[BigCat]

I had a family friend in the jewelry business, so I can't help you much about the site. I will tell you that you need to pay attention to the color and clarity of the diamond. Color is judged on a scale of A-Z with D being colorless and considered the best. It is obviously more expensive than a G color with the same clarity at any given size. Color is what makes it sparkle when the light hits it. Clarity refers to inclusions in the stone itself. Depending on where they are located, they can cause the diamond to look cloudy. At today's prices, I do not think you will get a quality 2 karat diamond for 12,000. I'm skeptical you can get a 1.5 karat. If you can, it is going to be lower color and clarity. Low color and low grade clarity mean you have a big cloudy ring that doesn't sparkle. I went with a 1 karat with excellent color and good clarity and am really pleased with how it came out. But I did it about 7 years ago, when diamond prices were much lower. Good luck and congratulations on your impending engagement.