How to Buy an Affordable Engagement Ring

You want to buy your girlfriend the engagement ring of her dreams, but your budget may not be able to stretch to buy the most extravagant diamond. However, it is possible to buy her a ring that is both beautiful and easy on your wallet. Read on to learn how to buy an affordable engagement ring.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Set your budget. Once you figure out how much you are able to spend on an engagement ring, you can look at the rings that fall in your price range.
2. Choose a different stone than a diamond. More unusual stones, such as a sapphire or a ruby, will typically be less expensive than a diamond.
3. Pick a gold or white gold band. White gold looks very similar to the more expensive platinum.
4. Get a lesser quality diamond. An example would be to buy a diamond with imperfect color, but with a larger stone.
5. Buy a used ring. There is no reason that you can not purchase a used ring in like-new condition for your girlfriend. Just be sure to get an appraisal on a used piece. You can also look into purchasing an antique ring.
6. Purchase an engagement and wedding ring set. Many times if you purchase both the engagement ring and wedding band together, it will be less money than if they are purchased separately.

Tips & Warnings

• As long as you put some thought into her engagement ring, your partner will certainly be happy.
• Avoid a cubic zirconium engagement ring as your girlfriend will not appreciate it.