Know the 4Cs. Men should always consider the color, clarity, cut and carat weight of a diamond. Color and clarity, less commonly understood, are critical to the quality of the stone. Choose a diamond valued higher on both the color and clarity grading scales to limit the presence of color and unwanted inclusions. Carat and cut, on the other hand, are personal preferences. Keep the bride's personality in mind to select a size and a shape that will complement her style.

Get certified. To guarantee the diamond's authenticity and quality, be sure to purchase a diamond that is certified from the Gemological Institute of America. The diamond's certificate outlines all the individual characteristics of the stone, including the 4Cs, serving as proof of the diamond's identity and value.

Be unique. For many women, an engagement ring is their most treasured piece of jewelry, so it's important that it is special and unique. A rose gold band or colored side stones, for example, can accent a traditional ring with a touch of color. To personalize the piece further, consider custom designing a one-of-a-kind ring tailored to the bride's individual style.

A final piece of advice: Remember what the ring signifies. "With so much to bear in mind, it can be easy to lose the romance of selecting an engagement ring," said Drake. "Although it is valuable to know the basics of a diamond, what's most important is for men to remember the reason they're buying it."

For more information on Craiger Drake Designs' jewelry collection, including engagement rings, please visit www.craigerdrake.com.