Must A Man Have An Engagement Ring Before He Proposes?

Not necessarily. My husband did, but that's because it's a tradition here, and it was nice that he took the time and effort to do a lot of research before deciding on this as a token of our engagement. Some might not need an engagement ring, since they have discussed it earlier and decided that it is not necessary, or they would like to save and spend more on wedding rings for both instead. some girls don't like jewellery, so they might prefer something else instead of an engagement ring. but my guess is that most girls would love to be proposed to with a diamond ring. It's just the significance that has been linked to it.

Well, like what squaretile said, it is a tradition here. What I don't understand is the significance behind the engagement ring. Engagement rings are most of the time diamond rings... are there any ladies out there who got an engagement ring of a different stone? Say, a ruby or a sapphire? Does the size of the ring matter when the man proposes to you?

Not necessarily, I think that depends on the woman. Some girls prefer to be proposed to with a ring.. I do, personally. I like the idea of being surprised with it, of knowing that he chose it thinking of me.. a way to show how much knows your likes and dislikes by choosing a ring you love. While others, prefer to be proposed without and go ring shopping together. Which isn't a bad idea, but seems too impersonal for me. It also might be a little awkward the girl chooses an expensive ring and the man doesn't have enough money for it. So I would much rather prefer a ring, but it's not really a necessity.