When you go to buy an engagement ring it can be incredibly daunting.
There seems to be so much tradition and protocol to follow before you even start! To take the pressure off, here are 5 of the best myths that we have heard and why they really are a load of 'cobblers'.
Myth 1 - 'It should cost 3 months salary' Even the story tellers can't decide on this one, some say two months, some say three and one article I read had decided that the poor guy should spend 6 months pay on a ring! This myth dates back to the original idea of a betrothal gift - it was proof to the intended bride and her family that the groom was financially secure enough to be able to support his family.
Remember that we are talking about the days before women went into paid employment, so the man was the sole earner of the family.
The best idea is to decide how much you can comfortably afford and stick to it.
You don't want your marriage to start with a massive bill from the jewelers! Myth 2 - 'Lab created diamonds are just as good as natural'.
While they may look the same but cost half the price, lab created diamonds are simply not the same as natural gemstones.
Any jeweler or gemologists can tell the difference immediately.
This not only affects the value, it may even create questions of authenticity if you were to sell the diamond later.
Go for quality over quantity.
Not only will a real diamond hold its value, but your fiancé will appreciate a real diamond far more.
Myth 3 - 'Diamonds are forever'.
No, they are not.
Thousands of years maybe, but not forever.
Pick a diamond that is flawed and it could be considerably less time than that.
However choosing a flawless diamond will set you back a large fortune.
By choosing a diamond that has slight flaws that can't be detected by the naked eye you will get great value for money and a diamond that will stand the test of time.
Myth 4 - 'It's an ancient tradition' Although the ancient Romans started the culture, in the West it has only been in the 20th Century that engagement rings have become the standard offering as a betrothal promise.
Prior to this the man would offer his bride-to-be other small homemaker items of value - like a silver thimble.
(I wouldn't try that one these days!) In fact the diamond engagement ring only became popular in the 1930's and this is one trend that has both revolutionized and romanticized the engagement ring industry.
Myth 5 - 'There is greater risk when you buy an engagement ring online' There is little difference between buying your engagement ring online and going into a store on the street.
In fact, because of the lower overheads, often the online stores can have a better selection of stones at better prices than the average jeweler.
Many online jewelry stores now have more insurance, appraisal guarantees and delivery options which makes it less risky than buying the traditional way.
It also means that you can browse their selection in your own time and at your own pace.
You could spend hours and travel hundreds of miles to find the right ring offline, or you could have fun creating your own.
Imagine creating the ring of her dreams, that defines your relationship but that also meets your budget? Thanks to the internet it is now possible.