If you're gearing up to ask the big question, you're probably debating what kind of ring will fit your soon-to-be-fiancée's finger best. The first thing you'll need to find out is her ring size, which is going to take the same kind of detective work you'll be doing to discover her taste in jewelry to begin with. Does she wear a lot of gold – or perhaps white gold, platinum or silver? Snoop around the jewelry case and consider her style, with special attention paid to the jewels themselves, particularly anything with diamonds.
You'll want to know the four Cs – cut, carat, color and clarity – of diamonds before you embark on your purchase, because each will fit her personality a particular way. She may want the stone protruding from the band, easy to show off, or she may want something subdued, or perhaps another stone set in a ring of smaller diamonds. Antique engagement rings may also be to her liking – unique and with a lot of character.
One last thing to keep in mind is that she may already know what she wants. Indeed, plenty of advice columns explain how to hint at your ideal ring – so keep your ears open. And if she's the sort who's fine with it, just ask for her advice upfront.
