Engagement Ring Question - newbie - please help :)

Date: 8/3/2009 12:17:27 PM
Author:cboyd1976
Hello,

Well, for starters I literally know nothing about jewelry. That being said, I'm beginning to start my shopping process for an engagement ring. At this point in time I have a particular setting that I totally have my heart set on.

http://www.michaelcfina.com/ic/mcfina/sections/wedding_engagement_rings/wedding_engagement/mark_patterson_designer_bridal/:product/code/PL0689PROM0010.html?block=1

For starters, there aren't any jewelry stores in Dallas (where I live) that carry Mark Patterson rings. I was wondering if I should explore the option of locating a custom jeweler who can create / copy this design? Is this something commonly done? (I don't even know if this is even ethical to be honest). Are there savings to be had taking this route (i.e. paying for the name vs. having it custom made at a cheaper cost?)

Any insight, comments, etc would be greatly appreciated. My apologies if this is a shady question as I have no idea if having jewelers 'copy' designs is something taboo or not in the jewelry world. Thanks in advance for your comments.

Secondly, what is the proper approach to take - do I buy the ring first then buy a loose diamond to match - or do I buy the loose diamond first then buy the ring? Can I even do this or do I have to buy it all in one stop?

-Charlie