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When Is the Best Time to Buy an Engagement Ring? A Guy’s Guide to Getting It Right

Written by Faithful Platform | June 20, 2025

You’ve found the one, and now it’s time to find the ring. But before diving into engagement ring shopping or comparing carat weights, many men find themselves asking: when is the best time to buy an engagement ring?

Is there a particular season that offers better deals? Can timing your purchase really save you money? While those are fair questions, the truth is, the best time to buy an engagement ring has less to do with the calendar year and everything to do with being prepared.

Let’s break down what really matters when you're making this once-in-a-lifetime decision.

Key Takeaways

  • The best time to buy is when you’re ready. There’s no need to wait for a sale. Buy the ring when you’ve had the right conversations, set a budget, and feel confident about your next step.
  • Start early and plan around your proposal. Give yourself plenty of time for design and thoughtful decisions by working backward from your proposal date.
  • Focus on quality, meaning, and her style. The right ring reflects your relationship, so choose one that’s personal, well-crafted, and true to who she is.

 

Does Timing Affect Engagement Ring Prices?

There is a common misconception that if you buy at the “right” time, like around the holidays or during a major sale, you’ll get a better deal. While that logic may work for TVs and sneakers, it doesn’t necessarily apply to fine jewelry.

When it comes to something this personal and meaningful, you deserve fair, transparent pricing that reflects the true quality of the ring, not inflated seasonal markups or rushed sale pressure. At Faithful Platform, that’s what we offer year-round.

 

Why Holiday or Seasonal Ring Sales Should be a Red Flag

Sometimes you’ll see “discounted engagement rings” advertised around Valentine’s Day, Black Friday, and other holidays. But often, those sales come with fine print, limited options, and a lot of pressure. Shouldn’t it be a bit of a red flag if a retailer can discount a diamond ring by 50% and still make a profit?

During high-volume seasons, inventory can be picked over, jewelers may be too busy for thoughtful consultation, and you may end up rushing an incredibly important decision. In some cases, retailers raise their prices before running sales, so that so-called “deal” might not actually save you much at all.

 

Why Buying from a Jeweler with Year-Round Pricing Is Better

A smarter way to shop is choosing a jeweler that offers consistent, fair pricing year-round, like Faithful Platform. Without the pressure of a ticking clock or one-time-only sale, you’ll have the time and space to focus on what really matters: personalization, quality, and confidence that you’re making the right choice.

 

Common Engagement Ring Timing Myths

Let’s clear up a few of the most common myths:

  • Myth: You need to wait until you can afford the “perfect” ring.
    Many guys hold off on buying an engagement ring because they think they need to save for the biggest, most impressive diamond possible. But the truth is, the perfect ring is the one that’s meaningful and fits your current stage of life. There is no reason to go into debt or delay your proposal chasing a carat size. There are beautiful, high-quality options, including lab-grown diamonds and customizable designs, that fit a wide range of budgets and styles.
  • Myth: Diamonds are cheapest in January.
    While demand might dip after the holidays, quality diamonds are priced based on availability and market value, not the month.
  • Myth: You have to propose during the holidays.
    Holiday proposals can be wonderful if that is a season that best suits your relationship and you feel ready to pursue marriage. However, the best time to propose is when you’re both ready to make a lifelong commitment, regardless of the time of year.

 

What Actually Matters When Considering Buying Your Engagement Ring

So, when should you buy an engagement ring? Here’s the honest answer: when you’re ready.

That means you’ve talked about the future, feel secure in your financial state, and are prepared to make this commitment to one another. Taking this next step marks the beginning of a lifelong promise, not just a purchase. It's about slowing down, reflecting on the commitment you're making, and honoring the weight and beauty of that covenant. When you choose the ring, you’re not just selecting a style, you’re choosing a symbol of faithfulness, love, and the future you're building together.

