You dont need to spend a fortune buying the perfect diamond engagement ring. Forget surprising her. Get real, tell her of your intentions and then shop for the engagement ring together. Look at buying the ring in the same way you would look at buying a house or car. Budget the amount you want to spend and then shop around until you find what you want for the price you are willing to pay. In the long run you will satisfy her and probable save a lot of time and money.

First do some homework. Since you will probable be looking for a diamond engagement ring learn the 4 Cs of diamonds; Cut, Clarity, Carat, and Color. Be realistic you will not be an expert just because you know the 4 Cs but at least you have a basic understanding of the subject when you speak with the jeweler about your purchase.

Next go to a local jewelry store where you can speak with a real person and ask more detailed questions. Armed with your basic knowledge of the 4 Cs this will be the most efficient way to learn more about the diamond engagement ring and the many choices of styles and ring materials available. Dont forget the internet, you may be able to save a lot because an internet merchant may not have the overhead of a brick and mortar store and could past the savings on to you.

Then you should get a couple of quotes like you would for any other big purchase. You would not buy a car or car insurance without getting some quotes. Engagement rings are not unique you can get the same or very similar rings at more than one place. So shop around you should be able to get the ring of your choice very close to the price you want to pay. In any case when you finally decide on a ring, you know you did your homework, shopped around and got the best ring you could afford at the best possible price.

In the end make sure you are buying from a reputable merchant. Whether you decide to make your purchase online or at a local jewelry store, make sure you have some background on the store. Never buy a diamond engagement ring without getting a diamond certificate. A diamond certificate is a report created by a team of gemologists. The diamond is evaluated, measured, and scrutinized. Also get the ring appraised by another jeweler or appraisal company. An appraisal is a document stating the approximate retail replacement value of the ring. The appraisal document ensures that in the case of loss, theft, or damage your insurance company will give you an equal replacement of your diamond engagement ring. You will want to do this for your own peace of mind and you will need to do this if you want to insure the ring.