<prompt> Human: I am wanting to get advice on how much to spend on an engagement ring from the PF community. The potential fiancee has embraced my financial plan and would not expect something extravagant. At the same time I do not want to go too frugal on this purchase. I will be encouraging frugality for the wedding, but something about the ring is symbolic because of how long it will last. My career: 1st year Project Manager with an Industrial Engineering BSMy income: 60,000Potential fiancees income: 15,000 while in grad school for a career that will start at about 35,000 I am clueless about how much to spend. You can find tips everywhere on the internet but I trust that the PF community will have the information I really need!Assistant: How does your fiancee feel about diamonds - an artificial monopoly market with monopolistic source pricing? Would a man-made stone or another kind of stone artificial diamond be a similarly lasting symbol of love and commitment? If so, then you can indulge in whatever fashion of ring or stone size you want and still save considerable money towards something like a house downpayment that you will really use. The guidelines 3 months salary, etc were invented by diamond marketers to stimulate demand. They are only useful if your fiancee wants them to be.Human: I havent really gone into detail with her about it. I guess I just feel that there is something romantic about not meticulously planning even though I am and making the decision on my own. Then again not fishing for her thoughts could backfire.  <response>: Remember it is something she will probably wear every day for the rest of her life so it wouldnt hurt to have her give you suggestions on styles she likes. I knew what I wanted and went shopping with my husband for it. He was pretty happy though because it was pretty inexpensive. Just a sapphire solitare in white gold that came in well under 1k although gold was cheaper then. Just my 2cents from the female perspective. The more likely she will want something nontraditional the more I would ask her opinion first because once you let go of the idea of a diamond solitare the options are limitless. Also, getting a feel for what she likes doesnt mean she has to pick it out. 