When Lorelei Lee (played by Marilyn Monroe) cheekily sang that diamonds are a girl's best friend, she was, perhaps, unaware of the equally lustrous and dazzling power of the pearl. Pearls are becoming stylish stars in fashion, décor, and more these days. So, why not say yes to one of life's biggest questions with a pearl ring? Of course, if diamonds still hold a soft spot in your heart, there is no shortage of pearl and diamond engagement rings, but if you really want to turn on the charm and queue the nostalgia, consider a vintage pearl engagement ring instead. Or, at the very least, a vintage-inspired one with a hint of Art Deco or Art Nouveau. Those who favor a little glamor may opt not for the traditional mother-of-pearl, but rather a dramatic black pearl engagement ring. No matter what is nestled inside that velvet ring box, you're sure to treasure it for a lifetime. 

The soft color palette created by the pearl and rose gold is decidedly elegant, especially with the swirled, pavé setting that adds a little sparkle.

In a fresh take on the swirled band setting, white gold makes sparkling waves that surround the black pearl in a nod to its provenance.

Sometimes, simple says it best, and this ring couldn't be any daintier.

This ring brings the drama and flair of old Hollywood with its black and gold color combination. The pearl is flanked on either side by black diamonds.

A lustrous, golden pearl sits in a halo of diamonds, with a honey-gold band completing the warm, monochrome look.

BUY IT: from $481; etsy.com

Give a nod to bygone eras with this simple—but stunning—ring, featuring rose gold and an Akoya pearl.

The swirl of the bypass setting sleekly draws the eye to the black pearl, which is surrounded by delicate diamonds. This one is sure to make a statement.

BUY IT: from $799.90; etsy.com

If you love pearls but don't necessarily want to give them the star power, consider making them an accent gemstone, like in this beautiful Art-Deco inspired ring.

A split-shank band paved with diamonds and six beveled rubies make this pearl engagement ring anything but ordinary.

BUY IT: from $1,930; etsy.com

A ring like this will make a statement, from the coral-shaped band to the commanding, sophisticated pearl.

This pearl sits in a diamond-encrusted halo on an infinity band. Warm gold tones round out the look.

The swoops and swirls of the halo add a touch of Art Nouveau.

The single pear shines against a simple, textured, white gold band.

Love pearls but favor the pear cut? This ring setting surrounds the pearl in a pear-shaped halo of sapphires for extra sparkle.

The bypass setting adds flair and a contemporary twist, drawing the eye to the stone.

It's all in the details with this ring. From the delicate crystals to the swirled, textured, split shank, every touch is thoughtful.

A halo of blue sapphires gives this ring a regal air.

Enchanting and vintage-inspired, this shimmering ring dazzles with its large pearl setting.

The swoop and swirl of the yellow gold band seemingly suspend the intense black pearl in the air.