Is a $200 engagement ring good?
Quick answer
A $200 ring will be a small diamond, a moissanite or a white sapphire, usually in sterling silver or a low-karat gold band. It will not be a large diamond ring, but it can still be a real, well-made piece of jewellery. Some couples start here and upgrade for an anniversary. Others never feel the need. A ring you can afford is the right ring.
What $200 typically buys
At this price the centre stone will usually be a 1ct to 1.5ct moissanite or a small lab-grown diamond, set in 925 sterling silver or a silver band plated in white gold. Most standard shapes and settings are available, including solitaire, halo and three-stone. The stone itself can look impressive, since moissanite has more fire and brilliance than diamond by the optical numbers. What you do not get at this price is the durability of the band over years of daily wear.
How a $200 ring wears long term
Sterling silver is softer than gold and platinum, so it scratches and bends more easily and the prongs holding the stone wear down faster. Silver also tarnishes and needs regular polishing. For everyday wear you are likely to want the stone reset into a sturdier band within a few years. Many couples treat the $200 ring as a stepping stone and upgrade for an anniversary. Others are happy to refresh the silver and keep wearing it as is.
Next step
Browse moissanite engagement rings
Moissanite centre stones in solitaire, halo and three-stone settings, with strong sparkle at much lower prices than diamond.
Browse moissanite engagement ringsStill curious
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