How Much Should You Actually Spend on an Engagement Ring in Egypt?

Let us clear one thing up first: the “three months’ salary” rule is not a tradition. It was a marketing slogan, written by the De Beers advertising agency in the 1930s to sell more diamonds. It has no basis in anything except selling. So forget it, and set a budget the honest way instead.

Start with what you can comfortably spend

The only rule that matters: the ring should not put you in debt or stress at the start of a marriage. A ring is the beginning of a life together, not a test of it. Decide a number you are genuinely comfortable with, and treat that as the ceiling.

Where the money actually goes

With fine jewellery, you are paying for exactly three things, everything else is markup:

• The diamond, usually the largest part of the cost, driven by the four Cs.
• The metal, priced by weight, gold is gold.
• The hand-work, the design, casting, setting and finishing.

How to get more ring for the money

• Consider lab-grown diamonds. Real diamonds, typically far more size and clarity for the same budget.
• Prioritise cut over carat. A well-cut smaller stone outshines a poorly-cut larger one, every time.
• Buy made-to-order, so you are not paying for a showroom’s standing inventory.
• Choose a setting that flatters the stone, a halo or a slim band can make a diamond look noticeably larger.

The right budget is not a percentage of your salary. It is the largest number you can spend without a second thought, and not one pound more.

The best ring is not the most expensive one you can justify. It is the one that suits her, fits your life, and does not cost you a single sleepless night.