The old idea that an engagement ring should cost a fixed number of months’ salary was created by marketing, not financial logic. Two people on the same income can have completely different priorities, savings and plans. Start with an amount that will not create pressure after the proposal.
Begin with the complete ring
Think about the finished piece rather than assigning the entire budget to the centre stone. The price also covers the precious metal, side stones, setting work, CAD development, hallmarking and finishing. A balanced ring with a carefully selected stone will usually look better than a larger certificate grade placed in a compromised setting.
What genuinely changes the price?
The centre stone
Carat weight, rarity, shape, colour, clarity and visual performance all matter. Prices can jump at popular carat thresholds even where the visual size difference is small. That is why comparing millimetre dimensions and videos can be more useful than chasing a round number.
Natural, lab-grown or coloured gemstone
Natural diamonds command a rarity premium. Lab-grown diamonds can offer greater size or specification for the same budget. Coloured gemstones vary enormously: durability, treatment, origin and scarcity can matter more than carat weight alone.
The setting and metal
A simple solitaire normally requires less labour than an intricate halo, hand-applied milgrain or detailed multi-stone design. Platinum, 18k gold and 14k gold also differ in cost and wearing characteristics.
Where should extra budget go?
Spend first on the qualities you can see and feel: attractive proportions, good light performance, a secure setting and a design that suits the wearer. Very high colour or clarity grades can add cost without creating an obvious visual improvement. We would rather explain that honestly than steer you toward a more expensive certificate.
If you do not know your budget yet
Send us a reference image and a comfortable range. We can explain what is realistic, where compromises would be noticeable and where they would not. Your initial sketch and quote are complimentary, so you can understand the direction before committing.
Start with an idea, not a sales target
Tell us what you love and what you would be comfortable spending. We will suggest a sensible route and reply personally within 48 hours.
Request your sketch and quote