We've been married three years and are still searching for the engagement ring. I'm sure changing my mind so often has been no help. However, the main barrier is that we have different approaches. I definitely prefer to build a ring. It's the better way to get the best quality for the most value and least money. I'm defining high quality in terms of cut first, then color, then clarity (totally mind and eye clean). My husband, the more impulsive and laissez-faire of the two of us, wants to stumble on the ring during one of our travels. He doesn’t know about the 4Cs and truthfully has little to no interest in learning. When we first started looking it became clear he wasn't even aware how much a diamond could cost, even a small one.
Recently we came to this compromise: we will try it his way when we go to Burlington for New Year's. We'll visit shops and see if we can't find "the one". This is very romantic on his part and would be a wonderful memory. If we don't find something, we'll do it my way.
However....the practical side of me is trying not to freak out about not knowing enough to make an informed decision. What questions should I be asking to get the best bang for our buck? I definitely would prefer a GIA but if we find something we love and it's not certified, what do I do? What sort of refund policy would be the best help to us? Do I bring a loupe or idealscope with us (I don't have either)? Is it rude or obsessive seeming to use one in the store? What if it turns out to be a fancy shape (I'm partial to an E/W oval or marquise) or an old cut? I'm also concerned the sales person won't be as knowledgeable as so many of the PSers here.
I really want to give his way a sincere go so I'm keeping an open mind and heart. Pricescopers, I really need your help and advice.
Recently we came to this compromise: we will try it his way when we go to Burlington for New Year's. We'll visit shops and see if we can't find "the one". This is very romantic on his part and would be a wonderful memory. If we don't find something, we'll do it my way.
However....the practical side of me is trying not to freak out about not knowing enough to make an informed decision. What questions should I be asking to get the best bang for our buck? I definitely would prefer a GIA but if we find something we love and it's not certified, what do I do? What sort of refund policy would be the best help to us? Do I bring a loupe or idealscope with us (I don't have either)? Is it rude or obsessive seeming to use one in the store? What if it turns out to be a fancy shape (I'm partial to an E/W oval or marquise) or an old cut? I'm also concerned the sales person won't be as knowledgeable as so many of the PSers here.
I really want to give his way a sincere go so I'm keeping an open mind and heart. Pricescopers, I really need your help and advice.
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