Lawrence Raigrodski wrote:

I recently purchased an engagement ring. Do I have to wait till after the Omer to give it to my fiancee?

Dear Lawrence,

First of all...Mazal Tov!

As you know, the Omer period between Pesach and Shavuot is traditionally one of mourning during which we refrain from performing weddings and getting haircuts. This commemorates Rabbi Akiva's 24,000 disciples who all died during this short period. The horrible massacres of 1096 in Germany gave yet another dimension of mourning to this period, as they too occurred between Pesach and Shavuot.

As to your question, we find no source that prohibits giving a gift during this period. So give her the ring and start planning for the wedding!

Sources:

• Shulchan Oruch, Orach Chaim 493:1,2.