Engagement Ring

You finally come to the conclusion that she is "the one" or maybe you know that there would probably not be any other woman crazy enough to marry you.  It is time to pop the question and then you realize the big thing that you need to do - buy an engagement ring!  Yes, it seems like a daunting task for one man to undertake.  Women are usually the ones that pick out the pretty baubles that they like to wear and now YOU are responsible for this?  Take heart, because with a little know-how and research you can buy an engagement ring like a pro.  That is not to say that it will be easy and heart stopping when you realize how much you may need to spend, but it is definitely something that can be accomplished by the average crazy, in love male.  Before you begin this journey, perhaps you should learn a little bit about the history of engagement itself and what the ring you are purchasing signifies. 

Historically speaking, we can pin down the creation of the engagement ring to the Fourth Lateral Council.  This was overseen in the year 1215 by Pope Innocent III.  It was about this time that the pope decided that there should be a longer period of time between proposal and the actual time of marriage.  This declaration by the pope brought about what is know today as the engagement ring.  Since precious jewels such as diamonds and rubies were reserved for the upper class or aristocracy at this time, the first engagement rings were made out of either gold, iron , or silver.  A little later on when the distinction between classes were a little less strict, diamonds and other precious stones became more available to the middle class of the time.  In fact, the first diamond engagement ring was given by an Austrian Archduke named Archduke Maximillian to his bride to be Mary of Burgundy as a sign of his love and commitment in 1477.  It took a long time, the 20th Century to be exact, before the diamond engagement ring came into great popularity and more the norm.  At this time, a now well know company called De Beers launched a successful marketing campaign of the diamond engagement ring. 

Now that you are a little familiar with the history, you still need to buy the ring.  Couples vary in the ways in which they become engaged and in their styles.  Traditionally, the state of the relationship and where it is headed is talked about but the actual proposal is a secret of sorts.  Hence the phrase "popping the question".  Women like surprises as far as how and when the proposal will be taking place BUT aside from actually being there at the time of ring purchase, the modern woman at the very least wants to express her likes and dislikes of the ring itself.  This for a man is most definitely a good thing in that he then can come closer to buying the perfect ring for his betrothed.  Nowadays the woman may be dissatisfied with just a diamond ring.  She may want to add other precious stones such as sapphires, emeralds and rubies to the sides of the diamonds, or not.  This is why before the purchase, do discuss her personal style with her and perhaps let her try on rings to get a feel for what she likes.  Gold, platinum and silver are most popular metals for the band.  A man can see the ring as a construction project of sorts.  First decide on the metal she prefers and then you can build upon this by adding the shape and cut of the diamond that is preferred.  Add to that any gems that she may or may not want.  This is not as hard as you once thought is it?  Another question that is on the tip of the tongue of most men put in this precarious situation...how much to spend? 

As far as this question goes, the modern prestigious jewelry shop suggests you spend at least three months salary on the ring in question.  Do realize that not long ago it was only one months salary.  Your bride to be (hopefully, if she says yes) may be quite pleased if you make A LOT of money and spend three months salary as compared to the bride that has to look forward to a ring on a McDonald employees salary.  Then again money isn't everything and it is the thought that counts.  Or is it?  Sad to say, the size and beauty of the ring is often compared to the amount of love and actual commitment that you have for your loved one.  Just know that these prices are only "helpful" hints and that you should spend what you can afford (and maybe a little bit more) coming as close as you can to your girlfriend's desires. 

Now armed with some history and some hints, research and do more research to find the best ring at the best price that you can.  Check the internet and raid the many jewelry stores for one of the bigger purchases of your life.  Remember, you hope to only do this once (actually pray that you will) and you want to make it special and memorable.  Every time she looks at her hand she will see the symbol of your love, devotion and faithfulness.