There is an unwritten rule in engagements that you should spend around two to three months’ worth your salary for a ring. For instance, if you make $70,000 a year, you should spend around $12,000 to $15,000 for a ring. This theory on engagement rings has been around for so many years, but has it evolved over time?
Trends in Engagement Rings
The statistics on rings for people who are looking forward to getting married and older couples remarrying are showing some similarities. For both demographics, there is a sense of individuality in choosing their rings. For older couples getting remarried, their deeper life experience led to having a more developed identity. Millennials have always had strong identities, so they are looking for unique rings that reflect their personality.
These expressions led to the popularity of some designs such as emerald, sapphire, or moissanite. Around 70% of millennials still prefer traditional diamonds, while others prefer lab diamonds as they are perceived to be more socially responsible and affordable. Moreover, independence and equality among the younger generations contribute to shared costs and shopping together for rings by couples.
Factors to Consider When Buying Engagement Rings
The modern lifestyle does not in any way reduce the value of engagement rings. Its heartfelt symbolism remains in the spirit of contemporary times. If anything, the engagement proposal is heightened with experiences such as destination proposals and other creative and romantic gestures. A memorable gesture’s main star is still a ring, that’s why you need to be informed in buying the best ring.
The four Cs constitute a quality diamond ring, which means Cut, Clarity, Color, and Carat. The cut is the quality of the cuts in a diamond. Clarity is the flawlessness of its surface. Colour ranges from clear to neutrals like brown to bright tones like yellow. Carat is the diamond’s weight. Many gemstones are becoming popular choices over diamonds, yet you can still use the four Cs in examining each one of them.
You can purchase rings from brick and mortar stores if you want to see and touch the jewellery before buying. However, when you buy rings online, you get up to 40% lower average costs and will allow you to choose more high-end rings for a better price. The age-old rule of spending between months of wages does not hold up to this day. A design that fits your partner’s personality, on the other hand, is perhaps the main factor in choosing a ring. Here are three basic questions you can ask yourself before making your proposal.
- What jewellery do they already wear? Take notice of any jewellery your partner wears or the lack thereof. Those who have many choices and frequently change jewellery as fashion statements can benefit from traditional designs like the princess cut or solitaire. This way, the ring goes well with any jewellery or accessories they usually add to their outfit.
- Do they have an active lifestyle? Classic pieces like solitaire are more secure for individuals leading an active life. Bigger stones match moderate to less active individuals as they become elegant staples in their wardrobe.
- What is their ring size? When buying engagement rings, you can follow the size of a ring they are already using.
You and your partner can also decide to shop for a ring together. It becomes an exercise of compromise and a sure way to express your individuality when you pick your designs. Buying a ring nowadays is both a symbol of love and an act of practicality. It can be a surprise, and it can also be a bonding experience, especially when you customize designs together. What truly matters is you and your partner are on the same page, ready to begin a life together.
