<prompt> Human: Hey everyone, I know that the old idea that an engagement ring should be x months of your salary is basically false, but Im wondering how much people normally spend? I think all I know is that Id like to have enough saved to purchase a 1 ct. diamond and hopefully a platinum band. From the minimal research Ive done it seems like BlueNile has them for between 3,500 and 4,000. This is really all I know.What about things like cut and clarity? Do these things really matter? I am certainly going to consult with my girlfriend before actually purchasing one, but I do want to know the appropriate amount to have saved up beforehand. Thanks in advance.  <response>: The secret to buying a good engagement ring is buying something that she will like. That may sound like an oversimplification, but there are so many things to understand about diamonds that just saying The 4 Cs is very misleading.Buy what looks good. If she wants something that looks big, buy a diamond that looks big in whatever setting you choose! The price...is what youre willing to pay. You can buy a low clarity diamond that has a beautiful color to it and pay...much much less than the guy who boasts about spending 4k for his.Please, read through this site: Truth About DiamondsPlease dont be afraid to go into a jewelry store and speak with the owner. Tell him you saw a lovely 1ct at store XYZ but you werent happy with the cut or the price. See if they can make you a deal. Again, its all in what youre willing to pay. 