Discount Engagement Rings

Design Your Own Ring

Use the design-your-own ring features of leading online jewelers to create a truly one-of-a-kind ring that still falls in your budget. You get to choose your stones as well as your setting, so you can tweak each part of the ring to your budget.
Move-up ring

Another alternative that was more common in generations past is to purchase the perfect ring with an imperfect stone and then replace the stone with a larger diamond for an anniversary some years down the road. This is a great option for someone just starting out in a career that promises a good income later on.

Consider other precious stones

A growing trend is the use of stones other than diamonds for an engagement ring. Not only does this usually cost less, it also reflects the personality of the bride and groom in a much more creative fashion. These rings may not be sold as “engagement rings” but rather just as regular rings. Or you could have a set made to your specifications.

One nice idea is to combine the bride and groom’s birthstones in a set to symbolize their togetherness. You can also choose a large colored stone and pair it with small diamond chips for a more traditional yet less expensive look.

Moissanite Engagement Rings

If the illusion of having a diamond is more important than actually owning one, then consider purchasing a Moissanite engagement ring. Moissanite is nearly as hard as a real diamond and may even have the diamond’s brilliance, but it costs less than the real thing – often much less. Durable and scratch resistant, moissanite is also eco-friendly and conflict-free because it's created in the lab and then hand-faceted.

Cubic Zirconia is an option that is less expensive still. One rule of thumb, though - don’t suggest or flat out lie about the type of stone. Some women have been dismayed to discover that their huge “diamond” was not what they were told it was, and that is not a good way to start a marriage.

Alternative styles of ringsstrong>Alternative styles of rings

An engagement ring doesn’t have to have a stone on it at all. Many beautiful rings are made out of gold or other precious metals with an intricate pattern on them. Or you could choose a plain band and have something carved into it - something special to the both of you.

Heirloom ring

Have you asked if you could pass along your grandmother's or great-grandmother’s ring to your soon-to-be-bride? It is often a free or very inexpensive way of proposing to your beloved and carries much meaning behind it. Most women are overjoyed to wear a ring that means so much to her fiancé’s family. It is certainly a symbol of being brought into the family.


No matter what you choose, make it unique and perfect for you and your fiancée. Do make sure your fiancée is on board with your choice before you pop the question, though. Perhaps hint around or wander through the jewelry isle of a department store a few weeks beforehand.

If she lingers at the diamonds or exclaims about how beautiful the rubies are, then that is a clue to what your choices are. Or simply propose to her without a ring and give her the opportunity to help you shop for the perfect-for-her engagement ring.