You know that her engagement ring is something she'll remember forever. Therefore, it has to be the perfect setting, stone, color, rating, and grade. But, you know all the tips you've read in magazines and heard from family and friends. There's more to an engagement ring, however, than just the stone and setting. You want it to be special, you want her to remember it, and you want it to say something about you and your relationship. So, instead of the traditional tips you've heard before, consider a few of these tips to help you find the ring that'll make her say I do.

Tell a Story

Your ring has to tell a story. You can go into any jewelry store or any magazine and find the "perfect" ring. Or, you can talk to a jeweler, tell them about your relationship, how you met, the story of your first date, or something fun that distinguishes you as a couple, and have them custom-tailor the ring instead. Which of the two would you rather have? She'll probably appreciate the one that tells the story as well.

Thin is in

A thin setting is a way to help bring out the brilliance, shine, and to increase the size (or at least the appearance of) the diamond. If you're on a tight budget, or if you prefer a smaller diamond, but know your fiance wants something large, create the illusion of larger, with a thinner band. The thinner setting, and contrasting color (a gold band with white stone), will help enhance the brilliance, and help really bring out the great, magnificent diamond she wants to see when you open the little box (even if the diamond isn't all that large).

Imperfections are Nice

Who doesn't like the perfect diamond? Many women. Imperfections are a sign that a diamond and stones are handmade. These distinct imperfections are what give the ring character and charm. Isn't that what you want? Something different, unique, and all your own. Sure, you can go to the local jeweler and overspend on a perfectly cut and set diamond, but why?