Few purchases have as much emotional value -as well as financial stress — than rings for engagements. In the course of time the notion that you must pay “two months’ salary” became a common standard of conduct. Where did this figure come from? And is it really a good idea in 2026? Here at Newport Jewelers, we sit together to talk with a couple from Newport Beach and across Orange County each week looking for the answer to this question. Here’s the real and practical solution.
Where the “Two Months’ Salary” Rule Came From?
The two-month salary guideline was not handed in the tradition of a long time — it was a marketing strategy. In the late 20th century De Beers ran an advertising campaign encouraging men to spend approximately two months’ earnings on a diamond ring after which the idea was raised by three months. It was successful. In the years since, a lot of people still adhere to this “rule” without realizing it was originally a sales pitch instead of a financial concept.
This doesn’t mean that the number isn’t important — committing to an act of commitment can be an appropriate and sensible option. However, it shouldn’t be taken as a requirement. The budget you choose to use should be based on your current financial situation, the preferences of your partner and goals as two people rather than a decades-old advertising campaign.
What People Actually Spend?
Engagement rings in the United States generally range from $5,000 to $7000, but this can vary widely based on the location, type of diamond, and individual circumstances. In places such as Newport Beach and Orange County in which custom designs and larger stones for the center are the norm We see a wider selection of rings. Some couples choose to purchase a gorgeously simple solitaire, whereas others create a completely customized piece that includes the largest stone, an exclusive setting, or even heirloom pieces.
The key point to remember is that there is no one “correct” number. The most important thing is that the amount is in harmony in your financial plan.
Questions to Ask Before You Set a Number
Instead of beginning with a dollar number We suggest beginning with some honest questions:
What is the maximum you can manage without financial stress?
A ring should not come at the expense of savings, debt-payoff plans, or any upcoming costs like weddings or a the downpayment on your home. Stress from financial strain isn’t an ideal foundation for romantic wedding.
What do you and your partner really appreciate?
Some partners care in the most profound way about the size of their carats. Others are more interested in a unique setting, a certain cut or ethical sourcing (which is where lab-grown diamonds have a tendency to come into). The cost of a diamond that your partner would not have picked in the first place isn’t a good investment.
Are you purchasing for yourself or to surprise someone else?
More couples today are buying rings in tandem or discussing budgets in advance. This eliminates the guessworkand the pressure to figure out the “impressive” number.
Do you wish to put the emphasis on quality, size or design?
This is often the most expensive lever in your budget. A smaller, well-cut diamond set in a beautiful custom-made setting may look more impressive — and is less expensive than a bigger diamond in a standard setting.
Where Your Money Actually Goes?
Knowing what you’re paying for can remove the confusion (and anxiety) from the price. The cost of a ring typically is broken down into several elements:
- The central stone- is controlled by the four Cs of cut, color clarity along with carat weight. Cut is the most significant factor on how a diamond appears, and it’s important to consider cut over carat weight.
- It is the metal – platinum, white gold yellow gold and rose gold have different prices and profiles of durability.
- A setting as well as workmanship– a hand-crafted or custom-designed setting is more expensive than a mass-produced ring However, it’s also where the ring can become completely unique.
- Certification- A natural diamond that is GIA-certified or lab-grown diamond that is certified provides you with a documented, independently verified quality that is essential in terms of security and for resales or insurance purposes down future.
Knowing where your money goes can help you determine where to spend your money and also where you can reduce your expenses.
The Case for Lab-Grown Diamonds
One of the most significant changes over the last few times has been the emergence of lab-grown diamonds that are certified. They are optically and chemically identical to mined diamonds lab-grown diamonds typically cost lower per carat — meaning that couples are able to receive a larger, more expensive stone at the same price or even the same stone at a significantly lower cost. If you are a couple who wants to dedicate more of their money to the creation of a custom-made setting or to spend more in terms of clarity and size Lab-grown diamonds are worth considering with seriousness.
Why Custom Design Can Actually Save You Money?
It’s a popular misconception that custom rings are more expensive than purchasing off the shelves. However dealing directly with jewelers allows you to control the price. Instead of paying markups linked to a major designer label or a large retail chain You’re paying for the stones and the craftsmanship. There’s also the option to choose between selecting a stone that is smaller to allow for a more elaborate setting, or reusing an heritage stone with a fresh style to save money but keeping the sentimental value.
Here at Newport Jewelers, our 3D Ring Builder lets you look at the various options visually prior to a final choice, so that you know the impact of design choices on the style and cost.
Our Honest Advice
If we can offer you a single piece of guidance, it’s this: choose a ring that’s within your financial budget, and that tells the story of your life not the one you’re told to purchase. A ring bought with confidence in your finances and genuine joy is always more valuable than one purchased to hit some undetermined amount.
If you’re unsure what to do is exactly the reason we’re here. Our staff can guide you through the options for diamonds along with budget ranges and design options that are custom-made to leave you with a diamond ring you’re happy with and with a price you’re happy with.
Ready to Start the Conversation?
When you’re exploring options, or you’re ready to design an original piece our group of experts at Newport Jewelers is here to assist you. No pressure, just straight-forward advice from those who are doing this every day.
Check out the Newport Beach showroom or call us at (949) 781-1979 to set up an appointment with us for a personal consultation.
