If you’re thinking about popping the question, you might be hearing different responses about the cost.
Traditions state that you should spend an “x” amount of money, while your budget and lifestyle might argue otherwise. The cost should be a minor factor when it comes to finding the right ring. If you want to get something that’ll withstand your marriage, you need to focus on quality over quantity.
Keep reading to discover how much should you spend on an engagement ring based on your circumstances!
The Salary Standard
Basing an engagement ring budget off your salary is a common tradition.
Before you start stashing money away, it’s essential to clarify the amount. Some people fall under the impression that two years’ salary should be the cost, but this is a tall order to live up to.
The true salary standard recommends spending two months’ worth of your paychecks. Even this amount can be a challenge to save. Give yourself time and patience to prepare for popping the question so you don’t overwhelm yourself.
You don’t want to start your marriage with debt. If you want to upgrade your spouse’s ring in the future, you still have that choice. Barkev’s Jewelry offers affordable engagement rings so you don’t have to put your love on hold!
Pay What You Can Afford
Picking out an engagement ring can be stressful since you want to impress your partner.
What won’t impress them, however, is investing in something you can’t pay for. If you’re having trouble figuring out a reasonable engagement ring cost, consider what you can afford. The salary standard isn’t always realistic, and you may have to make temporary sacrifices to get the ring your partner deserves.
Only buy what you can afford and don’t base the price tag off of a potential raise or bonus. When you pay what you can afford, there is less stress that comes attached to the ring. Our team has put together a diverse collection of rings and jewelry for every budget.
Almost 50% of married couples go into debt for their engagement and wedding events. If you want to have money for the big day, you’ll need to consider saving for both the ring and the wedding.
Consider the Wedding Band
You can make a statement with an engagement ring, but you don’t want to leave yourself little money for the wedding band.
Barkev’s wedding ring sets are perfect for people who want to prepare for the future. Things will just start once you pop the question. You don’t want to overlook the important details of pairing an engagement ring with a wedding band.
When you buy an engagement ring, it’s best to get the wedding band at the same time. This will help you ensure they don’t overlap or interfere with each other when you officially tie the knot. You also want to have an idea of the band costs in case it impacts your engagement ring budget.
If you aren’t ready to invest in a wedding band, it still helps to look at the options. Knowing what bands are available can help, whether you want something simpler or more complex.
Factors Influencing the Bill
A lot of details go into picking the perfect ring for your loved one.
You may want to get them the most extravagant ring, and our ring styles will do the trick at a fraction of the cost. Our engagement jewelry and diamond rings are sold at affordable prices but are still made with quality in mind.
Before you decide on a ring, there are a few factors to consider. Look below to discover what could increase or decrease your price!
Gemstone Cut & Size
The cut and size of the stone you put in the ring will have the most significant impact on your total cost.
Barkev’s has put together resources on diamond education to help you make the choice. Whether you want a traditional look or not, we can ensure you get the most proper shape and size. Don’t forget to ask your partner or look at their social media to discover if they’re drawn toward a particular style.
It should come as no surprise that larger stones are more valuable and expensive. If you want to splurge on a large stone, you can consider alternative gems as a replacement.
In general, the cut of a diamond or other precious stone can fluctuate costs. There are several grades for cutting the diamonds, and the type you choose will impact the appearance. Take a look online at the visible differences between styles.
If you want more affordable cuts, several options are sold through our store. Oval, princess, and cushion cuts are some of the most common. Round diamonds, which are the most popular, will come at a more significant cost.
Gemstone Choice
Did you know that nearly 20% of diamond engagement ring sales consist of lab-grown gems?
Our team offers both lab-grown and natural diamonds to help people buy something beautiful. The type of gemstone, whether you want diamonds or not, will impact the overall cost. Not all stones cost a lot of money, but they still leave a lasting impression.
Instead of buying the most extravagant stone, you need to consider your budget. Look for gemstones that are affordable and consider man-made styles to save money. Most people don’t realize that both types carry the same physical and chemical properties.
Take the time to also consider your partner’s preferences. If they aren’t into classic and stereotypical stones, we have other options to consider. Blue and pink sapphires, rubies, and emeralds are popular alternatives.
Material of the Ring
Last year, yellow-gold rings took center stage as the most popular choice of metal for engagement rings.
Platinum and gold rings are more popular for the year 2023. The metal of choice truly depends on your loved one’s preferences and personality. If you haven’t noticed them being drawn toward a particular kind, you have the freedom to pick what feels best.
At Barkev’s you can find engagement rings made of gold, white gold, and rose gold. There is also a large selection of platinum and two-tone options available. Platinum and gold are the most expensive, but you can save some money with two-tone or gold variations.
Customizations
Barkev’s understands the significance behind engagements and offers customizable rings.
You can develop a unique ring that speaks to your partner’s heart and eyes. Not only can you customize the cut, size, and type of stone, but there are other factors to play with. The setting, metal, and shape can all be selected to create a beautiful, custom ring.
Some of the costs may increase, depending on the value of your upgrades. You can build your ring online and monitor the costs without having to negotiate prices. We know that you want a one-of-a-kind proposal, and it can’t be done with a cookie-cutter style.
Engravings can also be added to rings to enhance their meaning. Engagement jewelry sale trends have seen a dip, but this could be due to the passing down of heirlooms. Getting an engraved engagement ring could help your future child save and feel closer to their parents!
Shipping Costs
If you’re ordering from Barkev’s in the United States, you don’t have to worry about shipping fees.
Shipping costs can add a lot to the bill if you order online from other sources. Barkev’s fully insured packages arrive within a few weeks of placing the order. Luckily, you can follow where your ring is with order and delivery updates.
In some cases, you may need to rush an order. If this is true to your situation, you can speak with a Barkev’s team member to discuss shipping options. Rushed orders may be completed at additional cost.
Ways to Save
Aside from buying a ring from our more affordable section, there are other ways you can save on the costs.
If you’re a member of the military, our company offers an excellent discount. We offer 10% off payments for all eligible military members as a token of our appreciation. Barkev’s understands the significance of the U.S. military and other service members.
Law enforcement officials, firefighters, and nurses can also receive this discount. Simply contact us via phone to make your discount request!
Other ways to save money include occasional promotions for free shipping and returns within a certain period. If you need help financing the ring, you can pay with Affirm at checkout and make affordable monthly payments.
Can You Tell How Much Should You Spend on an Engagement Ring?
How much should you spend on an engagement ring will depend on several factors.
Once you have a plan on how to propose, buying an engagement ring comes next. Our store takes pride in offering reasonable engagement ring prices to customers. Don’t forget that you can customize rings if you don’t see something you like.
If you need help finding the perfect ring, browse our best-selling engagement rings for 2023. Barkev’s keeps a large inventory and our team will ensure you leave a lasting impression!