Financial Planning

Put An Engagement Ring On It... But Which One?

After years of searching, you’ve finally found the person you want to spend the rest of your life with. But now there’s another question to solve: which ring should you choose? When The Simple Sum recently polled our audiences across Singapore, Malaysia and the Philippines, many shared that appearance was rarely the deciding factor when choosing an engagement ring. Instead, “it’s the meaning that counts” emerged as the top choice in all three markets, receiving 37% of votes in Singapore, 36% in Malaysia, and 34% in the Philippines. Budget was a major consideration, with two out of three respondents saying they would choose whichever ring best fits their budget. Perhaps, that’s why the answer is no longer as straightforward as it once seemed. Not too long ago, the answer might have felt simple. When it came to engagement rings, many people automatically chose a diamond. Today, however, the landscape looks very different. Alongside natural diamonds, lab-grown diamonds and moissanite have become increasingly popular alternatives. All three options offer brilliant sparkle and can be crafted into stunning rings. Yet the reasons people choose one over another often vary widely, from tradition and rarity to their budget. More options, more decisions When choosing an engagement ring, people are not always thinking about the gemstone itself. Some are drawn to the tradition and symbolism that the ring represents. Others are more focused on getting the best value for their money.Because every couple has different priorities, understanding the strengths and trade-offs behind each option can make it easier to find a ring that feels right for you. Natural Diamond When people picture an engagement ring, the first thing that comes to mind is a natural diamond. Perhaps that's because it's what we've seen in films, jewellery advertisements, and even on the hands of people closest to us. Over time, natural diamonds have become closely associated with proposals, commitment, and lasting love. What makes them special isn't just their sparkle. Natural diamonds are formed deep within the earth under extreme pressure and heat over billions of years. There's something special about knowing that the small stone on a ring existed long before humans ever walked the planet. For some people, that story adds another layer of meaning to the ring they choose. They're not simply buying a piece of jewellery, but a rare and natural symbol that has long been associated with some of life's most significant milestones. Of course, that history, rarity, and symbolism often come with a higher price tag. But for those who value tradition and the sentimental meaning behind it, a natural diamond can feel like the right choice. Lab-grown diamond Many people assume that lab-grown diamonds are simply imitations. However, although they are created in a laboratory using modern technology, lab-grown diamonds are still real diamonds. Physically, chemically, and optically, they are virtually identical to natural diamonds. To the naked eye, most people wouldn't be able to tell the difference between the two, which is why gemmologists often rely on specialised equipment to tell them apart. If natural diamonds are formed deep within the Earth over billions of years, lab-grown diamonds are created by replicating the conditions that allow diamonds to form naturally. Thanks to advances in technology, a diamond can now be grown in a matter of weeks rather than billions of years. This difference in production is one reason why lab-grown diamonds are generally more affordable than their natural counterparts. With the same budget, buyers can often opt for a larger stone or a higher-quality diamond. For many couples, that makes lab-grown diamonds an appealing option. They offer the look and characteristics of a diamond without the higher price tag typically associated with natural diamonds. For couples who prioritise value for money, lab-grown diamonds offer an attractive balance between beauty and affordability. Moissanite Unlike the previous two options, moissanite is not a diamond. It is made from silicon carbide, whereas diamonds are made from carbon. So, while the two may look similar at first glance, they are actually different gemstones. Even so, moissanite has become an increasingly popular choice. Besides being more budget-friendly, one of its biggest attractions is its sparkle. In fact, moissanite has a slightly higher brilliance than diamonds, meaning it reflects more light. It is also known for having stronger fire, producing colourful flashes of light that resemble a rainbow. For some people, this effect makes moissanite appear even more dazzling and eye-catching. In terms of durability, moissanite is also well suited for everyday wear. While it is not quite as hard as a diamond, which ranks 10 on the Mohs scale, moissanite scores around 9.25, making it a durable choice for a ring that is worn daily. For those who value practicality and budget flexibility, moissanite can be an appealing option without compromising on beauty. So, which one is right for you? By now, you've probably noticed that there isn't a single "right" answer. Some people are drawn to the history and rarity of a natural diamond. Others prefer the value offered by a lab-grown diamond. And for some, moissanite simply makes the most sense for their budget and priorities. The comparison below offers a quick look at how the three options differ:FactorNatural DiamondLab-Grown DiamondMoissaniteOriginFormed naturally over billions of yearsCreated in a laboratoryCreated in a laboratoryDurability (Mohs)10109.25PriceHighestLowerLowestAppearanceClassic diamond sparkleSimilar to natural diamondMore colourful sparkleResale ValueGenerally higherGenerally lowerGenerally lowerAt the end of the day, choosing an engagement ring isn't just about comparing specifications or price tags. It's about finding something that feels right for you and your partner.Because the ring itself is only part of the story. What truly gives it meaning is the commitment it represents and the future you choose to build together.