Five affordable engagement rings from local jewelry brands
Here are a few pieces that won't break the bank
At A Glance
- Although there isn't a definitive price point, the "one-month salary rule" remains a popular guideline for many people around the world
By Jellyn Gueco
An anonymous Facebook post, where the fiancee asked if it's acceptable to feel upset about receiving an engagement ring worth ₱299, has gone viral. This issue became quite controversial, raising questions about the appropriate cost of an engagement ring.
Although there isn't a definitive price point, the "one-month salary rule" remains a popular guideline for many people around the world. According to this suggestion that originated way back in the 1930s, an engagement ring should have a value equal to at least one month's salary of the person proposing.
So how does that translate here in the Philippines? In Metro Manila, the daily minimum wage is ₱610, which is around ₱13,420 a month. If you're just earning minimum wage, can you even afford a genuine engagement ring made of gold without resorting to the 299-peso option?
The good news is that yes you can! If you're planning to propose anytime soon, you can find beautiful rings that are within or close to the one-month salary guideline. Here are five affordable engagement rings from local jewelry brands that you can consider:

Heart Knot Promise Ring from Lavelle Jewelry
Price: ₱3,500
Made of 14k yellow gold, this dainty ring is way below the one-month salary rule and perfect for young couples on a tight budget. While it does not have any bling on it, the heart knot design adds a delightful touch. Plus, it's locally handmade!

Sparkling Heart Ring from Helena & Co. Fine Jewelry
Price: ₱9,769
As the name suggests, this 18k solid gold ring features a heart centerpiece with cubic zirconia pavé to add some serious sparkle. If you're feeling generous, you can opt to get the matching necklace and earrings too! All Helena & Co. jewelry pieces are packaged in a classy pink box and they offer free and fully insured shipping nationwide.

White Gold Lady Ring with Diamonds from Cebuana Lhuillier Jewelry
Price: ₱12,842
If you're looking for a classic "Tiffany-esque" solitaire ring, this 18k white gold ring from Cebuana Lhuillier fits the bill. This ring is perfect for those who prefer a simple yet elegant design. And since you're sourcing it from Cebuana Lhuillier, you can be sure it's made of real gold and pawnable.

Eluv Ring from Lily & Co.
Price: ₱13,550
Lily & Co. is a jewelry brand that combines exquisite craftsmanship with globally sourced materials. Their Eluv ring, created with 18k yellow gold by Filipino goldsmiths, showcases a striking .30-carat marquise-cut moissanite diamond at its center. Moissanite, a brilliant and durable diamond alternative, adds elegance to this handcrafted piece.

Kalosyni Ring by Anza Studios
Price: ₱14,000
Anza Studios offers jewelry pieces that are all handmade to order in their workshop in Bulacan. One of their standout pieces is the Kalosyni ring, a minimalist ring made of 14k solid gold with a .10-carat diamond. While the price is a little over the one-month salary guideline, this ring is definitely worth considering for its unique design.