Here’s a quick guide to the top 10 retailers in Canada for diamond engagement rings, based on quality, ethical sourcing, customization options, and pricing. Whether you prefer online shopping or in-store consultations, this list covers everything you need to know.
Quick Highlights:
- Ecksand: Affordable luxury with eco-friendly practices and extensive customization.
- James Allen: Best for online shopping with 360° diamond views and competitive pricing.
- Brilliant Earth: Ethical diamonds, lab-created options, and great customization tools.
- Bogart’s Jewellers: Family-owned with Canadian-sourced diamonds and in-store expertise.
- Michael Hill: Nationwide stores with flexible financing but limited customization.
- Paris Jewellers: Focus on Canadian diamonds with strong in-store service.
- People’s Jewellers: Accessible with over 100 stores but variable diamond quality.
- Crescent Jewellers: Canadian diamonds with limited customization and transparency.
- Spence Diamonds: Best for in-store consultations and personalized designs.
- Maison Birks: High-end luxury rings with heritage craftsmanship and premium pricing.
Quick Comparison Table:
| Retailer | Price Range (1ct) | Certification | Customization | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ecksand | $8,000-$15,000 | GIA Certified | Extensive | Ethical sourcing, eco-friendly |
| James Allen | $5,500-$20,000 | GIA/AGS | Full Custom | Online shopping experience |
| Brilliant Earth | $6,000-$25,000 | GIA/AGS | Extensive | Ethical and lab-created diamonds |
| Bogart’s Jewellers | $7,000-$18,000 | GIA Certified | Limited | In-store expertise |
| Michael Hill | $4,000-$15,000 | Variable | Moderate | Nationwide accessibility |
| Paris Jewellers | $5,000-$20,000 | GIA Certified | Moderate | Canadian diamonds |
| People’s Jewellers | $3,500-$15,000 | Variable | Limited | Convenience |
| Crescent Jewellers | $6,000-$22,000 | Variable | Moderate | Canadian diamonds |
| Spence Diamonds | $5,000-$25,000 | Artisan Created | Extensive | In-store consultations |
| Maison Birks | $12,000-$50,000 | GIA Certified | Limited | High-end luxury |
This guide helps you find the perfect engagement ring by balancing quality, price, and ethical sourcing. Dive into the details to choose the retailer that fits your style and budget.
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1. Ecksand
Ecksand, a Montreal-based jeweler with plans to expand to Toronto, blends luxury and eco-conscious practices in the Canadian engagement ring market. They offer an impressive customization program with 98 ring styles to choose from. Customers can select from platinum, rose gold, white gold, or yellow gold settings, with designs that range from timeless solitaires to modern arrangements [2].
Their prices are much more accessible compared to many high-end retailers, providing top-tier quality at a better value. Ecksand’s dedication to ethical practices is evident in their use of recycled metals and partnerships with responsible diamond suppliers. Every diamond comes with a GIA grading report, ensuring full transparency [5][2].
Shopping with Ecksand combines convenience and personalized attention. Whether visiting their Montreal showroom or shopping online, customers receive expert guidance throughout the process. They also offer free delivery with no hidden fees under US-Canada-Mexico trade agreements, along with a 10-day return policy [5].
Ecksand reflects the growing demand for customization and ethical sourcing, reinforcing Canada’s reputation for responsible diamond practices. Their focus on quality, sustainability, and affordability makes them a standout choice for engagement ring shoppers looking for both beauty and conscience.
2. James Allen
James Allen has made a name for itself in the Canadian engagement ring market by offering a standout online shopping experience paired with competitive pricing. Their platform features high-definition, 360-degree diamond viewing technology, letting customers closely examine every stone.
All diamonds sold by James Allen come with GIA or AGS certifications, ensuring they meet strict grading standards. For example, a 1-carat diamond with G color and VS2 clarity is priced around $4,000 – significantly less than the $6,000 you’d typically pay at traditional jewelry stores.
Their "Design Your Own Ring" tool makes customization easy. Customers can select diamond shapes, sizes, and settings while seeing real-time price updates. This level of transparency has earned James Allen a 4.8-star rating from over 12,000 Trustpilot reviews.
James Allen also provides 24/7 customer support via phone, email, and live chat. Their buyer-friendly policies include:
- Lifetime warranty and 30-day return policy
- Free shipping and access to detailed diamond guides
They also offer educational resources to help customers make informed choices. With its focus on transparency, convenience, and affordability, James Allen is a top pick for anyone looking for a smooth online shopping experience in the diamond market.
