Flowers die. Cards disintegrate. Chocolates disappear. Even love waxes and wanes. But diamonds, as they say, are forever. Plenty of other jewelry is too. The plus is that you're giving the object of your affection a lifelong reminder of your love. The minus is that it puts a lot of pressure on you to make the perfect choice. I'm here to help. Hey, I'm your target audience. I want you to succeed. So I'll keep it simple:

Consider Her Style — and Lifestyle
Notice what she wears the most, both clothing and accessories. Is she classic and conservative? Artsy and modern? Vintage? Romantic? Do you even know what these words mean? Does she have a favorite color? Does she work in a lab wearing gloves all day? When in doubt, go with simple and versatile.

Peek Inside Her Jewelry Box
I'll never forget the time a well-meaning man bought me a gorgeous gold necklace with precious beads. Only I don't wear gold. I haven't since junior high. I thanked him for the gift. Then I sat him down and broke the news. He lived. Of course, a brief peek in my jewelry box might have saved him a trip to the store. And an emotional scar. So among other things, check out the metal she prefers.

Ask the Ladies in Her Life
Inquire with a close friend. Ask her sister or mother. Girls know what girls like. With time, you will too. Just don't get too comfortable. We're fickle creatures at times.

Buy from a Solid Source
Make sure a store takes returns and exchanges. In fact, get it in writing. This is one instance where a large department store or a jewelry retailer is a better bet than an online auction site. Unless, that is, you're willing to auction an item off all over again if it doesn't work out.

Let Her Pick It Out
You're out shopping together. You see a jewelry store. Your mom/sister/aunt has a birthday coming up. See where I'm going with this? Recruit your darling's assistance, but watch what she gravitates toward on her own. Ask her what she likes. Even better, skip the store and give her an IOU instead of actual jewelry. As in, "IOU one piece of fine jewelry from said store." Just make sure you include a maximum value.

Plan a Special Delivery
I don't recommend hiding a ring in her dinner roll. But giving a gift in a romantic or a creative way adds a precious memory to the mix. And since we really do remember every word you say, why not attach something positive to your permanent record?

Check Your Ego at the Door
Know going into the gift giving that she may not love the jewelry, but that doesn't mean she doesn't love you. So stay humble. Give her a gift receipt. Say you're happy if she's happy and after all, you want her to have something she'll really wear.

Remember This: She's out there shopping for you too. And while you may think you're an open book with black-and-white instructions, sometimes they get lost in translation. Any tips you'd like to share with the ladies? Be my guest.