One of the most common questions I’m asked is: “Why do engagement ring prices vary so much?”

You can walk into one store and see a ring for a few thousand dollars, then visit another and see something that looks similar for significantly more. On the surface, it can feel confusing — even frustrating.

The truth is, engagement rings aren’t priced arbitrarily. The difference almost always comes down to materials, craftsmanship, longevity, and accountability. Here’s what you’re actually paying for.

The Rising Price of Gold (And Why It Matters)

Gold is one of the biggest contributors to the cost of an engagement ring — and it’s something many people don’t realise has changed dramatically.

The price of gold has increased substantially over recent years and continues to fluctuate at historic highs. Jewellery is priced by gold weight, not just appearance. Two rings may look similar from above, but their weight — and therefore cost — can be very different.

At Morgan & Co, our rings are made with the thickness and width required to last your lifetime — and generations beyond. That means:

• Substantial band thickness

• Properly supported claws

• Enough gold to hold and protect your diamond long-term

A thin, low-quality ring will weigh far less — and cost less upfront — but it often comes at a much higher cost later.

Thin Rings Cost Less — Until They Don’t

We see this all the time.

Rings that are too thin or lightweight may look beautiful initially, but over time they are far more likely to:

• Bend or warp

• Wear through at the base

• Lose claws

• Drop diamonds

Repairs like re-tipping claws, rebuilding bands, or replacing lost stones add up quickly. In many cases, clients end up spending more over time than if the ring had been made properly from the beginning.

Jewellery is “cheap” for a reason. And in jewellery, you truly get what you pay for.

You’re Paying for a Lifetime Warranty — and People Who Stand Behind It

When you choose Morgan & Co, you’re not just buying a ring. You’re investing in ongoing care and accountability.

We offer a lifetime warranty, and that warranty is backed by:

• The same co-owners

• The same studio

• The same commitment to your piece

You’re not dealing with a transient sales assistant or a rotating staff member at a chain store. You’re dealing directly with us — the people who designed and crafted your ring — and we’re here for the long haul.

That peace of mind has value.

Australian Made vs Bulk-Made Overseas Settings

Another major difference in price comes down to where and how your ring is made.

At Morgan & Co, our rings are Australian made, crafted with intention and precision. Many lower-priced rings are:

• Mass-produced overseas

• Made to generic specifications

• Designed to be cost-efficient, not long-lasting

Bulk-made settings can keep prices down, but they often compromise on gold weight, structural integrity, and finish.

Custom, Australian-made jewellery costs more because it costs more to make — but the difference is felt in durability, comfort, and longevity.

Time, Care, and Turnaround

We also believe your time matters.

At Morgan & Co, your ring sizing is completed within 10 days, not 6+ weeks like many chain stores. That’s because we:

• Control our process

• Work closely with our makers

• Prioritise quality without unnecessary delays

Speed without compromising craftsmanship is part of the value.

A Luxury Experience — Without Inflated Pricing

Luxury doesn’t have to mean inaccessible.

With Morgan & Co, you receive:

• A highly personalised experience

• Thoughtful guidance and education

• Exceptional craftsmanship

• A ring designed to last a lifetime

All for a reasonable, transparent price — not inflated by branding or mass retail overheads.

The Bottom Line

Engagement ring prices vary because rings are not created equal.

You’re not just paying for:

• A diamond

• A metal

You’re paying for:

• Gold weight and rising material costs

• Structural integrity and longevity

• Skilled craftsmanship

• Local, Australian production

• Ongoing care and accountability

• A lifetime warranty

• Peace of mind

At Morgan & Co, our goal has never been to be the cheapest — it’s to create rings that stand the test of time, both physically and emotionally.

Because this isn’t just jewellery. It’s something you’ll wear every day, for the rest of your life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does gold weight matter so much in an engagement ring?

Gold is priced by weight, not just appearance. A ring that’s made thicker and more substantial uses significantly more gold than a thin band — even if they look similar at first glance. That extra gold provides strength, durability, and longevity, which is essential for a ring you’ll wear every day for the rest of your life.

Why are thinner rings cheaper?

Thin rings require less gold and are faster to produce, which lowers the upfront cost. However, they’re far more prone to bending, wearing through, losing claws, and dropping stones. Over time, repair costs can easily exceed the initial savings.

Is a lifetime warranty really necessary?

For something worn daily, absolutely. Engagement rings endure constant wear — knocks, pressure, and gradual metal loss. A lifetime warranty means your ring is cared for long after purchase, by the same people who created it, not a rotating sales team.

Why does Australian-made jewellery cost more?

Australian-made jewellery reflects:

• Higher labour standards

• Skilled craftsmanship

• Better quality control

• Proper gold weight and construction

Mass-produced overseas settings are designed for volume and cost efficiency, not longevity.

Why do chain stores take so long for resizing?

Most chain stores send rings away to centralised workshops, often offshore. At Morgan & Co, we work closely with our makers, allowing ring sizing to be completed within 10 days, not 6+ weeks.

Can you make a ring to suit my budget?

Yes. At Morgan & Co, we work to your price point while maintaining structural integrity and quality. We’ll guide you on where it makes sense to adjust — and where it doesn’t — so you’re investing wisely, not cutting corners that cost more later.

Why do some rings look similar but cost so much less?

What you don’t see matters most:

• Gold thickness and weight

• Internal structure

• Claw strength

• Manufacturing quality

Jewellery can look beautiful in a display but fail over time if it’s not made properly.

Is Morgan & Co considered luxury?

Yes — in experience, craftsmanship, and longevity — but without inflated pricing. You receive a highly personalised, transparent process and a ring designed to last generations, at a fair and considered price.

Book your private, obligation free, consultation with our co-owners.

With love,
Morgan xo