Maybe you currently have the rock of your dreams on your finger after shopping for months with your partner (aka, you’ve been through the ringer—pun intended), or grew up watching celebrities and royals flaunt their enormous diamonds on the red carpet. Either way, it’s time to forget what you think you know about engagement rings, because we’re about to debunk everything. Below, find five common myths about engagement rings—and what the truth actually is.
@media(max-width:768px){#ad-embedded-slot-1-container{min-height:270px}}
Myth #1: It should cost three months’ salary.
In today’s day and age, more couples are toning down their expectations. Let’s be realistic here: Between the cost of the wedding, the honeymoon, real estate and other relationship milestones you’re likely opening your wallet for, it’s no surprise that some people are allocating their expenses elsewhere. It’s totally your choice, but we say simply opt for a ring that fits your personal budget. (Please, don’t sell your house or go bankrupt for it.)
@media(max-width:768px){#ad-embedded-slot-17q4mthin-container{min-height:70px}}
Myth #2: The bigger the ring, the better it is.
Carat size doesn’t always matter. There are tons of other factors to consider when evaluating a ring—for instance cut, color and clarity—that speak to the overall quality of the rock far more than the size does. Also, you should get a ring that not only complements you (for instance, an elongated emerald cut looks great on wider fingers), but also fits your lifestyle (maybe stay away from a huge rock with a high setting if you work with your hands a lot).
@media(max-width:768px){#ad-embedded-slot-2-container{min-height:270px}}
WATCH RELATED VIDEO.jwplayer-main-container-xUmcUqTO{height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25%;}
Myth #3: Only diamonds are engagement ring worthy.
What fun would it be if everyone had the same ring? While diamonds are definitely the more traditional choice for engagements, other gemstones like aquamarine and sapphire are on the rise in popularity. Colored rocks make great, unique alternatives, and can speak to you (or your partner’s) unique personal style.
Myth #4: Lab diamonds don’t count as real diamonds.
News flash: Lab diamonds are literally made out of the exact same material and have the same optical and chemical properties as real diamonds. (We promise you wouldn’t even be able to tell the difference between the two, since they have the same sparkle and scintillation as well.) In case you weren’t aware of how they were produced, they’re grown in highly controlled lab environments using ultra-advanced technological processes. These processes emulate the conditions under which natural diamonds are developed when they form in the mantle (beneath the Earth’s crust). The only difference? They tend to be slightly more affordable and responsibly sourced than real diamonds (aka, since they require no mining, they’re eco-friendly.) Pretty cool, right?
@media(max-width:768px){#ad-embedded-slot-4-container{min-height:70px}}
Myth #5: Only women wear engagement rings.
According to a recent study conducted by jewelry brand Brilliant Earth, there’s been a 56 percent rise in men searching for male engagement rings since 2007. Just look at celebs like Ed Sheeran and Karamo Brown—we’d say this trend is here to stay.