Shopping for an affordable engagement ring

Choosing an engagement ring is a pretty monumental decision, almost as significant as purchasing a home or new car. You want to make sure you get it right the first time, considering it is a major investment. There are no set rules for how much to spend on an engagement ring, and there are tricks to stretching your budget. Believe it or not, finding affordable engagement rings is easier than you may think!

5 tips for saving on an engagement ring

Consider your choices in metal

Although platinum is the most popular choice for engagement ring settings, it is just one option. An alternative to platinum is palladium, which offers the same luster as platinum at a more affordable price. Other options include white, yellow, or rose gold—which can give your engagement ring a unique and often vintage inspired look.

Get creative with your setting

Choosing an intricate ring setting can be a cost-saving way to make your engagement ring look more extravagant than it actually is. Diamond prices increase with size, so opting for smaller accent diamonds to enhance the center stone can be a great option for those working with a more modest budget. For example, a halo ring is a perfect option for tighter budgets, as the center stone is encircled by smaller diamonds, making the appearance of the center stone more pronounced. Other small details that can be added to the setting are personal engravings, filigree, or milgrain.

Antique engagement rings

Antique engagement rings are a timeless way of expressing love and romance. Not only are they more affordable than their modern counterparts, they are also as unique as the bride wearing it. With an antique engagement ring, you can be sure that no one will have the exact same ring as you. This adds to the distinctiveness of the ring itself and the love and romance it signifies.

Select a colored gemstone for your center stone

Choosing a blue sapphire or ruby, or any of our many colored gemstones for a center stone is a great option for lowering the cost of your engagement ring. These stones are usually priced lower than a traditional diamond. If you’re attracted to the lighter hue of diamonds, sapphires can be found in shades of yellow or pale pink.

Consider a ring without a center stone

It is becoming increasingly popular for brides to choose a ring without a center stone at all. These affordable engagement rings are as elegant as those with a center stone and there are several options to add remarkable detail. You’ll still be able to enjoy the brilliance of beautiful diamonds, just at a lower cost to you. You can even opt for a ring that incorporates both diamonds and your favorite colored gemstone, making for a piece that is specifically unique to you and your style.

Shop Engagement Rings in San Diego

No matter your budget or taste, at Leo Hamel’s you’re sure to find something you love and can’t wait to wear!  Be sure to stop by our San Diego jewelry store and see the great selection we have to offer!