1) Determine a budget.   How much to spend on an engagement ring is a personal matter. The commonly accepted guideline of two months’ salary was developed to be a directional tool to help establish a budget. Once a budget is established, it is important to select the finest quality stone available at that price. 

2) Understand the 4C’s.  One of the most wonderful lures of diamonds is that no two diamonds can ever be exactly alike, even though they may sometimes look identical.  Determining the quality of every diamond is the 4 C’s:  cut, color, clarity and carat weight.  For more information see “How to Buy a Diamond”.

3) Learn what she likes.  If the engagement ring is intended as a surprise, this may take a bit of research, but fear not, she will be giving you clues.  For more information see “Tips to Getting Her the Right Ring”.

4) Buy from someone you trust.  When shopping for any piece of jewelry, especially as significant purchase as an engagement, shop with a retailer you trust.  Either ask for a referral from your friends or look for a well-established jeweler who has an excellent reputation for integrity and service, like someone who is a member of a trade organization such as Jewelers of America.