Here’s how to score a larger gem at a more affordable rate.

1. Get the right cut

Sometimes it’s not all about the size. The right cut, which means your gem will sparkle more brilliantly when it catches the light, matters too. And after all, isn’t that what you want? A shiny, pretty gem on that finger?

2. Opt for a lesser grade

If you know your diamonds, you’ll also know that you don’t really need a D-grade gem with VVS1 or VVS2, which is really the clearest and most colourless one. But without a microscope, you can’t really tell the difference with a naked eye. If you prefer something bigger, consider one that’s of a lower grade (E, F or even G’s still pretty clear), and one that’s VS1 or VS2. You’ll be saving a couple of hundreds which could go into your wedding cost or honeymoon.

3. Go private

Instead of looking to brands like Tiffany & Co., Cartier, Harry Winston, or Singaporean jewellers like Soo Kee or Goldheart, see if you can obtain the diamond via a private jeweller to avoid the high mark-up cost. You can even look at getting your gem off the Internet, but make sure that the store’s a reputable one before you shell out thousands on a gem you might never receive. And once you’ve obtained the diamond, head to a local neighbourhood jeweller who can probably get the same work done for less.

4. Round is also a shape

Designs that are less mainstream – like the cushion, square, oval, marquise, pear, teardrop or emerald – may take the attention away from the diamond’s size and brilliance. Plus, a cushion or square diamond has a larger surface area as compared to a round diamond of the same size, as round diamonds are cut deeper. Different shapes complement different fingers too – so try several on to see which fits best.

5. Heighten it

Ways to make your rock look bigger include a higher setting (like Goldheart Jewellery’s Celestial Zenith ring), or a halo of smaller gems around it (Tiffany & Co.’s Tiffany Soleste), which may be cheaper than purchasing one large diamond.

6. Slender prongs

It’s all about perspective. Slender prongs or thinner halos will allow your gem to shine brighter as compared to thicker ones.

7. Ethical diamonds

Mined diamonds may come with a host of unethical issues like disruptions to the eco system, child labour, worker exploitation and so on. If you’re particular, opt for lab diamonds instead. Once you put it on, no one – except your partner’s bank account, that is – can tell the difference.

8. Use the right credit card

Whether it’s a card with cashback or one that affords you miles per dollar spent, choose one that fits in with your lifestyle best, so you can utilise the perks from the card. After all, you’ll be spending a considerable sum of money. Use it well and make sure you get your money's worth by earning cashback.

9. Never spend beyond your means

Just so you know, disregard that three-month salary rule that’s been said to be the standard amount to spend on an engagement ring.  What should be the rule: something that’s affordable, just so your husband-to-be doesn’t land himself in debt. And as I said, the money can be used for other things that you can actually use (and not just admire).

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