How Much Should You Spend on an Engagement Ring in New Zealand?
Engagement rings are emotional investments—but how much should you really spend?
The answer depends on your story, not your salary. There’s no rulebook. But we’ll walk you through the classic thinking, modern options, and how lab-grown diamonds have changed the game.
The Classic "Two-Month Salary" Rule
You’ve probably heard of it. The idea is to spend two months’ salary on an engagement ring. It started as a clever marketing campaign decades ago. Over time, it became a so-called “rule.”
Today, it’s still used as a guideline—but not everyone follows it, especially in New Zealand where values and lifestyles vary widely.
Here’s how the rule might look based on some common incomes:
Salary (Annual) | 2-Month Equivalent (Engagement Budget) |
$49,868 (Median) | ~$8,311 |
$78,731 (Mean) | ~$13,122 |
$40,000 | ~$6,666 |
$100,000 | ~$16,666 |
Some couples stick to this. Others don’t. And that’s okay.
There’s No One-Size-Fits-All Budget
Not everyone is in the same stage of life. One person might be buying a home, another might be travelling. Some couples split the cost. Others prioritise different things.
Some prefer a modest ring and a bigger honeymoon. Some want something classic. Others want something bold.
At the end of the day, the emotional value is what counts—not the dollar amount.
Lab-Grown Diamonds Are Changing the Game
At LD Jewellery, we’ve helped make high-carat diamond rings more accessible. Lab-grown diamonds offer the same brilliance, quality, and structure as mined diamonds—but at a much better price.
You might be surprised. A 1.5 carat lab-grown diamond could cost less than a 0.5 carat mined one. That opens up a world of style options, especially when set in 18K gold.
All our diamonds are IGI certified and ethically sourced. So you’re not just saving money—you’re getting something you can be proud to wear or gift.
Go After the Ring You Truly Want
It’s not about the price tag. It’s about what speaks to you. Maybe you love a round cut, or you’re drawn to a clean emerald cut. Maybe vintage styling or a modern solitaire suits your partner best.
Think about their lifestyle. Do they want something minimal? Flashy? Durable for everyday wear?
There’s no wrong choice—just the one that feels right for both of you.
Engagement Ring Sets and Matching Accessories
An engagement ring can be just the beginning. Many couples love to pair it with:
- Diamond stud earrings in the same cut.
- A pendant to match the ring’s style or setting.
- A tennis bracelet as a wedding day or anniversary gift.
These pieces help tell a bigger story. They make your jewellery collection more personal and meaningful.
Final Thoughts – Spend with Meaning, Not Pressure
Whether your budget is $2,000 or $20,000, the most important thing is that the ring reflects your love. You don’t need to follow an old formula.
With lab-grown diamonds and transparent pricing at LD Jewellery, you can get the beauty, size, and quality you want—without compromise.
Choose a ring that feels right. That fits your life. And most of all, that feels like you.