Deciding how much to spend when shopping for a ring is a difficult task. Wea��ve heard every recommendation imaginable: Two to three montha��s salary, as much as you can afford, as little as possible, as much as possible. We wanted to break down all these theories to help you decide which fits you best.
The Skya��s the Limit
Ita��s easy to get carried away and spend wildly on an engagement ring. After all, the bigger the diamond, the more you love her right? Wrong. Diamonds are definitely an important piece of the pie, but there is such a thing as over the top. We dona��t believe a ten carat diamond ring would look nice on everyonea��s finger. Instead, if your budget is truly limitless, focus on factors other than size. A two, three or four carat engagement ring is large enough for most girls. Aim for for higher color, clarity and cut if your budget has room.
Conclusion: If the a�?skya�? is the limit for your budget, be sure to evenly focus on style, design, cut, clarity, carat and color. The ring should wow her and show her that youa��ve made a careful decision that suits her personality.
A�Diamonds are Worthless
Working within this industry, we see the appeal and value of diamonds. Diamonds have both tangible and intangible value. They are a symbols of love, status, commitment, loyalty, affection and basically everything else associated with a life-long relationship.
While we agree that buying diamonds purely for monetary gain or investment couldA�be risky, you can generally expect that the value of your diamond will rise over time.
Conclusion: Diamonds are not worthless. They have monetary and sentimental value. They are an accepted symbol of love and commitment. Luckily A�there are beautiful options available that will brighten her world within nearly any budget range.
Two to Three Monthsa�� Salary
Yes, this is a myth. Why did this become popular? Well, because it is the only suggestion that is accompanied by an actual dollar recommendation.
If you have a median level of income, carefully weigh what your average disposable income is in accordance with your lifestyle. If your lifestyle and budget do not allow you to spend two to three months salary on a ring, reassess your budget. Even within a smaller budget you can buy a gorgeous ring that she will love. You can always upgrade her ring when youa��ve saved enough at the next big milestone in your relationship.
If you decide that you can be more flexible with your disposable income, there still isna��t a hard and fast rule to determine your ring budget. As a general guide: the average diamond purchased for a proposal is H-color, SI1-clarity, and 0.90ct size. That will cost approximately $4,500. Use our on-site budgeting tool to understand just how much you should be spending.
The key is to determine which factors are most important to you (and her). If it is size, scale down on color, if it is clarity, pull down size. There absolutely needs to be a balance.
Conclusion: Spend what you can afford, no more, no less. You have to find that comfort zone that allows you to say you are satisfied and confident with your decision. You are buying a symbol of love, make sure you feel it!