Engagement Rings for Doctors That Won't Pop a Glove

It's official. You've decided to pop the question to your significant other, but there's a big problem: You have no idea what kind of engagement ring to get because your future spouse is in the medical profession. While doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals use their hands constantly, it doesn't mean you have to pick out a boring ring. That said, there are some factors you need to keep in mind when looking for engagement rings for doctors.

Factors to Consider When Looking for Engagement Rings for Doctors

Doctors — ranging from physical therapists to surgeons — rely on their hands to heal patients.

This means engagement rings for doctors have to be able to put up with latex gloves, constant hand washing — and the ring must not pose a danger (both for the doctors and their patients). You have to think about all the different aspects of engagement rings before investing your hard-earned money on a ring.

The type of medicine your future spouse practices is the first important factor to consider. The right engagement rings for doctors who work in an emergency room are much different than one that works in a clinical setting. Low set engagement rings are best for doctors who have to work fast and can't risk snagging a big diamond on tools, sutures, or machines. Also, diamonds can break loose from the setting, especially if the ring is accidentally hit against a hard surface.

High profile engagement rings (like many princess cut solitaire settings) can snap gloves mid procedure. This poses a risk to patients because the environment is no longer sterile — and it can cost time and money because the doctor has to stop and replace the broken glove. The placement of diamond in engagement rings for doctors isn't the only thing to consider. The metal you choose for the band must not only be able to withstand wear, but also be resistant to bacteria.

Best Metals for Engagement Rings for Doctors

Metal strength varies widely from metal to metal. Silver tends to be the weakest metal and is susceptible to scratches and dings. Gold also tends to be a weaker metal, especially white gold. If you opt for white gold, look for one that's rhodium plated to make it stronger and more resistant to wear. With Clarity's white gold engagement rings are all rhodium plated for strength and sparkle. Though this coating does wear off over time, we will “dip” your ring for free so you can feel confident that you'll have a beautiful ring for a lifetime. (Dipping is the process of adding this rhodium coating to your ring.) Platinum, on the other hand, is a dense metal that is heavier than other types of metals used in engagement rings, but more resistant to scratching.

Best Germ-Resistant Metals

Titanium might be strong, but one study found that it's less resistant to bacteria than other types of metal. Gold, silver and platinum are better choices for engagement rings, but no metal can resist all bacteria. That's why doctors must be diligent in cleaning their engagement rings.

Top Engagement Rings for Doctors

You can't go wrong with any of these engagement ring settings if your special someone is a doctor. They have sleek, smooth edges. The diamonds are relatively low-set so they don't protrude and risk popping gloves. They also have either large, easy-to-clean gaps or tiny ones that dirt can't get into.

At With Clarity, we have a vast catalog of engagement rings to choose from, but if you have any questions, our team of on-staff gemologists are available to help guide you. As a courtesy and to honor those who are on the frontlines, we are proud to offer a discount on all jewelry and ring settings (excluding loose diamonds). Learn more about our ID.me Military, First Responder, Doctor, and Nurse discounts.

Bezel Solitaire Engagement Ring

A thin metal bezel encloses your center gemstone in this elegant vintage inspired ring setting. It's simple design is perfect for nurses.

Heart Set Round Diamond Eternity Ring

Truly symbolic of everlasting love, this eternity band features brilliant-cut round diamonds spanning the whole circumference of the ring. The glittering rocks are set on basket prongs with a decorative heart cut-out. When the ring is viewed from the side, a round frame of hearts will be seen.

Seamless Half Bezel Solitaire Engagement Ring

This sparkler is clearly not afraid to stand out. It features a minimal yet effortlessly bold profile with its continuous band that splits into half bezels that gently yet securely cradle the lone diamond. Wholly unique, this is the perfect engagement ring to celebrate an unusual love story.

Two-Tone Channel Set 5 Stone Diamond Ring

Great as a special occasion gift or as a wedding band, this two-toned ring features an unassuming and versatile profile. Five round diamonds on a channel setting are nestled within a subtly raised white gold ribbon across the front face of a 14K yellow gold band.

Studded Station Diamond Fashion Ring

This fashion ring looks stunning when worn alone or stacked with many other rings. The band features diamonds positioned in stations so the ring delivers a gorgeous sparkle when viewed at different angles. The clean profile and neat aesthetic of this minimalist ring make it truly versatile.