Written by Kate Murphy · Photography by Tina Serrano
It’s no secret that everyday essentials - groceries, gas, and clothing - tend to rise in cost during periods of inflation like the one we’re experiencing now. Less frequently highlighted, but just as telling of broader economic conditions, is the sharp rise in gold prices. Since 2024, gold has followed a historic upward trajectory – surpassing $2,600 per ounce, climbing past $3,000 in 2025, and exceeding $5,000 per ounce in early 2026. This sustained growth underscores gold’s enduring role as a store of value in times of economic uncertainty.
If there was ever a time to be intentional about your purchases, it’s now. Still, those shopping for gold engagement rings may find themselves asking, “Is it really worth the investment?” Beyond its deep symbolic meaning, gold jewelry can also be a smart financial decision. Let us explain why.

Factors Causing Gold Prices to Rise
Gold prices rise when demand increases. The key factors driving price are inflation, geopolitical uncertainty, and shifting consumer behavior.
Inflation: Gold often moves in the opposite direction of the US dollar, which loses its purchasing power during inflation.
Geopolitical Uncertainty: Tariffs and conflict have pushed investors to ‘safe-haven assets,’ which are expected to retain or increase value during times of geopolitical uncertainty, market turbulence, and economic downturns.
Demand vs. Supply: Mine supply grows at only about 1–2% per year – new mines take years or even decades to bring online. That means when gold prices move sharply, it's almost always because demand has changed, not supply.
How Has the Jewelry Industry Responded to the Rising Price of Gold?
The fine jewelry industry depends on gold. Large companies and independent brands and designers alike are adjusting in response to the increased price of the precious metal.
Raising Price Tags (Carefully): Finding ways to absorb costs rather than pass everything on to the consumer, many jewelers are raising prices on only new items, not existing inventory.
Intentional Custom Designs: More than ever, independent jewelers are prioritizing intentional, custom designs, recognizing that clients are seeking truly unique pieces that also serve as meaningful investments.
What You Should Know Before Shopping for an Engagement Ring
Despite the rising price of gold, the average cost of an engagement ring is nearly the same today as in 2010. Key factors influencing the steady price tag include:
Lab-Grown Diamonds: Many couples are choosing them not only to maximize their budget, but also for ethical and sustainable reasons.
Natural Diamonds: Impacted by economic conditions and shifting consumer trends, natural diamond prices have decreased - today, the average cost of a 1-carat diamond is nearly half what it was 10 to 20 years ago.
Alternative Stones: Colored gemstones like sapphires, emeralds, and champagne diamonds are being embraced, offering personality at a lower cost than the traditional white diamond-and-gold engagement ring.
Repurposing Heirloom Diamonds: Couples are saving money by repurposing a family heirloom diamond or gemstone to create a custom engagement ring.
Values are shifting. Rising gold prices reflect a broader move toward stability, intention, and long-term thinking. Choosing gold jewelry is both a thoughtful and meaningful investment. And while gold holds intrinsic value, the true worth of an engagement ring can’t be measured in dollars alone – it lives in the bond it represents and the emotions it carries between two people.
Is Now a Good Time to Buy Gold Jewelry?
Over the past 25 years, gold prices have risen by more than 1,000% – a remarkable trajectory that shows little sign of slowing. Today, many consumers see gold jewelry not only as a meaningful purchase, but as a tangible, portable, and historically stable store of wealth. It’s an asset that can retain value over time while carrying deep personal significance, with the added potential for resale.
Transparency is at the core of everything we do at Goldpoint Jewelry. If changes are happening behind the workbench that impact our customers, we are going to let you know. With a commitment to craftsmanship, ethical sourcing, and structural integrity, each of our handmade pieces is designed to last a lifetime. As market conditions evolve, we periodically adjust our pricing to reflect current gold values, always with the understanding that our clients trust us to deliver high-quality, one-of-a-kind fine jewelry that stands apart.
The Goldpoint Engagement Collection offers a range of gold ring designs catering to style and budget.