 

When to Shop Based on Your Proposal Date

Work Backward from Your Proposal Date

If you have a proposal date in mind, begin planning by working backward from that day. Custom rings take time to design, approve, and create, and even pre-designed styles often need adjustments or resizing. Starting early gives you the freedom to personalize every detail without feeling rushed, so the ring is just as thoughtful as the moment you propose.

Use this quick guide:

  • 3–4 months before: Start researching ring styles, budgets, and jewelers.
  • 2–3 months before: Begin narrowing down styles and consulting with jewelers.
  • 1–2 months before: Finalize your ring, make the purchase, and allow time for delivery. 

Planning ahead allows you to focus on what truly matters rather than feeling like you have to scramble at the last minute.

 

Custom vs. Pre-Designed: Know Your Timeline

For those selecting a custom engagement ring—a highly recommended option for such a meaningful occasion—additional time should be allotted for the design, approval, and production process. At Faithful Platform, many of our clients begin the design process 2–3 months in advance to allow time for thoughtful details and a perfect fit. However, our standard turnaround time is 4-6 weeks, so keep that in mind as you consider your proposal date.

If you’re opting for a more standard ring design, you still want to allow ample time for engraving, shipping, and potential resizing.

 

Helpful Planning Tips

Here are a few things that make the process smoother and more enjoyable:

  • Educate yourself. Learn the 4Cs (cut, color, clarity, carat weight) and what they mean for ring value. Get to know the anatomy of the ring so you can confidently choose and customize exactly what you’re looking for.
  • Start the conversation early. Start the conversation early with a free quote on our website. One of our trusted consultants will work closely with you to bring her dream ring to life, always keeping your vision and budget in mind.
  • Involve someone she trusts. A sibling, friend, or parent can offer insight into her style without spoiling the surprise.
  • Talk about the future. Before you invest in a ring, make sure you’re on the same page about what’s next.

Above all, don’t rush. Buying an engagement ring should be a memorable and enjoyable experience, not a stressful one.

 

Looking for a Great Ring Shopping Experience Year-Round? Contact Faithful Platform for Your Free Engagement Ring Consultation


This is where Faithful Platform comes in. We offer a free, no-pressure engagement ring consultation when you request a quote to help you design or select a ring that reflects her style and your story. No gimmicks. No seasonal markups. Just honest guidance and quality craftsmanship year-round.

Buying an engagement ring is one of the biggest (and most meaningful) purchases you’ll make. Don’t let sales or seasonal pressure dictate your decision. Take your time, do your research, and choose a ring that reflects your relationship.

When you're ready, Faithful Platform is here to help you through every step with integrity, expertise, and no pressure.

Not the One Proposing? Make It Easier for Him

Already have the perfect ring in mind? Allow us to help your vision become a reality! Drop the details here, and we will thoughtfully reach out to your partner on your behalf.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What time of year is best to buy an engagement ring?

When you’re ready emotionally, financially, and relationally. It’s less about the season and more about making a thoughtful, prepared decision.

What time of year are diamonds the cheapest?

Diamond prices don’t fluctuate much seasonally. The best value comes from buying through a jeweler with fair, transparent pricing year-round.

What month are engagement rings cheapest?

No specific month is consistently cheaper. Seasonal sales can come with hidden markups or limited options—so focus on timing that’s right for you.

How long before proposing should you buy an engagement ring?

Plan to buy the ring 2–3 months before your proposal to allow time for design, resizing, and delivery without stress.

What is the timeline for buying an engagement ring?

Start exploring ring styles, setting your budget, and selecting a trusted jeweler about 3–4 months before your planned proposal. Around 2–3 months out, narrow down the design, gather inspiration, and begin custom consultations. Then, 1–2 months before, finalize your choice, place the order, and leave room for any final touches or resizing.

Buying a ring isn’t just a purchase—it’s a meaningful step toward your future. Giving yourself time allows for thoughtfulness, creativity, and confidence in every decision.