How much should I spend on a wedding ring?

When you are about to get down on one knee to propose, do you spend a long time thinking about what your budget for a diamond ring should be? How much is too little, and how much is overspending?

This question has been pondered since the 1980s, when De Beers launched an advertising campaign suggesting people set a budget of two months' salary for a diamond. They argued that spending two months' salary is quite small compared to a diamond, which is something that will stay with us forever and be passed down to future generations. However, since this campaign was an advertising tool, opinions on it remain divided.

Still, some feel that an engagement diamond should be at least one carat to serve as a long-term investment. Therefore, it is essential to consider the quality of the diamond you are satisfied with, as this will influence the price, and then determine if that fits within your budget.

The reason diamond ring budgets are sometimes reduced is that many people often prioritize the wedding dress, photography package, makeup, and venue. However, from the personal perspective of the writer, who runs a jewelry store, I believe a diamond is an asset that will be with you forever, not something for one-time use. It can even be considered a long-term investment if you purchase a diamond of one carat or more. Therefore, I would suggest managing your other expenses well so that you do not have to reduce your diamond ring budget.

Regardless, the reason we wear wedding rings is to express the love we have for one another. So, if you have a different opinion on the two-month salary rule, that is not wrong. Feel free to leave a comment or share your experience, as it may be helpful to other couples who are about to get married.