How to Propose to Your Girlfriend

Forget two months’ salary. “There’s no right amount to spend on an engagement ring,” insists Rose. So pick a comfortable cost and shop around—including online. “There’s minimal overhead and no middleman, so e-tailers can offer the same jewelry for less than brick-and-mortar stores,” says Rose. More money-saving advice: Don’t rule out included (aka flawed) rings. “Inclusions determine price, but many flaws are visible only under 10X magnification,” she explains. "At James Allen, we use a new proprietary technology to make it easier for buyers to easily spot the diamonds that are more affordable, yet still clean and beautiful to the naked eye." Compromising on this particular "c" — clarity — can help you to save significant money (and no one will be the wiser). You might also want to avoid preset (aka ready-made) rings, recommends Rose. Design your own and you decide how much cash goes toward the setting (the part that holds the stone) and how much goes to the diamond.