Engagement Rings: How Important Are They, Really?

When you think about marriage, the first thing that comes to mind is probably that legendary, shiny engagement ring. After all, it’s become a symbol of a union between two people.

But engagement rings don’t always come cheap, and will most definitely burn a hole in your pocket when it’s time to pop the question.

But are they really necessary, like what Queen Beyonce once sang? We asked a bunch of guys and girls what they thought about proposals, rings, and that happily ever after. Here are some of the best responses we’ve gotten from the girls:

What do you feel about the adage, “Engagement rings should cost 3 months’ salary to show love”

I think it’s really superficial. Heavy costs for engagement rings shouldn’t equate to the amount of love someone has for you. I think we’ve been cursed by the traditional idea that you need to splurge to show love, or that wedding affairs always have to cost a pretty penny.” – Ashe, 21

Would you like a nice engagement ring?

I always imagined what my future proposal would be like – and I don’t envision the engagement rings… just the person (single life gets you conjuring up ideas). But in my opinion, no. The thousands of dollars could be used for other more practical things like a car, or house, or… a dog.” – Natasha, 24

Would you reject a proposal if someone proposed without a ring?

My boyfriend and I have been together for four years, so if he said he’s short on funds, I’d be cool with it. Can’t deny I’d be a bit disappointed, like where’s the ring? But of course, I’ll look past it. As a partner, I should be understanding about financial stuff. I don’t want to be unreasonable. It’s the sincerity that counts. I shouldn’t let a small ring break this relationship apart.” – Jermaine, 20

Is an engagement ring the part of a proposal you look forward to the most?

For me, not really. If he prepares something, it’s fine. A ring is a bonus. I don’t really expect a ring, it’s not that important. If there’s no ring at all, I’d be OK with it.” – Daeng, 22

How much do you want your engagement ring be worth?

It’s not important – it’s just a ring. The person matters more – there’s nothing I can think of that’s more important than that. Any ring is fine, just get it, as long as it represents our love.” – Zann, 20

On the other side of the coin, the guys came with very mature thoughts on relationships and rings:

How do you feel about the adage, “A ring should cost 3 months’ salary to show love”

“I feel it doesn’t really matter whether it’s worth three months’ salary or otherwise. I think it’s the meaning, maybe the design, the type of ring that matters to a person. It doesn’t have to be fixed at three months’ salary. It’s a matter of whether you can afford it or not.” – Ren Kai, 19

Do you feel pressured to get an engagement ring as a man?

I feel like society has put the responsibility on most guys, so it’s a norm today that a guy would settle the proposal and engagement ring. For now, that’s what we typically see, but I feel like there’s nothing wrong whether it’s the guy or the girl who gets things done. You’d do anything if you love your partner.” – Wei Cheng, 19

Would you put off a proposal just to save up for a ring before proposing?

Personally, I don’t think a very elaborate ring is necessary. But if you don’t have enough money to afford it, that probably means you don’t have enough for a future with your partner. I would rather the both of us plan everything ahead first and work out a stable financial plan for a comfortable life, instead of just rushing headlong into things and making bad decisions that would ruin a marriage.” – Anton, 20

These people sound like they’d make solid partners. After all, what can get in the way of true love?

Rings are just symbols at the end of the day. Whether or not you want to splurge on one is entirely up to you – and your partner, of course. After that, it’s full steam ahead towards a happy marriage and the rest of your life.