39 The Most Beautiful Gold Engagement Rings

Traditionally, the rule was to spend three months’ salary on an engagement ring, but that’s not an unbreakable rule. The best way to decide is to look at engagement rings and get an idea of the price range for rings that you think are suitable for your bride-to-be — with a little wiggle room if you find the ring that will really wow her.

The best engagement ring is the one that makes you say, “Wow!” But it goes a little beyond just the wow factor. You have to consider things like your lifestyle and even what shape will look best on your hand.

If you have a simple, classic style, a round- or princess-cut diamond may be perfect for you. If you are a fashionista, you might prefer a cushion or emerald cut. An incurable romantic might like a heart or pear-shaped diamond. If your tastes are more vintage, you will like a cushion- or Asscher-shaped gem.

So you’re ready to pop the question and now all you need is an engagement ring to deliver the perfect proposal. In addition to knowing your partner’s preferences when it comes to her future ring (gold or platinum? Side stones or pavé?), one major piece of information that’s pertinent to have is her ring size. However, asking her straight-out would ruin any chances of a surprise proposal. If you intend on popping the question as a surprise, you’ll have to determine her ring size without her suspecting anything.