If you’ve started shopping for an engagement ring, you may have come across something called the three month engagement ring rule. According to this old guideline, you’re “supposed” to spend the equivalent of three months’ salary on an engagement ring.
But here’s the truth: while the rule has history, it’s not a requirement—and for many modern couples, it doesn’t make sense. In this guide, we’ll explore where the three month engagement ring rule came from, whether it’s still relevant, and how to choose a ring that’s perfect for both your budget and your relationship.
What Is the Three Month Engagement Ring Rule?
The three month engagement ring rule is a traditional guideline suggesting that you should spend three months’ worth of your salary on an engagement ring.
For example:
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If you earn $60,000 a year, the rule suggests spending around $15,000.
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If you earn $100,000 a year, the rule suggests spending around $25,000.
That’s a big investment! For some, it works. For others, it’s unrealistic.
Where Did the Three Month Engagement Ring Rule Come From?
This “rule” wasn’t created by couples—it was created by advertisers.
In the 1930s, diamond company De Beers launched marketing campaigns to encourage men to buy larger, more expensive diamonds. At first, they promoted a one-month salary rule, which later grew to two and eventually three months’ salary.
The message was simple: “The more you spend, the more you love.” It was clever marketing—but not necessarily practical financial advice.
Is the Three Month Engagement Ring Rule Still Relevant?
Times have changed. Today, many couples:
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Reject the rule altogether in favor of what feels comfortable.
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Split costs or choose rings together.
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Prioritize other investments like buying a home, planning a wedding, or traveling.
In fact, surveys show that the average cost of an engagement ring in the U.S. is closer to $5,000–$7,000, not three months of income.
💡 Key takeaway: The three month engagement ring rule is not a hard-and-fast requirement—it’s just a suggestion from another era.
How Much Should You Actually Spend on an Engagement Ring?
Instead of following outdated rules, consider these practical factors:
1. Your Budget
Choose a number that feels comfortable without creating long-term debt. Remember, an engagement ring is the start of your journey, not the finish line.
2. Your Partner’s Style
A smaller, well-designed ring that fits your partner’s personality will mean more than an oversized stone they don’t love.
3. The Ring’s Quality
Focus on the Four Cs of diamonds—cut, carat, color, and clarity. The right balance of these factors can help you maximize beauty while controlling cost.
4. Alternatives to Diamonds
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Lab-grown diamonds: Just as stunning, but 30–40% less expensive.
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Moissanite: A sparkling, durable, and budget-friendly alternative.
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Gemstones: Sapphires, emeralds, and rubies add unique character and often cost less.
Alternatives to the Three Month Engagement Ring Rule
One Month Rule
Some couples prefer a one-month salary guideline, which makes the purchase more manageable while still significant.
Average Cost Rule
Others simply aim for the national average ($5,000–$7,000) as a reference point, adjusting up or down depending on their financial situation.
Personalized Rule
The best option? Create your own rule. Talk openly with your partner, decide on a budget that feels right, and focus on meaning over marketing.
FAQs About the Three Month Engagement Ring Rule
Is the three month engagement ring rule real?
Yes, it’s real—but it started as a marketing strategy, not a tradition rooted in culture or necessity.
Do people still follow the three month rule?
Some do, but many don’t. Modern couples are more likely to spend what feels reasonable for their lifestyle.
What if I can’t afford three months’ salary?
That’s okay! What matters most is the love behind the ring, not the price tag. Affordable options like lab-grown diamonds or moissanite provide incredible beauty at a fraction of the cost.
How much is too little to spend?
There’s no minimum. Some couples spend under $1,000 and are perfectly happy. What counts is choosing a ring that reflects your relationship.
How to Maximize Your Budget Without Following the Rule
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Go slightly under whole carat weights (e.g., 0.9 carat instead of 1.0). It looks nearly identical but costs less.
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Choose an excellent cut over carat size. A smaller stone with a great cut will sparkle more than a larger one with poor quality.
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Select a classic setting. Solitaire designs are timeless and more affordable than halo or three-stone settings.
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Shop smart. Online jewelers often offer the same quality as big-name stores, but with better prices.
💍 Tip: Our collection of lab-grown and moissanite rings combines beauty and affordability, making it easy to find a piece that shines—without following outdated rules.
Should You Follow the Three Month Engagement Ring Rule?
Here’s the bottom line: The three month engagement ring rule is optional. It can be a starting point, but it doesn’t define your love or commitment.
The best ring is one that:
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Fits your budget comfortably.
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Matches your partner’s unique style.
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Feels meaningful when you see it on their hand.
Final Thoughts
The three month engagement ring rule may have been useful in the past, but today, it’s just one option among many. What matters most is finding a ring that symbolizes your love without creating unnecessary financial pressure.
Whether you spend $1,000, $5,000, or $15,000, the true value lies in the meaning behind the ring—not the price tag.
👉 Explore our collection today and discover engagement rings that are timeless, affordable, and designed to fit your story.
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