I'm in college and looking for an engagement ring. I was hoping to find someone who would help me. The salesperson I spoke with was very pushy and not the least bit helpful. I went back 2 or 3 times for the benefit of my girlfriend, but each time was pressured by the sales staff. They would not show me a setting less than $1k. When I mentioned buying a certified diamond over the internet, they resorted to scare tactics.
The upside is that they do have nice settings from top designers and they will show you a spreadsheet of diamonds to choose from with little price markup. I imagine if convenience is more important to you than price, it's not a bad place to go.
Ultimately I found a jeweler in Michigan who had the setting I was interested in and would deal squarely with me.
Pros: Selection, Designers, Diamond Pricing
Cons: Pushy Salespeople, Expensive settings
more