Proposing to your significant other is a major life event, and it is natural to be anxious and want everything to go perfectly. Traditionally, an engagement ring is presented during the proposal, and buying the ring can cause a lot of stress. Buying an engagement ring can be a financial and emotional investment, so it is important to take your time and do it right. If you plan to purchase a diamond engagement ring in the near future, avoid the following common mistakes:

Spending More Than You Can Afford

While you may want to buy your loved one the biggest diamond engagement ring possible, it is very important to stick to a realistic budget. If possible, try to purchase the engagement ring with cash so you do not have to make payments. If that is not an option and you have to finance the engagement ring, take a careful look at your personal budget and determine how much you can comfortably afford to pay each month.

Failing to Learn About Diamonds

You don't have to be a diamond expert in order to buy a diamond ring, but it is in your best interest to do some research so you will know how to recognize if a particular diamond is a good value and worth buying. Generally, selecting a diamond comes down to the 4 C's--carat weight, color, cut, and clarity. Once you understand what each of these things are, it will be much easier to shop for a diamond engagement ring.

Buying the Wrong Size

When you picture a perfect proposal, you probably don't see the ring being too small to slide on her finger or falling off because it is several sizes too large. While most engagement rings can be re-sized if necessary, it is better to purchase a ring that is already the proper size. If you have no idea what size ring your significant other wears, take one of the rings she regularly wears to a jewelry store and ask to have it sized Then you'll know the right size to buy when you purchase her diamond engagement ring.

Forgetting the Wedding Band

When shopping for a diamond engagement engagement ring, don't forget to look at complementary wedding bands. Purchasing the engagement ring and wedding band together will ensure that they look great when worn next to each other, and both will have a similar style and be made of the same type of metal. 

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