You have met the woman of your dreams and want to spend the rest of your life with her. Now what? Although it might be nerve wracking to think about, an engagement ring purchase should be in your near future. While diamond engagement rings used to be set with flat, thin pieces of diamonds, rings today come in many more varieties. Knowing what to buy is crucial, as this important purchase traditionally costs three to six months salary. By understanding what to look for in an engagement ring, your future bride will not be able to thank you enough.

The Four Cs, which are clarity, cut, color, and carat, determine how beautiful the diamond looks. While each quality is important, the cut and clarity of the diamond are arguably the most influential on its cost and vibrancy. Not only should the diamond have as few internal flaws as possible, but the cut should also match the personality of your bride. There are several cuts to choose from, including round, princess, and diamond, and each one has its own distinct look. Princess cut diamonds emerged in the 1980s, and they are still popularly sought after today. Once you have chosen a cut that matches her personality and the jewelry she likes, the diamond must be set.

The setting of your diamond also gives the ring a unique look. While it may be overwhelming trying to choose a setting, finding one that will not only match the diamond, but will also make it stand out, is crucial. Pave set engagement rings, for example, are becoming a more popular choice. Pave set engagement rings are rings that are comprised of several, smaller diamonds that are closely placed around the solitaire diamond and band. The diamonds appear to be paved around the ring, and doing this not only makes the larger diamond stand out more, but it also gives the entire ring a sheen, gleaming look as well.

Over nine billion dollars is projected to be spent on engagement rings in 2013. Before spending big bucks on a ring, however, it is important to determine which ring your future wife will love the most. By taking into consideration the four Cs, such as cut and clarity, as well as the setting of the diamond, such as a pave set engagement ring, your ring buying experience will not seem as daunting. Not only will you become a ring buying expert, but the ring you eventually choose will be sure to “wow” everyone who looks at it. More information like this.