Small engagement rings refer to the size of the diamond, not the size of the ring itself. Some reports say the average size of an engagement ring hovers at 1.0 carats, so let’s consider anything under 1 carat to be on the smaller side.
Is it OK to have a small engagement ring?
Let’s be clear. You don’t have to compromise on beauty or quality. Even if you are looking for a small engagement ring to fit your budget, you can still count on London Gold to stand by the craftsmanship and curation of every single design and stone presented to you. Your options are still endless when it comes to the colors of your stones and metals used, too. London Gold even features gorgeous yellow diamonds in smaller carat sizes for those who prefer to maintain a low-key, subtle appearance with their engagement rings. We’ll show you one below. First, let’s answer the question: Is having a small engagement ring okay?
It is absolutely okay to have a small engagement ring. It may even be preferable. That’s because small rings cost less, leaving more funds available for other essential pieces of a couple’s life together. Your budget may only allow for a smaller ring in a tight economy. Getting engaged should come with joy, not a stressful financial overextension.
What is considered a small engagement ring?
In a 2021 Jewelry and Engagement Study, The Knot surveyed 5,000 couples to find that the average engagement ring size was 1.50 carats. They said that about half of all rings gifted for an engagement were sized between one and two carats, meaning that anything under a full carat might qualify as small for our purposes as a small diamond engagement ring.
Remember, however, that the carat weight of a diamond is not a precise indicator of size. Diamonds are considered well-cut when they appear as large as possible when viewed from the top. That means that their table has a wide diameter. This emphasis is in contrast to the total depth a diamond has. When a diamond carries lots of weight under the girdle, it can appear smaller than a diamond of similar carats cut differently.
Benefits of Small Engagement Rings
If you’re considering a smaller engagement ring, we have a few reasons why your choice to lean towards the ring with a smaller carat might be a great idea.
You Already Have a Stone
Maybe you’re using a stone handed down through the generations. In that case, you can’t choose the size of your diamond or any other precious stone. Rather than fret or skip out on continuing a tradition through the use of an heirloom, say yes to a unique connection with the past used in a ring today.
Size is an Illusion
When it comes to the promise to share your heart and future with another person, the gesture means more than the symbol that commemorates it. That means that for people truly in love and ready to commit, the size of your engagement ring bling means less than the size of your love, and there is no one-to-one correlation between the two.
Budget
Rather than go into debt hoping to pay off a ring later, why not bank the savings on a smaller ring? The extra money could go towards treats the couple will enjoy together, like a honeymoon, or even help cushion your way towards essential items you need, like a car or a comfortable place to rest your heads together at night.
If you are on a budget and want to explore ways to get a bigger diamond within your budget, learn about clarity enhanced or lab grown diamonds.
Small Engagement Ring Style Ideas
Let’s look at some gorgeous small engagement ring styles that you will surely fall in love with.
Gallery Designs Vintage Inspired Engagement Setting
Consider this beautiful 14k rose gold engagement ring setting with milgrain detail and a lovely vintage feel.
Gallery Designs Infinity Engagement Ring - Setting Only
This infinity engagement ring looks beautiful alongside a ⅙ carat oval-cut diamond.
Ascencio Designs Sparkling Cathedral Engagement Ring
This gorgeous 14k rose gold ring from Ascencio Designs features 0.88 carats of white diamonds with a beautiful round cut center diamond and smaller stones along the band for under $3,500.
Yael Designs Fancy Oval Halo Ring 18KY
A yellow diamond shines in this ring of 0.90 carats from Yael Designs, featuring an oval-cut yellow surrounded by a halo of smaller yellow diamonds in 18k yellow gold.
At London Gold, we have a variety of beautiful engagement ring settings and finished pieces in yellow, white, and rose gold. We also feature diamond cuts in every style and fancy color, which can fit your budget. Be sure to browse our online selection or visit any of our three Arizona stores to see our selection in person. We’re happy to help you make the perfect choice.