When it comes to popping the question, today’s couples share one clear priority: getting the engagement ring exactly right. According to The Knot Real Weddings Study 2026, the ring is no longer a solo decision but a collaborative effort, with 79% of recipients involved in the selection process and one in four couples shopping together at a retailer before the proposal.
Nearly 9 in 10 proposers had a ring in hand when they popped the question, and 96% of couples exchanged rings to mark their engagement. But the process behind that moment has become far more of a team effort. Only 21% of rings were chosen without any input from the recipient.
Research begins early. Fifty-seven percent of proposers start their search more than six months in advance, although 63% make the final purchase within two months of the proposal. More than half say it’s important to shop in person, with proposers visiting an average of two retailers and viewing about 10 rings before deciding. While 64% purchase in-store, roughly one-third complete the transaction online.
When it comes to design priorities, couples are clear about what matters most. Cut and shape rank #1, followed by style or setting (#2) and metal choice (#3).
The most popular diamond shape remains round (26%), closely followed by oval (25%). Other top choices — each at 8% — include emerald, princess, pear and marquise cuts.
Metal preferences continue to evolve. Yellow gold now leads at 39%, marking a dramatic rise in popularity over the past five years, while white gold continues a gradual decline.
Price and size expectations vary depending on diamond type. The average natural diamond engagement ring costs $7,000, with an average center stone of 1.6 carats. For lab-grown diamonds, couples spend an average of $4,300, but opt for larger stones averaging 2.0 carats.
The engagement journey often follows a familiar timeline. Couples dated an average of three years before getting engaged, and about 40% remained engaged for 11 to 18 months, with the average engagement lasting 14 months. Nearly 60% begin wedding planning within a month of the proposal.
As for popping the question, December remains the most popular month, with Christmas Day topping the list, followed by Christmas Eve and Valentine’s Day.
The study also offers insight into modern romance. One-third of couples met online, the leading way partners connect for the fourth consecutive year, followed by meeting through friends (14%) and at school (12%).
Once engaged, couples quickly turn their attention to wedding planning — and the budget. The venue is the top priority, with 83% calling it the most important decision and an average cost of $12,900. Other major expenses include photography ($3,000), florals ($2,800), the wedding dress ($2,100), rentals ($2,000) and a DJ ($1,800). Catering averages $80 per guest, while couples spend about $330 on groom’s attire, $530 on the cake and $300 for hair and makeup.
The “Real Weddings Study” is based on responses from 10,474 US couples married between January 1 and December 31, 2025.
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