So, you've decided that you want to propose. You know that she's the one, and you want to make her happy by finding the perfect ring and planning the absolute perfect proposal.

At first, buying an engagement ring can seem like a daunting experience. There is a ton to learn before purchasing the ring. How much should you spend on the ring? What style makes the most sense for her? What in the world are the Four C’s of diamonds? We're here to answer all of these questions for you and more. Before you step foot into any jeweler to look at rings, make sure to follow these essential steps so that you can find the ring of her dreams.

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1. Start the process early

Make sure you allow for time between when you purchase the ring and when you receive the final item. Some rings can take weeks to be made once they are ordered, and could take even longer if you would like it to be custom made. Don't wait until the last minute to buy the engagement ring to maximize your options!

2. Do your research on diamonds

We always recommend to anyone who is thinking about proposing that they should start by reading up on diamonds before they come into a store. There is a lot to know, and it can be overwhelming when you first start to learn. But it's so important to get a basic understanding of the Four Cs of diamonds - carat, cut, color and clarity - and how each plays a part in the overall value of the diamond. We are happy to educate you and answer all of your questions if you give us a call or when you come in! You will start to understand how certain factors play a larger role in the overall appearance of the diamond, and you can determine which factors will be the most important to you.

3. Find her style and size

Today, there are a lot of ring styles that you can choose from. Some styles, like solitaire or three stone, are more classic and timeless while other styles, like vintage and fancy colored, are a lot more unique and will depend on her personal style. Start to pay attention to any hints she has dropped in the past or what jewelry she wears on a daily basis so that you can understand her taste in fashion. It’s also helpful, but not essential, to know her ring size. Take one of her rings and trace its circle on a piece of paper (or just take the whole thing to a jeweler). If in doubt, the average ring size for women is 6 to 6.5.

4. Understand your budget

Determining your budget will be one of the most important steps that you need to make sure that you complete before stepping into any store. Diamond engagement rings can range drastically in price based on a number of factors. Even a 1-carat diamond can range from $2,000 - $20,000 depending on a combination of the Four Cs that help to determine price and value.

At Max Jewelers, we offer special, 12-month no-interest financing so that you don't have to pay for the ring completely upfront.

5. Know which metal you may want in the ring

Platinum, white gold, and yellow gold are all common metal types that you have to choose from when picking out the ring. Often times when you find a ring style that you like, you can then pick the metal type. So which metal is the best metal to choose? Well, each metal has its own pros and cons.

6. Find the right jeweler

There are many things that you should consider before picking the right jeweler to purchase a ring. To begin, look up a jeweler in your area that has a great reputation online. Another good idea is to ask around if you know anyone else who has recently gotten engaged. You also will want to think of proximity. Consider finding a jeweler that will there to provide service for a lifetime. At Max Jewelers, we offer free cleaning and other services that will benefit you over the years, so choosing the right jeweler that is near your home could make all the difference.

7. Obtain a diamond certification

Once you choose the diamond that will be going into the engagement ring, you will want to ensure the diamond in your ring is genuine and exactly what the jeweler described, ask for a copy of its certificate (in a good jewelry store, you won’t even have to ask) to obtain the diamond certification. Each diamond that is from a reputable jeweler will have been professionally graded by a lab, like the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). All diamonds are sent to these labs before they are sold in order to determine the value and price of the diamond. When the diamonds are sent back to the jeweler, each diamond has been graded and the results are on a report. The report goes over things like the diamond's cut, clarity, color, and exact carat size. You'll want this diamond certificate for an appraisal and in the event that you want to sell the diamond in the future.

8. Invest in insurance

Engagement rings are big investments. That's why it's so important to be thoughtful before going to pick one out at a jeweler. It's even more important that you find a way to protect that investment by considering insurance. We've heard our fair share of horror stories and accidents that have caused the ring to become lost or stolen. Just like any other big investment you will make in your life, like your car or home, you'll want to be insured in case anything may happen. We strongly recommend considering insurance, especially if the ring is high in value.

9. Propose!

No explanation needed. Go for it! If you need any help we wrote this very informative blog on the 7 Romantic Ways to Propose that shares some tips and suggestions!

Good luck, and congratulations!

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