I think a lot of guys equate commitment with a directive to find a way to make more money. Whether it's a ring, a house or children, the pressure is primarily on us to find a way to get a promotion, find a new job or a side hustle to make it a reality. Often, this is met with with resistance because of the inevitability of significant personal sacrifice and the fear of failure.

It might be easier for women to secure a commitment from their man if they can make it clearer that the financial burden/responsibility of supporting a family will be shared. An overly expensive diamond ring, to me, can symbolize the imbalance of financial responsibility in marriage. It is expensive and it only benefits one person in the marriage. This can be a particular source of tension if the couple struggles to attain other financial goals, such as paying off debt our buying a house. If the couple divorces, it's an appreciable asset that is likely not considered when dividing stuff up.

That being said, as a husband, I did my duty and I bought my wife a wedding ring that she loves. Luckily for me, it was worth the investment as we've been married for 20 years and we have two wonderful children.