The engagement ring is an important part of the proposal, so you want to have a ring purchased ahead of time. Ring styles vary tremendously, though, and it's not as simple as going to the local jewelry store and spending the highest amount you can afford.
To get the right engagement ring, you need to know what your significant other truly wants.
The Question before the Question
In the movies, it always seems that "popping the question" is a big surprise event, but things are rarely like this in real life. As a couple, you should discuss your desires to get married, even if you only speak of it as a possible event in the future. Asking her what type of ring she wants should be something you do long before you think of heading to the store. If you don't want her to expect a ring soon, ask in casual ways, such as asking what she thinks of a friend's new ring. General jewelry preferences -- such as silver or gold -- can also be useful information to accumulate over the years. Look at the kind of jewelry she wears on a daily basis to determine what she’d most likely want in an engagement ring.
Getting the Basics
As you start to think more seriously about making the purchase, you need to ask more specific questions. Her ring size is an important thing to discuss, as you probably want to slip on a perfectly fitted ring when she says "Yes". Jewelry stores can measure her finger if she doesn't know her size. You'll also want to ask what style of ring she likes. The traditional engagement ring is a large, single diamond, but some women prefer smaller diamonds, multiple stones, particular settings, or even a different stone altogether. You might go window shopping together to get a better idea of what she likes.
Setting Her Expectations
In the conversations that you have, try to figure out what her expectations are for an engagement ring. For example, talk about the amount you want to spend on the ring. Many people say the engagement ring should be worth three months salary, but you may feel that your money is better spent on a down payment for your first home rather than a ring. Discuss this with your partner so you can be on the same page. If you want to use a family heirloom as an engagement ring, you should discuss this with her ahead of time (after discussing it with your family). She will be wearing the ring, so it’s important that she likes the way it looks.
By having several discussions about engagement rings and budget ahead of time, you will be able to choose a ring that your partner will treasure for the rest of her life and not have to stress about it as you prepare to pop the question.
