Start with the diamond.
The first step is to choose a diamond. Visit our Diamond Buying Guide and take a moment to learn about the different shapes and grades. The shape is often the toughest choice, and there is really no exact formula. In the end, it’s really up to what you personally like. Remember, this is your engagement ring too. While the diamond certainly can’t speak, it is telling the world exactly how you feel about her. For years to come this ring will be the one thing she wears every day that she didn’t buy for herself. When she looks down at it she will think of only one thing...you. That is why what you like really matters. If you feel strongly about a particular shape, go for it. Not sure yet? Visit our Build Your Own Engagement Ring application and you can look at every shape diamond in every ring design. It won’t take you long and you’ll find that you not only prefer one shape over the others, but, as you explore, you’ll also see combinations that you know she would love.

Then pick the precious metal you want.
White or Yellow, that's usually a pretty easy choice. Unless she has specified yellow gold and wears mostly yellow gold jewelry, she probably prefers white. Today, tradition rules, and white is the metal most brides desire in an engagement ring and wedding band.

When choosing Yellow, here are your choices:
14k Gold is composed of 50% pure gold and 50% alloy. It is rugged, holds it’s shine and will last for many years. It’s the best choice when durability is most important. Basic gold fashion jewelry is most often produced in 14K. 18K Gold is composed of 75% pure gold and 25% alloy. 18K is a richer, more lustrous color and is always used in finer designer gold pieces. While it is a bit softer than 14K, it is still the best choice for normal wear lifestyles It is certainly more expensive than 14K, but, for gold purists, it is the only way to go.