Money as a couple: How much to spend on wedding rings, and how to save on them
How much to spend on wedding rings depends on your overall wedding budget, the metal and whether you want stones. In a worked example, a couple sets aside about 1,000 for a pair of plain bands.
By Wealtie Team · 3 min read
Key takeaways
- How much to spend on wedding rings depends on your wedding budget, the metal and any stones.
- In a worked example, a pair of plain gold bands costs about 1,000.
- The metal makes the biggest difference to the price.
- Set your limit before you shop, so a salesperson doesn't set it for you.
How much to spend on wedding rings?
There's no right amount. The best figure is one that fits your wedding budget and leaves you comfortable, not one set by tradition or a salesperson. Wedding rings are worn every day for years, so they're worth choosing with care, but they don't need to be expensive to mean a lot. In a worked example, a couple with a wedding budget of 15,000 sets aside about 1,000 for a pair of plain gold bands.
Decide on a number together before you visit any shops. It's much easier to stick to a limit you've already agreed than to set one while looking at a tray of rings.
What affects the price of wedding rings?
The metal
The metal makes the biggest difference. Here's a worked example of a pair of plain bands, in round numbers that work in any currency:
| Metal | A pair of plain bands |
|---|---|
| Silver | 200 |
| Gold | 1,000 |
| Platinum | 1,800 |
Silver is the cheapest but scratches and wears more easily. Gold is a popular middle ground. Platinum is heavier and harder-wearing, and it costs the most.
Width and weight
A wider or heavier band uses more metal, so it costs more. A slim band in gold can cost less than a thick band in a cheaper alloy.
Stones and detail
Diamonds, engraving patterns and settings add to the price. A band with stones all the way around costs far more than a plain one, and is harder to resize later.
Where you buy
High-street jewellers, independent makers, online shops and second-hand dealers can charge very different prices for similar rings. It pays to look around. Compare a few prices for the same metal and width before deciding, and ask whether the price includes engraving and resizing.
How do wedding rings fit into the wedding budget?
Rings are one of many costs, alongside the venue, food, clothes and photos. The wedding budget covers how to split a total across everything. If you also bought an engagement ring, look at the two together. How much to spend on an engagement ring covers that side.
Some couples spend more on their rings than on other parts of the day, because they'll keep them for life. Others keep rings simple and put the money towards the honeymoon or a home. Both choices are fine, as long as you make them together.
How can you save on wedding rings?
- Choose plain bands: simple rings without stones cost far less.
- Pick a lighter metal or alloy: a lower-carat gold or a palladium band can look similar for less.
- Buy second-hand or vintage: older rings can be good value and have character.
- Use family rings: reworking an inherited ring keeps the meaning and saves money.
- Go to an independent maker: some offer good prices and let you design your own.
- Shop outside busy seasons: sales and quieter times can bring better deals.
Don't forget the extras
Budget for resizing, engraving and insurance. Many couples add rings to their home insurance, which may cost a little more each year. Check that resizing is possible before you buy, especially for bands with stones. Fingers can change size over the years, and a ring that can't be resized may need replacing.
Think about everyday wear
You'll wear your ring while cooking, working, exercising and sleeping. A softer metal or a raised stone can scratch, bend or catch on clothes. If you work with your hands, a plain, sturdy band may suit you better than a delicate one, and it'll need fewer repairs over the years. Try rings on and wear them for a few minutes in the shop to see how they feel.
How do you save for wedding rings?
Divide the cost by the months until you'll buy. For rings costing 1,000 in ten months, that's 100 a month between you. How to save for a goal together covers splitting a savings target as a couple.
Agree on how to pay
Some couples buy each other's rings, while others pay from a joint pot. Agree on it early, so neither of you is surprised. If one of you earns more, splitting by income rather than in half can feel fairer.
How do you plan wedding costs together in Wealtie?
Use a shared account to log wedding spending as a couple. The account owner needs Pro, and the person invited can be on any plan. Add a wedding category to your expense categories and set a budget for it, so you can both see what's been spent on rings, the venue and everything else.
Questions people ask
An amount that fits your wedding budget. In a worked example, a couple with a wedding budget of 15,000 sets aside about 1,000 for a pair of plain gold bands.
Mainly the metal, plus the width and weight of the band, any stones and where you buy.
Choose plain bands, a lighter metal or alloy, second-hand or family rings, or an independent maker.
It's up to you. Some couples buy each other's rings and others pay from a joint pot. Agree on it early.
This article is general information, not financial, tax or legal advice. Your situation is your own; check the numbers that apply to you before you act on them.
