It is the holidays! Are you ready to make the last few days of the year count by getting on your knees? Nothing can make 2018 more special for any couple than to seal the deal and be engaged. Before you shop for the ring, you should take note of the following things:
Monthly Gross Income
Engagement rings these days can cost thousands, but how much should be a person’s budget? According to experts, it is around two to three months’ worth of your monthly gross income. In Utah, the average salary is about $55,000. It means putting the ring on her should never cost beyond $8,000.
Getting the Ring for Cheap
Of course, it does not mean that you need to spend all of the $8,000 on a ring. You can be practical without compromising quality.
If your resources prevent you from buying that big gem that you desire for your partner, you do not have to worry. This is because you can create an image of extra carats by selecting a halo setting, which features a series of tiny gems around the heart stone. This type of configuration can make the jewel in the middle look more prominent. It can also totally change the quality of the diamond by granting it a vintage appearance.
Companies such as AAA Jewelers can provide you with custom engagement rings in Salt Lake City without breaking the bank. There are many ways to do it. For example, you can stay away from the round shapes, which can cost a whopping $3,000 for the diamond alone. It is expensive since the cut allows the gem to shine its brilliance. Meanwhile, the fancier the cut is, the more affordable it gets.
State Matters
On the average, Americans spend over $5,000 for an engagement ring, but some states make proposals a lot cheaper than the others. In Utah, for example, most bachelors spend about $3,000. Compare that to New York where the same rings can cost $10,000.
Go Beyond the Diamonds
Granted, diamonds can cost a lot of money, but the stone is not the only consideration when it comes to pricing a ring. Companies also account for the brand, popularity of the cut, buyers, and average income. It is not uncommon for many big brands to sell a ring at least 30% higher than smaller ones.
If you and your future fiancé are going to examine the rings and buy them together, you can get a discount if you buy the engagement and wedding ring at the same time. Doing so will result in more savings. However, this might not work if you and your partner want to surprise each other.
In the end, the engagement ring does not make or break a proposal, but it can make the experience more memorable. It does not mean, though, burning your cash to make your woman happy. Consider these facts to help you plan your spending. If you feel unsure, do not hesitate to consult a professional or expert.