The average cost of a diamond engagement ring is $4146 (Source: CNNMoney).
Guess what? This information was from 2005. We're sure the cost of the diamond engagement ring has since risen. Perhaps, it's best to get married as soon as possible in order to avoid the expected cost of the diamond engagement ring.
Historically, the diamond engagement ring has been symbolic of an eternal relationship in Western cultures. And although the diamond engagement ring has the meaning of eternity, most of the marriages that it accompanies today do not. With an over 50% divorce rate in America, it's difficult to imagine that the diamond engagement ring holds the same meaning it once held before.
Therefore, are diamond engagement rings obsolete?
Some people may bitterly agree. I once heard of a good idea on how to correlate your relationship longevity with a diamond engagement ring.
How about purchasing a bigger and better engagement ring after each milestone in a marriage, while keeping the modest wedding band the same?
Or maybe, how about purchasing a piece of jewelry, such as diamond stud earrings for each milestone.
If the incentive is longevity, consider providing a symbolic reward for accomplishing it.
