Sorry, everyone. I tried to edit my "Help for newcomer" post but I couldn't get it to work. This is a more expanded version of my question with some of my concerns. I hope once again that some of you can take the time to help me a bit:
I'd like to get an engagement ring within the next four weeks, as I plan to propose soon. The problem is, I have a pretty tight budget b/c I'm in grad school. And, although I predict many may try to dissuade me, I think there's something so romantic and sweet about splurging on the name behind the ring. I'd love to get a Tiff. & Co. or Cartier engagement ring, but some tell me these big stores try to cheat people on price (i.e., overcharge). Is this true? Also, I wonder: Whether at an upscale place like the above-mentioned or at a local jeweler, should the buyer try to negotiate or "haggle" over price, or are diamond rings usually purchased at retail value?
I've been reading a book on diamonds to try to help me determine quality, but at some of the fancier places it seems as though everything is pretty good (and thus pricy, I bet... e.g., at least VS2 and I color at Tiff's).
Anybody have any advice? I have $3500 saved that I can put into this ring.
I know that it's very possible to find much better diamonds for much lower prices online. But I don't feel comfortable enough with my knowledge to do that, despite my research. Furthermore, as much as I know my gf will love me no matter where I get her ring, and although she may not say so to my face, I do know that she'll be a bit disappointed if she knew her ring came from an internet purchase. She's very traditional and likes the idea of going to a nice jeweler and buying a ring the old fashioned way. I do too.
I honestly don't mind being overcharged a bit or settling for a smaller stone than I could get on the net. Unfortunately, I have a feeling that at a place like Tiffany's, Bulgari, or Cartier, my $3500 would at best get a 0.2 carat diamond on a 14K gold ring. Any thoughts? If everyone thinks the dealers I mention are out of the question and out of my price range, then can anyone suggest other reputable and even fairly well-known jewelry stores?
Thanks so much to everyone. I so appreciate any help anyone can give. God bless.
I'd like to get an engagement ring within the next four weeks, as I plan to propose soon. The problem is, I have a pretty tight budget b/c I'm in grad school. And, although I predict many may try to dissuade me, I think there's something so romantic and sweet about splurging on the name behind the ring. I'd love to get a Tiff. & Co. or Cartier engagement ring, but some tell me these big stores try to cheat people on price (i.e., overcharge). Is this true? Also, I wonder: Whether at an upscale place like the above-mentioned or at a local jeweler, should the buyer try to negotiate or "haggle" over price, or are diamond rings usually purchased at retail value?
I've been reading a book on diamonds to try to help me determine quality, but at some of the fancier places it seems as though everything is pretty good (and thus pricy, I bet... e.g., at least VS2 and I color at Tiff's).
Anybody have any advice? I have $3500 saved that I can put into this ring.
I know that it's very possible to find much better diamonds for much lower prices online. But I don't feel comfortable enough with my knowledge to do that, despite my research. Furthermore, as much as I know my gf will love me no matter where I get her ring, and although she may not say so to my face, I do know that she'll be a bit disappointed if she knew her ring came from an internet purchase. She's very traditional and likes the idea of going to a nice jeweler and buying a ring the old fashioned way. I do too.
I honestly don't mind being overcharged a bit or settling for a smaller stone than I could get on the net. Unfortunately, I have a feeling that at a place like Tiffany's, Bulgari, or Cartier, my $3500 would at best get a 0.2 carat diamond on a 14K gold ring. Any thoughts? If everyone thinks the dealers I mention are out of the question and out of my price range, then can anyone suggest other reputable and even fairly well-known jewelry stores?
Thanks so much to everyone. I so appreciate any help anyone can give. God bless.