Choosing an engagement ring is one of life’s most meaningful purchases, and London is arguably one of the best cities in the world to do it. The capital offers everything from historic jewellery districts like Hatton Garden, to luxury boutiques on Bond Street, and independent ethical jewellers shaping modern trends with lab-grown diamonds.
With so much choice, it can be overwhelming knowing where to begin. That’s why this guide brings together insights from Reddit’s r/London community, expert features in Elle UK, and curated recommendations from Luxury London. The result? A trusted list of the best places to buy an engagement ring in London.
What Londoners Say: Advice from Reddit
Sometimes the most valuable guidance comes from real people who have recently gone through the process themselves. Reddit users frequently recommend independent jewellers for their transparency and service:
“We had an amazing experience at Queensmith in Hatton Garden … no hard sell and the pricing structure is very transparent. I got a lab-grown diamond…”
(Reddit user, r/London)
“I got our engagement ring from 77 Diamonds and found them great. Lab-grown, and for a decent price considering the carat. Highly recommend them!”
(Reddit user, r/London)
“Don’t rule out Hatton Garden … I bought my wife’s ring there 16 years ago! Still very happy with it.”
(Reddit user, r/London)
From these reviews, a few themes are clear:
- Hatton Garden is unbeatable for variety
- Lab-grown diamonds are a smart option for quality and price
- Independent jewellers like Queensmith and 77 Diamonds offer a modern, pressure-free buying experience
Hatton Garden: London’s Jewellery Quarter
No guide would be complete without Hatton Garden, London’s historic jewellery district. Located in Holborn, it is home to nearly 300 jewellery businesses and over 90 shops (Wikipedia). Whether you’re seeking a traditional diamond solitaire or something completely bespoke, this is the place to start.
Recommended Jewellers in Hatton Garden:
- Queensmith – Known for ethical sourcing, lab-grown diamonds, and transparent pricing.
- 77 Diamonds – A Reddit favourite for affordability and excellent customer service.
- The Diamond Shop – Offers both natural and lab-grown diamonds with bespoke services.
- AR Ullmann – A hidden gem for vintage and antique sapphire or diamond rings.
Insider tip: many Hatton Garden jewellers expect some negotiation. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about certification, provenance, and pricing.
Luxury & Bespoke Jewellers
If you’re after something truly unique or want the full luxury experience, head to Bond Street, Mayfair, or specialist studios in Chelsea and Shoreditch. These jewellers offer bespoke consultations where you can design a ring together.
- Blackacre – A B Corp jeweller focusing on ethically sourced bespoke engagement rings.
- Boodles – Established in 1798, one of Britain’s most prestigious heritage jewellers.
- Jessica McCormack – Combines heirloom quality with a modern edge, favoured by celebrities.
- Rachel Boston – East London designer known for Art Deco-inspired settings and ethical gemstones.
- Rêve Diamonds – Offers both lab-grown and natural diamonds, with a focus on customisation.
- Jessie Thomas – Chelsea-based, creating timeless rings with recycled gold and conflict-free stones.
Ethical & Lab-Grown Specialists
Sustainability is at the forefront of modern jewellery, and London is leading the way with a growing number of eco-conscious jewellers:
- Lark & Berry – One of the first luxury jewellers dedicated to cultured (lab-grown) diamonds.
- Queensmith (incorporating Ingle & Rhode) – Strong ethical credentials, with transparent sourcing and lab-grown options.
Lab-grown diamonds are chemically identical to mined diamonds but significantly more affordable and conflict-free (Brides).
Engagement Ring Trends in London
Beyond where to shop, consider what’s trending in London’s engagement ring scene right now:
- Salt & Pepper Diamonds – Unique inclusions make each stone one-of-a-kind (Financial Times).
- Low-Set Bezels – Sleek and modern, while protecting the diamond from knocks.
- Toi et Moi Rings – Featuring two stones, symbolising two individuals joining together.
⚠️ Some jewellers caution against certain styles: halo rings, mosaic settings, or overly high solitaires may date quickly and risk damage (The Sun).
Quick Comparison: Where to Buy Engagement Rings in London
| Category | Recommended Jewellers |
|---|---|
| Variety & Value | Queensmith, 77 Diamonds, The Diamond Shop, AR Ullmann |
| Luxury & Bespoke | Blackacre, Boodles, Jessica McCormack, Rachel Boston, Rêve Diamonds, Lylie |
| Ethical & Sustainable | Lark & Berry, Queensmith |
| Trending Styles | Salt & Pepper diamonds, toi-et-moi rings, low-set bezels |
Final Tips Before You Buy
- Set a budget – and be clear about it. Jewellers appreciate transparency.
- Ask for certification – Look for GIA, IGI, or HRD certificates to confirm authenticity.
- Consider lab-grown diamonds – Ethical, affordable, and identical to mined diamonds.
- Book appointments – Especially for bespoke jewellers, who often operate on a consultation basis.
- Think about longevity – Choose a style that will feel timeless decades from now.
Conclusion
London is one of the world’s premier destinations for engagement ring shopping. From the buzz of Hatton Garden to the prestige of Bond Street, and from ethical pioneers to bespoke ateliers, the city has something for every couple.
Whether you want a vintage sapphire in Hatton Garden, a lab-grown diamond at Queensmith, or a bespoke piece from Jessica McCormack, London offers an unrivalled mix of heritage and innovation.
The most important part? Find a jeweller you trust and a design that reflects your story. With this guide, you’re well equipped to find the perfect engagement ring in London.