How much should I spend on an engagement ring?
This is one of the few questions that nearly every man or couple in love will ask themselves at one time or another. Indeed, my husband did the same thing, but back then there was no internet so he just had to ask friends who had already gone through the process.
During those days it was commonly though that you should spend 1 or 2 months’ salary on an engagement ring, anything less was considered a crime. However, this was just something which was marketed very well by diamond companies and in reality it is just not true. So how much should I spend on an engagement ring? The answer is anything you want! It really all depends on three important factors:
How much do you earn? If you are earning an average income then you want to be careful what you spend. Although getting engagement is important, you must be comfortable with the amount you are spending. If you feel that 2 months or even 1 months salary is too much, then it probably is. So follow your instincts.
How much have you saved? If you have a lot of money tucked away then you can afford to think big when it comes to how much you are willing to spend on a ring. If you are mortgaged up the hilt, don’t have savings and you have lots of debt, you should consider buying a cheaper ring. For example cubic zirconia, opal, mossainte etc.
How much is an expensive engagement ring worth to your lover? You may find this hard to believe but some woman hate to spend on expensive jewelry and they may not appreciate an expensive ring. This is especially true when both of you share the burden of making money, paying bills etc. On the other hand, if your girlfriend loves material possessions then there is nothing worse than presenting her with a cheap engagement ring.
When you know the answer to the above questions you should have a better mental picture of what you want or can afford to spend on an engagement ring. This will make it easier to know “how much I should spend on an engagement ring” and look accordingly. For those who have made a decision I have some suggestions.
