I did a few hours of Internet research on the 4 Cs, wholesale prices, what to look for, etc. I think the biggest thing is to shop separately for the stone and

I did a few hours of Internet research on the 4 Cs, wholesale prices, what to look for, etc. I think the biggest thing is to shop separately for the stone and the setting. I found a stone I really liked in a ring I didn't care for at all, but then found a ring with a sapphire set in it that I had the jeweler swap out for my diamond. Overall, I still like buying big ticket items in person, and making sure I knew where to go (tip: Stay away from the mall and any place you see on TV) made a huge difference.