When the big question is asked, both the man and the woman quiet up in a moment of awkward romanticism. (Unless the answer is no, and then it's just awkward) Thankfully, the beauty of an engagement ring can do all the talking for you. How do you go about choosing one?

The Most Important Factors
An engagement ring is not about expensive diamonds and spending two months salary in twenty minutes. An engagement ring should be a reflection on personality – of the man, of the woman, even of their shared love together. Engagement rings should suit the buyer's tastes and should be a personalized gift from one to the other. Attributes that can be altered in an engagement ring include the type of metal the ring uses, the types of stones, the cut of the stone as well as the color. Engagement rings are also customizable in size and style, so that one can be tailored to your personality even more so.

But What About Cheap Engagement Rings?
As much as your personality screams rich diamonds and solid gold, sometimes the monthly budget just doesn't allow for an engagement ring over a certain budget. However, cheap diamond rings can be just as moving and romantic as expensive diamond rings. Cheap diamond engagement rings can be slightly flawed or “included” but still sparkle from distance. Simulated diamond rings can actually be more beautiful than a real diamond and at a fraction of the cost. Engagement rings do not even have to include diamonds. Diamonds, like all stones, are simply a matter of taste. Of course, millionaires and celebrities prefer diamonds because the status and monetary value has become a part of their lifestyle – their personality, as it were. However, there are also many other types of engagement stones you can choose from besides a diamond.

Remember your budget when buying an engagement ring. You will also be obligated to buy cheap wedding rings soon enough. What would you rather spend more on, the wedding rings or the engagement rings? Actually, etiquette says the engagement ring and wedding ring should complement each other as much as possible. Why not try to bring the same frugality to your selection of wedding ring as you did the engagement ring?

Cheap rings are not reflective of the person buying or the entire marriage to be. Just remember, the less couples spend maxing out their credit cards on expensive rings, the less money they will have for a romantic honeymoon!