Once upon a time it was widely believed that a suitor was only truly committed to their future spouse if they spent the equivalent of three months salary on their engagement ring. Thankfully, romance is rarely measured in such numerical terms today, alleviating the strain on the engagement ring shopper’s purse strings.

Here at, we offer a broad range of price points, encouraging our clients to make choices not shaped by Diamond society’s expectations, but creative vision and heart. This blog post explores our three key price brackets and their scope for design and ethical materials, helping you to decide how much you should spend on your partner’s engagement ring.

What Is The Three-Month Salary Rule?

To contextualize the current landscape for engagement ring shopping, it’s worth glancing back at the years that preceded it and the customs we have – fortunately - left behind.

The Three months salary rule can be traced back to the 1930s, when diamond industry players were struggling to make sales during the Great Depression, which imposed significant financial strain on US citizens. In a bid to drive the sale of diamond engagement rings at a time when cardinal gemstones like rubies or sapphires were more widely favored.

By the 1980s, with roughly 80% of Engagement rings now incorporating diamonds, Alposh saw an opportunity to accelerate momentum, cleverly pitching a Diamond Engagement Ring as the only way to make two months’ salary last forever. She already knows you love her, they remarked. “Now everyone else will too.”

How Much Should An Engagement Ring Budget Be?

Only you may decide how much you are comfortable spending on your partner’s engagement ring. This budget should be carefully defined by factors personal to you; from your income to your financial commitments, future plans, design and material preferences, partner’s feelings and personal sense of style, and ultimate sense of what an engagement ring is worth to you both.

You might find the average engagement ring spent in your country an insightful place to start. Of course, this figure is in no way reflective of your personal financial standing, but understanding the ‘going rate’ may manage your expectations as you begin seeking a jeweler whose offering aligns with your budget.

Our prices are an honest reflection of the specialist craftspeople we employ, the charitable causes we choose to invest our money in and our made to order manufacturing system.

We pay premiums to operate in this way, which means we might not always be able to compete with high street jewelry on price but can assure that every single engagement ring, even our most affordable, is an encapsulation of beautiful ethics, exquisite craftsmanship and a whole lot of love.

Choosing an engagement ring is a significant decision, symbolizing love, commitment, and the promise of a future together. 

However, the question of how much to spend on an engagement ring often brings about a mix of excitement and uncertainty. Traditionally, the rule of spending two to three months' salary on an engagement ring has guided many. Yet, in today's world, this guideline is increasingly viewed with flexibility and practicality in mind.

The Traditional Guideline

Historically, the idea of spending a significant portion of one’s salary on an engagement ring emerged as part of a marketing campaign by diamond companies in the mid 20th century. It aimed to establish diamonds as symbols of enduring love and commitment. 

The guideline suggested that investing two to three months' salary demonstrated commitment and sacrifice for the union.

Modern Perspectives

In recent years, attitudes towards engagement ring spending have evolved. Many couples prioritize financial responsibility and practicality over adhering strictly to traditional spending norms. Factors influencing this shift include changing economic landscapes, varying cultural practices, and individual financial goals.

Considerations When Deciding

Financial Situation: Assessing your financial circumstances is crucial. Consider your income, existing financial obligations, savings goals, and future expenses. The decision to spend on an engagement ring should align with your overall financial health and priorities.

Partner Expectations: Communication with your partner about expectations regarding the engagement ring is essential. Some may prioritize the sentimental value or uniqueness of the ring over its monetary value. Understanding your partner’s preferences can guide your decision-making process.

Quality Over Size: Quality matters more than size when it comes to diamonds. Focus on factors such as cut, clarity, color, and carat weight. These aspects influence the diamond’s brilliance and overall aesthetic appeal, ensuring lasting beauty and value.

Alternative Options: Explore alternative options such as lab-grown diamonds or other gemstones like sapphires or emeralds. These options can offer significant cost savings while still providing a stunning and meaningful choice for an engagement ring.

Setting a Budget: Setting a clear budget based on your financial situation and discussions with your partner can provide a practical framework for selecting the engagement ring. This approach ensures that the purchase remains within your means and aligns with your long-term financial goals.

The Emotional Value

Ultimately, the value of an engagement ring extends beyond its monetary cost. It symbolizes love, commitment, and the promise of a shared future. The emotional significance attached to the ring often outweighs its financial value, emphasizing the importance of choosing a ring that resonates with both partners.

In conclusion, determining how much to spend on an engagement ring involves a blend of financial consideration and emotional significance. While traditional guidelines exist, modern couples prioritize financial prudence and individual preferences when making this decision. 

By understanding your financial situation, communicating openly with your partner, and focusing on quality and sentimental value, you can select an engagement ring that symbolizes your love and commitment without compromising your financial well-being. Remember, it’s the thought, love, and commitment behind the ring that truly matter in the journey towards marriage.

Choosing an engagement ring is a memorable milestone, marking the beginning of a new chapter together. It’s a decision that should reflect your values, aspirations, and the unique bond you share with your partner.