A Guide to Choosing the Right Engagement Ring

Traditionally, the man pays for the ring and one popular guideline is that it should cost him a month's salary. It should be left to the individual to decide whether that's net or gross!

Etiquette denotes that if the bride-to-be calls off the engagement, the engagement ring should be returned. However, if the man calls it off, she gets to keep it and, if she's got any sense, flog it to the highest bidder!

It's best to steer clear of second-hand rings, unless they are quality antiques or family heirlooms, and even then be careful. NEVER give a girl a ring you already gave to someone else and got back when it all went pear-shaped.

If you're giving her your great grandmother's engagement ring (potentially very romantic) make sure you offer to pay to have it re-set and fitted for her, as she might appreciate the gesture but not the design. Check this won't break your mother's heart first.

Planning a surprise? Be sneaky and check your girlfriend's ring size by 'borrowing' one of her other rings.

Always keep the receipt. If she doesn't like it, says no or if you ever need to make an insurance claim, you might need it. Insure your ring as soon as possible, just in case. And, if you plan to pop the question abroad, make sure it's covered by your travel insurance, just in case it drops from your pocket on the way to that deserted desert island.

A great idea is to buy a cheap silver ring with which to propose and then let the bride to be choose her own ring (make sure she realises this or you may not be popular!). Or to be really unique & very romantic you could design the ring yourselves with the expertise of a trained jewellery consultant.

Some couples exchange rings on engagement, usually a signet ring for the prospective groom.

Top ring buying tips:

Consider the type of wedding ring you'd like to wear, so the two will go together. Usually wedding rings are gold, white gold, red gold or platinum. The engagement ring generally looks better made from the same metal.

Have your ring size measured properly (in any jewellers). The ring shouldn't fit too tightly - in hot weather hands swell up and you won't be able to get it on or off. Equally, it shouldn't be so loose that it slides around on your finger or over your knuckle too easily.

Diamonds are traditionally the most popular stone for engagement rings. This is because the diamond's rarity and durability symbolises the constancy of the love declared by the couple! Sapphires come a close second, followed by rubies and emeralds. Many engagement rings are designed with a main (larger) stone, set with diamonds around it.

There are thousands of styles of engagement ring to choose from. Bear in mind that it will be worn for a lifetime so it's worth taking your time and choosing the right one. Don't be pressurised into a purchase instead shop around and make sure you buy from a reputable company. Why not consider buying in the comfort and relaxed setting of your own home, with superior custom made rings made to your personal specification by Strictly Bespoke. 

Article written and kindly supplied by Gabrielle Stirling  of Strictly Bespoke © 2006