The Tiffany & Co. Engagement Ring | 1886

In 1886, Tiffany & Co. introduced the engagement ring as we know it today.

History of the Tiffany Engagement Ring

Origin: The Birth of a Classic (1886)
In 1886, Charles Lewis Tiffany, founder of Tiffany & Co., revolutionized engagement ring design by introducing the Tiffany® Setting — a six-prong solitaire diamond ring that elevated the gemstone above the band to maximize its brilliance and light return.

At the time, diamonds were often set low in the band or surrounded by metal. The Tiffany Setting was radical because it:

• Lifted the diamond above the band using six slender prongs

• Allowed more light to pass through the stone

• Focused attention solely on the diamond — clean, minimal, elegant

This became the first modern solitaire engagement ring and set the gold standard for what an engagement ring should look like.

Design Legacy: Why It’s Iconic

• Six-prong setting: Secure yet delicate, allowing optimal light to reflect

• Timeless silhouette: Its minimalist elegance has stayed in style for over a century

• Diamond-forward philosophy: The setting was designed to make the diamond — not the ring — the star

The Tiffany Setting has inspired countless imitations but remains instantly recognizable due to its proportions, craftsmanship, and association with luxury and romance.

Cultural Impact

• Symbol of true love: The Tiffany ring became a cultural icon and symbol of commitment

• Marketing pioneer: Tiffany was one of the first brands to popularize the idea that a diamond ring was a necessary part of an engagement

• Pop culture presence: Immortalized in movies, magazines, and celebrity proposals, especially linked with the aspirational image of Breakfast at Tiffany’s

Modern Variations
Tiffany now offers several engagement ring styles beyond the original setting, including:

• Tiffany True®

• Tiffany Novo®

• Tiffany Harmony®

• Custom designs with fancy-cut diamonds and colored stones

But the Tiffany Setting, still handcrafted in New York, remains the cornerstone of the brand’s identity — over 135 years later.

Tiffany engagement rings are crafted to showcase the world’s most exquisite diamonds, brought to life by master artisans who unite timeless techniques with modern innovation.

Each ring in our renowned collection features exceptional diamond cuts, selected for their brilliance and crafted with precision.

Our round brilliant engagement rings are cut to the industry’s highest standard—triple excellent—for unmatched sparkle. For a timeless aesthetic, explore our signature emerald-cut, cushion-cut, pear-shaped, and oval diamonds, each meticulously set to highlight their unique character.

For a contemporary twist, the Tiffany True® ring features a distinctive mixed-cut diamond, while Jean Schlumberger’s intricate designs add artistry and heritage, inspired by his family's background in textiles. Bold options like our yellow diamond and three-stone engagement rings offer striking alternatives with enduring elegance.

Tiffany diamonds are always cut to maximize brilliance—not carat weight—ensuring every stone radiates extraordinary fire and sparkle. Whether you’re drawn to modern minimalism or classic romance, a Tiffany engagement ring reflects the singular beauty of your love and is made to be cherished for generations.