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You're certain to score the diamond ring of your dreams if you discuss what you want openly.

We're all for the romantic, out-of-the-blue marriage proposal, but you're certain to score the diamond ring of your dreams if you discuss what you want openly (e.g., "As big as possible, please"; "Nothing too flashy"; or "Pear-shaped only"). Better yet, shop for a ring together.

You should both keep "the four Cs" in mind, which work to determine the quality and price of a diamond.

Cut: This refers to the lovely facets and angles a craftsperson creates as he or she transforms a rough stone into a glittering diamond.

Clarity: The amount of inclusions—naturally occurring internal blemishes— a diamond has determines its clarity grade. These disrupt the flow of light, potentially compromising your diamond's brilliance.

Color: The most beautiful and prized diamonds look colorless, or "white."

Carat Weight: Hefty carat weight translates to a diamond of considerable size. If a stone weighs less than one carat, your jeweler will assess its weight in terms of "points." For example, one carat is equivalent to 100 points, so a half-carat would weigh in at 50 points, and so on.

To score the best rock at the best value, we recommend taking the Gemological Institute of America's in-depth online tutorial at gia.edu, and researching any unfamiliar terms a jeweler might use at adiamondisforever.com, which has a great glossary.

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