3 ms·
If you think about it, a ring is just as unneeded as a diamond. The situation is that a diamond ring has become a social norm. I would bet that if you ask most
by WheelsAtLarge 3y ago
If you think about it, a ring is just as unneeded as a diamond. The situation is that a diamond ring has become a social norm. I would bet that if you ask most women whether they want a diamond engagement ring or another type of rock, they will pick the diamond ring by an overwhelming majority. Imagine a woman telling others about their engagement and showing a rock other than a diamond. It would be a disappointment any way you see it. The "diamonds are a scam" reason just won't cut it. The diamond industry has been extremely successful at planting that notion in society.
- escapedmoose 3y agoI and most of my friends (late 20s to early 30s) have non-diamond engagement rings. The consensus is that diamonds are outdated, exploitative, and scammy. I also think they’re not as pretty/eye-catching as my lab-grown emerald.
- lelanthran 3y agoI thought that lab-grown emeralds were more expensive than diamonds. If that is true, then buying something more expensive than the usual thing doesn't invalidate any of the arguments against diamond engagement/wedding rings. If emeralds are cheaper, then while I'd rather have the emerald anyway (it's prettier to my eyes), I can't see any person (male or female) preferring the cheaper jewelry.
- escapedmoose 3y agoMy ring is vintage, the lab-grown emerald replacing whatever stone it used to hold. I imagine that brought down the price. My preference generally is for well-kept vintage jewelry. Beyond thriftiness, there’s an extra charm to wearing something loved by someone before you :)
- jojobas 3y agoThat's a framing issue. "Should we spend $X of our now common budget on a ring, or spend $Y < $X on a ring and buy a nicer car/pay out the house faster/add some more to the kids college fund?" If she says "the ring" to that, consider a replacement.