The_MAC
Honorary Master
So 11 years ago, when I proposed, I spent roughly R8k for a white-gold, natural (albeit small) diamond ring. At that time, it was a hell of a lot of money for me, but we were crazy and in love.
Needless to say, 2 years later we gave it back as stones were falling out, rhodium was wearing off etc.
My wife has had no ring ever since (except a smaller, cheapish engagement ring).
Last year, on our 10 year anniversary, I decided to finally replace it.
Same ring as above, was now R15k.
I eventually decided on a custom made silver ring (used an old photo, and had the jeweler replicate the original), with a cubic zirconia (R2.5k), my wife is not fussy anymore, after realising what a scam rings are (and jewelry in general).
She loves the new ring, is not too stressed about damaging or losing it, and the bonus is that her works colleagues think it is a real diamond, and she plays along and says that it is.
Long story, after the novelty wears off, the expensive ring is nothing more than a facade. If you can afford it, by all means, go for it, if not, then a good old el' cheapo will do just fine..
Oh, and good luck!
