Engagement Rings and Wedding Bands - IntroductionIf you think marriage is around the corner, then some ring buying is also around the corner. This is something that you most definitely should think about as you near that stage. But what if you have no experience in buying an engagement ring or in buying a wedding band? That can certainly be a problem. There are lots of things to know, but you have to have a knowledge base before you can truly become an expert on the topic.Engagement ring basicsWith engagement rings, you need to know the four Cs. Cut, carat size, clarity, and color are the things that you will be looking for in a ring. Cut is a matter of preference. Some women prefer a round stone, while others like an emerald or princess cut. In terms of clarity, there are grades that different stones receive. The clearer the stone, the better it is. You need to ask your jeweler about the grades and get some expertise here. You should look for the "whitest" diamond in terms of color, as yellow diamonds lack luster. For carat size, it all depends upon your budget, as a stone will get more expensive as it gets bigger.Wedding ring basicsThe wedding ring purchases are less expensive, no less important. The options are silver, gold, or platinum most of the time. Some people go with the traditional ring, while others prefer a more unique style. It really all depends upon your taste and your wife's taste.