and desires. This approach also serves as a great opportunity to connect and share a meaningful experience together before the engagement.
Other couples opt to shop alone and keep the ring a total surprise (with, of course, the help of hints from Pinterest boards). That said, if you’re going solo and your partner doesn’t have a Pinterest board of their dream rings saved, you may feel a bit lost. However, you can use a few tricks to find the perfect ring. For one, try peeking into their style preferences by asking yourself:
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Do they wear silver or gold jewelry more often?
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Are their accessories bold, minimalist, or vintage?
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Do they have an active lifestyle, such as a hands-on job or maybe they find themselves frequently at the gym?
Studying these questions can help you narrow down your selection, leading you to a ring that suits your partner’s uniqueness and supports their lifestyle.
Let Personal Style Pave the Way
One common mistake is letting a trend decide for you. An engagement ring should reflect your style, not just what's popular right now. Remember, trends change, but an engagement ring is meant to withstand the test of time. To narrow down your selection, consider the following:
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For a modern, bold look: Radiant Cut Black Diamond Halo Ring – edgy, glamorous, unforgettable
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For classic beauty: Yellow Gold Round Diamond Ring – perfect for someone who loves tradition.
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For a vintage take: Pink Sapphire Vintage Marquise Ring – A ring full of romance and vibrancy.
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For unmatched elegance: Unique Moissanite Diamond Ring – futuristic yet refined.
Another awesome read: 10 Stunning and Simple Unique Engagement Rings
Explore Alternative Stone Options
You don’t have to settle for an ordinary diamond, there are various alternative options:
Make It Personal with Barkev’s Custom Ring Experience
There’s something incredibly meaningful about wearing a ring you helped bring to life. At Barkev’s, we make that process feel exciting, not overwhelming, thanks to a simple three-step builder that lets you design your own ring from start to finish.
Here’s how it works:
Step 1: Choose Your Setting
Love the romance of a vintage-inspired halo? Prefer something sleek and modern? Whatever your preference, start by picking the setting that feels most like you (or your partner).
Step 2: Choose Your Diamond
Now comes the fun part: choosing the center stone. Our diamond search tool gives you access to a huge selection, so you can filter by shape, carat, cut, clarity, and more.
Step 3: Review Your Ring
Once your setting and diamond are paired, you’ll see a preview of the full design. It’s your chance to look everything over, make sure it feels just right, and tweak anything before finalizing.
And if you're someone who wants to see it on your hand before committing? We totally get it. That’s why we offer our See Sample at Home service—so you can try on a sample version first and feel completely confident in your choice. No guessing. No surprises. Just a ring that feels like the one.
Plan the Timing of Your Purchase
Believe it or not, planning the time of purchase is an important piece of ring shopping, especially if customized in any way. This is because rings involving custom or made-to-order work require, on average, 2-3 weeks to ship. The last thing you want to do is arrange plans to propose and have them spoiled by a delayed ring. However, if you are in a pinch for time, many jewelers offer overnight shipping once the ring is complete, which cuts back on wait time.
Your shopping should begin well before that 2-3 week mark. Start browsing and making decisions at least two months before your ideal proposal date. This will allow plenty of time for decisions, customizations, delivery, and any potential changes.
Ring Sizing—How to Get it Right
When the day finally comes and they say yes, the last thing you want is to slip the ring on and feel it catch because it’s too small—or worse, have it slide on too easily and risk it falling off.
That said, your partner’s ring size isn’t always something you’ll know offhand, especially if they’ve never mentioned it. But don’t worry, here are a few easy ways to get a better idea of their size without spoiling the surprise:
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Borrow one that they already wear on their ring finger (left hand).
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Ask their friends or family (discreetly!).
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Use a printable sizing guide or visit a local jeweler for measurement.
If it’s still off? No problem. Most jewelers offer resizing services to help after the big moment to ensure you get the perfect fit.
What Happens After the Proposal?
Saying “yes” doesn’t always mean the engagement ring journey is over. Many couples choose to revisit the jeweler after the proposal to make thoughtful adjustments or additions. This could include resizing the ring for a better fit, upgrading the stone or setting, or selecting a matching wedding band that complements the engagement ring perfectly.
Many couples also choose to wait until after the proposal to request a hidden engraving. This ensures that any text will not be disturbed if resizing is necessary. These post-proposal tweaks and moments of maintenance are normal and common.
Shop Engagement Rings Online at Barkev’s
Finding the perfect engagement ring is far from an ordinary jewelry purchase. Whether you’re shopping solo to plan a surprise or choosing the ring together with your partner, the experience should be exciting, not stressful. That’s why our final piece of advice is this: take the time to find a reputable, high-quality jeweler you can trust.
At Barkev’s, every piece is crafted with purpose, passion, and timeless style. Browse our selection and you’ll find rings that sparkle with personality, reflect your values, and most importantly, feel like you.
Ready to find your forever piece? Explore Barkev’s engagement ring collection and take the first step toward your next big adventure together.
Sources:
The Knot Editors. "How Much Should You Spend on an Engagement Ring?" The Knot, 2025, www.theknot.com/content/how-much-to-spend-on-engagement-ring.
Macon, Alexandra, et al. "15 Tips for Buying an Engagement Ring." Vogue, 25 Oct. 2023, www.vogue.com/article/buying-engagement-ring-avoid-mistakes.