The question everyone wants answered
"How much does an engagement ring cost?" is one of the most Googled questions in the jewellery world — and for good reason. It's a significant purchase, and most people have no frame of reference before they start shopping.
Here's our honest, transparent guide to engagement ring costs in Brisbane in 2025.
Forget the "three months' salary" rule
You may have heard that you should spend three months' salary on an engagement ring. This is a marketing myth, invented by De Beers in the 1980s to sell more diamonds. There is no correct amount to spend — only what feels right for your financial situation and your relationship.
What affects the cost of an engagement ring?
The price of an engagement ring is determined by several factors:
- The stone — size (carat), cut, colour, and clarity all affect price significantly
- Lab vs natural diamond — lab diamonds cost 50–70% less than natural diamonds of equivalent quality
- The metal — 18K gold costs more than 14K; platinum costs more than gold
- The setting complexity — a simple solitaire costs less than an intricate cluster or pave design
- Custom vs ready-made — custom rings involve design and labour costs
Real price ranges in Brisbane
Here's a realistic guide to what you can expect to spend at Seven Swans Fine Jewellery:
$3,000 – $5,000 AUD
A beautiful modern or antique-cut lab diamond solitaire in 14K gold, typically 1-1.5ct. Perfect for someone who values quality and character over size.
$5,000 – $8,000 AUD
A stunning 1.5–2ct modern or antique-cut lab diamond in a more intricate setting, or a larger stone in a simpler setting. This is the most popular range for our clients.
$8,000 – $12,000 AUD
A significant 2-3ct+ modern or antique-cut lab diamond in a detailed setting, or a cluster ring with multiple stones. These rings make a real statement.
$12,000+ AUD
Large (3ct+) or rare stones, complex custom designs, or 18K gold settings. These are truly heirloom-quality pieces.
How lab diamonds change the equation
Choosing a lab diamond instead of a natural diamond is the single biggest way to maximise your budget. A lab diamond of equivalent quality to a natural diamond costs 50–70% less — which means you can get a significantly larger or higher-quality stone for the same spend.
At Seven Swans, all of our engagement rings feature lab diamonds. Every stone is IGI certified and individually sourced.
Getting the most for your budget
- Choose a lab diamond — the biggest bang for your buck
- Consider an elongated cut — elongated cuts often appear larger than other cuts of the same carat weight, due to their shallower depth
- Choose 14K over 18K gold — 14K can be more durable for everyday wear and is more affordable
- Consider a warm or champagne colour stone — these stones have their own special beauty and can be more affordable than colourless stones.
Let's talk about your budget
At Seven Swans, we work with every budget honestly and transparently. We'll never push you toward something outside your range — and we'll always show you what's possible within it.
Book a free consultation and let's find the perfect ring for your budget. Or browse our ready-to-ship collection to see what's available now.
