You have organised the champagne, padded your knees and feel physically sick at the thought of the proposal, but there is one key element that must be perfect. The symbol of your love, the item that, if right, will seal the deal!

The engagement ring.

Choosing an engagement ring can be difficult whether you are buying together or surprising your bride to-be, so here are some valuable tips to ensure the experience, and the ring, is flawless!

Firstly, consider your price range. The accepted amount to spend on an engagement ring is one month's salary. However it is up to the individuals to decide. This will enable you to narrow the search and will help you understand the type of ring you can afford. Do not forget to have your jeweller value the ring and insure it as soon as possible. Most companies will provide a certificate of authenticity for piece of mind.

Amazingly, when choosing an engagement ring, couples can forget about the wedding bands which has been known to result in some disasters! Although some engagement rings can be a combination wedding band, the design of your ring must be made with the wedding band in mind. Often couples will choose matching wedding bands, will this match the engagement ring? The style of your ring can be adapted so you won't have to make any compromises whatsoever.

If you are planning to surprise your fiance, make sure you have her ring size. This can take considerable detective work, so an idea is to wrap a piece of string around her finger when she is asleep and tie a knot in it. Alternatively ask a friend to borrow a ring from her or to ask to try one of your fiance on so you have an idea. Ring sizing cards are available at most jewellers. But do take into account that a smaller or larger size may be needed depending on the style you choose and the width of its band. Some companies will be willing to resize the ring for free, so if all else fails, try and negotiate this when making your purchase.

Choosing a particular style of ring can be overwhelming, but you can narrow down the search by thinking about some key points:

Traditional or modern?

Does your fiance have modern or traditional tastes in furniture, clothes, accessories? It is likely that their taste in jewellery will follow suit.

White gold, yellow gold or platinum?

If your fiance has other important pieces of jewellery are they in yellow or white gold? This will help you decide on the ring colour as it is usually best not to mix the two. White gold is the current trend at the moment, and if you like this look consider platinum. Although more expensive, it is extremely hard wearing and will last a life time, whereas white gold may have to be recoated after a while when worn regularly. However yellow gold is classic and has a chic twist after becoming more popular recently through celebrities like Madonna, Puff Diddy and J-Lo all wearing yellow gold in their videos.

Will it wear well?

An engagement ring is usually worn regularly, so choosing a delicate, intricate design may not suit this type of ring. The carat of the gold can make a difference. The higher the carat, the stronger the gold. If your fiance is someone who gets their hands dirty don't buy a ring that is too prominent as it could become a hindrance.

Will it date?

If you decide to choose a modern style it will probably date. However you can always reset the ring at a later date.

The 4 c's: colour, cut, clarity and carat

It is essential that you have knowledge about these when choosing the diamond for you.

The diamond cut

There are 7 main diamond cuts - ; round, brilliant, marquise, emerald, princess, pear, oval and heart.

The packaging.

Never underestimate the importance of beautiful packaging. It's all in the presentation! The tone of your proposal will be set by the box the ring is in and any other wrapping. Most stores will offer this service to you.

Remember this is an important purchase so take your time! Looking at internet sites, magazines and jewellers can help you find the ring for you.