How to buy the perfect engagement ring for the woman you love

Before I let you into the biggest secrets of buying the perfect enagement ring, can I be honest with you.

The best way to buy her an engagement ring that she will love is to let her choose it herself.

She will wear this ring everyday so it must look and feel good on her finger and most imporatantly suit her lifestyle.  It may take time trying on many different diamond shapes and styles before you find the perfect ring.

Still want to go it alone?

If you still want to go it alone and surprise her or perhaps you don't want her to be involved with pricing and payment issues, follow these simple rules (don't worry there are only 5!) and you will buy an engagement ring she will love almost as much as she loves you!

Rule number 1 - Pay Attention!

The first step to finding the perfect engagement ring is to pay attention to her jewellery likes and dislikes.

• What metal colour does she wear?
• What style of jewellery does she wear (is it contemporary, bold, vintage or classic)?

The best indications of her tastes in jewellery are the items she wears all of the time, not the items she wears occasionally.

Rule number 2 - Has She Given You Any Hints?

When you have been out shopping together has she ever pointed out engagement rings or commented on the style of jewellery she really likes?

If not then why not take her shopping?  It is not difficult to steer yourselves towards the jewellery shops, if you want to keep up the surprise, why not tell her you are looking for a new watch?  Be sure to pause by the engagement ring counters.

Some women don't like diamonds so think about what stone she would like.  Sapphires and rubies are often set into engagement rings as an alternative.

Rule number 3 - Choose The Correct Diamond Shape!

The most popular diamond shape chosen by brides is round, but perhaps not your bride!

She may prefer an oval, pear shape, marquise, square, emerald or baguette cut stone.  Fancier shapes such as hearts are also available.

For more information about diamonds please click here.

Rule number 4 - Consider Her Lifestyle!

Does your bride to be work in a profession where a large or fussy ring would look out of place?  Even if she doesn't remember the shape of the stone or setting can have an impact on everyday life.

A pointed gem or a setting with high prongs can snag clothing or even people!  These rings are also harder to keep clean and are more suited to be worn on special occasions and not every day.

Finally and perhaps most importantly,

Rule number 5 - Find Out Her Ring Size!

To ensure you buy the perfect engagement ring you will need to know the ring size of your bride to be.

You could do this by getting hold of a ring she already wears on the correct finger or asking a friend or family member to get one for you.  You will only need to have the ring long enough for it to be sized.

If you get help from someone else you will need to swear them to secrecy and of course make sure the ring is put back before she notices it is gone!

Lastly, the best piece of advice I can give you is to come and have a chat with one of our friendly members of staff, who will be pleased to give you more help and inspiration.

Good luck!