Nick Cannon proposed to Mariah Carrey in 2008, only a few weeks after they started dating. While their marriage ended in divorce eight years later, the public still remembers the gorgeous engagement ring Cannon purchased for Carey, and here, we’ll discuss it in detail.
Details on Nick Cannon Engagement Ring
Even though Nick Cannon, the famous comedian, actor, and rapper, proposed to Mariah Carey 15 years ago, the engagement ring will never cease to impress.
Mariah Carey stated numerous times that she loves jewelry, so Nick Cannon had a tough assignment. He decided to work with Jacob & Co. and put experienced jewelers to work on the perfect engagement ring for Mariah.
According to Jacob Arabo of Jacob & Co., Cannon was very much involved in every stage of the process and was determined to find a diamond that would impress his future bride. He chose a gorgeous emerald-cut fancy light pink diamond as the center stone. It’s estimated that the diamond weighs 10 carats, i.e., two grams. The size of the center diamond is close to the size of a dime.
Emerald-cut diamonds are eye-catching due to their step-cut facets that create an effect of a hall of mirrors. Such diamonds look elegant and sophisticated and feature exceptional sparkle.
The exquisite diamond is surrounded by 58 smaller intense pink diamonds that create a lovely contrast and emphasize the center stone’s beauty even more. Two half-moon diamonds also complement the main stone for an eye-catching effect.
Nick Cannon Engagement Ring Cost

We know some details regarding the engagement ring Nick Cannon proposed to Mariah Carey with, like diamond carat weight and cut. However, there is no precise and reliable information regarding the center diamond’s clarity and color grades. Also, there are no details about the side diamonds.
Therefore, it’s hard to determine the price of the ring, especially for someone who isn’t in the diamond industry. We reached out to Benjamin Khordipour of Estate Diamond Jewelry to get more details about the cost of the engagement ring Nick Cannon gave to Mariah Carey. Khordipour is an expert jeweler with decades of experience in the diamond industry. He has the knowledge and skill to estimate the approximate price of various rings.
According to Khordipour, this engagement ring cost around a whopping $2.5 million. If the center stone has the highest clarity and color grades, the ring’s price could be closer to $3 million.
History of the Proposal of Nick Cannon Engagement Ring

Before we discuss the proposal, it’s important to understand the couple’s history and dynamics. Cannon and Carey met at the Teen Choice Awards in 2005, where Cannon and Ashlee Simpson presented Carey with an award for the best R&B artist.
When the two met backstage, Carey mentioned that she had heard him saying positive things about her in some interviews. They exchanged a few words, and Carey left. While both later said they felt an immediate connection after this night, nothing happened until 2008.
In April 2008, Cannon was cast in the “Bye-bye” music video as Carey’s love interest. People around them and the public started suspecting there was something going on behind the scenes. Less than a month later, Cannon and Carey announced they had gotten married in the Bahamas and told their engagement story.
As the story goes, the couple was hanging out on the rooftop of Carey’s apartment in Manhattan. Cannon hid the engagement ring inside the packaging of a Ring Pop, one of Carey’s favorite candies. Carey stated several times that the engagement was fairytale-like and that she felt like a princess.
The couple renewed their vows several times throughout the years. However, Cannon and Carey separated in 2014 and finalized the divorce in 2016. Carey stated she believed they could’ve worked it out, but egos and emotions had gotten in the way. Although they divorced, the two remained on good terms for the sake of their two children, Morrocan and Monroe.
Where Are They Now?
After the divorce, Carey dated an Australian businessman named James Packer. They even got engaged a few months after they started dating, with Packer popping the question with a $13.2 million ring. However, the two broke off the engagement just months later. After that, Carey began dating Bryan Tanaka, her backup dancer, and the two are still in a relationship.
As for Cannon, he admitted he believed marriage wasn’t for him after his divorce from Carey. He enjoys a polyamorous lifestyle and has had 10 children with five different women.
Buy Similar Rings
Mariah Carey’s ring is unique and was designed specifically for her. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t find rings that resemble Carey’s in terms of appearance, style, diamond cut, and overall effect. Here’s a list of 10 rings with varying prices so that you can find the one that suits your preferences and budget:
- The Burbury Ring

Unlike Mariah Carey’s engagement ring, this gorgeous ring flanks a kunzite instead of a diamond as the center stone. Since kunzite is more affordable than diamonds, it can be a great choice for those who want a larger stone at a better price. The center kunzite weighs 9.00 carats, features an emerald cut, and has an exquisite pink color. Each shoulder features a bezel-set trapezoid cut diamond, and the total weight of these side diamonds is 0.77 carats. The ring is handcrafted in platinum and will definitely be an eye-catcher wherever you go.
- The Scandia Ring

This ring is the perfect choice for ladies who enjoy jewelry with a floral design. In the center, we see a beautiful marquise cut fancy light pink diamond. The diamond comes with a GIA certificate and has excellent grades for color and clarity. A row of small prong-set fancy pink diamonds surrounds the center stone, following its shape. We also see a double row of round brilliants; the first row is smaller, while the second one is larger and symbolizes flower petals. The shoulders are split into three sections, and each section is decorated with small brilliant cut diamonds. The entire ring is handcrafted in 18k yellow gold and white gold.
- Emerald-Cut Diamond Engagement Ring

