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10 Engagement Ring Alternatives You Should Consider

Do you really need to put a ring on it?

If you're thinking of getting married soon, you're probably thinking about your engagement ring.

Here's the thing: Diamond rings are actually pretty arbitrary.

The tradition of diamond engagement rings is still relatively new.

Plus, they can get pretty expensive. As of 2013, the average engagement ring costs about $4,000.

And that's just the average. Engagement rings at Zales range from $41–$52,229.

And what if you don't even like wearing jewelry?

Do you need to spend thousands of dollars on an engagement ring, especially when you'll likely also be wearing a wedding ring for the duration of your marriage? Or is there another, equally valid, way to spend this money instead?

Before you make up your mind on a diamond, consider these alternatives.

1. Start an "adventure fund" savings account and use the money throughout your relationship.

2. Buy several bottles of the most expensive wine you can find. Together, choose specific milestones on which you'll open each bottle in celebration.

3. Buy two Round the World tickets and travel to your heart's content.

4. Put the money toward a down payment on a house and lessen the financial burden of being a homeowner.

5. Or, if you've already got a place, furnish it into your dream home.

6. Adopt a pet together and start nurturing another life.

7. Pay your partner's student loans and free yourselves of debt before beginning life together.

8. Get season tickets to your favorite kind of event and have built-in date time.

9. Invest in [insert activity you're both passionate about here] equipment and be prepared for all kinds of bonding time.

10. Buy a timeshare in a vacation spot you love and have a getaway every year.

Whichever you decide, remember the most important part: love.