With Inflation Today How Much Money Should You Spend on a Wedding Ring? (2023)
by Suzanne Sachs • 5 min read
THE BASICS --
A wedding ring is one of the most symbolic and significant pieces of jewelry you will ever buy, but how much should it really cost? Understanding the prices of wedding rings can help you choose the best options for your budget and fashion preferences.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW--
In this guide, we will explain the following:
- What are average wedding ring costs?
- Metal Type
- Gemstones
- Ring width
- Age
- Detail
- Retailer
- Sets
- What is the average ring wedding ring cost in the United States?
- How much should you spend on a wedding or engagement ring?
- Know your personal budget
- Engagement ring style and design
- Jewelry preferences
- Daily practicality
- Trendiness
- Number of rings
- Budgeting for further costs
- Resizing costs
- Soldering
- Repair costs
- Insurance
- Ring care
- How much should you spend on a wedding ring?
What are Average Wedding Ring Costs?
Wedding rings can be substantial investments, and the average cost of a wedding ring varies depending on a wide variety of factors, including:
• Metal Type
Gold, platinum, titanium, palladium, etc., as well as overall metal quality.
• Gemstones
Diamonds or other gems in the wedding ring and the stones’ quality and carat size.
• Ring Width
Wider rings have more metal and are therefore more expensive.
• Age
Vintage or antique rings can be a bargain compared to new rings.
• Detail
The more intricate the ring, the higher the cost due to increased craftsmanship.
• Retailer
Online retailers may have better prices and selections than brick-and-mortar stores.
• Sets
If purchased as a set with the engagement ring, the overall cost may be less than if purchased separately.
“Suzanne was amazing! I utilized the layaway service and it was a breeze. Ring made its way to Texas and was even more gorgeous in person."
— Chloe G verified buyer
What is the Average Wedding Ring Cost in the United States?
All things considered and taking inflation into account, the average cost of a wedding ring in the United States is roughly $550 for men’s rings, and $1,400 for women’s rings. Women’s rings are generally more expensive because they are more likely to incorporate multiple diamonds or have greater intricacy to coordinate with an engagement ring for a stylish set.
How Much Should You Spend on a Wedding or Engagement Ring?
While average costs can be a guide for wedding ring prices, there are beautiful, thoughtful wedding rings available at all price points to match any couple’s budget. The amount you should spend on a wedding ring will vary according to your own personal preferences and other financial considerations, including:
• Know Your Personal Budget
Consider your own income as well as other large expenses such as the costs of the wedding itself, loan payments, credit card debt, living expenses, and savings plans when determining how much to spend on a wedding ring. Also consider that a large, elaborate, expensive wedding ring may mean starting a marriage in considerable debt, which may not be a desirable beginning for a budget-conscious couple.on.
• Engagement Ring Style and Design
Many couples prefer matching the wedding ring and engagement ring for a coordinated, cohesive look. This may mean matching metal type and quality, incorporating diamonds or gemstones, or matching the overall style for an elegant set. This can be tricky with very unique engagement rings, and can increase the wedding ring cost.
• Jewelry Preferences
Just as with an engagement ring, it is important to match fashion preferences with the wedding ring to ensure it will become a favorite piece of jewelry. This is especially critical as the ring will typically be worn every day and for all occasions. The overall metal type, stone use, and ring size should match the wearer’s jewelry preferences.
“My experience with Vintage Diamond Ring was so excellent I really had to think about it for a while. First their selection of jewelry is profound. The quality is superior.”
• Daily Practicality
Because a wedding ring is intended to be worn year-round and during many different activities, it is important to ensure the design is a practical one that will not be damaged by regular actions. Consider the wearer’s work, hobbies, exercise habits, and other activities when choosing a wedding ring to ensure it can be comfortably worn.
• Trendiness
The trendier a ring design is, the more expensive it is likely to be because of the hot commodity of the design. Choosing a more timeless, classic style can be less expensive and may be a better option over many years, as trends will come and go and a very trendy design could look outdated before too many anniversaries have passed.
• Number of Rings
Couples shopping for a wedding ring need to consider not just the cost of a single ring, but of both rings – one for the bride and one for the groom – if both individuals will wear a wedding ring. Consider whether the rings will match one another, and be sure to match both designs to the preferences of the person wearing each ring.
There is no hard-and-fast rule for how much is an “appropriate” amount of money to spend on a wedding ring. In general, wedding rings are typically one-third to one-half the cost of an engagement ring, but this is not a definite figure and wedding rings at all price points can be beautiful symbols of a couple’s union, no matter what their budget.
Budgeting for Further Costs
• Resizing Costs
Resizing the ring before the wedding, or in the years to come. A very elaborate ring will be more challenging and expensive to resize as body weights and finger sizes fluctuate over the years.
• Soldering
Soldering costs if the wedding ring must be permanently attached to an engagement ring to keep the set properly aligned to be worn as a single piece. This is typically a one-time cost.
• Repair Costs
Repair costs if the ring loses small stones or other accents. This is more likely to happen with very elaborate rings or if the ring is subjected to harsh activities that could cause damage.
• Insurance
Insuring a very expensive ring to keep it protected in case of extreme damage, loss, or theft. This may increase the price of a homeowner’s insurance policy.
• Ring Care
Cleaning costs for an elaborate ring if regular care is not kept up and detailed cleaning becomes necessary. This can be easy to avoid with proper care, and many jewelers offer free cleanings.
How Much Should Your Spend on a wedding Ring?
Deciding how much money you should spend on a wedding ring is a personal choice for every couple, but understanding average costs and the factors that can influence wedding ring prices can help with suitable budgeting. Ultimately, it is not the cost of the ring that matters most, but the thoughtfulness put into choosing it and the significance of what it represents that will make any wedding ring priceless, regardless of its retail cost.
Antique 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:
Antique diamond cuts are prized not only for their beauty but also for their exquisite attention to detailing and faceting. 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
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