Are you looking to make a good impression? Or perhaps you just want to come off as thoughtful in the caliber of the ring you buy. Either way, engagement rings are not cheap, neither are wedding rings. In fact, you have probably heard your father, friend, or relative tell tales about the financial constraints of buying a ring and you are left wondering, “How much is too much to spend?”

If you are looking to get the best value for your budget, this article gives helpful insight that gets you making better shopping and financial choices. But first, here are a few myths and outdated theories that people adhered to when buying engagement rings.

The Myths and Old-fashioned Theories on How Much an Engagement Ring Costs

While there is no standard amount someone should spend on an engagement ring, there are certainly many myths surrounding it. Below are a few of them:

• The Two to Three Months’ Salary Rule

This theory began as a marketing initiative by diamond marketers to enhance sales yet most people still follow it blindly. Initially, it entailed spending your one month’s gross income to buy an engagement ring. Overtime, this notion evolved into spending two to three months’ of gross income after the changing economic times.

However, this theory is highly unrealistic especially because it turns a blind eye on the debt load. Not forgetting how it completely ignores that this person could have other expenses and priorities.

It also has no consideration whatsoever on the long-term effects. Imagine spending the first few years of marriage financially unstable, paying off the debt accrued from buying a ring. Sounds frustrating, right? So yes, feel free to ignore this old-fashioned rule and get what works for you.

• The Myth that the Bigger the Ring the Better

Traditionally, people measured a man’s love for his woman by the size of the ring he got her. A big ring insinuated a lot of love and vice versa. As a result, most men would break their backs and go to great heights just to prove themselves to their fiancés and society.

This myth is by far misunderstood because some women have no regard for big rings. Some women enjoy the aesthetics and appeal of a smaller ring. Besides, quality is better than quantity, right?

The Reality about the Price of a Wedding or Engagement Ring

Whenever someone asks about how much you should spend on an engagement or a wedding ring, the best suited answer is…It depends. It depends on your financial status, type of ring, cut, and so much more. But no one is satisfied by that answer. So here is a breakdown of factors to consider when looking to buy an engagement ring to guide a realistic price.

1. Partner’s Preferences and Expectations

When buying a ring, ensure you get one your bride or groom will love and appreciate. If you thrive in communication, you can outright ask for your partner’s insight on what he or she would like or go window shopping together. Alternatively, if you are looking to surprise your partner ask her friends and family about her wish list.

    2. Consider Your Financial Situation

Remember there is life after marriage. Buy a ring that falls within your budget to avoid future financial constraints later on in marriage. Let your finances dictate what you can afford.

   3. Thoughtful over Expensive

Take your time and effort to choose the most beautiful ring for your bride. It does not necessarily have to be flashy and expensive. Sure, your beloved may have a spectacular ring but she would not be happy if you are struggling to make ends meet because of it. Instead, you can plan an unforgettable proposal to blow her mind away and make that moment unforgettable, be wise.

Fascinating Hacks to Help You Save Money Buying a Ring

While it is considerably easier to pop into the first store you come across and buy a ring, it is not the most ideal move. A good strategy goes a long way. Imagine how amazing it would be getting a good quality ring at an affordable price. Below are a few hacks that can help you save money.

• Do your research, knowledge is power. Familiarize yourself with the different types of rings, their cut, clarity, and setting. Browse through both store and online jeweler prices to have a rough estimate of what to expect. This information will help you negotiate the best deal.
• Do not shop during peak times. Rings tend to be more expensive during new year’s, valentines, and other festive holidays because proposals and weddings are at an all-time-high. Buy your ring during off-peak seasons to get better deals.
• Shop online. Unlike physical stores, online stores offer a wide variety of rings to choose from. You are not pressured into choosing something the store has in their jewelry collection.
• Choose an Ideal Ring Gold and platinum are quite expensive. Silver on the other hand, can give the same glamorous aesthetic effect at a better affordable price. Silver is also neutral, making blends with various stones, and skin tones.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, no one can put a price tag on love. It is priceless. It is therefore up to you to decide how much you would like to spend on a ring. Whether you decide to seek your partner’s opinion or not, do not get into debt or put future milestones on hold over getting a ring. There is certainly no ‘set’ amount someone should spend on a ring. So ditch the theories, get shopping today, and make it official. It is about time!

The post How Much Should You Spend on an Engagement or Wedding Ring? appeared first on The Little Jewellers.

The internet is flooded with videos of surprise proposals in different settings that warm the heart. The joy that is involved when giving a ring is often a result of a tricky decision that is picking the right ring.

There is much that goes into the choice of an engagement ring. Mostly because people are attracted by the thought of unique rings to show their love and commitment to one another.

People expect to wear engagement rings for two reasons, the main one being that it is a constant reminder of close emotional bonds. The second reason is the wearing of rings to show other people that one is committed to marrying.

There is a distinct sense of pride in wearing a gorgeous silver engagement ring and being able to show it to family, friends, and colleagues.

This post takes a brief look at some of the considerations that come into play when figuring out how to pick the ideal engagement ring.

The desire for perfection

Engagements and the nature of slipping a ring onto your partner’s dainty finger are exciting thoughts. This is because it symbolizes a willingness to be by each other’s side for life. It affects the decision-making process of picking the right engagement ring.

