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At one time, the diamond was the final word in engagement rings. (And diamonds are gorgeous; we’ll have some great pearl-and-diamond choices for you below.) 

But today there’s an almost endless limit of different gems, band metals and styles for wedding jewelry.  

Jewelry experts agree that one trend has moved ahead of the rest: a timeless and elegant pearl engagement ring. More and more couples are choosing the timeless and brilliantly beautiful pearl as a sign of their promise to one another. 

If you’re new to the world of stunning pearl rings, you may be wondering where to start. We have you covered with everything you need to know so you make that perfect choice. 

How To Use This Guide 

In this guide we’ll explain different types of pearls, the cost of a pearl engagement ring, where to find the right ring, and more. 

Remember: there’s more to selecting a great ring than the price. However, you’re more likely to make a smart choice if you’re informed. At Pure Pearls we source the most elegant and ideal pearl rings at the best prices to make things even easier. 

Read on for all the information you need to choose the right ring for your personal style. 

The 25 MOST Beautiful Pearl Engagement Rings 

Every bride-to-be loves inspiration. Our experts researched the most beautiful pearl engagement rings. Each ring was rated on pearl type, pearl quality, band quality, unique features and more. 

Here are the top 25 beautiful and enduring pearl ring options we found. We’ve included details on what makes each so special, plus categories so you can zero in on a ring you’ll love.

Our Most Popular Pearl Engagement Rings

Wondering what’s on-trend in pearl engagement rings? Our customers’ choices run the gamut –– from ultra-modern to classic to unusual bands and gem colors.  

Pearl ring popularity isn’t necessarily like other trends. A love of pearls tends to stay; these shiny, enchanting stones never go out of style. So if you’re choosing among the most popular pearl engagement rings, know that it will last you, and your love, a lifetime. 

Here is a sample of our most popular choices among brides-to-be: 

Pure Pearls Freshwater Pearl Diamond Sage Ring

Our customers say this AAA-quality freshwater pearl ring is a showstopper. The luxury stone is surrounded by a circle of diamonds for a vintage look. Choose a white or yellow gold band. 

Pure Pearls Golden South Sea Pearl Reverence Ring

Say “it’s forever” with the rarest pearl, the Golden South Sea gem. Handpicked for its exceptional luster, the pearl is decorated with a double row of diamonds. 

Pure Pearls Akoya Pearl Lexi Ring

Our experts picked this exquisite Akoya pearl for its exceptional luster. Set in a love knot band, the pearl is 8.0-8.5 mm in diameter and has an AA+ quality rating. 

Looking for the Perfect Ring? Pure Pearls Can Help. 

When you’re searching for the ideal pearl engagement ring, it helps to have an expert in your corner.  

Our experienced pearl buyers have been selecting only the highest-quality pearls for more than 15 years. The result is a collection of rings we’re proud to bring to you – and that you’ll be thrilled to wear, every day.  

Check out our Pure Pearls rings collection for all the latest styles of pearl engagement rings.

Not sure what ring to choose? Contact our experts today for a consultation.

Classic Pearl Engagement Rings 

Today’s fine jewelers are putting up-to-date twists on the classics. Added gemstones, unique bands and pretty, timeless settings make the classic pearl ring the perfect choice. As a plus, classic-style pearl rings go with any outfit. 

Samira 13 White Gold Ring

This lovely setting features 0.38tcw diamond rows on either side of an 11mm Tahitian pearl. It’s set in a simple white gold band. 

Mikimoto Akoya Cultured Pearl Ring

The pearls in this ring are on the petite side, making it ideal as a stackable piece. This linear setting pairs well with most wedding bands.

Angara South Sea Pearl Ring with Graduated Diamonds

This heirloom-quality ring includes free engraving. The South Sea pearl is embellished with graduated diamonds along the 14k white gold band. 

Laguna Pearl Cheryl Freshwater Pearl & Diamond Ring

The company gives the pearl in this ring its “very high luster” rating. The diamonds are arranged in a stylized halo around a 7-8mm pearl.

American Pearl Melinda Freshwater Cultured Pearl Ring

Decorated with SI1 clarity diamonds, this pretty pearl measures 7.55 mm. The band is classic white gold.

Modern Pearl Engagement Rings

If you’re super-chic and love looking forward, a modern pearl engagement ring is for you. The term modern has a wide range of interpretations, so you have your pick of designs. Try pairing a traditional round pearl with a cool band.

