15 Pearl Engagement Rings for the Unique Bride

If you're looking for an alternative to the standard diamond engagement ring, turn to an option that conjures visions of Old-World opulence instead: pearls.

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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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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