Where to Find Affordable Engagement Rings

Before you pop the question, you must find the perfect engagement ring. While the rule of thumb is two months salary, this isn't always possible. There are affordable engagement rings that are beautiful and romantic without being too expensive. While you may start your search at a local jewelry store, the best place to shop might actually be the Internet. Browsing the ring selection at a brick and mortar store can introduce you to the various ring styles available. This is a great way to get ring ideas to research when you get home.

The first aspect of choosing an engagement ring is deciding on the metal. Platinum is popular but also very expensive. It is a heavy, durable metal with a silvery color to it. If you love the look of platinum but not the price go for white gold. White gold is also a silvery color but is much more affordable. Yellow gold is the most traditional and affordable ring metal which is why so many people choose it. Either white or yellow gold would make a great choice. Next you will need to select the diamond, which is the most important part of the ring.

Diamonds come in all shapes, sizes and colors. While the most traditional diamond color is white, you can find other colors including pink, yellow and blue. The carat weight of a diamond will influence its cost, as will its clarity. For example a flawless diamond is going to cost more than a flawed diamond. This is often the case even if the flawed diamond is bigger. If you are on a budget you probably won't want to exceed one carat. Even a quarter or half carat diamond can be beautiful. Diamond shapes include round, oval, marquise, emerald and pear to name a few.

When shopping online for affordable engagement rings, deal with stores that you know you can trust. The jewelry should come with a certificate of authenticity and there should be a return policy. You will find all kinds of jewelry stores online that can offer discounted merchandise because their operating costs are less than competing brick and mortar stores. You might even want to shop on Ebay for an engagement ring, however make sure to only deal with sellers with positive feedback who have a return policy.