When it comes to engagement and wedding rings, there are many decisions to be made, while balancing budget with taste. Let’s explore some clever ways to find engagement rings within your budget, that won’t compromise on your style.
1. Considerations When Choosing Engagement and Wedding Rings
The first step in finding your budget engagement ring is deciding what elements matter most to you and your partner. Here are some key considerations to help guide your choices:
• Smaller Diamond, Higher Quality:
While a larger Diamond might be what you have in mind, selecting a smaller stone with a higher quality cut and clarity will give you more sparkle in your ring. A well-cut Diamond will look more brilliant than a larger lower-quality one. So the question is whether to choose a smaller diamond to afford a high quality diamond, or a lower grade diamond to get the larger size?
• Choose a Different Diamond Shape
One way to quickly lower the price of the diamond, is to choose one that isn’t round. Oval, cushion, marquise or the square princess cut, are all beautiful sparkly options that cost less per carat than the more common round brilliant. An unusual shape, will also make your engagement ring different, even with a simple setting.
• Skip the Diamond and Go for a Gemstone:
Make it even more personal with a gemstone engagement ring. Sapphire, Spinel and Tourmaline rings will make gorgeous engagement rings and often at a lower cost than diamond rings. These gemstones also come in a variety of colours and shapes, making it easy to suit the wearer’s individual style.
• Side-Diamonds: To Add or Not to Add?
Side diamonds can add sparkle, but they’re not essential. If you’re looking to save, leave these out of the engagement ring and save them for the wedding band. You’ll still have a beautiful ring without the extra cost. And it allows you to choose the level of bling you want to wear each day – the engagement ring in itself won’t be too loud, and you can choose to dress it up with a blingy wedding ring.
• Diamonds or Unique Design for the Wedding Band?
Wedding bands don’t need to have diamonds or be elaborate. There are plenty of ways to make a personalised wedding ring. A birthstone, a special number – or simply a ring that suits your own everyday style. See more examples here.
• Matching Rings or Individual Designs?
Do you both want matching rings, or would you prefer something that reflects each of your personalities? Going for individual designs can allow you to get more creative while keeping costs in check. Majority of the rings we design are Matching rather than identical. Read our design stories to see if this is for you.
2. How to Make the Most of Your Budget
Once you’ve narrowed down your preferences, it’s time to make your price range work for you. Here are some savvy tips:
• Smaller Diamonds, Higher Quality:
With a smaller size, you can keep the quality high and get a better overall Diamond. This allows you to prioritise quality over size without sacrificing beauty.
• Lab-Grown Diamonds:
If you are considering low-grade Diamonds to meet your budget, we would recommend choosing a lab-grown Diamond for your custom Engagement Ring. For example, if you are considering a 1ct in a low colour grade or clarity, you might still be spending $5-6K. That is a lot of money to spend on a Diamond that you might not even like that much. If you choose a lab-grown Diamond, you can go bigger and get a well-cut Diamond for much less than a low colour or clarity natural Diamond.
Lab-grown Diamonds are getting more popular in Singapore mainly because of this reason. It stretches your dollar and you don’t need to compromise on size or colour. Lab-grown Diamonds are identical to natural ones, but are a more sustainable and budget-friendly choice.
• Design Flexibility with Smaller Diamonds:
A smaller diamond can give you more design freedom. Whether you prefer a vintage-inspired band, a modern setting, or something completely unique, working with a smaller diamond can help make those creative ideas a reality.
3. Types of Jewellers – Pros and Cons
The right jeweller can make a huge difference in how far your budget goes. Here are some types of jewellers to consider:
• What to Know about Chain Stores (SK, Lee Hwa etc.):
Located in nearly every mall, these offer mass-produced rings for cheap. Can have a wide selection of fairly similar rings and you choose from existing options. Often very thin and not made to last.
• Online Jewellers:
Online options can be cheaper but you can’t look and try before buying. Make sure to check return policy so you know what you are getting into. What they sometimes call ‘custom design’ is simply selecting components, like ring shape or setting type, similar to customising an IKEA wardrobe set. Not be confused with custom design from scratch.
• Branded Jewellers (Tiffany, Cartier, etc.):
Established jewellers with a high price tag – especially if you choose anything other than the basic best-sellers. While you might be dreaming of a Tiffany blue box, know that you are also paying for the brand.
• Custom Jewellers:
While not the cheapest option – and still less than branded rings – custom jewellers can work within your price range, allowing you to design an engagement ring or bespoke wedding rings that suit both your vision and your style.
Whether you want a more intricate setting or a simpler, timeless design, they can tailor it to ensure you get the right ring —without going overboard on costs.
4. The Custom Design Process – Creating a Ring Tailored to You
If you’re considering a custom made ring, here’s what you can expect:
• Full Custom Service:
Start by gathering ideas and sharing your vision with your jeweller. The design process typically includes sketching, gemstone sourcing, and discussing your preferences in order to find the right design. From the choice of material to the setting and stone, every detail will be expertly executed.
• Crafting the Ring You Want:
Once the design is settled, the ring will be handcrafted according to the sketch and details discussed.
• Focus on Design and Quality:
A good jeweller will focus on the quality of the design and the craftsmanship, rather than pushing for upsells or larger stones. After all, it’s about making a ring that’s meaningful to you.
• The Lasting Symbol:
Your engagement and wedding ring are a piece you’ll wear every day. It’s worth investing in something that’s not only beautiful but also durable and timeless.
5. Final Thoughts: Balancing Budget with Beauty
Finding an engagement ring that is perfect doesn’t mean you have to empty your bank account. By considering options like smaller diamonds, lab-grown stones, or custom designs, you can create rings that are both stunning and affordable. Remember, it’s the love and memories you build together that truly matter—your rings should simply be a reflection of that!
When it comes to wedding rings, they don’t need to be elaborate, but should be personal. Figure out if you want the same design or something that suits each person individually.
We, at More Than Diamonds are custom ring makers that offer personalised design services, tailored to your style and budget. Whether you want something timeless or completely unique, we will guide you every step of the way. And you can expect quality service and craftsmanship.
Contact us to start your custom design journey now.
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