TOP 10 ENGAGEMENT TIPS FOR GUYS If you want to be 100 percent sure she'll love the ring you buy, let her pick it out herself. More and more couples are doing it this way. If surprising her is really important to you, no problem. Start by reading these suggestions or stop by Adolf Jewelers. We'll answer all of your questions with no pressure to buy. Promise.

1. Observe - Start noting the kind of jewelry she wears. What metal color does she wear? How about the style? Pay attention when she admires someone else's ring.

2. Hint, Hint - Has she ever pointed out a certain ring when you're shopping together? If not, mention you're looking for a new watch and bring her to a reputable, family-owned jewelry store. Bet she'll pause by the engagement rings!

3. Kiss Her Hand - Keep your eyes opened! Women with long fingers can easily wear bold ring styles. Extremely delicate settings tend to get lost on large hands, over-emphasizing their size and making the ring look smaller.

4. Shape & Setting - Round is the #1 diamond shape chosen by most brides, but maybe not your bride. She might prefer an elongated marquise, an oval- or pear-shaped stone, or a square- or emerald-cut diamond. Find out more about shapes and settings.

5. Lifestyle - How will the ring fit her lifestyle? Does she have a job where fussy jewelry would look out of place? Does she work a lot with her hands? Is she an outdoorsy type, or does she prefer a night out on the town. Lifestyle matters. A lot.

6. Size - If she wears a ring on her engagement finger, you're in luck. Just "borrow" the ring, slip it on your finger, and make a mark on your finger where her ring stops.

7. 50/50 - If you know which shape she loves, buy a loose diamond to present to her when you ask the big question. Then, the two of you can shop together for the perfect engagement ring setting.

8. In-Town vs. Online - Experts agree it's better to shop at a family-owned, local jeweler and try to avoid the national chains, online-only jewelers and auction websites. Find out why here.

9. Plan Ahead - If you want to propose on a certain date, make sure you give yourself plenty of time to shop. Depending on what you order, it could take a couple of weeks to set the stone or have the ring engraved.

10. Report Card - Don't buy a diamond without first seeing an independent diamond-grading report. The report should include the four Cs of color, cut, clarity and carat, as well as the diamond's shape and size. Be sure to get the ring insured!