Buying an engagement ring is a once-in-a-lifetime moment — and one that deserves just as much thought as the proposal itself. After all, this ring is going to symbolize your love story, your style, and your commitment for years to come. But here’s the thing: where you buy the ring can make just as big of an impact as what you buy.
Portland is quietly becoming one of the best places in the country to buy an engagement ring, and not just for its laid-back charm or world-class artisans. Portland offers something rare: tax-free shopping, personalized service, and a community of independent jewelers who believe your ring should be as unique as your love.
Whether you're a local or considering a special trip, we’re here to show you why Portland deserves a spot at the top of your ring-shopping list.
The tax-free shopping allure
Let’s start with one of the biggest draws: Oregon’s statewide sales tax exemption. Unlike most other states, Oregon doesn’t charge sales tax on any purchase, including engagement rings.
If you've been eyeing a $6,000 or $10,000 ring, that savings becomes real fast. For someone living in a state with 8-10% sales tax, that could mean $800 to $1,000 in instant savings. That’s not a small discount — that's the kind of money that can cover a honeymoon flight, part of the wedding dress, or even be invested into a future together.
There’s no catch, no paperwork, and no hoops to jump through. Whether you live in Oregon or just fly in to shop, the tax break applies to everyone.
Portland vs. other jewelry markets
Big cities like New York, San Francisco, and Chicago get all the attention when it comes to engagement rings. But flash and fame often come with a price: crowds, markups, and pressure.
Portland offers a refreshing alternative. Here, it’s not about fast sales or flashy showrooms. It’s about connection, quality, and creativity.
Portland jewelers tend to take a slower, more intentional approach. You’ll often meet directly with the designer or goldsmith. You’ll talk about your values, your vision, and your budget. It feels more like crafting art than buying a product, and that’s exactly what it should be.
Support local, shop unique
Portland is home to a vibrant community of independent jewelry designers and small-batch artisans, many of whom you won’t find anywhere else. No corporate branding. No mass-produced sparkle. Just authentic craftsmanship, made with care.
Choosing one of these jewelers means your money stays in the community. You’re supporting local artists, family-owned studios, and ethical creators who are proud of what they do. And in return, you get a ring that you’ll never see on someone else’s finger.
Meet Malka Diamonds, our Portland gem
Malka Diamonds is a family-owned business, founded by Ronnie and David Malka, that has become a trusted name in the Pacific Northwest thanks to our custom craftsmanship, exceptional service, and ethical sourcing.
Located in the heart of downtown Portland, we’re known for combining Old World artistry with modern design sensibilities. Our showroom blends warm hospitality with luxury, and our team walks with you every step of the way — from the first sketch to the final sparkle.
Custom design with heart
One of our most celebrated offerings is our custom engagement ring design process. You won’t just pick a ring from a case — unless you want to. We specialize in designing completely bespoke pieces based on your vision. Using CAD technology, hand-drawn sketches, and in-house bench jewelers, we transform ideas into heirlooms.
Want to incorporate a family diamond? Blend vintage and modern styles? Add a hidden halo or secret inscription? You dream it, we create it!
The exclusive Malka Allure Cut
Are you in the hunt for something unique and special? The Malka Allure Cut is a proprietary diamond shape developed to maximize brilliance and light return. It combines the timeless elegance of a round cut with a subtle geometric twist — creating an unmistakable shimmer from every angle.
This rare, patented cut is only available at Malka Diamonds, making your ring truly one of a kind.
Salt & pepper diamonds
If your heart desires something outside the traditional sparkle, our collection of salt and pepper diamonds offers a striking alternative. These stones feature naturally occurring black and white inclusions — like tiny constellations suspended in stone.
Set in rose gold, yellow gold, or platinum, salt and pepper diamonds bring a bohemian, earthy vibe that celebrates uniqueness. No two are alike — just like the love they represent.
Ethically sourced & lab-grown diamonds
Today’s couples are more conscious than ever about where their diamonds come from — and we’re proud to offer options that align with sustainability.
Ethically sourced natural diamonds
Every natural diamond is sourced through conflict-free channels that meet strict labor and environmental standards. You can feel confident that your ring is beautiful and responsible.
Lab-grown diamonds
Prefer a modern, sustainable alternative? We offer a curated selection of lab-grown diamonds that are chemically and optically identical to mined stones — but grown in a lab using clean energy and minimal impact.
And yes, whether you choose natural or lab-grown, you’ll still enjoy Oregon’s tax-free advantage — a perk that makes even high-quality lab diamonds more accessible.
Curated collections for every style
While many couples opt for full custom, we also offer a wide selection of ready-to-shop rings in curated styles:
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Classic: Timeless solitaires, graceful cathedral settings, and understated halos for the purist at heart.
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Vintage: Filigree details, milgrain edging, and antique-cut diamonds that echo the glamour of past eras.
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Alternative: Sleek, minimalist bands, east-west settings, and asymmetrical designs for the style-forward.
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Nature-Inspired: Organic shapes, floral motifs, and earthy textures that celebrate the natural world.
All collections are available in both natural and lab-grown diamonds — and every piece can be tailored to your vision.
A team you can trust
From your very first consultation to the moment you slip the ring on your partner’s finger, you’ll work with a team of skilled, certified professionals who care about your story. Expect sincere guidance, expert craftsmanship, and a shared excitement for what we’re building together.
When you choose Malka Diamonds, you’re joining a community of couples who’ve found something real: a jeweler who listens, designs with care, and values authenticity over flash. Our showroom may be in Portland, but our reputation spans the country — and it all starts with a better way to shop for love.
The smartest way to save — and the most meaningful way to buy
An engagement ring marks the moment you say, “Yes, forever.” That’s why it deserves more than a quick click. It deserves craftsmanship, care, and meaning — from the diamond you choose to the hands that shape it.
When you shop at Malka Diamonds, you’re doing more than making a smart financial decision. You’re investing in a ring with ethically sourced materials, designed by a team that focuses on artistry and integrity, and handcrafted to reflect the story only you two share.
Whether you live in Portland or you’re planning a special trip, this is your opportunity to get more from the experience — more savings, more personalization, more heart.
This isn’t just about finding the perfect ring. It’s about finding the perfect place, and the people, to bring it to life. Start your journey with us. Visit Malka Diamonds today in Portland, OR. Book your in-person or virtual consultation to save big and cherish forever.