If you’re working a steady, full-time job, a good rule of thumb for engagement rings is to spend one month’s worth of pay. Some jewelry stores will tell you two or even three months’ pay, but that’s too much. Lots of people get engaged or married with cheaper rings, and the relationship and the jewelry last just fine. Trust me, there’s absolutely no statistical correlation between the price of the ring and the length of a marriage. Jewelry stores have huge mark-ups on diamonds, so if you want a good deal, avoid a typical mall or franchise shop. If you are willing to shop around, a diamond broker, or even a high-end pawn shop can get you at least a 50% discount. In reality, diamonds are not an investment. In decades, I’ve never seen the diamonds I’ve given my wife go up in value. And the whole “diamonds are a girl’s best friend” slogan is just a bunch of advertising hype. Don’t fall for that stuff... and please don’t finance a ring. Save up a pay CASH. Be smart and buy smart. It’s g...