When you are planning to propose to your significant other, you may find yourself in the market for an engagement ring. However, if you have never shopped for engagement rings before, you are likely confused and unsure of how to proceed with the shopping process. Get to know a few tips to help you out. Then, you can be sure you pick out the best possible engagement ring for your significant other.  

Decide on a Budget Before You Go to the Store

First and foremost, you should be sure you know what you can and are willing to spend on an engagement ring before you go to any stores. Look carefully at your general budget, and think about what you can afford. Even if you plan to put it on a credit card, consider how much you are willing to pay every month for the ring. 

It is important to do this before you shop because engagement rings can vary a great deal in price. You want to be sure you can narrow your focus when you go shopping and avoid looking at rings that are far too expensive for you. No matter what your price point, you can find a beautiful ring. So do not feel bad about your budget. 

Decide on the Stones You Want

One of the decisions you will need to make when choosing an engagement ring is what type of stones you would like in the ring. Traditional engagement rings contain all diamonds, but you don't necessarily have to go with traditional options. 

If your significant other has a specific type of stone they like, a color they love, or a beautiful birthstone, you may want to go with that. For example, if your significant other was born in May, their birthstone is emerald, so you could go with that. Alternatively, if they love the color blue, you could choose a blue diamond or a sapphire. 

Choosing the stones you want can again narrow down your choices, especially if you are looking for color in your engagement ring. 

Choose a Setting

Choosing a setting for the ring is also important. A popular setting for engagement rings is a halo setting. This involves a large stone set in the middle of the ring with a "halo" of smaller stones along the band. 

If you are looking for a classically elegant ring option, you might want to go with a cathedral setting. These rings mimic the arches of a traditional cathedral in the metal that holds a single stone. Other options include cluster, three stone, bezel, and eternity band settings. Each has a completely different style and feel. 

Choose one or two settings that you like the most before you go shopping. Then you can compare and contrast the two in the store to determine which would be perfect for your significant other. 

Knowing these tips to help you shop for an engagement ring for your significant other, you can be sure that your shopping experience is as positive and efficient as possible and that you get your significant other the perfect ring.