Are you wondering, "Do I really need an engagement ring?"
In recent years, an increasing number of couples are deciding that they don't need an engagement ring due to its high cost and concerns about its practicality.
However, many people feel uneasy about not choosing an engagement ring.
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Do you regret not getting an engagement ring?
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What does your partner think?
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How you are seen by others
From my experience working with many customers as a specialist in lab-grown diamonds, I can tell you that it is never a bad thing to calmly consider whether you need an engagement ring.
In this article, we will provide an expert perspective on the reasons why couples feel they don't need an engagement ring, as well as couples' true feelings and alternative options.
Finally, if you are looking for a ring, we will introduce the appeal of lab-grown diamonds, which are environmentally friendly and cost one-third the price of conventional diamonds.
You'll get some ideas on how to find the perfect engagement style for you two.
1. Do I need an engagement ring? Women's true feelings and changing values
It seems that the number of women who think that an engagement ring is not necessary is gradually increasing.
In the past, it was considered normal to receive an engagement ring, but now many people choose not to choose one, preferring to cherish a ring that suits them.
So why has this idea become so widespread?
Here, we will look at these changes in values and thoughts from several perspectives.
① Price, practicality, value... Reasons for thinking "I don't need it"
When you think of engagement rings, you probably imagine them costing hundreds of thousands of yen.
As a result, many people think, "I'd be happy if I could use that money to go on a trip" or "I'd like to use it to start a new life."
Also, for people who don't usually wear accessories or who work in an environment where they can't wear rings, they may honestly think, "Even if I receive it, I might not use it."
More and more people are feeling uncomfortable with the idea that marriage equals a ring, and we hear many voices saying that what is important is not the physical object, but the fact that the two people share their feelings.
② People tend to value "memories" and "shared experiences" more than "material things."
Recently, more and more couples are saying, "I want to cherish memorable times more than rings."
For example, an anniversary trip, a special dinner, or commemorative photos taken together.
The idea is that such experiences will become irreplaceable proof of your engagement.
You may no longer wear the ring, but the memorable scenery and conversations will never be forgotten.
More and more people are choosing a lifestyle without material possessions, and these values naturally seem to be influencing engagement styles as well.
3) However, are there women who still think, "I want a little bit?"
"I thought I didn't need an engagement ring, but maybe I'm still a little longing for one..."
There may be times when you feel that way. When you see a proposal photo on social media or hear a sparkling story from a friend, your heart may suddenly waver.
In times like these, it's nice to try and find an option that's just right for you, without forcing yourself.
For example, you can find engagement rings using lab-grown diamonds that are high quality and environmentally friendly at reasonable prices.
The important thing is to make a decision that is true to yourself.
Even if the shape is different, if it is filled with feelings, it will be the best keepsake.
2. Is it okay to decline an engagement ring? How to discuss it with your partner
Even if you feel like you don't need an engagement ring, some people may find it difficult to say it out loud when they think about how their partner might feel.
We are certainly happy, but rather than leaving something physical behind, we want to cherish a memorial that is more personal to us. When we think about this, the important things are "how to communicate" and "consideration."
If you can find an answer that both of you can agree on without forcing yourself, that may be the happiest form of engagement.
Here we will introduce tips on how to express your true feelings without hurting the other person's feelings, as well as hints on how to align your values.
1) How to say "I don't want to hurt your feelings"
Your partner may be preparing a ring for you...In that case, it takes a bit of courage to say, "Actually, I don't think I need one."
However, what's important is not whether to refuse, but how to communicate it.
If you say something gentle and thankful for the other person's feelings like, "I really appreciate your feelings, but I'd prefer to receive them in a different way," you won't create any awkwardness for either of you.
The words convey the feelings of "Thank you" and "I care about you."
If you have that, a warm atmosphere will surely flow between the two of you.
2. Important points to remember when aligning values
What to do about an engagement ring
In fact, this theme is packed with various values, such as how the couple will live together in the future, how they will spend their money, and how they will think about anniversaries.
That's why, instead of one person putting up with things or forcing one opinion on the other, it's recommended that you think together about what kind of choice would be just right for both of you.
Rather than whether or not you buy a ring, the "time spent trying to share your feelings" itself may become an important memory that you will look back on and feel warm inside.
3) What is the “form of engagement” that doesn’t depend on whether or not a ring is included?
Recently, more and more couples are choosing to commemorate their union in a way that is unique to them, instead of an engagement ring.
For example, items that gently accompany you in your daily life, such as travel memories, necklaces, and couple's watches.
Some people choose jewelry made with lab-grown diamonds, which are environmentally friendly.
What's important is not whether there is a ring or not, but whether it is filled with the feelings of the two people involved.
If you've discussed and decided on it, whatever form it takes, it will surely be the most memorable "proof of your engagement."
3. 4 items chosen instead of an engagement ring
The image of "engagement = ring" may still be deeply rooted, but recently, more and more couples are leaving their feelings in forms other than rings, as they want to cherish a style that is unique to them.
Choices that focus not only on the value of the object but also on "memories" and "practicality in everyday life" are becoming more widespread. Here we introduce four items that are gaining popularity as alternatives to rings.
ⅰ. Experience gifts (travel, restaurants, photo shoots, etc.)
More and more couples are choosing to preserve their special moments in the form of "experiences" because they want to cherish memorable moments more than material things.
You can stage a proposal while traveling, take commemorative photos at a photo studio, or spend time at a special restaurant, which will surely become a memorable memory that will be etched in your hearts.
Even if there is no physical trace of it, the memories that allow you to laugh and say, "That's how we spent our time back then," may be the best gift of all.
ii. Matching items (watches, necklaces, jewelry)
If you want to choose a keepsake that can be easily used in everyday life, matching accessories are perfect.
The time you spend choosing matching watches, necklaces, and subtle matching jewelry together will become a special memory.
The appeal of this piece lies in its practicality, allowing you to wear it naturally in your daily life, and its "just right commemorative feel" that is not as formal as a ring.
It is chosen by many couples as a gift that is simple yet thoughtful.
iii. Options for leaving your thoughts in "records" or "words"
Some couples choose to keep their possessions to a minimum and cherish the things that remain in their hearts. With this in mind, some couples choose to express their feelings through letters, message cards, photo books, commemorative videos, and more.
Thoughts put into handwritten letters and words attached to memorable photographs.
It will be a record that will last for years to come, a record that is unique to the two of you.
This style is chosen by people who value warmth over glamour.
ⅳ. Lab-grown diamonds are gaining attention as an eco-friendly option
"I want a ring, but I'm concerned about the price and environmental impact..." Lab-grown diamonds are gaining attention in such situations.
They look and have the same quality as natural diamonds, but because they are grown in a laboratory, they are more environmentally friendly and easier on the wallet.
This is a new form of jewelry that is being chosen by many people, especially in today's age where ethical values are valued.
4. Summary
It's not unusual to feel like you don't need an engagement ring.
Due to the cost burden, doubts about practicality, and diversifying values, the reality is that more and more couples are expressing their love in ways other than rings.
The important thing is to make a choice that you both feel comfortable with.
There are plenty of options, including experience gifts, matching items, and ways to keep a record.
If you are considering a ring, you can also choose environmentally friendly lab-grown diamonds, which are one-third the price of conventional diamonds.
As a specialist in lab-grown diamonds, I feel that talking to many customers, it is important to value the individuality of the couple rather than the form.
Whatever your choice, the engagement you discuss and decide upon will be the most beautiful symbol of your love.