An engagement ring is far more than a piece of jewellery, it’s an emotional marker of commitment, intention, and shared future. Yet, the pressure to “buy big” often leads couples to stretch their budgets
unnecessarily. Industry experts agree that a meaningful engagement ring doesn’t have to be expensive; it has to be thoughtful. With the right approach, it’s entirely possible to choose a ring that balances beauty, longevity, and value, without financial strain.
Riva Dhir, Creative Director, Dhirsons Jewellers (Dhiraj Dhir Group), believes the foundation of any smart jewellery purchase begins with trust. “When buying an engagement ring, the most important factor is choosing a reputable jeweller,” she explains. A trusted jeweller offers transparency, proper valuation, and long-term security through policies such as 100% buyback. Knowing that the ring holds value over time not only provides peace of mind but also makes the purchase more future-proof.
Certification is another crucial consideration, especially for younger buyers who increasingly prefer documented authenticity. Dhir notes that while some customers may opt for non-certified diamonds due to budget constraints, certification, particularly for natural diamonds adds significant credibility. A proper certificate confirms whether a diamond is natural or lab-grown and details its cut, colour, clarity, and carat weight. “It also becomes essential if you ever plan to resell or upgrade,” she adds, advising buyers to verify the certificate number etched on the diamond’s girdle against the report.
When it comes to diamond quality, Dhir emphasises not compromising on the fundamentals. Cut, colour, and clarity directly affect a diamond’s brilliance and long-term value. Even on a budget, prioritising quality over size ensures the ring remains visually striking and retains worth over time.
While quality matters, design is where personality truly enters the picture. A well-chosen design not only enhances the diamond but also ensures the ring feels timeless. Dhir advocates for simplicity, especially when buying a solitaire. “Minimal designs allow the solitaire to stand out,” she says, suggesting delicate halos or clean bands with subtle accents. Such designs are elegant, versatile, and far less likely to feel dated years later.
Echoing the idea of intentional buying, Supriya Kataria, co-founder, Kumari Fine Jewellery, believes budget-friendly engagement rings are about aligning emotion with practicality. “The first thing to consider is your partner’s lifestyle,” she says. If the ring is meant for daily wear, comfort and durability take precedence over ornate detailing. Smooth edges, secure settings, and lightweight designs help the ring integrate seamlessly into everyday life.
Kataria also encourages buyers to prioritise impact over excess. Rather than maximising every element, focusing on what truly matters, such as a well-cut stone or refined metal quality can make a significant visual difference. “A beautifully cut stone will always outshine a larger but poorly finished one,” she notes.
For those who love the look of a larger diamond but are working within a budget, smart settings can be a game changer. Kataria points to halo designs as a popular solution, where a smaller centre stone is surrounded by tiny diamonds to enhance sparkle and create the illusion of size without the hefty price tag.
She also reminds buyers that diamonds aren’t the only meaningful option. Coloured gemstones and alternative stones can be equally personal and often more affordable, while lightweight designs reduce metal usage without sacrificing elegance. Finally, Kataria stresses the importance of thinking long-term. Rings that offer buy-back or upgrade options provide flexibility as tastes or circumstances evolve.
Ultimately, both experts agree on one thing: buying an engagement ring on a budget is not about compromise, it’s about clarity. With the right jeweller, informed choices, and a focus on quality and design, a budget-friendly ring can be just as special, enduring, and symbolic as any lavish purchase.
