Affordable Engagement Rings That Look & Feel Luxurious

Engagement rings look luxurious and are one of the most sentimental and significant pieces of jewelry that you'll own and wear. There's a misconception that affordable rings can't be both luxurious and stylish, but we're here to prove that isn't the case at all. Look at With Clarity's Luxe collection - it combines luxurious aesthetics with affordability.

Setting the Budget

Before you start browsing engagement rings, it's helpful to set a realistic budget to help streamline your search. Your budget can include money you've set aside for a ring as well as the additional amount you plan to spend. If you plan to finance it, think about a realistic monthly payment that you can spend on a ring. You don't want to overstretch yourself, so set a reasonable budget and stick with it. It's entirely possible to balance your budget with a desire for a luxurious engagement ring, and you'll have plenty of options.

Choosing the Right Metal

Common metals for engagement rings are platinum, 14k, or 18k yellow, rose, or white gold. Platinum costs more than gold and 18k gold will cost more than 14k because it contains more pure gold. Platinum is durable and rare, so it's priced higher. If you're leaning toward gold, then 14k gold is more robust than 18k, but both are great options. Keep in mind that the metal affects not only your budget but also the overall look of your ring. You want the metal to reflect you and your style.

Lab Grown Alternatives

Another way to affordably obtain a luxurious engagement ring is to consider an alternative to traditional diamonds - lab grown diamonds. They're more affordable, ethically sourced, and environmentally friendly. Lab grown diamonds are real diamonds physically, chemically, and optically, so they'll be just as beautiful as mined diamonds. Choosing a non-traditional diamond allows you to create your unique ring that reflects your values and preferences and save some money.

Designs and Settings

Engagement ring designs vary from classic and simple to big and extravagant, and selecting the style depends on personal tastes and what works best for you. Unique designs and intricate settings can help set your engagement ring apart from others. Some have unique details, such as milgrain or hidden halos. Classic solitaire styles with decorated bands, like this Fifth Avenue Ring, provide a timeless look with some added sparkle.

If you're looking for a ring with a little more glam, check out this three-stone halo engagement ring. You'll see rings with unique side stones and notice how much the center stone impacts the overall appearance. This pear side stone engagement ring is a great example. These are only a handful of examples of rings that exude luxury without breaking the bank.

Ring Shapes and Cuts

The center stone of an engagement ring will capture people's attention, but an exciting cut can also catch the eye because it's unique. Round diamonds and other faceted stones glitter and sparkle to catch the eye and also look expensive. Faceted diamonds like ovals and pears aren't as popular and look striking. Emeralds cut diamonds are elegant and unusual, so they'll also draw attention. Emerald and Asscher cut diamonds look expensive but are more affordable than round cut diamonds.

Ethical and Sustainable Options

More couples are not following tradition when it comes to engagement rings, and for some, this means selecting lab grown diamonds because they're an ethical and sustainable option. Lab grown diamonds are conflict-free and environmentally friendly because they don't disrupt ecosystems or pollute the air and water through mining. More couples want the peace of mind that they know precisely where a lab created diamond is made and get certifications for the same.

Customization and Personalization

You can easily customize your ring by selecting the metal and the unique setting you adore. For an extra personal message, consider engraving the inside of the band with a quote, date, nickname, etc. It's a way to level up the sentiment of the engagement ring by having something hidden that only you two know about.

Maintenance and Care

You want to keep your ring looking luxurious for a lifetime and then some, so caring for and maintaining it is essential. Care for it by not wearing your ring to swim, exercise, clean, or work with your hands. You'd hate to damage it when you can leave it at home. Also, have it periodically inspected to ensure all of the prongs and stones are in place. You can clean your ring at home with a little dish soap, warm water, and a soft-bristled brush. This can remove grime and get it sparkling again. Avoid using chemicals that weren't made to clean jewelry or other abrasive materials, such as toothpaste. These can damage the metal of your ring.

Conclusion

Engagement rings don't have to be ridiculously expensive to be affordable. You can find luxurious and affordable options. One way to achieve both is by selecting an engagement ring with lab grown diamonds in the setting, the center stone, or both.

They're an ethical, sustainable option that also makes an inexpensive engagement ring. You have plenty of other engagement ring options, such as the setting, metal, and center diamond cut, which can fit within your budget. Select the options that reflect your personal style and taste - you want the engagement ring to feel like you. And you want it to reflect your values rather than society's expectations.