You have probably heard the phrase "Diamonds are a girls best friend". Although a well worn cliche it is the naked truth.

So if you are thinking of skimping on buying a discount diamond engagement ring, or no ring at all, think again. Make sure when you go down on that one knee you are fully stocked with ring she will treasure for the rest of her life.

This doesn't mean that you have to mortgage the house to buy the most expensive diamond engagement ring in the store. I also wouldn't take much notice of the tradition of paying 2-3 months of your salary. This was written by the diamond industry themsleves which is hardly independent.

In fact, based on my experience, you have little chance finding a cheap diamond engagement ring or diamond wedding ring in a store. I wouldn't even go to the store for the following reasons.

1. Diamond Store Overheads

You have probably noticed those sparkling solitaire, emerald and princess cut rings in fancy store windows that look impressive under those special lights. The reality is those store are expensive to run, including rental, salaries and advertising cost. Their overheads alone can add 50% to the total cost.

2. State Sales Tax

Most states have sales taxes, so you could end up paying an additional 8%+ for your ring.

3. Diamond Warranties

Most people believe that to get a warranty they must buy from a store. There are several aftermarket warranty companies around.

So if you don't buy from a store where should you buy?

Buy from the internet, or buy on ebay PROVIDED the seller is reputable and has positive feedback. I bought my wife's diamond engagement ring on ebay. It is a solitaire, platinum mounted, F color, VS-2 and perfect cut, AGS-000 with certificate at 50% less than the store price. Plus I saved 8.5% Washington sales tax by having it shipped. We used the sales tax savings to fund our honeymoon!

The following pages contain a selection of discount diamond engagement rings from my recommended internet provider. I've also assembled an affordable variety of rings from ebay so you don't have to spent hours hunting around.