You’ve made up your mind that you have found the person you want to spend the rest of your life with. The one who makes life feel like an endless, laugh out loud, adventure. So before you make things official with them, and get on one knee and ask for their hand in marriage, you’ll find yourself going shopping for the perfect engagement ring. Before you step foot in the store or start browsing online, here are 5 things you should know about choosing the perfect engagement ring for your bride-to-be.

 

1. You Don’t Have to Do This Alone

It’s okay if you need a little help when picking out the perfect ring. Ask someone you know she’s close with, whether it is her mother, sister, or best friend to come with you and help give you an opinion.

 

2. Work With Your Budget

You can say goodbye to that two-month salary myth and instead, look for a ring you can afford without going into major dept. Often times you can even save 20% if you purchase a diamond that’s just shy of the next carat, say 1.8 instead of 2.

 

3. Give Yourself Some Time

After you’ve picked out the one for your One and Only, know that it could take up to six weeks for the ring to made and sent to you. So give yourself enough time before ordering and planning the proposal.

 

4. Go Some Place Reputable

You’re shopping for a diamond, an item that is going to take a chunk out of your savings account, so be sure to go some place you trust. If you don’t know any local jewelers with a good rep, ask family and friends to give you a recommendation or read their Yelp reviews online.

 

5. Start With the Shape

Before you start deciding on the cut or clarity, start with the shape of diamond. After knowing that, you can dive into the details and figure out the perfect engagement ring to give to your bride-to-be.