In this digital age, engagement ring retail has taken a notable virtual shift. Online shopping is an increasingly popular choice, so it's no surprise that engagement rings have fully embraced virtual showcases. But do experts predict that online engagement ring shopping is the future?

Below, we dive into current engagement ring shopping trends and how diamond experts see online ring retail evolving.

Ready to start shopping? Explore VRAI’s timeless yet modern assortment of engagement rings featuring lab-grown diamonds online or in person.

In-Store vs. Online Engagement Ring Shopping

Today, shopping for an engagement ring either happens in person at a jeweler or online. Both options have pros and cons, but which one is better primarily comes down to personal preference.

According to diamond experts, both engagement ring shopping methods are still heavily favored.

Meg Esterkin, VRAI Luxury Sales & Design Expert, says customers still enjoy in-store shopping, at least for their initial appointment, so that they can try on different styles in person. However, she says many are pairing an in-store experience with online shopping. “We are seeing a trend of clients booking virtual appointments with our store teams before visiting. This helps shoppers get an idea of their potential favorites before coming in person."

The Rise and Benefits of Online Ring Shopping

With increasing access to online shopping, the way we shop for engagement rings is getting a major makeover. Gone are the days when your only option for an engagement ring was the current selection at your local jeweler.

While in-store engagement ring shopping is still available, online ring shopping offers numerous benefits. With endless options at your fingertips, you can easily browse, compare, and customize engagement rings without stepping foot outside.

Below, we break down why more shoppers are choosing to find their engagement ring online.

Convenience

You can shop when you have the time, whether that’s 2 AM or 2 PM. Online shopping makes it possible to research options without making an appointment or taking a trip.

More Options

Showrooms have limited engagement ring options compared to what’s available online. With more retailers accessible virtually, it’s easier to filter by your preferences to find the perfect ring design for you.

Accessible Personalized Guidance

Online doesn’t have to be impersonal. Many retailers now offer virtual personalized consultations to answer all your burning questions and provide expert guidance. You can even work directly with a jeweler to create a custom-designed ring from the comfort of your home.

More Informed

The internet offers a plethora of information to guide you through your engagement ring shopping experience. Shoppers can better compare prices, verify the diamond quality, and analyze retailer reviews before purchasing.

How Virtual Ring Shopping Has Evolved

Online engagement ring shopping has greatly evolved in the past few years. These advancements have made navigating virtual engagement ring shopping easier than ever.

Below are some of the biggest engagement ring trends for online shopping today.

Personalized Showroom Consultations

Gone are the days of one-size-fits-all customer service. Jewelers are now offering personalized (often complimentary) virtual consultations with a diamond expert. Customers are opting to book online to receive expert guidance on what styles and shapes are best for their needs and budget.

“We now offer showroom-specific virtual appointments online as well. For a more detailed view of the setting and carat weights, virtual appointments are recommended,” says Esterkin.

This means shoppers can research and choose their top choice online before visiting their local showroom to see the engagement ring in person.

Try-On Technology

Shoppers are no longer limited to static images of engagement rings when shopping online. “On our website, we offer a virtual try-on of our ring settings so that shoppers can view how the ring looks on hand,” explains Esterkin.

You never know how the center diamond or ring style will truly look on your finger and hand until you try it on. Augmented reality (AR) apps are making virtual try-on experiences one of the top engagement ring trends today.

Digital Customization

Customization is king in the digital age. Online platforms now offer user-friendly design tools that allow customers to create their dream ring, selecting everything from the metal to the mount.

With the click of a button, shoppers can virtually compare the diamond shape, carat weight, metals, and setting style to find their perfect engagement ring. With 3D rendering, retailers can even provide consumers with an accurate virtual model of custom-design engagement rings beforehand.

Trustworthy Reviews

Buying online without seeing the ring in person can be scary, but that’s where reviews come in. Now, shoppers can easily vet a retailer before buying. Social media and third-party review platforms that allow users to include photos and videos give shoppers an idea of what to expect from any given retailer.

Social Media and Engagement Ring Retail

Social media offers a virtual showroom for the latest engagement rings. Features like Instagram shopping make it easier than ever for retailers to showcase their collections. Influencers and jewelers can utilize social media to showcase trends, launch collections, and offer exclusive deals.

Eye-catching, easy-to-digest media like reels and TikTok give consumers access to an immersive virtual engagement ring shopping experience.

Discover Your VRAI Engagement Ring Online

As technology evolves, modern retailers are changing how they sell and create engagement rings. VRAI has been at the forefront of innovation in the diamond industry. The journey of every VRAI created diamond is completely known, with a guaranteed origin from the very first atom.

VRAI created diamonds are grown in the world’s first zero-emission foundry through 100% renewable energy. Through our fourth-generation trained master diamond cutters, VRAI created diamonds have diamond cuts in the top 1%.

No other retailer offers a collection of fully personalized modern yet timeless engagement ring designs like VRAI. Our diamond experts will walk you through each step of the ring shopping process, or work with you to create a truly custom design or diamond, from the comfort of your home.

Future of Engagement Ring Shopping FAQ

Read on for any remaining questions about online engagement ring shopping.

Is Buying an Engagement Ring Online Safe?

Buying an engagement ring online is safe. A trusted retailer will have verified reviews, secure payment gateways, authenticity guarantees, and comprehensive return policies to make online ring shopping safe and convenient.

Can I Really Get a Feel for the Engagement Ring Through a Virtual Try-On?

Yes, you can get a good idea of what an engagement ring will look like through a virtual try-on.

What if I Need to Resize an Online-Purchased Ring?

Many online retailers offer free engagement ring resizing services within a certain period after purchase. We recommend confirming what the resizing policy is before buying.