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by Lea

It seems like there are endless facts out there when you start researching engagement rings. From the 4C’s of diamond buying to the number of months salary you should spend on a ring, the ‘experts’ are always telling you how, and what, to buy. But what about the many wrong ideas buyers encounter as they search for the ideal proposal jewel?

It’s time to take a look at the top five misconceptions about diamond engagement rings (f ).

1. Only Size Matters

Let’s face it: If she only cares about the size of the rock, she’s probably not the right girl. But all kidding aside, most women aren’t looking for the largest ring out there; they’re looking for the ring that fits their style and personality. Women are educated about diamond color and clarity, and they too want to own a diamond that will hold its value–not a stone that is big but low in quality. Instead of going overboard in size, take the time to explore what kind of cut she likes and then go for the best quality that your budget allows.

2. Same is Better

While women sometimes envy a handbag or pair of shoes that a friend owns, they usually are not interested in having the exact same engagement ring as a friend or relative. Today, women truly value a special piece of jewelry that speaks to their husband’s ability to seek out the unique. The best tactic is to take the characteristics of another ring she likes, but then put a spin on it. For example, if she loves her cousin’s white gold, three-stone diamond engagement ring with a princess cut diamond, look for something in a similar style but with a twist: like this Three Stone ring made for a round center stone.

3. Matching bands are necessary

For a while, every single bridal designer was marketing a matching band with each engagement ring offered. While it might make the process easier for some brides and grooms, this notion of ‘matching sets’ has become a bit outdated. As engagement rings have become more unusual and less status quo, bands too have taken a turn for the unique. Women today are opting to stack simple bands as anniversary gifts, or to choose statement bands that they instead wear on their right hand.

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