How to Pick an Engagement Ring That Should Hold Its Value Over Time

Understanding the True Value of an Engagement Ring

When people talk about an engagement ring keeping its value, they often think in purely financial terms. And that's certainly part of it. But value, especially in the context of something this personal, isn't just about resale price—it's also about meaning, longevity, and how well the ring fits into your life now and decades from now.

Monetary Value vs Sentimental Value

Let's start with the financial side. The materials that make up the ring—metal, gemstone, craftsmanship—have market values that fluctuate. Over time, those components may appreciate, stay stable, or drop depending on trends, scarcity, and demand. A well-made ring using high-quality materials is more likely to hold its value if you ever need to have it revalued, replaced, or sold.

Then, there's the emotional or sentimental value of the ring. You can't put a monetary value on this aspect, but some argue it gives a ring even more value than carats or cuts. Some engagement rings become valuable family heirlooms, passed down across generations, making them part of your story and your family's history. Choosing something with long-term appeal means investing in something that lasts in every sense of the word.

Why Some Rings Hold Their Value—and Others Don't

Not every ring will appreciate in value, but some retain their worth far better than others.

Here's what makes the difference:

• Quality materials: Solid gold, platinum, and GIA-certified diamonds tend to hold value better than low-grade metals or poorly cut stones.

• Timeless design: Rings that avoid trend-driven styles (think oversized halos or novelty settings) tend to maintain appeal longer.

• Expert craftsmanship: A ring from a reputable jeweller with strong provenance and excellent finishing will typically retain more value.

• Customisation with care: Bespoke doesn't always mean valuable. Overly personalised designs may have limited resale potential, whereas well-balanced, elegant custom rings can increase value.

What's Driving Value in 2025?

• Lab-grown diamonds are increasing in popularity. They offer a more affordable entry point but may not hold value as consistently as natural diamonds due to current resale limitations and availability.

• Coloured gemstones like sapphires, emeralds, and rubies are used more frequently in bespoke and alternative engagement rings. In some cases, rare stones in quality cuts are appreciating in value.

• Vintage and antique rings are valuable for many couples who appreciate classic, timeless style and the ethical nature of embracing 'something used'.

Insider Insight: Have you heard about the "three months' salary" rule? It may have been relevant to your grandparents' generation, but these days, most couples opt for realistic, meaningful purchases aligned with their lifestyle and values. Read more about the diamond brand that coined that clever marketing strategy here.

Metal Matters: How Metal Type Influences Long-Term Value

When the average person looks at an engagement ring, the centre stone often steals the spotlight and their focus, but any engagement ring expert knows that the metal holding it all together has an equal part to play in the long-term value of that shiny ring! Your choice of metal doesn't just influence how the ring looks. It affects durability, upkeep, resale potential, and even how the ring feels over time.

Gold, Platinum and Alternative Metals

The undisputed queen of metals used for engagement rings in Australia is gold. Gold is a really versatile metal that comes in various hues, from white to yellow and rose. The value of gold is linked to global commodity pricing, which often increases over time.

Gold rings typically cost between $900 and $1,500 for a standard 14K or 18K gold solitaire-style engagement ring setting (without the stone).

Factors Affecting Price:

• Gold Purity: 14K or 18K influences the base metal cost.

• Design Complexity: Intricate band details or accent filigrees can increase the price above $1,500.

• Quality Craftsmanship: Well-known luxury or designer jewellers often charge more than the average price because their designs are well sought after, bold, unique and unparalleled by the larger chain jewellers.

Platinum

While less common than gold, platinum is known for its strength and naturally white finish. It's denser and more resistant to wear than gold, making it a wise choice for those prioritising a metal that holds its value over time.

It's important to note, however, that platinum is more expensive up front, averaging $1,200 – $2,500 for a typical platinum ring setting (no stone) of similar design complexity to a comparable gold ring. This places most platinum engagement rings into the $10,000+ luxury category, especially when paired with high-quality diamonds or gemstones.