3. Brilliant Earth
Brilliant Earth has carved a niche in Canada’s engagement ring market by focusing on ethical diamond sourcing. Since its launch in 2005, the company has offered both natural and lab-created diamonds that meet strict social and environmental standards. This commitment to transparency helps customers make responsible and informed choices.
Their pricing strategy makes luxury more attainable. For example, a 1-carat diamond with G color and VS2 clarity is priced around $6,000 – far lower than the $10,000 typical at many traditional jewelers. Every diamond is certified by trusted organizations like GIA or IGI, ensuring both quality and authenticity.
A key feature is their "Beyond Conflict Free" guarantee, which provides detailed origin reports so buyers know exactly where their diamond comes from. Their customization tool is easy to use, allowing you to choose everything from metal type to diamond shape and setting style.
Brilliant Earth also excels in customer service, offering 24/7 support via multiple channels. Their buyer protections include a 30-day return policy and a lifetime guarantee. High customer ratings – 4.5 stars on Trustpilot and Google Reviews – highlight their commitment to satisfaction.
For those looking for eco-friendly options, their lab-created diamonds are a compelling choice. These stones are identical to mined diamonds but come at a lower cost and with less environmental impact.
With its focus on ethics, customization, and affordability, Brilliant Earth is an appealing choice for couples who want a responsible and stylish engagement ring.
4. Bogart’s Jewellers
Bogart’s Jewellers has been a family-owned business since 1992, blending years of experience with a focus on ethical practices and personalized service. Known for their expertise, the store employs GIA-certified professionals to ensure customers receive informed guidance when selecting their diamonds.
Their pricing is competitive, with 1-carat diamond rings starting at $8,149. They also frequently offer deals, like a 0.95-carat oval diamond ring marked down to $2,999.99. Bogart’s sources diamonds through trusted partnerships with Forevermark and Canadamark, guaranteeing traceable, GIA-certified stones.
Customization options are extensive. You can choose from metals such as white, yellow, rose gold, and platinum, as well as various ring styles like solitaire, halo, three-stone, and cluster designs. They offer both natural and lab-grown diamonds, with sizes ranging from 0.26 to over 2 carats.
With seven locations across Newfoundland, including a highly rated store in Mount Pearl (4.8 stars on Google), Bogart’s provides a personalized shopping experience. They also offer free shipping on orders over $99 within Newfoundland & Labrador, alongside a 14-day refund or 30-day exchange policy. However, customization options may be limited for pre-made rings.
For added assurance, Bogart’s includes a lifetime warranty on engagement rings, covering manufacturing defects.
If you’re in Newfoundland and searching for ethically sourced, high-quality diamonds, Bogart’s Jewellers is a strong contender. Up next, we’ll take a look at a jeweler with a nationwide presence.
5. Michael Hill
Michael Hill operates over 300 stores across Canada, providing a strong in-person shopping experience for engagement rings. Their widespread presence makes them a convenient option for those who prefer face-to-face consultations.
Their diamond engagement rings fall in the mid-to-high price range. However, shoppers may find similar diamonds at more competitive prices with retailers like Ecksand [1][2]. Michael Hill’s Diamond Promise includes a lifetime guarantee, 30-day return policy, and flexible payment options such as financing and layaway, making their luxury items more accessible to a range of budgets.
For diamond purchases, it’s important to look for GIA certification, as the quality of their diamonds can vary. While their website provides helpful information, more detailed insights into diamond characteristics and pricing transparency would be a welcome addition [1].
Michael Hill is also committed to ethical practices, aiming to cut their carbon footprint by 50% by 2025. They offer a variety of settings and designs, but their customization options are somewhat limited compared to more specialized jewelers [5][2].
Customer service is rated 4.2/5 on Google Reviews, based on feedback from over 10,000 customers. Their physical stores deliver personalized assistance, but the large-scale retail approach may not match the customization capabilities of boutique jewelers [1].
Michael Hill stands out for its accessibility and commitment to responsible sourcing. While their network of stores offers convenience, the next jeweler on the list, Paris Jewellers, pairs accessibility with a strong emphasis on community values.
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6. Paris Jewellers
Paris Jewellers has built a strong presence in Western Canada, operating 23 stores across Alberta and Saskatchewan. This Canadian-owned company has carved out a niche in the engagement ring market.
Their standout "Fire of the North" collection features diamonds sourced from Canada’s arctic mines, emphasizing local craftsmanship. With a wide range of engagement ring settings available, they make in-person shopping a breeze. However, their focus on Canadian diamonds often comes with higher price tags compared to competitors offering similar quality [1][4].
