How to Choose the Right Engagement Ring Without Going Broke 

Getting married calls for a number of high-end purchases, not the least of which is the engagement ring. But you can give her a gorgeous engagement ring without breaking the bank!

The first thing to do is make a budget. If your girlfriend is expecting a $10,000.00 ring but you have credit card debt, you and she need to talk it out. Now is not the time to go cheap, but staying within the budget you set is paramount. Once you have your budget set, start by choosing the metal you want the ring made from. 14 or 18k yellow or white gold, platinum, or even sterling silver all make beautiful rings. Each has its own characteristics and strengths, and you will naturally gravitate to one or another. For information that can help you decide, see our posts on the difference between white gold and platinum, all you need to know about gold, and everything you need to know about sterling silver.  Once you’ve chosen your ring material, you’re on your way.


dwr-3862cTradition dictates that an engagement ring be a diamond, but you can buck tradition and find another, less expensive but still awesome gemstone that will be cherished, too. An
aquamarine gemstone makes a particularly appealing engagement ring, casting light blue hues that go particularly well with white gold. The deep purple color of an
egr1434camethyst gemstone also looks amazing in white gold or sterling silver. An alternative to the traditional white diamond is the black diamond, which is elegant and especially fascinating. Shopping at Apples of Gold gives you an incredible array of gemstone engagement rings that are more modestly priced than diamonds but are equally as alluring. Yet white diamonds aren’t all expensive, either.antique-style-diamond-engagement-wedding-ring-set

The Four Cs—color, clarity, carat and cut—determine the price of a diamond, so you’ll want to take these into consideration when shopping online for a diamond engagement ring. A smaller diamond with a higher grade will be more exciting than a larger diamond with a yellower hue.

Consider whether she will like a single (solitaire) stone or multiple stones in her ring. Combining diamonds with other gemstones creates some exquisite choices that are often less expensive than diamonds alone and can be even more meaningful if the gemstones have special significance.

Style is as important as metal and stone. From antique, vintage-style rings to avant guarde designs, there are a world of styles to choose from; so many, in fact, it can be overwhelming. That’s where her girlfriends come in handy. Ask them what her style is if you aren’t sure, or do some stealth investigating when you’re out shopping with her.

three-stone-princess-cut-diamond-engagement-ring

Art deco styles are very popular, and make gorgeous engagement rings or wedding sets.
three-stone-round-and-princess-cut-diamond-ringHalo rings combining gemstones and diamonds are often very affordable, yet captivating as well. Another all-time favorite is the heart-shaped engagement ring, which represents love with the ages-old symbol of a heart.


6-prong-1-4-carat-designer-solitaire-engagement-ringThere is a style for every bride, and with a little effort, you can find the engagement ring that combines all the elements you’re looking for at an affordable price. Apples of Gold offers an astonishing array of engagement rings that have all the quality and good looks you want at prices as much as 50% of what you would pay at a retail store, and you have 45 days to decide if it is just the ring for your bride-to-be.

1-2-carat-square-princess-cut-diamond-engagement-ring-cBuying her engagement ring online can save you a lot of money over purchasing at a brick-and-mortar store, but you will want to be sure that you are buying from a reputable dealer. Apples of Gold holds an impeccable reputation for quality and incomparable customer care. Once you place your order, your special ring will be on it way in a matter of days. When you receive your purchase, which is shipped in the United States for free (international shipping is also available), you have a full 45 days to decide if it’s what you want. If not, return it, no questions asked. If you have questions, we’re here to help. Call us toll-free in the U.S. at 877-777-5572. outside the U.S., call toll-free at 805-520-1000. We’re available Monday through Friday to take your call from 8:00am to 4:00pm Pacific time and from 11:00am to 7:00pm Eastern time. Or contact us by email at CustomerCare@ApplesofGold.com. Emails are usually answered the same day or within 24 hours.

Category: Engagement Rings, Jewelry Guide

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