The Engagement Ring
Although many girls may dream romantically of the man of their dreams, down on one knee, offering a sparkling ring in a neat square box, just as many have daydreamed about the design of ring that they will wear for the rest of their lives, and so would prefer to have some say in the style of ring they get. Thus, many potential grooms err on the side of caution and allow their fiancées to select a ring after the proposal has been accepted.
How Much to Spend?
Some traditions suggest that the groom should spend about a month's wages on the engagement ring; others say that it should be two months, and some sources (usually diamond companies) insist that it should be three. However, a soon-to-be married couple must consider their finances jointly, and choose a ring that they can both afford in the long run. A sensible couple will set a budget before they go shopping, taking into account other expenses, such as a mortgage deposit or any loans that they may soon be taking out.
Style
When choosing the engagement ring, the bride should bear in mind what sort of wedding ring she would like, so that the two will complement each other. Many wedding rings are nine carat gold (this stands up to the friction of two rings rubbing together better than a higher carat), although more increasingly white gold, red gold, platinum or a mixture of metals are now chosen.
Diamonds are the most popular choice of stone for engagement rings, as its durability and scarcity is thought to be a symbol of the couple's love. Sapphires come a close second, followed by rubies and emeralds.
Birthstones are still used in engagement rings, although this tradition is not as popular as it once was. Their choice by today's couples does not always relate to the birthdate of the wearer since the decision is often made according to preference for the colour, rather than the meaning.
| | | Month | Stone | Meaning |
| January | Garnet | Guards against illness and symbolises fidelity and constancy |
| February | Amethyst | Thought to bring virtue, sobriety and sincerity in all aspects of life |
| March | Aquamarine | Symbolises youth, courage and happiness |
| April | Diamond | Associated with purity and innocence |
| May | Emerald | Thought to have healing properties, and is associated with fidelity and harmony |
| June | Pearl | A symbol of purity and wisdom |
| July | Ruby | Associated with wealth, and when worn on the left hand is said to control desire |
| August | Peridot | Said to bring contentment and fidelity |
| September | Sapphire | Brings peace, wisdom and virtue |
| October | Opal | It is a symbol of faith and good fortune and everlasting love - but only for Scorpios - for others it is associated with ill luck |
| November | Topaz | Thought to bestow beauty, intelligence and long life upon its wearer |
| December | Turquoise | Reputed to bring harmony, success and happiness |
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