I sit down with Chris Croteau from Rare and Forever Diamonds to talk about diamond grading reports generated by artificial intelligence (AI). Are they more accurate? Is this the wave of the future? Should I have sipped on more tequila beforehand?

Sometimes guys kill the mood without even knowing it.  It's as true when you're in the wild, as it is when you're looking for engagement rings.   I'll tell you what kills her excitement buzz, and what to do about it, so you can be the bad *ss hero she's come to love.

When you’re looking for a diamond engagement ring or other important jewelry there are so many words and descriptions and certifications that are meant to replace what really matters when you buy an engagement ring: I’m talking about seeing it, live and in person.

I was inspired to talk about this yet again when I stumbled on a reference to the power of words while reading, "The Instant Millionaire."  It reminded me of how words are used by all sorts of people and (mostly) online marketers to seduce you into buying their wares without actually seeing what you're getting.  Many times it won't turn out how you hope.  (And that really sucks.)

"It is unwise to pay too much. But it is worse to pay too little." ~John Ruskin

So how much should you spend on engagement ring?  I have some stats for you, and a couple of other pointers to help you decide what's best for your situation.  

This is a spinoff from the YouTube conversation I had with some guys who are currently on the engagement ring hunt, and some of their friends who already bought their rings.  Budget came up briefly, and I thought I would spend a little time talking about it. 

Here's a link to the video with the fella's: https://youtu.be/MkmlFnTmtkY

I'm super psyched to talk with the former Director of the American School of Diamond Cutting, "The Diamond Wizard," Maarten de Witte about whether or not diamonds are a "bad" investment.

It's a behind-the-scenes listen between two guys in the diamond business, talking about diamonds in general, and the investment aspect so many people tend to bring up.  Maarten isn't shy, and teaches in his direct, heart felt style.   He's a legend in this business, and was part of the Hearts On Fire Diamond team that shook the diamond world when they dared to offer "The World's Most Perfectly Cut Diamond" to every day guys like you and me.

In Part I we talk about what we think about diamonds as an investment, if they go up in value, and if that even matters.  He'll touch on De Beers, and why he feels diamonds are superior to all other gemstones.

You'll hear this again and again: find a "pro" in your backyard and put them to work!  (They live for it.)

PLUS: The NEW Buy Like a Guy Instagram page is up and not for the faint of heart.  Alluring pics with diamond facts and a bit of inspiration are mixed in.  It's an exciting way to get information about the most important ring you'll ever buy. 

You  can also see my ugly mug on Youtube if you want to see this impromptu episode.