Like Mariah Carey’s ring, this one features a gorgeous emerald-cut diamond. Although it’s not fancy, this diamond is nothing but impressive. The double halo of smaller diamonds highlights the center stone’s beauty and sparkle. Small diamonds also stretch along the shoulders and cover the visible part of the shank. You can choose the preferred metal (rose gold, white gold, or yellow gold), size, and carat weight to ensure the ring matches your future bride’s preferences.
- The Leo Diamond Ring

All eyes are on the beautiful 1.00-carat emerald cut diamond featured as the center stone of this 14k white gold ring. Shimmering round diamonds encircle the center stone and decorate the shoulders and the visible part of the shank. This ring represents a classic solitaire with a twist and is ideal for ladies who enjoy stunning jewelry.
- The Syosset Ring

This unusual ring may not resemble Mariah Carey’s ring in style, but it’s definitely a head-turner just like hers. The center stone is a cushion cut Fancy Very Light Blue diamond that weighs 1.18 carats. A row of small pink diamonds encircles the prong-set center stone, creating an appealing visual effect and a subtle contrast. An asymmetrical pattern of pear shape rose cut diamonds with a total weight of 0.35 carats accentuates the center stone, while small diamonds decorate the shoulders and cover the visible part of the shank. If you look at the ring from the sides, you’ll notice the intricate details in the under-gallery, making it beautiful from every angle.
- Emerald-Cut Morganite Ring
Morganite is a pinkish mineral that belongs to the beryl family, which also includes gemstones like the aquamarine and emerald. Those who aren’t in the diamond industry often don’t see the difference between a fancy pink diamond and morganite. Considering that morganite has a much lower price tag, it’s a great option for individuals who want a pink stone and a lower price. This 14k white gold ring displays a peachy-pink emerald-cut morganite, whose beauty is highlighted by small diamonds along the shank. It’s a good choice for ladies who prefer simplicity.
- The Champs- Élysées Ring

The center stone of this ring is a pear-shaped Fancy Light Brown-Pink diamond that weighs 1.05 carats. A halo of round pink diamonds with a total weight of 0.31 carats wraps around the center stone, following its shape and creating a subtle yet effective contrast. A gorgeous design featuring micro-pave round brilliant diamonds and pear-shaped diamonds surrounds the pink stones, forming a unique shape. Small diamonds adorn the shoulders and the visible part of the shank of this 18k rose gold on 18k white gold ring.
- Emerald-Cut Lab-Created Diamond Ring

If your future bride likes the shape of the center stone of Mariah Carey’s engagement ring but prefers a simple style, this ring is an excellent choice. This classic solitaire ring displays an emerald-cut lab-created diamond that weighs 1.00 carats. The simple 14k white gold band ensures all eyes are on the diamond and contributes to the ring’s simple appearance.
- Emerald-Cut Morganite Ring with a Crossover Shank
As mentioned, morganite can be an excellent and more affordable alternative for a Fancy Pink diamond. Here, we see an emerald-cut peach morganite as the center stone. The crossover shank decorated with small diamonds adds a touch of elegance and sophistication, enhancing the ring’s overall appeal. Interesting patterns in the under-gallery make the ring look great from all angles.
- Emerald-Cut Diamond Ornate Engagement Ring

This ring’s center stone is an appealing 0.50-carat emerald-cut diamond with high color and clarity grades. Each shoulder features a princess-cut diamond surrounded by smaller stones that create an eye-catching effect. If you look at the inside of the shank, you’ll see the “Past Present Future” engraving decorated with two small diamonds.
How to Choose the Perfect Engagement Ring for Your Bride
Choosing the perfect engagement ring for your future bride can be harder than it seems because you need to consider several factors. Here’s what you should consider when purchasing the ring:
Focus on Her Preferences

It’s not uncommon for the future bride and groom to have different styles in terms of jewelry. You may prefer bolder, more extravagant pieces, while she may enjoy simplicity and subtleness. When looking for an engagement ring, don’t forget that she will be the one wearing it. Therefore, you should prioritize her style and preferences and get her a ring that matches her personality.
Take Your Time

In an ideal world, you’ll find the ideal ring in the first jewelry store you visit and be done with the process in less than one hour. However, this usually isn’t the case. What’s more, it’s advisable to take your time and check out several stores to explore the selection and learn more about different rings. Don’t be afraid to ask questions; a reputable and experienced jeweler will have no problem answering them.
Pay Attention to the Four Cs

If you decide to buy a diamond engagement ring, you need to focus on certain characteristics every diamond displays, i.e., the four Cs (cut, clarity, color, and carat). These characteristics indicate the quality and visual appearance of a diamond, and the higher the grades, the more expensive the diamond. In most cases, you don’t have to aim for the highest grades (unless you want to) because differences that are invisible to the naked eye can cost thousands of dollars.
Find an Experienced Jeweler

If you want a high-quality ring with official certificates from institutions like the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or the American Gem Society (AGS), find a reputable jeweler. This jeweler should have years of experience in the industry and a wide selection of rings. Moreover, they should be professional, reliable, and honest. If you’re unsure which jeweler to choose, check online reviews or ask your family and friends for recommendations.
Talk to an Expert Jewelry Shopper

Due to so many options on the market, finding the perfect ring can seem impossible. Fortunately, you don’t have to go through this process alone. Instead, you can reach out to our expert jewelry shoppers. We can help you craft a ring that will match your future bride’s preferences and your budget.
All you need to do is fill out the form below, and one of our jewelry experts will contact you as soon as possible.