Of course, one would assume that the perfect ring would symbolize the perfect start to something permanent. This results in many ring seekers ending up on a long-winded quest to find the perfect ring.

A good countermeasure against this risk is to have a budget and certain priorities in mind when looking for an engagement ring. A useful tactic to use when struggling to make a choice is to opt for a simple silver band that leaves room to upgrade if the need arises.

One useful consideration for any ring seeker is to use online shopping to find the ring of one’s choice. This is a mode of searching that allows you to browse hundreds of options, many of which can be customized once received in person.

Size

It is important to understand that the visual appeal of an engagement ring should not negatively affect its practicality. In the sense that it should not affect the usability of the hand on which it is worn.

Large rings feel odd on the finger due to the unusual weight distribution, making them bulky and generally inconvenient to wear in the short term before more wearable wedding bands are worn.

There are benefits to larger rings, given that they are beautiful, attract the attention of onlookers and make bold statements about an individual’s choice. Bigger rings with sizeable precious stones are also significantly costly, making them worth serious consideration.

Smaller rings, while manageable and more understated, may not make as much of a statement as intended. However, it is worth considering them because of the lighter cost implications that are significantly different when it comes to precious stones.

Trends

The aspect of size is partially caused by social trends and public opinion, with many people tending to be swayed by evolving trends. There are usually some general opinions regarding the design of engagement rings and what they should look like.

Public opinion affects people’s choices, by limiting original inspiration on what would be appropriate. An example of this is the arguable opinions of diamond rings as the object of every girl’s dreams.

Silver, gold, and platinum are also used to make beautiful rings. Some of these alternatives are not only more affordable but also easily accessible and with various design options.

Consulting a jeweler

When looking for an engagement ring, it is best to steer clear of the challenges discussed here by consulting a seasoned jeweler directly. After exploring a comfortable price bracket, it is good practice to browse available options with the help of a trusted individual.

This reduces the chances of making rushed decisions, picking something impractical or aligning oneself to a reasonable option.

Furthermore, it is important not to enter a binding agreement with a jeweler. This is especially important to remember when it comes to expensive items, at least until one’s future spouse approves of the choice.

Oh-and one last thing. Prepare yourself for some compromise. It is virtually impossible to come across that one engagement ring that will tick all of the boxes. However, compromise in one aspect means opportunity in another, so feel free to weigh your options carefully so that you find something that you’re perfectly comfortable with.

Conclusion

In summary, choosing an engagement ring is a delicate process that is, ultimately, more about showing genuine love.

Many people are swayed by distractions such as seeking a perfect item, ensuring that it has precious stones set in and is in tune with the latest trends. These considerations, while valuable to an extent, often lead to forgetting the priority of what the ring means.

Popular culture has long idolized characteristics of engagement rings. These include the nature and size of precious stones on rings and other seasonal trends that affect the choices of.

While it is important to consider some these factors when choosing an engagement ring, it is wise not to go overboard. Beauty, as the adage says, lies in the eyes of the beholder.

This is especially true for rings, so take a chance on that silver ring in your cart, it might be the start of something special. Good luck!

The post How to Pick an Engagement Ring appeared first on The Little Jewellers.

There is actually a huge difference between the promise ring and the engagement ring. Here is a guide to help you when you decide whether to get your significant other an engagement ring or a promise ring?

What is a promise ring and what does it symbolize?

The promise ring is given as a symbol of a committed relationship. It is also referred to as a pre-engagement ring.

It symbolizes different things including:

• Purity or a promise to remain celibate until marriage.This is given by couples that have promised each other to abstain and wait until marriage.
• You can gift it to show that you intend to marry the other person and that you are envisioning a future with them.
• It also symbolizes a commitment to the other person and the promise to remain monogamous in the relationship.
• A promise ring can also be gifted as a sign of friendship between two friends who aren’t romantically involved. This type of promise ring is used to pledge friendship.
• It can also be gifted from a parent to a child to mean that they will love them forever.
• Promise rings are also worn to symbolize different commitments. This may include thecommitment to a goal, a pledge, faith or intention to break a habit.

They come in different designs including heart designs, gemstones or diamond rings. They are subtler and smaller than engagement rings and do not necessarily have to be worn on the wedding band finger.

Engraved Silver promise rings or custom-made rings have become popular because theypersonalize rings. Personalizing helps make the intentions clear especially if the promise ring has a gemstone or diamond. (Diamond rings are associated with marriage proposals).

What is an engagement ring and what does it symbolize?

An engagement ring, unlike a promise ring, has only one meaning. It’s a symbolic way of proposing marriage. They are worn on the ring finger (left hand) and show that one is engaged to be married.

As you can see, the ring’s intention is the main difference between an engagement ring and a promise ring. They may look similar sometimes but promise rings essentially make a commitment while engagement rings are a straightforward question-“will you marry me?”

Whether you decide to gift the promise or engagement ring, be sure to stay true to the promise and stand by the commitment.

Still not decided on whether to gift a silver promise or engagement ring? Check out our huge collection of exquisite rings and I am sure you will find something for the one you love.

The post The Difference between a promise ring and an engagement ring appeared first on The Little Jewellers.