Knowing how to buy an engagement ring makes the process far simpler.

Before proposing marriage, most men have an idea of how they plan to proceed: a romantic setting, a simple question, and hopefully, a positive response; most have no idea how to buy an engagement ring. They picture the engagement ring: a stunning piece of jewelry that lets her know how much they care and sweeps her off her feet. Where this idealistic fantasy breaks down, however, is that many men don't know that buying an engagement ring
is a far more involved process than going to a jeweler with a hefty wallet. Knowing how to buy an engagement ring makes the process far simpler.



The first step toward buying a qualiity engagement ring is education. All rings look lovely in the store, but by knowing basic quality standards as well as the bride's expectations, you guarantee that the ring you buy is a good deal Once you know how to buy an engagement ring, you can make your purchase with confidence.



Because an engagement ring is both a financial and emotional investment, it is important to know what makes a quality ring. Before visiting a jeweler to buy an engagement ring, learn about the four C's of diamond quality: cut, carat, clarity, and color. Know basic setting and metal choices, as well as different diamond shapes Understand the differences between treated, synthetic, and imitation diamonds
. While this may seem like a lot of information, it prepares you for a successful shopping trip: the jeweler will undoubtedly be showing you many rings in a short time, and they will describe each one with different diamond terminology. By learning that terminology beforehand, you can focus on the purchase without being lost in the mumbo-jumbo.



Even more important than knowing how to judge a quality ring is knowing what means quality to your prospective bride. Most women have definite preferences for diamond shape, metal choice, and general ring appearance. The best way to discover these preferences is to ask, but if you prefer a more subtle approach, spend several hours window shopping before venturing to the jeweler for a serious purchase. It is also possible to ask her close friends and family about her preferences if they can be trusted with the impending secret.



One essential piece of information is the bride's ring size, which can be discovered in several ways. Close friends may know her size – again, if they can keep the secret. If she already wears a variety of rings on her left hand, choose one she wears frequently (it is likely quite comfortable) and try it on your own fingers, usually your pinkie, for a fair approximation of her size. If possible, take the ring to the jeweler with you so they can properly measure it – this may not be feasible, however, because it would be exceedingly difficult to explain if she discovers the ruse.