Ok, so I don’t think I am dropping a bomb on anyone when I say the economy is a little rough right now. So naturally, it is a little unnerving when faced with the idea of purchasing an engagement ring. In the past, the “rule” has always been 2 months salary. I have never been one to follow the rules, and now is as good a time as any to depart from them if you find yourself in uncertain economic territory.
Do not worry, your options are still many… Fortunately in this day and age, there are many solutions that both you and your intended fiance will be relieved to know about.
1) It’s ok to purchase a synthetic diamond – hey, you don’t have to worry about whether it is a blood diamond or not and you can always replace it with a natural diamond down the road. And with the advance of technology, there are lots of top quality options – there is moissanite, which is silicon carbide, diamond hybrid which uses diamond to produce it, manmade diamonds – same or similar chemical make up of a natural diamond except that it was made in a lab. All of these options are significantly less than the cost of a diamond. For comparison a 1ct diamond G in color, SI1 in clarity usually sells for around $8000.00 (usually less if buying online). A 1ct moissanite runs about $500.00. A diamond hybrid or man made diamond 1 ct in size is about $250.00 or less.
2) An increasingly popular and symbolic option is to go with a colored gemstone. Rubies, sapphires, and spinels are just a few of the possibilities. They tend to be very durable and suited for everyday wear. Many of the colored gemstones have symbolic meaning that you may find appropriate as a symbol of your eternal love. Or maybe you just want a splash of color. Be sure that if you are considering a colored gemstone you ask your jeweler if the stone you want would stand up to daily wear. Some colored gemstones just aren’t cut out for a ring that is worn most all of the time.
3) Another trend that I am seeing more of is purchasing an ornate diamond band with lots of smaller diamonds in lieu of a large diamond. Many smaller diamonds cost less than a large diamond even if the total diamond weight is the same. The Beverley K Collection offers many unique and stunning designs. And, in fact, you can stack multiple bands for a truly amazing look (and you have gift ideas for birthdays, anniversaries, etc…).
4) If you are still planning on getting a real diamond, a good money saver is to avoid the “magic sizes”. Instead of a 1 carat stone, ask for a .90 carat. To the naked eye, the size difference is quite subtle, but you will be pleasantly surprised by the money you can save. The same is true for a 1/2 size – go a few points lower and your savings will be significant.
5) Buying a smaller diamond with the intention of a future upgrade… many jewelry retailers offer a trade up program so when you are ready to purchase a larger stone, you can trade in your smaller one for a credit towards a larger diamond.
Hopefully, we have provided ideas and solutions for you. Please feel free to contact Elizabeta Jewelry (service@elizabetajewelry.com) if you have any questions , would like to shop our online store, or would like to discuss other options. Elizabeta Jewelry offers all of the options listed above.
Peace and Greenness! 
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