Lab-grown center stones now account for 61% of all engagement ring purchases, a +239% increase since 2020.
The Knot Real Weddings Study captured responses from 10,474 US couples married between January 1 and December 31, 2025; respondents were recruited via email invitation from The Knot and/or WeddingWire membership throughout the year 2025. Respondents represent adult couples from all over the country with various ethnicities, income levels, race, age (18+), sexual orientation and gender identity. To provide the most comprehensive view of 2025 wedding industry trends, this report also includes statistics on weddings from ad hoc studies conducted throughout the year, among both engaged and newlywed couples. In a typical year, The Knot Worldwide conducts research with more than 100,000 couples, guests and wedding professionals globally.
Lab-grown center stones now account for 61% of all engagement ring purchases, a +239% increase since 2020. This shift is driven by economic pragmatism and evolving values, with 40% of couples stating it is specifically important that their stone be lab-grown. • While clear diamonds are the most popular center stones, moissanite and sapphires are the most popular non-diamond stones. • The most popular shape is round (26%), followed by oval (25%). Other top ring shapes include emerald (8%), princess (8%), pear/teardrop (8%) and marquise (8%). • Yellow gold (39%) continues to rise in popularity, up 140% over the last five zyears, while white gold continues its steady decline. • Couples rank cut/shape (#1), style/setting (#2) and metal (#3) as the most important features of an engagement ring.