Alternative metals like titanium, palladium, and tungsten are becoming more visible in modern designs, particularly in minimalist or gender-neutral rings. They're typically less expensive than gold or platinum and are known for being lightweight and durable. However, they don't carry the same resale value and are less common in traditional engagement ring settings.

Karat Ratings: What They Really Mean

Gold is measured in karats, with 24 karat being pure gold. Most engagement rings use 14k or 18k, and here's why that matters:

• 18k gold (75% gold) offers a strong balance between purity and strength. It has a rich colour and retains value well due to the higher gold content.

• 14k gold (58.3% gold) is more durable, affordable, and often preferred for active lifestyles—but its lower gold content means a slightly lower market value.

Expert tip: 18k gold remains the standard for premium rings, especially when long-term value is part of the equation

How Global Pricing Affects Local Value

The price of gold and platinum fluctuates with global markets, which means the value of your ring's metal can rise over time—even if everything else stays the same. This is particularly relevant for vintage rings or heirloom pieces. Depending on purity and condition, a gold ring purchased 10 years ago might be worth significantly more today.

Market Insight - Gold prices in Australia have increased by more than 35% in the past five years. If you're buying now, that upward trend can work in your favour over time, especially if your ring is regularly revalued to reflect current market conditions.

Choose Metals That Age With You

Some metals develop a patina (like platinum), while others maintain their polish longer (like white gold with rhodium plating). Each has pros and cons, but for long-term value, the focus should be on durability, resale desirability, and maintenance. High-maintenance metals can wear faster and cost more in upkeep and replating over time.

Expert tip: Choose metals that wear well, not just look good in the box. Gold and platinum are still the top choices for a reason—they're proven to last, both stylistically and financially.

Diamond Decisions: Cut, Carat, Clarity, and Colour

When it comes to long-term value, not all diamonds are created equal. The four Cs: cut, carat, clarity, and colour—can make a big difference, not only in how a diamond looks but also in how it holds value over time.

Cut: The Quiet Dealbreaker

Cut refers to how well the diamond is proportioned and polished, as well as the shape. A well-cut diamond reflects light better, looks brighter, and holds its value more reliably than a poorly cut one, even if other specs are higher.

Did you know: Roughly 75% of all diamonds sold historically are round​? A testament to their enduring popularity. This popularity translates into a broad secondary market. Many potential buyers are specifically seeking round brilliant cuts, enabling rounds to usually command higher secondhand prices than equivalent-sized fancy shapes.

Other shapes—like pear, marquise, or heart—can look striking but often have narrower resale appeal. If you're choosing with longevity in mind, it's worth considering how timeless the cut will feel five, ten, or twenty years from now.

Carat: The Illusion of Size

Bigger doesn't always mean better—but carat weight does play a role in long-term worth. The value of diamonds increases sharply at key weight thresholds (0.50, 1.00, 1.50 carats, etc). Under these markers, you can sometimes get better value without compromising appearance.

That said, a large diamond with average cut or clarity won't hold its value compared to a smaller one with excellent proportions and fewer inclusions.

Clarity: Know Where to Draw the Line

Clarity measures internal or surface flaws—called inclusions. While flawless diamonds are rare (and usually expensive), they're not always necessary for value retention. Most buyers and jewellers recommend aiming for VS1–VS2 or SI1 if inclusions are minimal and not visible to the naked eye.

A well-cut VS2 diamond with no visible inclusions can still look exceptional and retain its value better than a technically higher-grade diamond with a poor cut.

Colour: Stick Close to the Centre

Colour in white diamonds is graded from D (colourless) to Z (noticeably yellow or brown). D–F grades are considered colourless and often command higher prices. However, G and H grades can offer a better balance of appearance and value—especially when set in yellow or rose gold.

Unless your partner is especially colour-sensitive, G–H colour with a clean cut and sound clarity may be a smart, balanced choice, but it is always recommended to have your jeweller show you different options so you can choose what suits you best.

