It's not that I think an engagement ring is a necessity, Reverie. It's that I suppose I hope he one day finds a partner worth investing in, rather than always choosing himself over others.

It's difficult to imagine a time when he would opt to spend any money on another person. In our family, we have passed jewelry down through generations (pocket watches, rings, pendants, etc.) so to invest in another that way would show tremendous growth on his part, whether a ring or any other significant, lasting purchase.