The retailer is known for exceptional customer service, which helps justify their premium pricing [1]. They offer a 30-day return policy, Flexiti financing options, and quick Canada-wide shipping (standard delivery in 2-5 days, or priority in 1-2 days) [3]. That said, their online platform could improve by providing clearer details about diamond quality and certifications.
Paris Jewellers appeals to customers who prioritize Canadian-sourced diamonds and value a personalized, in-store shopping experience. Their physical locations in Alberta and Saskatchewan make them a convenient choice for Western Canadians looking for face-to-face consultations.
For those who prefer a retailer with a broader national footprint or more diverse diamond sourcing, People’s Jewellers might be a better fit.
7. People’s Jewellers
People’s Jewellers operates over 100 stores across Canada, making it an accessible choice for shoppers in nearly every province. This extensive retail presence is ideal for those who value the option of in-person consultations [1].
The store offers a wide range of engagement ring settings, but their emphasis on variety often comes at the expense of quality. Some diamonds may have visible imperfections, which could be disappointing for buyers who are particular about clarity and craftsmanship [1]. Additionally, their prices tend to be higher compared to competitors offering similar or better-quality diamonds [2].
Customer service can be hit-or-miss, as each store operates independently. This means the shopping experience may vary depending on the location you visit [1].
People’s Jewellers provides limited details about the origins of their diamonds or their ethical sourcing practices [2]. Customization options are also fairly basic, focusing on pre-designed settings rather than offering fully personalized creations [2].
For those who prioritize convenience, People’s Jewellers is a practical option, especially if you prefer seeing and trying on rings in person. However, it’s important to weigh their limitations in quality and customization before making a decision. Price differences between locations and the terms of their return policy are also worth paying attention to.
If you’re looking for a more personalized or high-end experience, Crescent Jewellers might be a better fit, offering a stronger focus on quality and custom designs.
8. Crescent Jewellers
Crescent Jewellers provides a wide range of Canadian diamonds and engagement ring settings, but there’s room for improvement in transparency and quality assurance. While they feature ethically sourced Canadian diamonds, the lack of detailed grading information makes it challenging for customers to assess quality and compare value across price points [1].
Their collection includes many pre-designed options, but customization is more limited compared to competitors that specialize in bespoke designs [1]. The focus is largely on showcasing their existing inventory rather than creating tailored design experiences.
Although Crescent Jewellers highlights the ethical sourcing of their Canadian diamonds, they could better communicate details about their sustainability and sourcing practices [1][5]. Additionally, the absence of clear quality metrics and straightforward pricing makes it harder for customers to evaluate whether they’re getting the best value [1][4].
For those who enjoy browsing a variety of options in person, Crescent Jewellers offers convenient access to Canadian diamonds. However, if you’re looking for detailed product information, strong quality guarantees, or extensive customization options, you might want to consider alternatives like Spence Diamonds, which places greater emphasis on transparency and personalization.
9. Spence Diamonds
Spence Diamonds stands out for its hands-on, personalized consultations, making in-store visits a key part of their engagement ring shopping experience. Their focus is on providing expert guidance at physical locations, but their online platform falls short for those who prefer digital shopping [1].
Unlike competitors with detailed online catalogs and transparent pricing, Spence Diamonds prioritizes in-person consultations. However, this approach leaves their website lacking important features like pricing details and product specifications [1][2]. Their customization options include choices in diamond shapes, metal types, and setting designs, all handled through face-to-face consultations rather than online tools [5][2].
When it comes to diamond quality and certification, Spence Diamonds does not provide easily accessible documentation online. Competitors often offer instant access to GIA grading reports, but Spence requires customers to visit a store to get this information [5][2].
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Strengths | • Expert in-store guidance • Personalized consultations • Variety of customization options |
| Limitations | • Limited online details • No transparent pricing • Lack of digital documentation |
| Best For | • Shoppers who prefer in-store experiences • Customers wanting expert guidance |
Spence Diamonds emphasizes responsible diamond sourcing, but detailed information about their practices is only available upon request [5][2]. This approach differs from retailers like Brilliant Earth, which openly shares origin details and sustainability commitments online. Their reliance on in-person guidance may not appeal to customers who prefer conducting thorough digital research before visiting a store [1][2].
While Spence Diamonds focuses on face-to-face consultations, Maison Birks caters to a different audience by blending traditional craftsmanship with a modern luxury shopping experience.
