Whether you ring shop with your beloved before the proposal or are looking for a way to make your engagement official, going to a jeweler can be really overwhelming. How do you pick one ring from all of the gorgeous options?! Some women go into ring shopping knowing exactly what they want, but if you are a little more indecisive here are a few things to consider when picking your perfect wedding ring.

First, set a clear budget. Your wedding ring is an investment piece of jewelry, but it shouldn't cost an arm and a leg. Make sure you and your partner are on the same page about how much you plan to spend on wedding rings (be sure to include his ring in this number as well!). Budgeting talks are awkward, but knowing your reasonable financial limits will get your wedding planning off to a good start.

Once you have determined your price point, think about what color metal do you want your ring to be. If you don’t have a preference, try on rings of different metal tones and finishes to see what you like most. Keep in mind that the metal type you select might affect the price and feel of your ring. Platinum is long-wearing and stunningly shiny but is likely to carry a heavy price tag. Silver is a softer metal and prone to scratches but is comparatively affordable. And of course, gold rings come in white, yellow, or rose colors, each carrying a different price. Choose a ring with a metal finish that looks best on your skin tone or that makes you the happiest. You're going to be seeing your ring every day, so it should be perfect for you!

After you know what type of metal you want, figure out what kind of stone you want on your wedding ring. If you love the look of traditional diamonds but don’t love the price tag, consider an alternative stone. Diamond alternatives such as moissanite, morganite, and cubic zirconia are a budget-friendly alternative to natural diamonds. Most jewelry stores have cases dedicated to these diamond alternatives. If diamonds aren’t your style, consider another beautiful stone option that can be set into your wedding ring. Turquoise, emerald, opal, and pearl are unique stones that will make your ring a true standout. Contact your local jeweler to see if they carry these stones, or check out Etsy for unique handmade and vintage rings. Be sure to ask your jeweler how to care for your stone to keep your ring looking new for years to come.

My best tip for ring shopping is to go in with an open mind, but don’t let yourself get talked into a ring you don’t love! You will be wearing and looking at your wedding ring every day so it should suit you well. Don’t be afraid to shop around at many jewelry stores until you find your perfect ring! Happy shopping!