10 Best Affordable Engagement Rings
by Suzanne Sachs • 5 min read
THE BASICS --
An engagement ring is a significant investment, not just financially, but also in the effort to find the perfect style your intended will adore, and in the emotional commitment it symbolizes. However, when considering the financial aspect of purchasing an engagement ring, what does "affordable" mean for your budget? Additionally, which rings are the most timeless and stunning pieces that every woman can easily incorporate into her jewelry style?
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW--
In this guide, we will explain the following:
- What Should You Spend on an Engagement Ring?
- 10 Best Affordable Engagement Rings
- Solitaire Ring
- Gemstone Ring
- Bezel Set Ring
- Vintage Ring
- Halo Ring
- Birthstone Ring
- Cluster Ring
- Wedding Band
- Heirloom Ring
- No Ring at All
- Choosing a Ring You Will Love
What Should You Spend on an Engagement Ring?
There is a lot of traditional advice regarding the appropriate price for an engagement ring. A common guideline suggests that the cost should equal two to three months of income, but this benchmark is largely arbitrary and promoted by diamond merchants to boost expensive sales. Moreover, basing the ring's price on income does not consider other living expenses or financial commitments, making it impractical for many couples.
10 Best Affordable Engagement Rings
There are many affordable engagement ring styles to choose from, each offering a unique blend of elegance and charm. These designs are perfect for adding a touch of timeless beauty to any occasion, making them cherished pieces that can be worn for years to come.
1. Solitaire Ring
A classic and affordable choice, the solitaire diamond ring features a single, stunning diamond as the centerpiece. Known for their understated elegance and simplicity, these rings focus entirely on the solitary diamond, allowing its beauty to shine unencumbered by distractions. This style not only highlights the diamond’s brilliance but also offers a budget-friendly option without compromising on elegance.
2. Gemstone Ring
Rings that use gemstones either as the central stone or as accents can be significantly more affordable than those with diamonds. Popular choices include sapphires, rubies, emeralds, aquamarines, garnets, and turquoise, which can also offer a unique, personalized touch.
3. Bezel Set Ring
In a bezel setting, the diamond is fully encased in metal, which protects the edges and can be less expensive than prong settings. The bezel setting has a sleek, modern look that appeals to many people. It can be designed in a variety of ways to suit different tastes, from minimalist to more elaborate designs.
4. Vintage Ring
A vintage ring holds a unique charm and character that distinguishes it from modern diamond cuts. Choosing a vintage or antique ring can often be more affordable than buying a new one and offers unique styles not commonly found in modern rings. Opting for an heirloom ring is an eco-friendly choice. It avoids the environmental impact associated with new jewelry production, including mining and manufacturing.
5. Halo ring
A halo ring features a central stone surrounded by smaller diamonds. This setting enhances the overall sparkle and can make a smaller central diamond appear larger, often reducing the need for a higher carat weight.
6. Birthstone Ring
Choosing a birthstone ring as an engagement ring can be a wonderful and affordable alternative to traditional diamond engagement rings. Birthstones come in a wide range of colors and types, offering more diverse choices than traditional diamonds. This variety allows you to choose a stone that resonates personally or matches the preferred style and color palette of your partner.
7. Cluster Ring
Cluster rings group several smaller diamonds together to create the illusion of a larger stone. This can be a cost-effective way to achieve more sparkle. The cluster of stones can symbolize the bringing together of various aspects of a couple's life, making the ring a metaphor for unity and collective strength.
8. Wedding Band
Wedding bands generally cost less than engagement rings because they typically do not feature large diamonds or intricate settings. This makes them an affordable option for couples looking to save on their wedding expenses.
9. Heirloom Ring
Using an heirloom ring as an engagement ring is a deeply meaningful choice that can offer both emotional significance and practical benefits. An heirloom ring carries with it the history and love of previous generations. It represents a connection to family and can symbolize the continuation of family traditions and bonds.
10. No Ring At All
Choosing not to have a ring at all is also a perfectly valid option for couples today. Some couples prefer a simpler, less materialistic approach to their relationship and marriage. They may feel that the commitment they share doesn't need to be symbolized by a physical object.
Choosing a Ring You Will Love
Finding the right engagement ring is all about matching her personal style and preferences. With a wide range of diamond, gemstone, and vintage rings to choose from, each with its own distinctive style and character, the perfect ring can become a cherished piece she’ll treasure for years to come.
Suzanne Sachs
Contact Suzanne
If you love vintage jewelry please feel free to contact Suzanne or browse our collection of vintage engagement rings.
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