I know it's really common for women to pick out their own engagement rings, but I'm one of the few left that wouldn't have wanted it that way. I like surprises, and having no clue that my guy was going to propose made it that much more special and memorable for me. It's something I'll remember for the rest of my life... but if I had known about it ahead of time I just can't see that it would have been all that memorable. Plus I think it means more when the guy takes the time to pick out the ring. Of course I guess that doesn't work for women who just HAVE to have a specific type of diamond...
And seriously, a 1/2 carat gets in my way at work enough as it is because I work with my hands a lot. If I had anything bigger, I'd never be able to wear it, cuz I'm like ALWAYS at work.
