How Much Should You Spend on an Engagement Ring
How Much Should You Spend on an Engagement Ring
In a sun-dappled cafe last week, my friend Claire casually dropped a question that stopped us both mid-sip: "How many months' salary should you really spend on an engagement ring?" It seemed like such a straightforward question, yet it instantly tangled itself up with the personal values and societal expectations that we all navigate in relationships. So, where did this mysterious number really come from, and does it still matter today?
The idea that one should spend two to three months' salary on an engagement ring is not a long-standing tradition but rather an ingenious marketing strategy crafted in the early 20th century. A certain diamond company had the brilliant idea that a diamond engagement ring was synonymous with undying love. And boy, did that message stick! But much like wearing bell bottoms or enjoying disco, times change and so do attitudes.
The truth is, the amount you spend on an engagement ring is deeply personal, and whether it equals one month's salary, half a month's, or even the equivalent of your beloved's favorite pair of shoes isn't the real crux. What matters is the significance behind the ring you choose. Is it a symbol of love, commitment, or perhaps a shared memory you have with your partner? Like the time I stumbled upon my great-grandmother's ring in an old trunk, nestled between her handwritten letters. It was not extravagant by any means, but it radiated warmth and history—a testament to a love that had endured.
In our modern day, people are increasingly valuing experiences over material possessions, and engagement rings are no exception. Many couples are channeling their budgets into savings for a first home, memorable adventures, or even a lavish wedding celebration instead. This shift can lead to choosing overtly simple or even non-traditional rings like those adorned with sapphires, emeralds, or other personal symbols. At the end of the day, your ring should be as unique as your relationship.
But, here's the rub—money’s role in the making of a moment never really goes away. Letting your partner know your intentions and having an open discussion helps set realistic expectations. Because when love is in the air, it's far too easy to get swept up in the romance of it all, forgetting the financial realities we face. Claire ended up concluding that for her and her partner, a ring that resonated emotionally was far more important than the one that checked all the conventional boxes.
So, how many months' salary should you spend on an engagement ring? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer here. Spend what feels right for you and your partner, and maybe place a little less emphasis on tradition and a bit more on the love you're celebrating. After all, it's not the rock on the ring but the foundation of the relationship that truly counts.
