Women dream of it and most men dread ruining it – the engagement is a pivotal point in a relationship, where one's commitment to the other is expressed through unconditional love. Because of this, the proposal needs to be next to flawless. A perfect engagement that will last in both you and your partner's memories needs to start with this question: "Are we ready?"
There are several ways to know whether you are prepared to pop the question and make that next step. According to TheKnot.com, signs of readiness include openness to your finances as well as a clear definition of your future together. These days, loving one another is unfortunately not enough. It may sound unfavorable, but money matters and having insufficient funds can be detrimental to a marriage. How can you even propose if you are not going to be able to afford a ring?
At the same time, discussions about your future are telltale signs that you might be ready. "If you and your [significant other] speak naturally and sincerely about your future together, that sort of confidence bodes well for your relationship," the news source reports. If you've already been together for awhile and conversations on marriage and having children are taken positively, why not take the next step and actually do it?
Other reasons that indicate you should ask your beloved to marry you may be the fact that she has already been dropping hints. If you know that she might be iffy about saying yes then why bother asking? However, if you feel in your heart that she is the one and she's been chatting about how she adores specific diamond cuts, then the time is most certainly right to buy her that sparkler she's been eying.
Knowing that both of you are ready should then take you to the next step in creating the perfect proposal, and that is choosing the right diamond engagement ring. For the traditionalist, the surprise factor is a part of the event and asking her about her dream ring may spoil this. In this instance, you need to have some sort of idea about your partner's style. Pay attention to any hints that she may give you about her favorite designs. Try not to ask for help – the cat may eventually be let out of the bag, effectively ruining the moment.
From traditional diamond engagement rings to modern designs, the style of the ring should reflect your would-be bride's personality. If your lifestyle involves sustainable ideals and environmentally-friendly choices, consider buying an eco-conscious diamond ring made from recycled metal and conflict-free diamonds. Another option would be to purchase a beautiful vintage engagement ring. The timeless design of such a bauble is something most women can appreciate.
If your bride is a non-traditionalist, then you could look into colored gems as diamond substitutes. Not only are they less expensive, but stones like sapphires and rubies are becoming more popular options as engagement rings.
Once you have chosen the ring to solidify your commitment, it is only a matter of waiting for the right time to pop the question. Whether you sweep her away to a pretend-impromptu getaway or ask her on the couch during her favorite TV show, the venue doesn't have to be grand to create a beautiful memory. As long as you know in your heart that both of you are ready to be engaged (with, of course, the ring of her dreams!), then asking her for her hand in marriage should be as natural as asking her to pass the popcorn.
Although colored stones continue to be the must-have item in the gem industry, most people would still prefer a diamond engagement ring, according to the Commercial Appeal.
Gold is back in style, according to the World Gold Council, which reported a 9 percent increase in demand for 2010. It turns out that 51 percent of the total demand came from Asian consumers, especially those living in China and India, who continue to drive the growth even further.