No, I would just rather invest the money. Wouldn`t that be a better gift. "I started a mutual fund for us" instead of "here is a ring".
Hmmm i don't think you have any clue what you are talking about once again. Rings and particularly certain gemstones rings are a store of value. Often the investment pays off big time e.g. think of jewellery with gold or platinum (well if you break the ring down then the value of gold has gone up huge in last 10 years). If you buy the right gemstone often you will see huge potential rewards with your investment.
I am involved in the gemstone industry with a side business and i have to say gemstones and diamonds as well as other precious metals are probably some of the best investments in the world.
Think of it this way, the way CB's keep printing money then i would rather own something easily transportable and a traditional store of value such as precious metals and gemstones than fiat currency. I would rather have gemstones which can be carried to other countries doing much better than owning assets which cant be sold or transported in a scenario where Country where assets are stored is facing a depression.
Certain gemstones have increased well over 1000% in real terms over 10 year period. Again you have to know what your doing or involved in the business to have the best results. But then again same goes for finance which is my main business.
As for paying for a ring, yes i would definitely pay top dollar for a ring as long as i can afford to do so. I am not going to spend on something i can't afford and is not within my budget. I don't have fondness for diamonds but i love gemstones. Certain gemstones are stunningly beautiful, a great investment, a great store of value and highly transportable - plus i love to see my lady wearing beautiful jewellery (that is an educated hard working girl who can appreciate the gift).