How Much Should You Spend on an Engagement Ring?

Whether planning to propose or simply curious, here’s the ultimate guide to saving on your dream engagement ring or wedding band- we’ll answer how much you should spend on an engagement ring.

Debunking Common Myths About Engagement Ring Prices

It’s time to debunk some common myths surrounding the pricing of engagement rings. First, the belief that you should spend 2-3 months’ salary on an engagement ring. Though it’s a good starting point, this figure isn’t set in stone, and budget should ultimately be based on personal preference. Remember, the value of an engagement ring lies in the commitment it symbolises, not the price tag attached to it.

Another myth is that a higher price equates to a better ring. While it’s true that higher-quality diamonds and materials may come with a higher price, it doesn’t mean that a more expensive ring is automatically the best choice.

Decoding the Price Tag of an Engagement Ring

When it comes to engagement rings, price can be intimidating. However, understanding the features that influence how much you spend on an engagement ring can demystify the process. These features are; the centre stone, the setting, the craftsmanship, and in antiquing the age.

Choosing Your Centre Stone: centre of place and central to price

The centre stone plays a large role in determining the price. If you’ve set your heart on a diamond engagement ring, understanding the 4Cs—carat weight, cut, colour, and clarity—can help you maximise value.

The 4 Cs are as follows:

• Carat refers to the weight of the diamond with larger diamonds generally being more expensive.

• Cut affects the brilliance and sparkle of the diamond; well-cut diamonds command higher prices.

• Colour affects value; colourless diamonds are more desirable and costly.

• Clarity refers to the presence of any internal or external flaws and also impacts price

By balancing these factors, you can find a stunning diamond within your budget.

Alternative Gemstones and Spending

If a traditional diamond ring doesn’t align with your budget, or simply disagrees with your partner’s taste, don’t fret! There are plenty of stunning alternatives to consider. Gemstones like sapphires, emeralds, and rubies possess excellent durability whilst offering vibrant colours emitting a rich hue of sparkles.

Not only cost-effective, coloured gemstones allow for a ring that reflects your partner’s personality as each gemstone has its unique symbolism. For example, ruby compliments a recipient who is passionate and emboldened. Aquamarine might be the perfect choice if you’re looking for something with a serene and calming hue to match your partner.

Beyond the Gemstone

You are buying an engagement ring not an engagement gemstone. This means that the band the gemstone sits on will also affect how much you spend. As engagement rings symbolise an enduring relationship, Gold’s durability makes it a popular choice for a band. Available in different carat weights, gold also presents a range of options to suit different budgets.

At AJC our antique rings have witnessed centuries, so our 18ct gold standard will guarantee that our rings will see you through lifetimes.

Unveiling the Timeless Beauty of Antique Engagement Rings

More importantly, every piece of antique jewellery is unique because its craftsmanship cannot be replicated with modern machinery. This gives antique rings an appeal that you can’t find in modern-day pieces as the techniques present are often too labor-intensive, and costly, for modern mainstream brands.

While shopping our antique rings, take the time to learn about different eras and styles through our blog posts. Whether it’s the Art Deco’s geometric shapes or the romantic designs of the Victorian period, each era has its own distinct characteristics. By providing you with these histories, we aim to help you find a ring that suits budget and tells a story that you’ll want to continue.

Strike up the Band: how much should you spend on a Wedding ring

Though engagement rings often steal the spotlight, wedding bands hold their own significance as the reminder of vows exchanged on the wedding day.

No wonder couples put so much thought into finding the perfect band. Like engagement rings, shopping for bands can be done with ease when armed with the necessary information.

Maximising the Value of Your Metal

Traditionally, wedding bands have a more simple design than engagement rings. They’re typically crafted as a band of precious metal, so metal choice greatly influences the cost. The traditional options of gold or platinum can be more expensive because of their durability and rarity.

For example, Gold comes in various karats, with 24 carat being the purest and most expensive option, and can range anywhere from  £500 to £3,000 for a quality piece. The colour of the metal also affects price. For instance, white gold is often more expensive than yellow gold due to the additional rhodium plating.

Deals in Design and Craftsmanship

Wedding rings come in many designs, from classic and elegant to modern and intricate. Our antiques prove that the design of wedding bands can be truly timeless just like the concept of love they signify.

The price of antique bands depends on the craftsmanship of the design; the artistry involved in their creation. Skilled artisans meticulously handcrafted these metals to ensure perfection so more detailed designs fetch higher prices.

The manufacturer of the ring may also influence cost. Antiques from established jewellers may possess higher prices as their name assures quality.

Most importantly, as with our engagement rings, every antique wedding band is distinctive because of the inability to be replicated by modern machinery. Antique jewellery has an incomparable appeal as the techniques used are often too laborious for most modern brands.

To Gem or Not to Gem: adding a twinkle to your band

Wedding bands with gemstones range from simple, elegant bands with small accents to extravagant pieces with larger centre stones. Additions of diamonds, or other precious stones elevate the overall aesthetic and add a twinkle to the band. The type, size, and quality of gemstones will impact price. (For more information on the cost-effectiveness of gemstones refer back to the engagement ring section.)

Lifetime Support for a Lifetime Investment

At AJC we make a commitment to our wedding rings that matches the commitment they symbolise- a lifetime one.

We protect your pockets with our lifetime aftercare promise. Cleaning, repair, and resizing is a service we offer for our engagement rings and wedding bands indefinitely. Through us, you will gain access to our specialist antique jeweller who can provide these services whenever necessary. However long after purchase, whether its a simple cleanup or a change in size, we make it so our rings can grow alongside you and your partner.

Keeping your Eye on the Prize: deals and membership

One last AJC tip: Keep an eye out for our seasonal promotions and events throughout the year or better still, sign up for our VIP service to gain further access to the best deals and newest pieces.

Happy Ring Hunting!

Want in-person advice on how much to spend on an engagement ring or wedding band? Book your appointment and we’ll share more secrets!