How Much Should You Spend on an Engagement Ring? [Real Answers]

Let’s be honest — there’s a lot of noise out there about how much you're “supposed” to spend on an engagement ring. Some say two months’ salary. Others say three. And then there are TikTok influencers with carats the size of jawbreakers.

At Doland Jewelers, we think it's time for some real talk.

You shouldn’t go into debt for a ring.
But you also shouldn’t treat it like just another purchase.
So… what’s the right number?

Let’s break it down.

💸 The Old Rules Don’t Apply Anymore

The “two-months salary rule” was invented by diamond marketers decades ago. It’s not a law, and it doesn’t reflect your unique situation.

Here's what we tell customers:

• If you can comfortably spend a certain amount without causing financial strain, great.
• If spending more would mean stress, skipped bills, or credit card debt — it’s too much.
• If you’re thinking of spending less than you want because you're afraid of looking flashy, let’s talk. There's a big difference between smart spending and downplaying your commitment.

🧠 So… What Should You Spend?

We’ve helped thousands of people find the right ring for their budget, and here's what we’ve learned:

✅ The best engagement rings fit your finances and reflect your relationship.
✅ It’s okay to stretch a little — not to impress others, but to show her that this matters to you.
✅ You don’t have to buy the biggest diamond. You do need to feel proud when you open that box.

If you walk out of our store saying, “I can afford this — and she’s worth every penny,” then you nailed it.

🔁 Natural Diamonds = Smart Long-Term Value

If you’re torn between lab-grown and natural, know this:

• Lab-grown diamonds are more affordable upfront.
• But natural diamonds retain value — and Doland offers a lifetime upgrade policy on any natural center diamond or natural diamond stud earrings.

That means if you start with a smaller diamond today, you can trade up later — for a bigger stone, a new setting, or a new chapter in your love story.

No pressure. No expiration date. Just a policy that grows with your life.

👂 Real Talk from Real People

We had a customer recently who said:

“I don’t want to look cheap, but I’m paying off student loans. I want her to know I’m serious.”

We helped him choose a stunning oval diamond that fit his budget and his values. He stayed within his means — and when he proposed, she cried happy tears.

That’s what it’s all about.

❤️ Final Word from Our Team

This is a ring that symbolizes forever — not a status symbol or a price tag.

At Doland Jewelers, we’re here to help you:

• Understand your options
• Compare lab-grown and natural diamonds
• Find styles that look amazing at every price point
• Walk away with confidence, not pressure

If you're ready to start the conversation — or just want to learn — stop by our Dubuque or Davenport location. We’ll make the experience simple, stress-free, and maybe even fun.

💍 Book a Free Consultation

Schedule a visit today — and let’s find the ring she’ll say “yes” to.
Schedule an Appointment