Tiffany's grading system has been said to be as strict or even stricter than AGS.
And also, it's a myth that Tiffany is expensive. I've been shopping around and find that Tiffany's prices are comparable to those from local jewellers.
Say a 0.7c, F, VS1 from Tiffany is around $12000+
A 1c, F, VVS1 from Brillant Rose(Soo Kee) or Lee Hwa (Destinee) will cost ard $15000.
The local jewellers' diamond may have better specifications than Tiffany's but on the naked eye, Tiffany diamonds looked bigger and more sparkly.In addition, Tiffany's rings are set in platinum while the local jewellers' tend to use white gold.
My friend got a loose Lazaare diamond from Larry and requested for the Tiffany setting. I could tell straight away it wasn't the real deal. And when I asked, she said yeah it's Larry's. There are also some comments on forums that Lazaare diamonds tend to leak light.
And also, I really don't fancy the sales or trade-in promises offered by local jewellers. After all, it's a engagement/wedding ring. Do you really wanna buy it on 20% sale and then to find out that the following month, they're offering further sale at 30%? And who would trade in a ring unless they are getting a divorce?
Do shop around; you may just be surprised at the prices and quality of the high-end jewellers. They're really not as expensive as many believed them to be.
Check out
www.pricescope.com
They have a really comprehensive site, educating people on diamonds.