There is a scene in an episode of "Sex in the City" where Sarah Jessica Parker's character tells her friends about a marriage proposal she received. She admits to her friends that she turned down the man because the ring he bought her wasn't fashionable - "pear-shaped with a gold band."

Buying or receiving a ring that is intended to be worn for the rest of her life, can be a stressful event. Many couples today buy the ring together and have a ringless proposal. This insures that she gets a ring she'll enjoy and also helps in deciding what to spend on the ring. Some brides would rather save money for a house or vacation rather than a huge diamond.

If you are old-fashioned and want to surprise her with a ring but worry about whether she will like it or not, be sure that the jeweler you buy it from has a return policy or exchange policy.

And ladies, if you don't like the ring he bought you, be understanding that men aren't jewelry experts. And unless you really don't want to marry him, don't let a bad ring be the deal breaker like the character in "Sex in the City." Simply let him know (preferably a little after the proposal) that you like a certain kind of ring and wonder if there might be a way of exchanging it. He won't mind, especially after the stress of proposing is relieved by your acceptance.