Things You'll Need:
- Internet
- Friends & family
- Listening skills!
- Pen & paper (for notes, budgeting, etc.)
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Step 1
Do your homework. You don’t have to become a diamond expert, but you do need to learn the basics: Carat, Cut, Color, & Clarity. This way you’ll know what to look for and how to talk to the salespeople knowledgeably. You can learn about diamonds online, by talking to friends & family, and by asking questions of jewelers—or try a combination of all three.
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Step 2
Know your budget. There is no set dollar amount you must spend. Your best bet is to spend what you can afford. You can save up and pay cash up front, or you can finance your ring. But as much as you love your fiancé and want to please her, don’t go broke buying the ring. Remember, you can always give her an “upgrade” later, at your 5 or 10 year anniversary, for example.
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Step 3
Listen to your fiancé & learn what she likes. Does she talk about engagement rings, or diamonds, or stop at display counters in the mall to check them out? If so, pay attention! Many women do have distinct preferences when it comes to diamond shape, band settings and metal option. And if the engagement isn’t going to be a surprise, it’s also fine to ask her what kind of ring she wants. If you’re planning on surprising her, check out the jewelry she already has for clues. You’ll probably find she tends to favor one shade of metal over another, which will help narrow your search. You can also ask her friends & family what she likes—but make them swear not to tell her!
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Step 4
Start shopping! To get the best price, try a combination of online and in-store shopping. The more you shop, the more choices you’ll find, and the more confidence you’ll have knowing you’re getting a good deal. Don’t rush, and don’t buy the first ring you see, even if you hate to shop. This is a very important purchase! Ask friends & family to help you shop if you prefer—it can make it more tolerable and give you more confidence than going it alone.
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Step 5
Close the deal. Once you’re confident you’ve found the perfect ring, make sure you ask and understand the buying terms (especially if financing), insurance options, return policy (in case your relationship tanks or she absolutely hates it—hey, you never know!) and sizing policy. Now that you’ve bought the ring, all you have to do is find the perfect way to pop the question!
