So, you’ve decided to pop the question. Nerves are perfectly normal, just stay calm and everything will work out fine. You’ve got your location planned out, you know what you’re going to say down to the exact syllable, now comes the most important part — the ring.

An engagement ring is an object of immense significance, it carries with it the promise of a future, and is a declaration of commitment. It will be treasured forever and will likely be passed down as a precious family heirloom. That’s a lot of pressure, right? Thankfully we’ve put this guide together so that when you’re shopping for an engagement ring, you know you’ll make the right choice.

Set Your Budget

The thought of splashing out on an engagement ring can make even the least frugal of us wince. However, securing the perfect ring to seal the deal with your loved one doesn’t need to break the bank.

Engagement rings can come with eye-watering price tags, with the mere sight of them enough to send the average person running for the hills. Setting budget limitations for yourself can help eliminate the more expensive rings from consideration, making the process much quicker and less intimidating. When shopping online, make use of maximum price filter options to streamline your shopping experience and always remember, money isn’t everything.

• READ MORE: Are Lab-grown Diamonds the Future of Luxury Jewellery?

Consider Her Style

Think about how your partner dresses and how she accessorises herself. Does she wear designer brands and lots of expensive jewellery, or does she go for a more subtle, reserved style? Weigh up these factors carefully, and even consider getting advice from friends and family if you think it would help. Doing so will help you narrow down your options and will ensure that you pick the ring that best suits your future wife’s style and personality.

Check out some online jewellery stores and have a look at what’s on offer for amazing proposal planning; most provide a wide and varied range of rings for you to choose from.

• READ MORE: The Art of Two-Tone Jewellery Stacking

Select the Right Precious Stone

Once you have considered your partner’s style, you should look at the different options for precious stones. 

You could choose classic engagement rings types like high-end emerald rings, diamond rings, or sapphire rings. 

Alternatively, you could select something more daring, such as black opal or smoky quartz. 

Listen To The Experts

When it comes to buying an engagement ring, you’ll hear all sorts of advice. Spend one month’s salary, two months’ salary, don’t let anyone else try it on, advice comes laced with centuries of superstition, and it can be hard to disentangle the two.

The best course of action here is to only listen to the professionals. They know what they’re talking about when it comes to jewelry and can help you separate fact from fiction. According to engagement ring experts, there are four primary characteristics you should concern yourself with: color, cut, clarity, and carat. Focus on these and you’ll be on the right track to picking the perfect ring.

Conclusion

Planning a proposal is an exhilarating and exciting time, but it can also bring with it anxiety and even a sense of fear. Don’t let picking your wife-to-be a ring add more stress to the situation, follow this simple guide and be sure you’re making the right choice.

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