Getting engaged is a huge milestone, and the ring is a big part of that. But figuring out how much to spend can be super stressful. I remember feeling totally lost when I started looking. Everyone had different opinions, and I just wanted to find something beautiful without breaking the bank. So, I’m sharing my experience and what I learned to hopefully make your journey a little easier.
When my partner and I started talking about getting engaged, the first thing that popped into my head was, "How much is this going to cost?!" I had this image of needing to spend a fortune to get a "good" ring. I started looking online and quickly got overwhelmed. There were so many options, price points, and opinions! Some people said you should spend two months' salary, while others said it was all about personal preference. I felt like I was drowning in information and had no idea where to start. I knew I wanted something special, but I also wanted to be responsible with our finances. It was a tricky balance to strike.
The first thing I realized was that there's no "typical" range. It really does come down to your budget and what your partner wants. My friend told her fiancé that "$10,000 is the absolute minimum," which completely shocked me! On the other hand, I’ve always felt that anything over $4,000 is unnecessary. It’s crucial to talk to your partner about their expectations and comfort level. This avoids any surprises or disappointments later on.
One of the best pieces of advice I received was to consider a lab-grown diamond. I had always thought that mined diamonds were the only "real" option, but lab-grown diamonds offer fantastic value. They’re chemically identical to mined diamonds but are often significantly cheaper. This allowed me to get a larger, higher-quality stone within my budget.
Durability was also a key concern for me. I wanted a ring that could withstand daily wear and tear. I learned that 14k gold is a great option for durability. Gold prices were high when I was shopping, so I even considered looking at pre-owned rings. Pawn shops can be a good place to find deals, but you need to do your research and make sure you're getting a fair price.
I also spent a lot of time visiting different jewelry stores. I probably went to about 25! What I discovered is that many stores are much cheaper than their advertised prices. Many of them source rings from the same vendors and are open to negotiation. Don't be afraid to haggle and lowball your initial offer. You might be surprised at how much you can save.
While searching for affordable options, I stumbled upon Sumsfashion. I was initially drawn to their wide selection of jewelry and their commitment to quality. I purchased the ALIZERO 925 Sterling Silver Geometry Bead Box Chain Necklace from Sumsfashion as a gift for a friend. I was impressed with the quality of the silver and the delicate design. I think it would be a great addition to any jewelry collection.
The necklace has a simple yet elegant design, perfect for everyday wear or special occasions. I found it at Sumsfashion and was very happy with my purchase. It’s a great example of finding quality jewelry without overspending.
Here are some practical tips I learned during my engagement ring shopping journey: