Engagement Rings (merged)

Hi there, :rudolf:

Just need some good advice please, I have done a search and read all the previous posts about engagement rings, but I am still very unsure to choose!?

I got engaged 2 weeks ago...got a 'gesture' ring, as my partner just doesnt have the same taste as me, so now I just need to pick out my perfect ring...which has me more worried than excited!

I dont know much about diamonds, so I am a bit sceptical... that and besides the fact that i am very indecisive!!
I have a budget of around £1900... I have had a look around but as I am not from this country and havnt been here very long, I am not sure which are respectable high street jewellers?

I now know (after having a bit of a look around) that I want a single solitaire diamond, set in 18ct gold with a simple band that narrows slightly before the stone setting. but how do i know about the diamond? I have read about the 4 c's...
So would i just go for the ring priced closest to my budget amount to get the best diamond???

I have seen a ring at "H Samuel's" in their 'Forever Diamond' range that I quite like, but then i read the ff posting:

"Do not go to H Samuel
________________________________________
Once had a ring bought from here was descibed as 18ct gold with 25points diamond; I had it appraised for insurance elsewhere and was shocked to find it was only 9ct gold and was illusion setting with virtually no diamond content. They are part of the ratner group (plastic jewels as admitted by owner in the early 90s). Need I say when I took ring back they were very quick to offer refund. "

Is this true? I mean the ring and diamond comes with an independent certificate, how do i know that I am getting my money's worth?
Also, would it be good asking for a discount on this amount that I am going to be spending? if so, what percentage discount can i expect, if any?

also, from all the ladies out there... I want to have my diamond standing out set in claws, is that really a nuicance to wear and also will it be worrying me if it stands up? ( i dont normally wear rings!!)

I really appreciate any help, worth gold and diamonds to me!!

Thanks a lot!!!