Engagement rings indicate the groom's commitment to get married. Whether you spend $150 or $150,000 (the bride would prefer the latter), it does not indicate the depth of your feelings. You can choose to spend the quantity of what jewelers call the "two month's pay," you can spend a full year's pay, or buy a token from a gumball machine. The ring shows that you love your bride-to-be, and only you can decide how much you want to pay. She will love you regardless, but she will REALLY love you if you spend more.

The first step is to get the correct size. If you had to "borrow" a ring of hers to size it, take it to a jeweler. Any decent jeweler can determine the size, and it does not have to be the jeweler you intend to buy the ring from. Once he tells you what size it is, write it down. Next to what football game you need to watch this week and when to do your laundry, you might forget. Also, don't forget to return the ring. When this step is completed, or you were already responsible enough to know her ring size, the next step is to choose it!

There are many things to consider when choosing an engagement ring. Consider carat weight if you are going for a diamond (as Marilyn Monroe stated, "Diamonds are a girl's best friend). After that, determine the clarity. Make sure the diamond reflects light and does not have any major imperfections. Next, think of the color you want. Make sure it doesn't clash with the gold or silver jewelry she wears. She will still wear it for you, but you know how unhappy women get when they can't be color-coordinated. Finally, choose a setting for the ring. Keep in mind whether you fiancée uses her hands a lot, as you would want to get a shorter wedding band so it doesn't get in the way.

Once you have finally bought the ring, you should feel good about yourself. Your wallet may be lighter and your bank account emptier, but the mere look of happiness on your soon-to-be bride's face will make up for it. If it doesn't, and she says no, you can always sell it back and buy that new car stereo you always wanted. Instead of hearing wedding bells, you can hear all of the Led Zeppelin you want. That will certainly leave a "ring" in your ears.

© Copyright Jacob Ramsey; all rights reserved.
Jacob is an editor of WeddingeXpress.com