Diamonds are a marketing scheme. Thinking you need to save 3 months salary on a diamond is BS. Thinking a high quality diamond accurately reflects your partner's love for you is BS. I'm quite fine with a CZ. I don't care if it cost $80 or $800, I just care if it says F-off I'm married    Having a $1000 dress is BS and not necessary.    Having a $10,000 party is BS and not necessary.    Coordinating the flowers with your bridesmaids dresses is not necessary.    Marriage helps men in their careers and provides a tax benefit for the couple. Though it doesn't necessarily help women in their careers (as it portends the woman will quit or take leave to have a kid) it helps the couple be taken more seriously and establishes them as adults in the public eye.