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Engagement Rings - How to Buy a Diamond Engagement Ring

By Carly Wickell, About.com

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Choose a Metal for Her Engagement Ring

Gold Eternity Band

Gold Eternity Band With Channel Set Diamonds

An Exclusive Design of Sun Jewelry, © Sun Jewelry
Platinum is a very hard, durable metal with a beautiful white luster, making it an all-time favorite for engagement and wedding rings. Platinum is more rare than other precious metals, so expect to pay more for it than you would for another favorite, gold.

Although its look isn't quite the same, 18K white gold is a popular alternative to platinum. Eighteen karat gold is the natural choice for women who love yellow metals.

Fourteen karat gold is a less expensive, but still durable, option.

Learn About Precious Metals

Gold and platinum remain the most popular engagement ring choices, but some couples choose titanium or other metals for their wedding rings.

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