Buying an engagement ring is one of the most meaningful purchases you’ll ever make — but it also comes with one of the most common (and complicated) questions:

“How much should I spend?”

For decades, people were told to follow “rules” like spending two or three months’ salary. But in 2026, couples are more practical, more educated, and more focused on value than strict formulas.

At Gemma’s Jewelers, we’ve helped thousands of couples choose the right engagement ring — and the truth is simple:

There is no magic number.
There is only the number that makes sense for you and creates a ring she’ll love for a lifetime.

Here’s the modern way to think about engagement ring budgeting in 2026.

1. Forget the “Two Months’ Salary” Rule — It’s Outdated

The old marketing rule that said you must spend two or three months’ salary was created in the 1930s by a diamond company, not by jewelers or couples.

In 2026, people aren’t following price rules — they’re following value, meaning, and personal priorities.

Today’s couples consider:

• Their financial comfort

• Their long-term goals

• Their proposal timeline

• Their partner’s style

• Whether they want a natural or lab-grown diamond

The real question is:
What feels right without creating stress or regret?

2. National Averages Help — But They Don’t Tell the Whole Story

According to industry data entering 2026:

• The average U.S. engagement ring is $5,800

• Natural diamond rings average $6,500–$9,000

• Lab-grown diamond rings average $2,500–$4,500

• Custom rings at local jewelers (like Gemma’s) typically fall between $3,000–$10,000+ depending on design and stone size

But averages don’t tell the story — personal preference does.

Some couples want a simple, elegant solitaire.
Others want a custom ring designed by Amy with unique details, hidden halos, or rare gemstones.

Both are “right.”

3. Decide What’s Most Important: The Stone, the Setting, or the Design

A great budget plan starts with understanding what matters most to your partner.

✔ The Stone

If size, sparkle, or rarity matters most, invest a larger portion of your budget into the diamond or gemstone.

✔ The Setting

If she loves intricate details, vintage styling, hidden halos, or custom artistry, a portion of your budget should go into the craftsmanship.

Amy’s custom design work is ideal for couples who want their ring to stand out in both beauty and meaning.

✔ The Overall Experience

Some couples value the one-on-one design journey — sitting with Amy, choosing stones, reviewing CAD renderings, and building something meaningful together.

There is no wrong answer — only the answer that reflects what she’ll love most.

4. Know What Affects Price the Most

Whether your budget is $2,500 or $25,000, the same factors influence price:

• Diamond Type: Natural vs. Lab-Grown

Lab diamonds offer excellent value and allow couples to go larger for less.

• Diamond Shape

Round diamonds cost more.
Elongated cushions, ovals, pears, and emerald cuts often offer bigger looks for the same budget.

• The 4Cs

Color, clarity, cut, and carat weight play a role, but not equally.
In 2026, the BIGGEST value factors are:

• Cut (beauty)

• Carat (size appearance)

Clarity and color can often be balanced smartly with Amy’s guidance.

• Complexity of the Setting

More detail = more craftsmanship = more cost.

• Custom vs. Non-Custom

Custom doesn’t always mean expensive — it means tailored.

5. Prioritize What You Can See — Not What You Can’t

One of the best budgeting tips:

Spend money where it makes a visible difference.

For example:

• A “D” color diamond vs. an “F” color diamond looks almost identical — but the price difference can be huge.

• A well-cut “SI1” diamond can look clearer than a poorly cut “VS2.”

• A slightly elongated cushion or oval can make the carat size appear much larger.

This is where working with a gemologist like Amy can save couples thousands — and still deliver incredible beauty.

6. Think Long Term, Not Just One Moment

An engagement ring should be:

• Meaningful

• Beautiful

• Comfortable for everyday wear

• Crafted to last a lifetime

The right budget is the one that creates a ring she’ll love at 26… and still love at 76.

And that doesn’t always mean the most expensive — it means the most thoughtful.

7. The Real Answer: Spend What Feels Right for You

Whether your budget is $2,000 or $20,000, couples in 2026 care more about:

• Design

• Meaning

• Craftsmanship

• The story behind the ring

• The experience of creating it

Not the price tag.

At Gemma’s, we help couples design rings at every price level — simple, elegant solitaires… bold custom designs… and everything in between.

No pressure. No rules. Just guidance, honesty, and beautiful options.

💛 Let’s Build the Perfect Ring Together

If you're unsure how to begin, schedule a consultation with Amy.
Bring your ideas, your budget, and your inspiration photos.

We’ll walk you through:

• Stone options

• Design styles

• Custom ideas

• Budget-friendly alternatives

• How to maximize beauty within your comfort zone

The right ring isn’t about a number — it’s about your story.