How To Choose a Diamond for an Engagement Ring

As the De Beers ad says, a diamond is forever. Indeed, the charm, beauty and legacy of the diamond ring have been known to be passed on from generation to generation. Wouldn't it be lovely if your mother gave you her diamond engagement ring so you can give it to your fiancée before proposing to her? A diamond is truly an heirloom material that embodies a man's love and devotion for his future-bride. So how should you go about buying one?

• Pay attention to what she wants. Notice the kind and color of the jewelry that she usually wears. Most women have a definite preference for color and quality of the gold. Find out if there are metals that she might be allergic or averse to. There are women who are actually allergic to gold, and the only solution is for you to buy a platinum engagement ring, because platinum is naturally hypoallergenic. Admittedly, it is more costly than gold, by around 45%. Worry not. Her smile should make it worth your while.

• Find out the style that she wants. You can know this by noticing her fashion sense. If she's the kind who goes for Goth, then there are jewelers who make Goth-style engagement rings. There are those who love the contemporary elegant styles, though many will still love the Tiffany style. Be sensitive to these things, and you will make your fiancée a lot happier than you expected her to be.

• Consider her ring size. If you ask for her ring size, it will ruin the surprise. Get in cahoots with one of her close friends or relatives to get her ring size for you. Make sure that this person will keep the secret long enough until you pop the question. If the ring doesn't fit, it may be a very awkward moment, considering you might be on your knees and putting the ring on her finger with more than just a few people watching and giggling. So don't ruin the moment, make sure the ring fits.

• Has she given hints on what she really wants?  If so, take your cue from these hints. It's almost as if she told you herself, which she has technically done. The devil is in the details, so watch out for these impromptu hints. Don't be confused with red herrings, as women can sometimes do that for no reason at all.

• Know what looks good on her hand. Though this is rather subjective, when you tell her that something looks good on her hand, don't just say it because the price tag is easier on the budget than the one she really likes. Hopefully, you will not have to buy too many engagement rings, so make sure you do this one right. Buy her what she wants, as love knows no bounds. You only have to do this once, if things go as planned.

If it's a diamond she wants, know the 4 C's.  Cut, color, clarity and carat. The four C's that are your important guide into getting the right rock when asking her hand in marriage. If a diamond is indeed forever, then your marriage should last just as long.