Opinions on pricing needed.....

[Sr4482]

First off, I am in the market for an engagement ring. I currently can''t spend more than 3k (I know it''s not much....but all I can do ATM). I am looking to purchase a ring around that price and later do some major upgrading when I am able.

She is looking for something like: http://bridal.reeds.com/Diamond-Engagement-Ring-1-1-2ctw-plu18998047.html.

She apparantly likes that quad look and if I get something like this, then in the future I''ll possibly get an amazing stone put in the center.

I know it''s not even close to great clairty or color. I went into the store after noticing a white gold one listed on sale as 2200ish. She ordered the yellow gold version (since my gf is alergic to white) and they quoted 2677.50 (pre tax). After informing her of the white gold one on sale for 2200, she said it was a different sku # and thus why it was diff prices. I was under the assumption that it would be the same price when ordered. The base price (3200) was the same however. She then dropped it down to 2520 and said that''s what she could do.

Any suggestions? Would they go lower than 2520? I know it''s not the most popular thing to buy from these chains, but it''s convenient and easy and has other benefits.

 

[jet2ks]

You would have to check, but most likely that setting would not be able to be reused. Mounting one large stone instead of four invisible set diamonds is a totally different proposition. The setting technique and depth required would not be the same

My suggestion would be to purchase a ring from a vendor with a generous upgrade policy and then you would get full credit for your original purchase when you are able to trade up. You will get a LOT more bang for your buck from a good online retailer than a chain store like this, as well.

Your budget is more than enough for a great diamond and ring. For instance, here is one option that allows quite a bit for a nice setting

http://www.goodoldgold.com/diamond/6955/

or

this setting: http://www.whiteflash.com/Engagement-Rings/Styles/Diamond-Settings/Rounded-Open-Cathedral-Engagement-Ring_1352.htm

with one of these diamonds: http://www.whiteflash.com/aca_princess/Whiteflash-ACA-Princess-cut-diamond-2231277.htm#

http://www.whiteflash.com/aca_princess/Whiteflash-ACA-Princess-cut-diamond-2226894.htm#

Both of these vendors have excellent upgrade policies. I don't know what benefits a chain store would offer that is more beneficial than a better diamond.

 

[jrob529]

I completely agree with the previous poster''s advice. I went with whiteflash a few years back with my engagement ring and am now upgrading the diamond. I couldn''t recommend them more. They have great quality and service. Plus, if you don''t live in Texas, you won''t pay sales tax and as a pricescope member, they give you a discount if you let them know. Good luck.