So, you've found 'the one' and about to embark on an amazing journey that will become your own happily ever after. But, if your like most guys, you're probably thinking, where do I begin? Well, the first stop on your list, before you even book that romantic evening when you plan to pop the question, is the ring. If your like most guys who have been with their girl a long time, you've probably let her drag you into countless jewelry stores or show you pictures online of hundreds of different rings she likes. But, all that information can be really overwhelming! Here are some great tips that will get you headed down the right path and help you purchase the perfect ring.

1.)   Don't waste your money by shopping at the big name stores. Big name stores have the ability to raise their prices because a lot of their jewelry is custom made for their brand. You will find the best deals on jewelry at your local jeweler. Not only will you be supporting your community, but you are going to get excellent service! Your hometown jeweler will be close-by if you need to have the ring re-sized or a stone reset and you don't have to be worried about being treated like a number.

2.)   Consider buying a ring that has several smaller diamonds, instead of one huge diamond. Not only are rings with many diamonds flashier, but you are also getting more bang for you buck. Diamonds are usually weighed based on their size, and that is how they are priced. If you buy a ring that has several smaller diamonds you are maximizing your sparkle for less.

3.)   Carats make a difference. A diamond that is just shy of a full carat, will be cheaper than a full carat diamond.

4.)   Consider white gold. If your fiancée favors that white gold look over yellow gold, you should adhere. But, don't let the jeweler talk your into platinum or palladium. White gold is usually a lot more price conscience and it still looks just as gorgeous.

5.)   If your grandmother or mother gives you their engagement ring as an heirloom, you should consider having the diamonds re-set. This will at least modernize the look and make the ring just that much more special.

6.)   You may want to buy a loose diamond and then have put in a place setting. This will allow you to pick the highest quality of diamond and it will save you money in the long run.

7.)   Be sure to keep your future bride's style in check. You don't want to purchase a huge, gaudy ring if she prefers simpler, more classic jewelry. You should also consider her lifestyle, is she active or have a career that requires her to be hands on with people? A huge ring may get in the way of the things she like to do. So, be careful to keep her style and her lifestyle at the forefront of your mind when you are making your purchase.

8.)   Make sure you know her ring size! Whether you get it from her or from a family member or friend, you shouldn't go shopping without it.

9.)   Don't be afraid to stay within your budget. There is no reason to accrue a huge amount of debt over an engagement ring! You can usually find a more affordable version of the style that she likes.

These are all fabulous tips you should take with you when you go to make that all-important purchase. It's always nice to go armed with maybe a few pictures of some rings you like, so that the jeweler will know what kind of style you are looking for. Above all, be sure that you are having fun while you are doing it. You don't want it to seem like you picked her ring in a rush or like someone else may have done it for you. Be sure to put lots of heart and thought into it, before you make that final purchase.