If you're in the market for a new ring, the reason for the purchase is going to have a major bearing on the kind and color of gemstone you purchase.

Engagement Rings
If it's time to declare your love to that special someone and you want to do it in traditional style, you are in the market for a diamond solitaire ring. If the thought of purchasing a diamond ring has you in a panic, thinking you will never be able to afford it, think again. Depending on the cut you want, diamond rings are can be very affordable with a .5 carat diamond solitaire ring in the area of a few hundred dollars.

Birthday Rings
If you are purchasing a ring to be a birthday gift for a woman in your life, you may want to look for a ring that is set with her birthstone:

January – Garnet Rings
February – Amethyst Rings
March – Aquamarine Rings
April – Diamond Rings
May – Emerald Rings
June – Pearl Rings
July – Ruby Rings
August – Peridot Rings
September – Sapphire Rings
October – Opal Rings
November – Citrine Rings
December – Blue Topaz Rings

Just Because Rings
Maybe you don't have any specific reason to purchase a ring, but you just want one for yourself or would like to purchase one for someone you know. There are plenty of rings that will jazz up the hand of the person wearing it, and add to a jewelry collection.

Once you're past the reasons a ring is being purchased, you need a lot more information about the person wearing it:

Ring Size
The most important thing to have correct on a ring is ring size. You want to make sure it will fit on the right finger. This is especially true if it is an engagement ring you are purchasing, as you want it to fit perfectly when you put it on her finger as part of that precious moment. If the finger of the person changes over time, rings made of pure precious metals, such as gold or silver, can be resized to fit.

Stone Shape
When choosing a stone shape you need to know about the person getting the ring. Are they the kind of person that would prefer a round, traditional cut stone? Or would they prefer something that has a unique or fun shape, like a heart or butterfly, or even a ring with extras, such as dangles or large bunches of stones that make a design that is all their own.

In addition to a large central stone, you can also look into rings with a larger stone in the center and a number of smaller accent stones that will make it stand out even more.

Before making a purchase, take your time, look around at the variety that is offered in rings today, and then narrow down the choices until you have a ring that you love, and will be loved for years to come.