May 14, 2024

Affordable Engagement Rings – What Does That Mean to You? (2024)

by Suzanne Sachs • 5 min read

THE BASICS--

An engagement ring is an expensive investment, not only of money but also of the care taken to find just the right style of ring your intended will love and the emotional investment of proposing a lifetime commitment symbolized by this very special ring. But when it comes to your financial investment in an engagement ring, what does affordable mean for your budget?

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW--

In this guide we will explain the following:

How Much You Should Spend on an Engagement Ring?
Determining What Your Engagement Ring Budget Should Really Be
Income
Debt
Expenses
Future Purchases
Preferences
Finding an Affordable Engagement Ring
The Most Important Price

How Much You Should Spend on an Engagement Ring?

There is a great deal of conventional advice about what an appropriate price for an engagement ring ought to be. One conventional idea is that the ring's cost ought to equal 2-3 months of income, but that figure is largely contrived and perpetuated by diamond dealers hoping to encourage higher priced sales. Furthermore, an income-based price estimate does not take into account other living expenses or financial obligations, and is thus unreasonable for many couples.

Another common way to set a budget for an engagement ring is to follow the "average" engagement ring price, but that number is also flawed, because there is no central database on engagement ring sales and what real couples are spending. Instead, simple surveys may give unreasonable averages, especially when the highly publicized — and astronomically high — prices of celebrity or other high profile engagement rings could be included in the calculation.

Determining What Your Engagement Ring Budget Should REALLY Be

Instead of relying on generic advice or unreasonable numbers, every couple should set their own budget and individually decide what affordable means to them. This starts with a frank, honest discussion of the couple's financial situation and expectations, including…

Income: Current income, considering job security and any potential raises, promotions, or new job opportunities, as well as whether the couple plans to be a one- or two-income household.
Debt: Existing debt, including student loans, car payments, credit card balances, unpaid fines or fees, and personal IOUs that should be resolved as soon as possible.
Expenses: Living expenses for the couple’s combined household, covering regular bills, budgeting for an emergency fund, and setting aside savings.
Future Purchases: Upcoming major purchases, including the wedding, as well as other significant expenses like a new car, buying a house, or starting a family.
Preferences: Personal preferences, such as individual frugality and comfort levels with spending on jewelry, including setting realistic expectations for the type of jewelry to purchase.

There is no single number that is ideal for everyone's budget, and what is an affordable ring to one couple might be outrageously expensive or ridiculously cheap for another couple. By carefully examining your budget as a couple, you can learn what your definition of affordable is, and you can plan for the purchase – even saving up if necessary – without ac crui ng unnecessary debt before you ever walk down the aisle.

Finding an Affordable Engagement Ring

Once you know your budget, no matter what it may be, there are many options you can consider for a beautiful engagement ring, and affordable doesn't mean cheap or low quality – it only means sticking to the budget you can personally afford. Opting for a different gemstone can be a beautiful and unique choice that may be more affordable than a diamond. Many antique engagement rings or estate rings are also wonderful options that don't carry as high of price tags as more modern, cutting edge rings. Selecting the ring's setting carefully, such as choosing a halo ring rather than a solitaire, is another way to influence the ring's price without going over budget or sacrificing beauty. No matter what the ring's price, you can find a beautiful, high quality ring that is affordable for you.

The Most Important Price

Above all, remember that it isn't the dollar price of the engagement ring that truly matters — it is the thoughtfulness, intention and love behind the ring that is most important. If you choose a ring your partner will love, one that reflects their style and preferences and symbolizes the deep relationship you share, it will be a priceless ring – no matter how affordable its price tag may be.

Vintage Engagement Rings For Everyone:

No matter which era is your favorite, these time-honored rings have a rich history and individualized character and will continue to have a timeless beauty and elegant appeal that is part of a legacy to pass on to future generations.

Find the Perfect Engagement Ring

Vintage rings are prized not only for their beauty but also for their exquisite attention to detailing and design. If you’re looking for a ring with a sense of glamour, sophistication and vintage charm, explore our collection of vintage engagement rings today.

Suzanne Sachs

Suzanne has always believed vintage rings can change lives. She's been in the jewelry industry for over 35 years, working with vintage jewelers, diamond dealers, diamond cutters, and gemologists. Suzanne started Artdecodiamonds in 2000 and understood the demand for vintage rings throughout the world. She ultimately started VintageDiamondRing.com in 2014, and understands each vintage ring is a reflection of you — your history, your relationships, your style, your elegance and is honored to have the opportunity to help you showcase your flair in a unique and exquisite way.

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Contact Suzanne

Browse our complete collection of affordable engagement rings with many unique and stunning rings well under $2,000 to find the perfect ring to perfectly fit your budget! If you love vintage or eco-friendly jewelry please feel free to contact Suzanne.