Choosing a best engagement ring should be simple in theory. Pick out a ring, buy it, and propose to the love of your life (who will, ideally, say yes). However, because it’s an engagement ring, there is so much emotional and cultural expectation wrapped up in that beautiful black velvet box.

After all, financial strains can be difficult on any marriage, particularly a new one — so why set yourself up for stress when you can buy an affordable engagement ring that your other half is sure to love?

2 Tips for Selecting Affordable Engagement Rings

Ask Your Other Half What They Want

The first rule of being successful when it comes to buying an engagement ring is to know what you should be looking for. It might seem completely obvious, but you’d be surprised at the number of women who walk around wearing a style of ring that they don’t actually like.

So, does your other half love vintage rings or modern rings? Should you buy a solitaire or should it have as much bling as possible? Should colored stones be included or not? In order to find out, simply ask her, ask her friends or family, or go shopping with her to see the type of rings she likes.

Know What You Can Afford

Instead of multiplying your monthly income, know what you can realistically afford. Are you in debt? If so, you might want to buy a ring you can afford to pay off in cash instead of going into more debt for a diamond. Do you have a monthly budget? If so, look and see if there is anything you can give up for a few months to help save for a ring instead.

If you love someone and want to buy a ring, choosing one you can actually afford really is the greatest gift you can give them. Being ready and able to buy an engagement ring with money you already have is far better than making monthly payments throughout your first few years of marriage.