How to Buy a Diamond Engagement Ring

The tradition of presenting a woman with a diamond engagement ring when proposing began in 1477 when Archduke Maximilian presented a diamond ring to Mary of Burgundy. Today, the giving of a ring, has become such an established tradition, that in most cases, the woman you plan to propose to, will expect a ring to accompany the proposal.

There is much to consider when purchasing a diamond - especially diamond engagement rings:

1. Determine how much ring you can afford.

Many people use the "two months salary" rule. This means that the ring should cost the equivalent of two months of your current salary. Because you have other bills to pay, saving up this amount of money may take quite a bit of time, and you may wish to consider financing.

If you do choose financing, the simplest way to get started is: Go to the jeweler of your choice and tell them that you plan to buy an engagement ring, and that financing will be necessary. Go ahead and get the credit check out of the way, find out what your payments will be, and how much of a down payment is required.

2. Now, have your mother, sister, or your girlfriend's best friend take your girlfriend shopping, and make sure that they gaze at the engagement rings to get an idea of what she might like.

Make sure that the jewelry store you buy the ring from will allow you to return the ring, if that is required, or allow your girlfriend to exchange it for another if she is not happy with it!

First published at http://www.guide2diamonds.com/p1_articles_diamond_engagement_ring.php

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