ENGAGEMENT RINGS: ARE THEY STILL NECESSARY NOWADAYS?
April 29, 2021
For centuries now, people have made it a habit to give their partners engagement rings whenever they propose to their partners. In fact, it’s a tradition so ingrained into society that it almost feels wrong to propose without a ring. And really, this is understandable: after all, if your partner walks around with your ring on their finger, it’s a subtle announcement that they’re off the dating market and they’ll be marrying you within a few months or years.
Simply put, there’s a certain pride in the act of giving a ring to your most beloved person when you finally decide to take the next step and ask them to spend the rest of your lives with one another.
However, while engagement rings are considered a must whenever one intends to propose to their partners, some do feel the need to ask: are engagement rings still necessary in this day and age?
Are Engagement Rings Still Necessary?
Giving engagement rings is a tradition that society views as sacred even today. But the necessity of engagement rings is a question that modern day couples often ask when they consider proposing to their most important person. Unfortunately, there’s no clear cut answer to this. It’s a question that can’t be answered by a simple yes or no. Instead, it’s up to the couple to decide just how necessary an engagement ring is based on their beliefs and preferences and believe it or not, there are actually plenty of couples who opt not to get an engagement ring at all.
Why Some Couples Opt Out of Getting an Engagement Ring
As stated just above, there are some couples who opt out of proposing with engagement rings and there are actually plenty of understandable reasons for why this is. For instance, some decide not to get an engagement ring due to the fact that it simply isn’t their style. However, the most common reason why some couples opt out of purchasing an engagement ring is the fact that there simply isn’t room for it in the couple’s finances. Remember; even the cheapest of rings can cause a significant dent to a couple’s budget and if they intend to purchase a home, still finishing school, or are already supporting a family then…well…it’s clear that they have their priorities in order if they opt out of getting an engagement ring.
Alternatively, some couples also opt out of getting an engagement ring not because they don’t want it but because for now, it’s the more practical decision. Often, this is seen in couples who are planning a long engagement or partners who work extensively with their hands. For the former, the couple may decide to delay purchasing the ring in the meantime as it helps them avoid a lengthy explanation on why the wedding isn’t happening as quickly as some people think it should. For the latter, meanwhile, having an engagement ring may interfere with their work and decide to simply not have a ring at all.
Drawbacks to Not Getting Engagement Rings
As everyone knows, the act of giving engagement rings to one’s partner is a long standing tradition and as such, a person who decides to deviate from said tradition can experience opposition from their friends and family. This is because the lack of a ring can cause some to wonder about the couple’s commitment to one another. Thankfully, avoiding hurt feelings and misunderstandings can easily be done by the couple with patience and proper communication.
If you ever experience this dilemma, all you’ll have to do is explain willingly why you and your partner have opted out of the engagement ring. You don’t necessarily have to give them all the details behind the decision but you can at least provide enough information to reinforce it and help you forestall additional questions in the process. By patiently and clearly explaining to them your reasons, good friends and understanding family members will soon come around and realize that your decision was for the best.
Alternatives to Rings
Surprisingly enough, plenty of young couples nowadays aren’t completely opting out of the engagement ring tradition. Instead, some are simply opting for alternative jewelry. Some propose to their partners with necklaces, earrings, or some other diamond jewelry that are suitable for both their partner’s style preferences as well as their financial means. Gemstone rings and jewelry are another alternative, color options for people who aren’t particularly interested in diamond rings.
Other engagement gift alternatives include watches, tattoos, or a common purchase that can easily substitute for an engagement ring while remaining meaningful for the couple at the same time.
Make your search for engagement rings easier by turning to Vella Diamonds. With our assistance, it’s guaranteed that you’ll be able to find a ring that you and your partner will love.