Argos jewellery experts are predicting a bumper engagement period this festive season, following analysis of 2016 sales data which revealed a huge 50 per cent rise in ring sales on Christmas Eve.

When it comes to ring specifics, the retailer has stocked up on three-stone rings after ‘Meghan Markle Mania’ saw a 25 per cent rise in sales of the classic trilogy evergreen design after the Royal engagement was announced in November.

However, the most popular type of engagement ring is still the classic diamond solitaire, with 51 per cent sold versus other engagement styles, with a higher demand for 9ct white gold.

And perhaps Shirley Bassey and Kanye West were wrong and diamonds aren’t forever…as Argos jewellery experts have also reported a rise in coloured-stone rings being bought as engagement rings, particularly with millennial customers who are looking for something a bit quirkier than the standard solitaire.

Jo Rowland, Jewellery Buying Manager at Argos, said: “Research shows time and again that the magical festive period is the most popular time for proposals, and our sales data points to the same conclusion. In fact, we sell more engagement rings on Christmas Eve than we do for Valentine’s Day.

“The last-minute sales phenomenon does beg the question, are those buying rings on Christmas Eve planning in advance but buying last minute or are they deciding as late as Christmas Eve to propose the next day? Either way we’ll be ready for them!”

Last minute shoppers need not fear as they can purchase in-store with Argos right up until closing time on Christmas Eve.  Customers should check specific local stores for opening times and stock availability.

Top 3 best-selling new diamond engagement style rings at Argos:

For further information go to http://www.argos.ie/