An engagement ring is no small purchase. We’ve put together a guide to help you save a bit of cash on a ring that still suits your personality and aesthetic preferences.

 

A person putting a solitaire diamond engagement ring on a woman’s hand

 

Your engagement ring is likely to be one of the most sentimentally and monetarily valuable pieces of jewelry you’ll own in your lifetime. It is essential, then, to spend an ample amount of time researching and shopping around for the piece that is the best option for your particular needs. There are a number of ways you can get more for your money. Our experts here at Manfredi Jewels have put together a list of some tips to saving on your engagement ring.

Avoid More Popular Cuts

Round, princess, and cushion cuts are examples of the most popular diamond cuts you will encounter when shopping for engagement rings. Their popularity and brilliance, especially the round cut, cause these stones to cost more than, say, an emerald, marquise, pear, or oval cut diamond. For many, these shapes are to be desired for their uniqueness and expressive qualities.

 

A sapphire engagement ring surrounded by a halo of diamonds on the hand of a woman holding hands with their love.

Consider Diamond Alternatives

Diamonds are one of the most expensive gemstones, especially the colorful varieties like blue, pink, and red because of their rarity. So, you may want to consider another gem to feature as the center stone of your ring. Other than emeralds, most other gems are going to be less costly than a diamond. Consider stones like sapphires and rubies, which are still phenomenally strong and resist damage. Moissanite is a great alternative to diamonds when you want a gem that is colorless and strong, but costs less than a diamond.

Shop Vintage

There are a great number of jewelry retailers that offer vintage and pre-owned rings that will come at a lesser price than new rings. We are proud to offer a truly incredible selection of estate jewelry including timeless engagement rings. Shop around for pieces that meet all of your stylistic requirements, and perhaps have the piece appraised to determine its true value. Manfredi also offers repair and cleaning services so you can have a piece refurbished and returned to its original beauty if it is in less than pristine condition.

 

 

A man and woman cuddling together with the woman’s hand touching the man’s face and showing off her engagement ring.

Heirlooms

You should always consider family heirlooms as options before you begin shopping for a new ring. Not only can you rest assured that the piece is of high quality based on its ability to stand the test of time, but it will likely also possess an extra layer of sentimental value for you. Again, if the piece is in less than perfect condition, bring it in to our experts to have it polished up.

Choose Simple Settings

As a rule, the more accent stones a piece has, the more it will cost. The size of these accent stones also contributes to the cost. So, if you’re looking to cut on costs, choose more minimally designed settings like solitaires or simple side stone settings. Three stone settings can get expensive because of the sheer size of the two accent stones. However, if you choose a ring with small side stones in a more affordable cut, a three stone could be feasible for you.

An open red ring box as a man proposes with an engagement ring.

Shop Engagement Rings at Manfredi Jewels

Cut on costs but not on quality with the help of our team here at Manfredi Jewels. Our selection of designer engagement rings is truly unparalleled, and a trip to either our New Canaan or Greenwich, Connecticut jewelry store is nothing less than luxurious.

 

With the help of our amiable and experienced staff, you’re certain to find the ring of dreams that also suits your budget. Contact us today to learn about our options, or browse our inventory online