Everywhere you turn someone will have advice for you on how to choose the perfect engagement ring for your mate. There are many things to consider when beginning the search for the perfect engagement ring, and it may help to keep notes on what you learn to help in your final decision . Do not let the unknown keep you from exploring all of the options out there for engagement rings and wedding sets. This one piece of jewelry is the first in many important steps on beginning your future together, so try not to rush the purchase even if you are excited about making that next step . 
. 

Exploring all of the options jewelers have can help you make that choice for the perfect engagement ring . Many places will make sure to educate you before making your final purchase to ensure that you are choosing the one that is right for you and your mate. If you are dealing with a jeweler that does not proactively try to educate you on engagement ring options, you may want to find a different place to shop . Many ring companies have websites that will provide tips and information necessary to make a ring purchase so be sure to use all of the resources available to you, especially if you are not keen on spending a large amount of time in the store becoming more educated before making your purchase. Knowing about cut, clarity, setting and even budget limitations can all help narrow down your search for the perfect engagement ring . 

For those couples that have talked about marriage before the big question has actually been asked, you may want to shop for the perfect engagement ring together. Many women will drop hints such as if she finds someone else’s ring too large or small, and if she would prefer a simple setting or one that includes multiple diamonds . If you have not talked about marriage previously and this will be a complete surprise, you may want to examine the jewelry that she currently wears. You will not want to purchase an engagement ring that will not blend with what she currently has. If she loves yellow gold and multiple stones you will not be browsing platinum solitaire engagement rings . 

Some women will not have a preference for their engagement rings to the wedding bands, while others feel that it is imperative that they match. Take stock of her belongings and how she organizes her belongings. If all of her towels in her linen closet match or she has an exact set of coordinating serving dishes with matching spoons, she is most likely the type of woman who would prefer an engagement ring that belongs to a set. These can be purchased together or separately depending on where you are shopping, while other engagement rings can be put with a number of wedding bands quite well. A simple solitaire diamond engagement ring will go with practically any wedding band, so if you are unsure, this may be the best choice for your purchase.

George C. Baycan of Simayof Jewelers has 7 years experience in the jewelry business in management and marketing consultant positions.  He specializes in diamonds and engagement ring consulting.