These Stunning Pearl Engagement Rings Celebrate One of the World's Oldest Gemstones

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Composite image of pearl rings
Composite image of pearl rings

Courtesy of Neiman Marcus, Tiffany, Net-A-Porter,

When you think of an engagement ring, you probably don't immediately envision a pearl as the center stone—but that doesn't mean pearls aren't a stunning choice for this important piece of jewelry. When it comes to precious gemstones, pearls are as classic as they come. Vintage lovers and modern brides alike will fall hard for their Old-World elegance.

There are so many ways to turn this unique bauble into an engagement ring. A pearl can easily stand alone as a solitaire or bezel-set stunner, but you could also make it shimmer in a pavé setting with a sophisticated, thin halo. There are some surprising ways to set a pearl engagement ring, too—you can pair a larger pearl with smaller diamonds or display it in a vintage-inspired band.

Whatever setting you choose, pearls are a stunning and budget-friendly alternative to some of the more popular gemstones out there. If you're shopping for one (or getting ready to send a certain someone a hint), consider one of these beautiful options you can shop (and pop the question with!) right now.

Related: This Is What a Diamond Looks Like at Every Size—from .5 Carats to 10

Marco Bicego Africa 18k Pearl Ring

This stunning ring features a naturally white freshwater cultured pearl, displayed in a hand-engraved textured 18-karat yellow band. Every piece from Marco Bicego is handcrafted in Italy by trained artisans, so you know you're getting the very best quality.

Marco Bicego Africa 18k Pearl Ring
Marco Bicego Africa 18k Pearl Ring

Delfina Delettrez Pearl and Diamond Ring

Toi et moi, which translates to "you and me," features two main stones, symbolizing each person in the relationship. This iteration boasts a marquise-cut diamond and akoya pearl set in a simple, but elegant 18-karat gold band.

Delfina Delettrez Pearl and Diamond Ring
Delfina Delettrez Pearl and Diamond Ring

Melissa Joy Manning Recycled 14-Karat Gold Pearl Ring

Encased in recycled 14-karat gold, this lustrous pearl looks like it came straight from the ocean. The band's metal has been subtly hammered to complement the gemstone's natural texture.

Melissa Joy Manning Recycled 14-Karat Gold Pearl Ring
Melissa Joy Manning Recycled 14-Karat Gold Pearl Ring

Mizuki 14-karat Gold Ring

Crafted from 14-karat gold, this eye-catching piece has an open silhouette with a freshwater pearl at one end and a sparkling diamond at the other. The thin, 14-karat gold band makes it easy to stack with your future wedding ring.

Mizuki 14-karat Gold Ring
Mizuki 14-karat Gold Ring

Armenta Sueno Pave Diamond Prong-Set Pearl Ring

A shining freshwater cultured pearl is set in a four-prong band with diamonds. The charming ring has an Old-World aesthetic that any classic bride will love.

Armenta Sueno Pave Diamond Prong-Set Pearl Ring
Armenta Sueno Pave Diamond Prong-Set Pearl Ring

David Yurman Petite Cerise Pearl Ring in Sterling Silver

The naturally colored, cultured freshwater pearl in this ring shines thanks to its pavé diamond halo. The twisted sterling silver band gives the bauble even more dimension.

David Yurman Petite Cerise Pearl Ring in Sterling Silver
David Yurman Petite Cerise Pearl Ring in Sterling Silver

Bottega Veneta Twisted Peak Ring

Leaning into this gemstone's natural, from-the-sea aesthetic, this ring has multiple sized pearls set in a unique twisted band.

Bottega Veneta Twisted Peak Ring
Bottega Veneta Twisted Peak Ring

Paloma Picasso Olive Leaf Pearl Ring

If your bride appreciates symbolism, this is the ring for her. Set in sterling silver, a freshwater pearl is held in an olive branch-inspired basket, a metaphor for peace and abundance.

Paloma Picasso Olive Leaf Pearl Ring
Paloma Picasso Olive Leaf Pearl Ring

Catbird Pearl Baguette Equilibrium RingAGUETTE EQUILIBRIUM RING

Three smooth pearls are set against the sparkling lines of baguette diamonds. The diamonds and pearls are displayed on a solid 14-karat gold band.

Catbird Pearl Baguette Equilibrium RingAGUETTE EQUILIBRIUM RING
Catbird Pearl Baguette Equilibrium RingAGUETTE EQUILIBRIUM RING

Tiffany HardWear South Sea White Pearl Ring

Far from understated, this beautiful ring has a double, 18-karat gold band that holds a lustrous pearl in the center.

Tiffany HardWear South Sea White Pearl Ring
Tiffany HardWear South Sea White Pearl Ring

Kataoka Winter Pearl Ring

This dreamy ring celebrates the millions-year-old gemstone in such a beautiful way. The pearl is set with glittering diamonds, giving the illusion of movement while the eye travels around the halo.

Kataoka Winter Pearl Ring
Kataoka Winter Pearl Ring

Zales Cultured Freshwater Pearl Ring

Set in warm gold, this engagement piece showcases a cultured freshwater pearl. Along the split shank, open loops glisten with diamonds and beaded detailing while a gold ribbon wraps across the center.

Zales Cultured Freshwater Pearl Ring
Zales Cultured Freshwater Pearl Ring

Mateo 14K Gold Pearl and Diamond Half Moon Ring

Perfect for the modern bride, a shimmering pearl conjoins with a half moon lined with diamonds in this asymmetrical ring.

Mateo 14K Gold Pearl and Diamond Half Moon Ring
Mateo 14K Gold Pearl and Diamond Half Moon Ring

Autore Moda Zanna Pearl Ring

Three 18-karat gold bands boast a large South Sea pearl in this contemporary Autore Moda Zanna ring.

Autore Moda Zanna Pearl Ring
Autore Moda Zanna Pearl Ring