Cheap ass.

I know someone who got a cubic zirconia ring and passed it off as a diamond to his GF, who happened to be my best friend/sorta little sister. You can imagine her reaction when she found out the truth. She went from to to

 

Put it in as a solitare, then if she wants another setting, bring it and have it reset. They will use the metal from the solitaire to build your new setting...also just get platinum...

 

just go for the classic brilliant round in white gold.
the white gold is cheaper than platinum and the scratches buff out easier.
as for getting the round brilliant, it'll be easier to comparision shop.

 

I like white gold and platinum more than yellow gold, and so do most of the women I know.

 

I like silver...and platinum is the best you can buy..Don't buy silver jewelry stores won't touch it when she wants to have it cleaned. Trust me on this i have had that problem!

If you don't want to do it at christmas, you could always take her to dinner. I am a pastry chef and most of our customers that purpose at our restaurant we incorporate it into the dessert...most all restaurants will be willing to do anything for you. And there is always making dinner for her.

Good luck and have fun with it.

 

Man the whole ring proposing deal is rough. I think I'm going to stick with good old Mr. Cracker Jack rings and a nice looseleaf note with the question written in salsa or chocolate, whatevers closest to the remote.

But seriously, almost everyone I know prefers white gold/platinum to yellow gold. As for the setting, you can get a traditional setting or whatever she may like, as others have mentioned, then put that thing on her. Later, you can go back to the store and have her choose something she likes better.