The countries that spend the most on engagement rings

30. Malaysia

Even though Malaysia is at the bottom of the list, engagement rings there are still pretty pricey. Ranging between US$1,000 and $2,500, the average price is $1,750. On top of this, the groom is also traditionally expected to pay a dowry to the bride’s family. 

28. UK

British engagement rings usually range between $1,300 to 2,600, averaging at $1,950. It is now most common for Brits to choose their own ring, with one-third of couples in the UK proposing without a ring, and letting their love choose their own design.

26. Slovakia

Slovakians go all out when they get engaged, and typically spend the equivalent of one and a half monthly salaries. This amounts to an average of $2,000, with the typical cost ranging between $1,200 and $2,800. 

24. Chile

In Chile, it is traditional for both men and women to give and wear engagement rings, which means double the price. So, with rings typically costing between $1,200 and $2,800, and averaging at $2,000, that's an expensive start to married life.

22. South Africa

South Africa has a long history of diamond mining, so diamonds have become a popular choice for engagement rings there. This is probably why they are also rather expensive and typically cost between $1,350 and $2,700, averaging at $2,025.

20. Ireland

The average cost of an engagement ring in Ireland is $2,500, with them starting at $1,500 and going up to $3,500. Many people in Ireland also wear the traditional Claddagh ring, which features two hands clasping a heart, topped with a crown. It should be worn with the heart facing down if you are single, and facing up if you are engaged or married. 

18. Czech Republic

Czechs have a tradition of using garnets in jewelry, and this works perfectly for engagement rings, as their rich red color is seen as a symbol of love, passion, and commitment. This will, however, cost quite a bit, with the price ranging between $1,500 and $3,500, averaging at $2,500. 

16. Brazil

In Brazil, engagement rings typically cost between $1,800 and $3,600, and average at $2,700. The engagement ring is worn by both the bride and the groom, and switches from the right to the left hand on the wedding day. For this reason, they are usually simple, matching gold bands. 

14. Finland

The same tradition applies in Finland; however, the rings that the bride and groom wear cost slightly more. Starting at $2,000, they can reach up to $4,000 each! This makes the average cost for an engagement ring, $3,000, and that's not including the fancier one the bride receives at the wedding. 

12. Italy

In some parts of northern Italy, the "fede" ring is a popular choice for engagements. Featuring two clasped hands or a heart held by hands, the average cost is $3,000, but can range from $1,800 up to $4,200. 

10. Norway

Norway is blessed with a bounty of natural beauty, and this is reflected in its engagement traditions. Many couples incorporate waves, leaves, or star motifs into their engagement ring designs. This typically sets them back between $2,500 and $4,500, with an average cost of $3,500.

8. Belgium

The average engagement ring in Belgium costs $3,500, with the range going between $2,500 and $4,500. The country has a legacy as the diamond capital of the world, thanks to Antwerp’s historic diamond district, so Belgian diamonds normally feature on the ring. 

6. Taiwan

In Taiwan, the average engagement ring costs $3,500, with a range between $2,500 and $4,500. Couples usually consult an astrologer to choose an auspicious date for the engagement and feature red in the celebration for luck. 

4. Australia

Australia spends even more than its neighbors on engagement rings. Ranging between $3,500 and $4,900, a typical ring there costs $4,200. They also enjoy a unity bowl ceremony, which sees guests place colored stones in a bowl to symbolize their support for the couple.

2. Hong Kong

Hong Kongers spend an incredible $5,000 to $7,000 on an engagement ring, averaging $6,000. However, this is just the start. Weddings in Hong Kong are packed with tradition, including a ceremony where a woman with a son and a daughter must comb the bride-to-be's hair.