November 2025, London — According to exclusive research by Rêve Diamonds, the average spend on an engagement ring in the United Kingdom has dropped from £4,656 to £3,928. Despite the 16% decrease, couples are increasingly focusing on bespoke craftsmanship, natural and lab-grown diamonds, and personalised design over simple carat size.

Drawing on over 300 days of engagement ring sales and consultations at Rêve Diamonds’ private Mayfair showroom in London, this report highlights the changing preferences of British couples ahead of the 2025 engagement and festive season.

Metals: Yellow Gold Reigns Supreme

Highlight: Yellow gold continues its rise (42%), with platinum remaining the classic high-end choice.

Rank Metal % of Deals Example Styles
1 18ct Yellow Gold 42% Solitaire, Hidden Halo, Trilogy, Cathedral
2 Platinum 30% Three-Stone, Pave, Double-Shank, Prong
3 18ct White Gold 18% Bezel, Pave, Art Deco, Micro-Band
4 18ct Rose Gold 5% Twists, Milgrain Halos
5 Mixed / Two-Tone 5% Yellow Gold & Platinum, Yellow & White Gold

Yellow gold’s warm, classic tone continues to dominate the market, while platinum remains the preferred choice for durability and prestige. Two-tone rings — often yellow gold bands with platinum settings — are seeing growing popularity for those seeking a unique contemporary look.

Styles & Settings: Classic Meets Contemporary

Highlight: Solitaire rings still lead, but bespoke and trilogy styles are on the rise.

Rank Style % of Deals Example Descriptions
1 Solitaire (4/6 Prong, Cathedral) 36% Floating, Pinched, Six-Claw
2 Trilogy / Three-Stone 24% Baguette, Pear, Shield Side Stones
3 Pavé / Halo / Hidden Halo 18% Pavé Bands, Hidden Halos
4 Custom / Bespoke 14% Toi et Moi, Twists, Signature Pieces
5 Split Shank / Vintage 8% Compass, Antique Styles

Traditional styles such as solitaires remain timeless, yet modern British couples are increasingly seeking bespoke creations. Toi et Moi rings and twist designs are particularly popular among those wanting a symbolic, individual piece.

Centre Stones: The 1.5–2.5 Carat Sweet Spot

Highlight: Round and oval cuts remain firm favourites, with emerald and cushion gaining ground.

  • 0.90–1.49ct: 28%
  • 1.50–2.49ct: 34% (Most Popular)
  • 2.50–3.99ct: 14%
  • 4.00ct+: 4%
  • Below 0.90ct: 20%

Top Shapes: Round Brilliant (33%), Oval (25%), Emerald (13%), Cushion (11%), Pear (8%), Radiant (6%).

In the UK, buyers are selecting stones that balance size, sparkle, and quality. The preferred size now sits between 1.5 and 2.5 carats — offering presence without excessive cost. Round and oval cuts continue to lead, with emerald and cushion shapes adding a vintage touch.

Lab-Grown Diamonds Surpass Natural for the First Time

Highlight: Lab-grown diamonds represent 54% of all engagement ring sales at Rêve Diamonds London.

For the first time, lab-grown diamonds have overtaken natural diamonds in the UK market, representing 54% of all recent engagement ring sales. Their ethical origins and value appeal strongly to modern British buyers. Natural diamonds remain the preferred option for heirloom and investment pieces, but lab-grown gems now dominate the 2ct+ category.

“Couples are becoming more design-conscious and value-driven,” says Tal Cohen, Founder of Rêve Diamonds. “They’re spending wisely — choosing bespoke craftsmanship and sustainable options over mass-produced luxury.”

Seasonal Trends & Insights

  • Winter–Spring: Classic natural solitaires peak during the Valentine’s and Easter proposal season.
  • Summer–Autumn: Bespoke, two-tone, and lab-grown designs surge.
  • Recent Months: Strong rise in yellow gold trilogy and halo designs across London clients.

Highlight: The UK engagement market is becoming more creative, sustainable, and design-focused.

Forecast for the 2025 Holiday Season

Rêve Diamonds anticipates continued demand for:

  • 18ct Yellow Gold and Platinum Rings
  • 1.5–2.5ct Lab-Grown and Natural Diamonds
  • Bespoke Designs with Personalised Engraving and Hidden Halos

As 2025’s proposal season begins, the British engagement ring market is clearly shifting towards meaningful luxury — design that celebrates individuality, not excess.

About Rêve Diamonds

Rêve Diamonds are private jewellers specialising in bespoke engagement rings, natural and lab-grown diamonds, and fine jewellery. Based in the heart of Mayfair, London, their by-appointment-only showroom offers a private, tailored experience — from 3D CAD design and custom sourcing to lifetime aftercare.

Website: www.revediamonds.com
Contact: info@revediamonds.com
Instagram: @revediamonds