Taylor Swift's Engagement Ring Makes Headlines – But How Does It Compare to Current UK Proposal Trends?
Photo credit: Forbes.com
The internet erupted last week when Taylor Swift announced her engagement to Travis Kelce, with fans immediately admiring every detail of her stunning diamond ring. The ring features four prongs and a button back design, purchased from Artifex Fine Jewelry, and sports what appears to be an elongated cushion cut diamond. While Swift's ring undoubtedly carries a celebrity price tag, her engagement has sparked renewed interest in what modern couples across the UK are actually choosing when it comes to popping the question.
The Reality of UK Engagement Ring Spending
While celebrity rings grab headlines, the average UK couple is taking a far more practical approach to engagement ring shopping. With average spending sitting below £2000, engagement rings don't have to be an extravagant expenditure, and the average spend on engagement rings is between £1,000 and £3,000.
Interestingly, the average engagement ring buyer spent £5,750 in 2024, a similar figure to the past few years, though this higher figure likely reflects luxury market purchases. The majority of sales fall between £1000 – £2000, painting a more realistic picture of what most couples are investing.
Current UK Engagement Ring Trends for 2025
Current UK Engagement Ring Trends for 2025
Exclusive user data from leading free wedding planning website Hitched.co.uk reveals that December is the most popular month for Brits to propose, as almost a third (32%) of those married last year say they were engaged in the wintertime, and the majority (17%) choosing December as the time to pop the question to their partner. As Brits around the country begin to plan their December proposals, our own trends for 2025 are showing some clear preferences emerging.
The Lab-Grown Diamond Revolution
One of the biggest shifts in the UK engagement ring market is the embrace of lab-grown diamonds. The lack of ring spend growth reflects the popularity of lab diamond rings. Simply put, consumers don't need to spend more to buy the same quality. Lab-grown diamonds can cost 50% less than natural diamonds, allowing couples to get larger stones or allocate more budget to other priorities. Like this classic three stone oval cut engagement ring, which for 2.25ct set in 18ct White or Yellow Gold retails from £2,435.00.
Ethical Considerations Drive Choices
Modern UK couples are increasingly conscious about the ethical implications of their purchases. This has led to:
- Greater demand for ethically sourced materials, less environmentally damaging processes
- Remodelling family pieces
- Support for local and independent jewellers
- Preference for Fairtrade or single origin mined gold
Popular Settings and Styles
The current UK market shows strong preferences for:
- Solitaire settings: Still the most popular choice for their timeless appeal
- Halo designs: Offering maximum sparkle and the appearance of a larger center stone
- Three-stone rings: Representing past, present, and future
- Vintage-inspired designs: Art Deco and Edwardian styles remain fashionable
Financial Pragmatism Over Tradition
Read more on our other blog post "How much should I spend on an engagement ring?"
Modern couples are turning their backs on high ticket priced diamond rings, choosing to focus their finances on buying a home, hosting their wedding, or simply saving. This practical approach reflects broader economic realities and changing priorities among UK couples.
The traditional "three months' salary" rule is becoming increasingly obsolete, with couples instead setting budgets based on:
- Their actual financial circumstances
- Joint savings goals
- Other wedding and life expenses
- Personal values around spending
Regional Variations Across the UK
Engagement ring spending varies significantly across different regions:
- London and Southeast: Higher average spending (£2,500-£3,500)
- Northern England: More conservative budgets (£1,200-£2,000)
- Scotland and Wales: Moderate spending (£1,500-£2,500)
- Rural areas: Often favour local jewellers and vintage pieces
The Rise of Alternative Gemstones
While diamonds remain dominant, UK couples are increasingly exploring alternative gemstones:
- Unusual coloured Sapphires: Such as Lavender, Mint or even Sage Sapphires
- Tanzanite: For couples wanting something unique - Like the Modern Halo featured above
- Birthstones: Adding personal significance
Looking Forward: Sustainable Luxury
The UK engagement ring market is evolving towards what experts call "sustainable luxury", rings that are beautiful, meaningful, and ethically produced without breaking the bank. This shift reflects a generation that values authenticity over ostentation.
While Taylor Swift's engagement ring will undoubtedly inspire Pinterest boards and Instagram wishes, the reality for most UK couples is far more grounded. The focus has shifted from impressing others to finding a ring that truly represents the couple's love story and values.
Whether you're inspired by celebrity glamour or prefer a more understated approach, the perfect engagement ring is ultimately one that fits both your finger and your lifestyle. In 2025, that's looking increasingly achievable for couples across the UK, regardless of their budget.
Looking to start your own engagement ring journey? Let us help, book a consultation today online and one of our team can help you through the process.