Tiffany & Co. HardWear South Sea Golden Pearl Ring

Made just for the ultra-modern bride, the setting on this rare-gold pearl is industrial style. It features a double band and 9.5-10mm South Seas pearl.

Zales Graduated Linear Multi-Row Ring

This split-shank style makes a single ring look stackable. Multiple pearl sizes add up to 3.0-5.0mm total. The band is 10K yellow gold.

Laguna Pearl Freshwater Pearl & Willow Ring

A horseshoe-shape band makes this ring unique. It comes with either a 14K white or yellow gold band and features 0.72K SI-quality diamonds.

Kay Jewelers Cultured Pearl Ring with Diamonds

Three matching pearls are flanked with cleanly cut diamonds. The open band style gives this 10K gold band ring added flair.

Heirloom-Style Pearl Engagement Rings

For the vintage bride-to-be, we’ve got just what you’ve been looking for! You’ll love the timeless yet highly unique look of these pieces. Remember to check the size of the pearl and the whole setting; petite hands may call for a smaller ring.

Zales Freshwater Pearl Rope Band Ring

This freshwater pearl ring measures 7.0mm and is surrounded by diamonds. A fanciful rope setting completes the look.

American Pearl Kiana II Japanese Akoya Ring

This 1920s vintage-style ring features a 7.5mm genuine Akoya pearl decorated with round diamonds. The band is 14K white gold.

Ross Simmons Vintage Multi-Cluster Ring

Feeling adventurous? This stunning ring has a vintage feel. This bold collection of pearls, emeralds, and two sapphire colors is set in 14K yellow gold.

Zales Button Freshwater Rope-Textured Ring

The rope band of this ring makes it ideal for any outfit and occasion. The silver rope-textured band is buffed to a shine to make it stand out. The pearl measures up to 7.5mm.

James Allen Freshwater Cultured Twist Ring

Here’s a pearl ring with a pretty twist: a classic 1.855mm pearl in in a single-braid band setting. The look is unique, but pairs well with any outfit.

Pearl Engagement Rings in Unique Colors 

Love a splash of color? One of the most special ways to make an engagement ring choice is to find a pearl in a pretty color. If you prefer traditional white pearls, look for rose gold or accent gems.

Pure Pearls Pink Freshwater Jordana Ring

Make a splash with this AAA-grade pink pearl engagement ring. It’s set in 14K gold and enhanced with 0.08 carats of clarity diamonds. 

Kay Jewelers Cultured Pearl Ring in Rose Gold

For the bride who’s thinking pink, this choice is perfect. The 9mm freshwater pearl is offset by diamonds and set in a rose gold band.

LeVian Golden South Sea Pearl Ring with Diamonds

If you’re on a budget, LeVian offers a payment plan. In dyed honey gold, this pearl grabs attention. It’s surrounded by elegant Nude and Chocolate diamonds.

The Pearl Source South Sea Pearl Eva Ring

This daring choice is truly one-of-a-kind. The black Tahitian pearl is offset by diamonds in a leaf shape. Silver or green pearl options are also available.

Oversized Pearl Engagement Rings

A large-size pearl makes a statement every time you enter the room. Better yet, oversized rings are on-trend, so your pearl engagement ring will go with anything you put on. It’s also appropriate for any setting, from casual to black-tie.

Pure Pearls White South Sea Dominion Solitaire Ring

Bides-to-be who appreciate a timeless look love this classic solitaire. The stylized band gives it a modern twist. It’s AAA-quality for high luster with brilliant overtones.

Ross Simmons Vintage Cultured Pearl Ring

If you’re looking for a vintage pearl engagement ring, this choice has it all. It has a chunky 1920s-era gold setting and an 8mm cultured pearl in a diamond halo.

David Yurman Cable Pearl Ring with Diamonds

Here’s another textured-band option. The sterling silver band is textured in fishbone braid style. Textured prongs surround the high-luster pearl.

The Pearl Source Robin Pearl & Diamond Ring

The unique setting on this ring gives the appearance of the gorgeous South Sea pearl emerging from a shell. Choose 14K white or yellow gold for the band.

BONUS! Budget Pearl Engagement Rings

Pearls are precious, so “budget” can mean high-quality. Usually, this will also mean a more petite stone, which many clients prefer. Here are some amazing choices for the bride on a budget.

Zales Cultured Freshwater Pearl and Garnet Ring

Cradled in super-shiny sterling silver, this ring gets noticed. The pearl is flanked by high-color garnets. The setting is classic with modern elements.

Jared Cultured Freshwater Pearl Ring

Pretty diamond accents take this ring from simple to simply stunning. Three matched pearls line the sterling silver band.

