Like Fzzy I don't want an engagment ring, just a gold wedding band. However, I think that engagement ring is basically like any other gift for someone you truly love and (obviously) want to spend the rest of your life with. If my hypothetical fiance went to costco and picked out the cheapest ring, I think my feelings would be a little hurt. I too value the symbolism of the ring, and believe in theory it shouldn't matter what it looks like or costs, but geez I would never buy a gift for someone that I loved just because it was the cheapest thing out there. I'd like to know that he shopped around like any other gift and bought the ring he thought I'd like. I would absolutely not want for him to get in debt over the ring, but if it was within his budget, why not spend the extra money?