Hidden Costs When Buying Engagement Rings

That price tag isn't the final number. Here's what most first-time buyers don't budget for—and how to avoid unpleasant surprises in Thailand.

Common Additional Costs

Resizing Fees

฿500 - ฿3,000

Most rings need sizing adjustments. Complex designs with side stones cost more to resize.

Tip: Many jewelers include one free resizing within 30 days of purchase. Ask before buying.

Insurance (Annual)

1-2% of ring value

A ฿200,000 ring costs ฿2,000-4,000 per year to insure properly.

Tip: Factor this into your long-term budget. It's essential protection.

Maintenance & Cleaning

฿0 - ฿2,000/year

Professional cleaning, prong inspection, rhodium replating for white gold.

Tip: Many jewelers offer free lifetime cleaning. White gold needs replating every 1-2 years.

Appraisal

฿1,500 - ฿3,000

Required for insurance, useful for resale. Should be updated every 2-3 years.

Tip: Some jewelers include this free with purchase. Independent appraisers are more trusted for insurance.

VAT/Import Duties

7% VAT + varies

Thai purchases include 7% VAT. Imported items may have additional duties.

Tip: VAT refund available for tourists at the airport. Keep receipts.

Setting Upgrades

฿5,000 - ฿30,000+

Want platinum instead of gold? A more intricate setting? These add up quickly.

Tip: Get a complete quote with all preferences included before committing.

Often Overlooked Expenses

Wedding Band That Fits

฿8,000 - ฿25,000

If your engagement ring has an unusual profile, you may need a custom-curved wedding band.

Ring Box & Presentation

฿500 - ฿2,000

Nicer presentation boxes for the proposal may cost extra.

Shipping & Handling

฿500 - ฿1,500

Secure, insured shipping if buying online or having custom work delivered.

Rush Fees

20-50% of setting cost

Need it faster than standard production time? Expect 20-50% premium.

True Cost Example

Here's what a ฿150,000 ring really costs over the first year:

Ring purchase price฿150,000
Resizing (if needed)฿1,500
Insurance (first year)฿2,250
Appraisal฿2,000
Rhodium replating (white gold)฿1,000
Nice presentation box฿800
Total First Year Cost฿157,550

*This is approximately 5% more than the sticker price. Budget 5-10% above your target ring price.

Tips to Minimize Extra Costs

1. Ask What's Included

Before purchasing, ask about complimentary services: sizing, cleaning, appraisal, warranty, and future maintenance.

2. Get the Ring Size Right

Accurate sizing from the start avoids resizing fees. Read our ring size guide for tips.

3. Choose Low-Maintenance Metals

Platinum and yellow gold don't need replating like white gold. Higher upfront cost, lower maintenance.

4. Bundle Insurance

Adding jewelry to your existing home insurance is often cheaper than standalone policies.

Related Guides

Budget Guide

Set a realistic total budget.

Ring Insurance Guide

Protect your investment properly.

Ring Care Guide

Reduce maintenance costs.

Transparent Pricing, No Surprises

GlitzJewelry.com includes free resizing, complimentary cleaning, and full documentation with every ring.

Shop with Confidence