10. Maison Birks
Maison Birks is one of Canada’s oldest luxury jewelers, catering to customers who value high-end craftsmanship and exclusive designs. However, this level of luxury comes with a steep price tag. For instance, a 1-carat diamond ring (G color, VS2 clarity) is priced at approximately $20,600 [1][2].
Unlike many modern jewelers that prioritize digital tools and customization, Maison Birks focuses on heritage craftsmanship and in-store experiences. Their online platform is more limited, offering fewer product details and lacking customization options that are now common in the industry. While they do provide GIA grading reports for their diamonds, customers must contact the store directly to access detailed information [1][2].
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Strengths | Long-standing reputation, luxury craftsmanship |
| Limitations | High prices, minimal online tools |
| Best Suited For | Customers seeking luxury and in-store experiences |
The brand emphasizes ethical sourcing in its messaging but does not provide detailed traceability reports, which some competitors now offer [5][2]. Maison Birks appeals to those looking for distinctive, high-quality pieces, but its premium price and limited online accessibility may not work for everyone. For shoppers prioritizing exclusivity and traditional luxury, Maison Birks remains a top choice [1][2].
Comparison Table
Here’s a side-by-side look at the top 10 retailers, focusing on important factors like price, diamond quality, and customization options. This analysis is based on retailer data and customer reviews as of January 2025.
| Retailer | Price Range (1ct) | Diamond Quality | Sourcing & Features | Online Tools | Customization |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ecksand | $8,000-$15,000 | GIA certified, VS2+ | Recycled metals, Montreal crafted | 3D preview | Extensive |
| James Allen | $5,500-$20,000 | GIA certified, F+ | Conflict-free certified | Virtual appointments, 360° view | Full custom |
| Brilliant Earth | $6,000-$25,000 | GIA/AGS certified | Lab-created options | User-friendly search | Extensive |
| Bogart’s Jewellers | $7,000-$18,000 | GIA certified | Canadian sourced | Basic | Limited |
| Michael Hill | $4,000-$15,000 | Variable | Lifetime warranty | Good | Moderate |
| Paris Jewellers | $5,000-$20,000 | GIA certified | Canadian diamonds | Good | Moderate |
| People’s Jewellers | $3,500-$15,000 | Variable | Nationwide presence | Basic | Limited |
| Crescent Jewellers | $6,000-$22,000 | Variable | Canadian sourced | Limited | Moderate |
| Spence Diamonds | $5,000-$25,000 | Artisan created | In-store expertise | Advanced | Extensive |
| Maison Birks | $12,000-$50,000 | GIA certified | Heritage luxury | Basic | Limited |
Key Points to Consider:
- Price and Tools: Prices start as low as $3,500 at People’s Jewellers, climbing to $12,000+ at Maison Birks. Online-first retailers like James Allen and Brilliant Earth provide advanced tools like 360° views and virtual appointments, making online shopping more interactive.
- Diamond Quality and Sourcing: GIA certification is a common standard among most retailers. Canadian-sourced diamonds, available at places like Bogart’s Jewellers and Paris Jewellers, often come with an ethical guarantee but may cost more.
- Shopping Experience: Online-first stores excel in offering digital tools for customization and browsing, while traditional jewelers like Maison Birks focus on in-store expertise and luxury service.
This breakdown helps you weigh the options and pick the retailer that best fits your priorities.
Conclusion
Finding the right diamond engagement ring retailer in Canada involves looking beyond just the price tag. Canada’s diamond market is known for its high-quality offerings and commitment to ethical practices, making it a standout choice for buyers.
When selecting a retailer, keep these key factors in mind:
- Diamond Quality: Retailers like Ecksand, James Allen, and Brilliant Earth provide GIA-certified diamonds, ensuring verified quality.
- Price Range: Options range from budget-friendly to high-end luxury, catering to a variety of financial plans.
- Shopping Experience: Decide between the convenience of online platforms or the personal touch of in-store visits.
- Ethical Sourcing: Canadian-sourced diamonds guarantee responsible origins and practices.
The comparison table above breaks down these factors to help you make an informed choice. Each retailer offers its own strengths, whether it’s customization options, pricing models, or customer service.
Retailers in Canada are meeting the needs of today’s buyers by offering personalized options that suit different budgets, styles, and ethical considerations. This makes Canada a trusted destination for engagement ring shopping, blending responsible sourcing with expert craftsmanship.
Take the time to research and compare retailers to find the ideal mix of quality, cost, and service. Scheduling consultations with multiple retailers can also give you a clearer picture of what each has to offer.
