Lifestyle
Engagement Ring Budget
The "3-month salary" rule was invented by De Beers in the 1930s to sell more diamonds. Here's a real-money approach that considers your savings, goals, and life.
FAQ
The 3-month salary rule? +
Pure marketing from a 1938 De Beers campaign to sell more diamonds. There's no financial logic behind it. The Knot's 2023 survey: average spent was $5,500, not 3 months salary.
Lab-grown diamonds? +
Chemically identical to mined diamonds. 60-80% cheaper. Indistinguishable to the eye. The "investment value" of natural diamonds is largely a myth — both lose 50%+ of retail value upon resale.
What if my partner expects a specific number? +
Talk about it. Ring budget should be a joint decision, not a surprise that creates resentment either way. Some couples allocate the savings to the down payment instead.