Tuesday, 1 October 2013

Would you pay for half of your engagement ring?

Even split? While some claim going Dutch on an engagement ring makes more sense financially, others say the break with tradition is a sign that chivalry is dead - and that the marriage might be headed for a break, too

It used to be the case that a man always paid for his fiancee's engagement ring, but in modern times where the woman is sometimes the breadwinner, the scenario continues to change.
According to a survey on The Knot's Facebook page, more and more couples are splitting the cost of a diamond ring, with many saying that modern times call for a more equal divide.
But while some claim going Dutch makes more sense financially, others say the break with tradition is a sign that chivalry is dead - and an omen that the marriage might be headed for a break, too.


Samantha Daniels, the matchmaking founder of Samantha's Table Matchmaking, told Today.com that it's 'not surprising' that both men and women are now involved in choosing and paying for the ring.
'I think it makes for a better connection between the two people,' she said, 'because both the man and woman earn money and contribute to the financials.'
According to a survey carried out by the website, however, opinion is split almost in half, with 46per cent of women saying they'd be willing to share the cost of a ring, and 54per cent saying they would not.
Many women have also taken to The Knot's Facebook page to voice their differing opinions, with some saying that sharing the cost of a ring is a sign of the times.
'I'm absolutely for it,' said one commenter. 'Welcome to the women's rights movement, ladies, you're only a few decades late.'

Another said: 'We live in a generation where women work and are often breadwinners of the family. So why should the man have to pay for a ring solely?'

But some women resent the idea that they should share the cost of the ring, noting that it breaks with tradition as well as ruining the surprise element.
'NO!' wrote one appalled commenter. 'It should be something he chooses from his heart for you. . .even if it's a small ring, it should be the thought that counts.'
Another woman said the idea of sharing the cost is 'tacky,' writing: 'It is a gift, a symbol of your willingness to commit...do I need to supply you with half the willingness to commit?'
The idea of a man expecting to split the cost has some women questioning whether it will set a precedent for other holidays as well.
'Are your birthday and Christmas gifts going to be Dutch too?!' wrote one concerned commenter.
For other women though, sharing the cost of the ring is a compromise that shows you can work together.
What's your take?

2 comments:

  1. No way!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! for what na?he should save up for it till he can afford.its only right

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  2. No descent self respecting man will ask his wife to contribute half the cost of the wedding. It is despicable.

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