Are Pearl Engagement Rings Ethical?

Today’s couples are more concerned than ever about the ethics of what they buy. Here’s what to know before making the choice to buy a pearl engagement ring. 

Look for an Ethically Run Pearl Source

Pearl farming has been a sought-after craft for thousands of years. It’s no wonder: pearls are one of the most beautiful gems nature creates. With a helping hand from human beings, an amazing assortment of colors, sizes and shapes can be obtained.

Oyster harvesting methods have come a long way. Pearls can be sourced ethically and safely. Here’s what to look out for.

How Pearls are Created

In nature, a pearl is formed when some form of irritant, such as sand, gets inside an oyster’s shell. When this happens, secretions known as nacre surround the foreign object. Over time, the nacre harden, forming a pearl. 

At one time, a pearl harvester had to either raise oysters or find them in the ocean. The shells were pried open. If a pearl was not found, the oyster was thrown back into the ocean.

Luckily, today’s oyster farmers have better methods that are less stressful on the animals and produce far less waste. Let’s talk about the process of pearl creation and harvesting so you know what questions to ask your pearl ring retailer.

Pearl Harvesting v. Hard Gem Mining

Another important question is how gem harvesters are treated in the work environment. 

Gem mining can be an uncomfortable, exhausting and dangerous experience. Raising oysters and harvesting pearls from them can be safer and less taxing on workers.

Wondering what practices are used for the pearl you have your heart set on? Ask the retailer. A reputable, trustworthy pearl retailer will have the information you need.

How Much Do Pearl Engagement Rings Cost?

While we know your love has no price, it’s a fact that most couples have a budget, just as is the case with any expense.

A pearl engagement ring is forever, so if you find a setting you love, don’t let the cost deter you. A reputable pearl ring retailer can guide you to something in line with your budget that has a similar look and feel to your ideal choice.

Luckily, although they’re considered gems, pearls are less pricey than some other options. For example, a small diamond may be priced hundreds or even thousands of dollars more than the same size pearl setting. 

Exotic pearls and higher-grade pearls will also cost more. Make sure of the grade of pearl you’re purchasing.

Pearl engagement ring prices vary from less than $200 for a simple solitaire to $5000 or more. 

All of these factors will increase the final price of your pearl engagement ring:

The Three Best Kinds of Pearls

If you’re thinking a pearl is a pearl is a pearl, you’re in for an exciting surprise. There are different types and colors of pearls. That means you can choose just the right pearl engagement ring to symbolize your lives together.

Currently, the three most popular choices for pearls in engagement rings are:

Freshwater Pearl

Freshwater pearls were originally cultivated as a less costly alternative to Akoya pearls, but have come into their own as a highly sought-after choice. Today’s freshwater pearls come in a variety of sizes to suit a tremendous variety of settings. You can also find them in unique shapes, such as button, oval or baroque, a natural, irregular pearl that’s highly popular.

Akoya Pearl

Known for their lustrous shine and perfectly round shape, Akoya pearls are often the first choice for brides. Akoya pearls are harvested in Asian sea waters from the Akoya (Pinctada fucata) oyster. The intricate process of culturing these super-sparkly pearls can take 10-18 months. Generally white or nearly white, Akoya pearls also come in cream, rosy pink or ivory tones.

South Sea Pearl

The rarest of the pearl types we’ve listed, South Sea pearls are also often the largest. They are cultivated primarily in Australia, though South Sea pearl farms are also found throughout Asia and the Philippines. South Sea pearls are ideal if you’re looking for a rare and very precious form of pearl for your forever ring. For extra luxury, choose champagne or the gem’s rarest color, gold.

BONUS PEARL CHOICE: Is a Tahitian Pearl Right for You?

We added the Tahitian pearl to our list because it’s a bold choice. Tahitian pearls are jet-black and are perfect for the bride who has a one-of-a-kind personality. The high drama and super-shine of Tahitian pearls means you’ll make an impression with any setting, from classic solitaire to embellishments such as diamonds.

Need Help Choosing the Best Pearl Engagement Ring? 

Contact Us Today

Our trained staff has helped thousands of couples choose the perfect pearl engagement ring. If you’re stuck on what you want, or if you have an idea that’s beyond your budget, call us today. We’ll talk you through the process of selecting the perfect pearl engagement ring for you.

Or conveniently contact us online. Fill out our email form and we’ll get back to you with expert help from a caring and knowledgeable pearl engagement ring professional.