Fun Fact: Lab-grown diamonds are gaining popularity thanks to their affordability. However, the lab-grown market is unpredictable as these stones are still so new to the market compared with the centuries old market of natural diamonds. If you're buying with future worth in mind, it's worth discussing resale or upgrade paths with your jeweller—and confirming how your engagement ring insurance applies to lab-grown stones.

Design and Setting: Timeless vs Trend-Driven Rings

How Fashion Trends Impact Ring Value

Engagement rings follow trends in the same way clothing and interiors do. Styles come and go, often driven by celebrity engagement announcements, social media, or the creative cycles of major jewellers. But while a trendy design might feel fresh now, it doesn't always translate into long-term appeal or substantial resale value.

Take the halo setting, for example. It became wildly popular in the early 2010s thanks to its sparkle-maximising design. Yet today, many buyers are moving away from that style in favour of cleaner, simpler silhouettes. Rings that reflect a specific moment in time often lose their appeal once the trend shifts.

What this means for value:

• Trend-led rings may not command the same interest later.

• Unique or highly stylised settings can be challenging to modify or reset.

• A dated design may lower the desirability of a ring even if it contains a high-quality centre stone.

• What to do instead: If you're choosing a ring with future value in mind, lean into designs that have shown staying power.

Classic vs Contemporary Styles

Classic designs are usually built to last. They're not tied to any one moment in culture or fashion. Think solitaire settings, three-stone rings, and elegant prong or bezel mountings. These are often preferred for their versatility—they pair well with wedding bands, age beautifully, and rarely go out of style.

Contemporary styles often play with asymmetry, sculptural bands, hidden halos, or coloured side stones. They can be bold and distinctive, but they also risk dating quickly. Some avant-garde designs look striking today but may lose relevance down the line—or be harder to match with future pieces like anniversary bands.

That doesn't mean you should avoid contemporary rings altogether. But if longevity is a priority, it's worth balancing personal expression and proven design.

The Enduring Appeal of Solitaire, Halo, and Three-Stone Settings

Let's take a closer look at three settings that continue to hold their ground—both in personal wear and market value.

Solitaire

Minimalist. Versatile. Timeless. The solitaire setting showcases the centre stone without distraction. It remains the most popular engagement ring setting worldwide, and for good reason. A well-cut diamond in a solitaire setting often holds its value better than a trend-driven piece with a dated design.

Halo

The halo adds sparkle by surrounding the centre stone with smaller pavé-set diamonds. While its popularity has fluctuated, a well-crafted halo in a classic round or cushion shape still appeals to many buyers. For long-term value, avoid excessive embellishments or unusually shaped halos that may date the piece.

Three-Stone

Symbolic and elegant, the three-stone ring represents the past, present, and future. This setting suits various styles, from vintage-inspired designs to clean, modern interpretations. It's particularly loved by those who want something meaningful but not overly ornate.

Takeaway: Styles change, but your partner's tastes might not. If you're ring shopping with the future in mind, go with a setting that has stood the test of time, then personalise it in subtle, meaningful ways.

Want to know more about all of the elements that contribute to the selection of the perfect ring? Read our blog article There is More to An Engagement Ring Than the Carat

The Role of the Jeweller: Craftsmanship, Certification, and Reputation

When it comes to an engagement ring's long-term value, who you buy from matters just as much as what you buy. A well-cut diamond and thoughtful setting are only part of the story—craftsmanship, certification, and provenance elevate a ring from a personal purchase to a lasting investment.

Craftsmanship and Ethical Sourcing

Craftsmanship affects everything from how well a ring wears over time to how easily it can be repaired, resized, or passed down. Even if the centre stone is high-quality, a poorly made setting can loosen or wear unevenly. On the other hand, rings crafted by skilled jewellers often age more gracefully and hold structural integrity for decades.

Sourcing also plays a growing role in value. Ethically sourced diamonds and recycled metals are more in demand than ever, and some buyers will pay a premium for materials with traceable origins. If your jeweller prioritises responsible sourcing, it's worth noting—it could add both personal and market value to your ring over time.

