Know your style, as the pieces will be with you for a long time! Do you want a sleek contemporary look, something more romantic and traditional or an art deco style – there are many design styles available. Consider your precious metal as you can have white and yellow gold in the same carat weight, while platinum has always been considered the purest of metals and rose gold has made a big comeback. Next, think about the carat size in mind for your gemstones. You may want the most dazzling or clearest possible diamond despite the carat count. Buy a diamond just shy of desirable half and whole-carat weights to save money. Ensure you get measured correctly, as you don't want a ring too tight or large, as you'll risk losing it. Consider how your engagement ring and wedding band will look together, especially if you've opted for an unusual engagement ring. Most of us will have a budget in mind for our rings, but remember it will be a forever purchase. Sometimes it's worth going a little further to achieve the rings of your dreams.