How much should you pay for an engagement ring?
Once you have figured those out, go shopping on your own. Any good jeweler will help to educate you on the 4 Cs of a diamond: Clarity, Color, Cut, and Carat Weight. Figure out what is the best for your budget and pick out a few rings.
How much should you spend on an engagement ring? This is a much argued topic. Traditionally, there is a "two-months-salary rule" (- but it's not clear whether this is before or after tax!!...lol¡). However, There are many more factors than your salary, for example, your liabilities like mortgage, the likelihood of your pay rise or fall (after watch Jim Carry¡¯s film <Fun with Dick and Jane>, and her social status. Hence, this is only a guide and you must spend the amount you (and the girl) are comfortable with. You can purchase one from a designer brand like Cartier or Tiffany, if you can afford it. You can also get some really unique style from some antique shops. Clustered diamond rings are an option if you have a tight budget. Catalogue shops like Argos have fantastic value rings (if she does not care about the 4Cs much). Don't let her talk you down in price. If she is really the one, then she'll appreciate the fact you worked so hard to get the ring.
Articles for Meeting Friends and Dating online:
All We need to Know about Dating: