How to Choose the Right Eternity Ring for Your Budget

Eternity rings are iconic and emotionally rich—but they can also come with a wide range of price tags. Whether you’re working with $500 or $5,000, the good news is that there’s a stunning eternity ring for every budget. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to balance carat size, setting, diamond type, and metal choice to find the perfect eternity ring within your price range.

What Affects the Price of an Eternity Ring?

Eternity Ring Budget Tiers & Best Options

Under $1,000

Best Styles:

• Half eternity

• Lab-grown diamonds

• Pavé or bezel settings

Recommended Metals:

• 14K gold or sterling silver

Great For:

• First anniversary

• Everyday sparkle

• Budget-conscious gifting

Lab diamonds will give you more size and clarity in this range.

$1,000–$2,500

Best Styles:

• Full eternity with smaller diamonds

• Channel or shared prong settings

Diamond Options:

• Lab-grown or smaller natural diamonds (G–H color, SI clarity)

Recommended Metals:

• 14K or 18K gold, white or rose

Great For:

• Milestone anniversaries (5–10 years)

• Upgrading a wedding band

Stylish self-gifting

$2,500–$5,000

Best Styles:

• Full eternity with higher carat weight

• Fancy shapes (emerald, oval, radiant)

• Customizations (birthstones, mixed gems)

Diamond Options:

• Natural diamonds with excellent cut and color (F–G, VS clarity)

• Higher quality lab diamonds in premium cuts

Recommended Metals:

• Platinum or 18K gold

Great For:

• 10+ year anniversary

• Birth of a child

• Luxury statement piece

Smart Budgeting Tips

• Go Half Instead of Full:

Half eternity rings can cost 40–60% less, and most of the sparkle is still visible on top.

• Choose Lab-Grown:

You’ll often get double the carat weight for the same spend.

• Opt for Shared Prong or Pavé:

These settings offer great light return and use less metal.

• Dial Down the Color/Clarity—Not the Cut:

Go with G–H color and SI1 clarity, but always insist on excellent cut to preserve sparkle.

• Buy Just Below Key Carat Breaks:

Try 0.95ct vs 1.00ct, or 1.90ct vs 2.00ct—prices drop significantly.

Sample Ring Configurations by Budget

The perfect eternity ring doesn’t have to break your budget. By understanding the trade-offs between carat size, metal type, and diamond origin, you can create or select a ring that feels luxurious, personal, and priced just right. Eternal love is priceless—but your ring doesn’t have to be.

Watch the video below to learn more about Eternity rings for your budget.