Branded vs Bespoke: Which Holds Value Better?

Brand recognition plays an important role, as well as how well the ring is documented. High-end brands like Cartier, Tiffany & Co., and Van Cleef & Arpels typically hold strong resale value because their provenance is instantly recognisable, and their pieces come with certificates, serial numbers, and brand-specific packaging.

That said, bespoke rings from reputable jewellers can also hold value, especially when crafted with quality materials and accompanied by proper documentation. A custom ring isn't necessarily harder to resell. Still, its value depends more on materials, conditions, and proof of origin. Without those, the market becomes narrower.

If you commission a bespoke piece, work with a jeweller who provides complete transparency, clear communication, and industry-standard certification.

Expert Tip: Always ask for a detailed valuation certificate when purchasing an engagement ring. It should include the cut, carat, colour, and clarity of the diamond, the type of metal used, and a setting description. This level of detail is helpful for insurance, and it supports the ring's replacement value if needed in the future. We have a guide on How To Design an Engagement Ring if you’d like to take a more creative and collaborative approach with your favourite jeweller.

Sentiment & Legacy: Rings That Become Heirlooms

A ring doesn't need to be passed down to become an heirloom. It simply needs to be cherished and built to last. Choosing an engagement ring with intention, quality, and meaning can be the difference between a ring that symbolises the love between two people and a treasured token that is part of your family's intergenerational history.

Why Sentiment Can Outlast Style

Many people remember the ring their grandmother wore every day, not just the diamond, but the way it caught the light while she made tea or the slight curve in the band from years of wear. That's the power of sentimental value. It builds slowly through moments that matter.

A well-chosen ring gathers meaning over time. It's worn through weddings, anniversaries, and everyday life. If you're thinking long-term, it's worth considering how your ring will feel now and in 30 or 40 years.

Heirloom Potential Starts With Design and Craftsmanship

For a piece to be passed down, it must last and stay relevant.

That means:

• Choosing durable materials, like platinum or 18k gold

• Avoiding overly trendy settings that may not resonate with future generations

• Prioritising craftsmanship, not just size or sparkle

• Keeping records: a valuation certificate, receipts, and diamond grading report

You can also think ahead by selecting a setting that can be resized or redesigned easily down the line. Many heirloom rings are updated for each generation, but the sentiment behind them stays the same.

Questions to Ask If You Want Your Ring to Be Passed Down

• Will this design still feel timeless in 20+ years?

• Is the setting durable enough to handle decades of wear?

• Can this ring be resized or reset without compromising its structure?

• Have we documented the details of the stone and metal for future reference?

Keeping It Aligned With Market Value: Why Annual Revaluation Matters

Precious metals and gemstones are influenced by global supply and demand. For example, gold prices in Australia have steadily risen in recent years, and natural diamonds—especially those with excellent cuts and clarity—continue to increase in scarcity and desirability.

If your ring features rare stones, vintage settings, or even a brand that's gained traction in the secondary market, its value may have shifted significantly since its purchase. Without regular revaluation, your insurance could fall short when it matters most.

The JewelCover Difference

When you purchase jewellery insurance with JewelCover, you receive a complimentary annual revaluation as part of your policy. We proactively review your ring's current replacement value each year, so you're not underinsured—or paying more than you need to.

Making a Choice That Lasts

Choosing an engagement ring is a deeply personal decision, but it's also a practical one. The right ring should feel timeless now and still hold its value years into the future. That means thinking carefully about the materials, the cut of the stone, the craftsmanship behind the setting, and where it comes from.

You don't need to chase trends or overspend to make a meaningful choice. What matters most is buying with intention—balancing sentiment with quality and personal style with lasting appeal. When all those elements come together, you're not just buying a ring. You're starting a story that could be told for generations.

Want to make sure your engagement ring is covered for what it's truly worth? Get started with a quote from JewelCover today and enjoy complimentary annual revaluation to keep your cover aligned with the market.