On keeping an engagement ring

On keeping an engagement ring

There's so much attention focused on the ever-climactic wedding proposal - so much so that no one really thinks about that stretch of time that comes after the big question is popped and just before the two of you officially exchange your vows. Orchestrating the perfect proposal is an endeavor that requires plenty of time, creativity and help from your friends, but that's still no excuse not to tend to the endurance and longevity of an ephemeral promise once that cushion-cut ring is sitting squarely on that finger.

To help you mentally prepare for all the possible "what ifs" that could could crop up before your "I dos," here's a list of potential quandaries that could befall an engaged couple.

1. You could lose your ring. Yes, it happens, and yes, it could happen to you. Don't let it! Take the necessary precautions by getting your ring fitted correctly, insuring it properly and also implementing a few defensive strategies. There's no reason why you need to wear it while washing the dishes or peeling vegetables over the garbage disposal, and if you know that you'll be getting your hands into a soapy or slippery situation, do take it off. Your ring may stay on your finger just fine - until it's lubricated enough to slip right off.

2. Your fiancee might have half a mind to tweak, alter or outright exchange the ring. If she's courteous, she won't, but you don't want her to secretly wish you'd bought her something different. If you're bent on surprising her, it's probably not a good idea to "casually" ask her to pick out a ring. You can, however, pick up subtle clues by paying attention to the jewelry she wears on a day-to-day basis as well as by watching her reactions when you take an unassuming detour through the jewelry department.

3. Your ring may attract unfavorable attention. It's entirely possible that your ring be deficient, but on a totally opposite note, it could be so attractive that the world can't help but notice (and occasionally wish to steal) it. Ring insurance will help remove the burden of some of that worry, but this is also an area where you'll just want to exercise some common sense.

4. Not all engagements make it to the next step. Ginnifer Goodwin was the latest celebrity to break off her engagement, and this certainly isn't a phenomenon that's linked exclusively to the realm of Hollywood. Avoid saying "yes" to someone who you can't picture yourself growing old with, and do take care to nurture your relationship the same way you would if you weren't under the assumption that the whole thing's unconditional.