The engagement ring of your dreams? Here's how to get it!

Photo (above, from left to right): Jeweller: Maudart – Photographer: Joline Loos / Jeweller: Scaldis – Photographer: Anne de Geyter Fotografie / Jeweller: Laura Juweelontwerpster

A gem to be proud of. Now and over the years, because after all, you wear it every day. With these 5 tips, you can give your dream prince a hand in picking out the engagement ring you want.

1. Show him a photo

For whom: For those who know exactly what they want and have no doubts.

How: Show your favourite rings on jewellers' websites, magazines or in catalogues. You can be more subtle by 'accidentally' leaving your computer screen open on your Pinterest board or Instagram feed with your favourite jewellers' posts.

Beware: don't scare him off. Showing him a picture of your favourite rings, only do it when an engagement can't be that much further away.

2. Buy a ring together

For whom: For the practical soul. You'd rather have a ring that suits you than a surprise.

How: Make a mood board with rings you love, then find a jeweller with a similar offer, make an appointment, visit the two of you and decide. There you go.

Caution: don't put too much pressure. If your loved one is rather traditional, go window-shopping and show him the ring you prefer on your finger. That way he won't feel the pressure to buy it with you, and he can go back to the jeweller on his own, buy the engagement ring and surprise and officially propose to you at another time.

3. Ask a close friend, your mum or sister to go with him

For whom: For the open book. You find it too difficult to choose a ring yourself but your best friend, mum or sister knows you inside out and you can trust their good taste completely.

How: Tell someone close to your heart what you like and what you don't. Share your Pinterest board and show masses of pictures of THE ring. If he tries to figure out which ring you like best, subtly refer him to your 'helpers'.

Careful: don't let him know (yet) that you are discussing rings with your best friend, he might feel left out.

4. Be surprised

For whom: The romantic soul. You want a typical man-on-a-knee proposal. Unexpected and romantic.

How: You know his taste, and you're convinced he knows perfectly well what you want. No hints, no visits to the jeweller, no helpers.

Caution: Be patient. So wait, until the day, and let yourself be surprised.

5. Design your ring together

For whom: For the daredevil, who wants a unique piece on her finger.

How: Make it clear to him well in advance that you want a handmade ring, even before he thinks about proposing. Do research on a designer you both like and go with that designer.

Caution: agree well in advance. When the ring is ready, decide together whether he will keep it until the official proposal and still surprise you, or whether you will put it on your finger immediately.