smooth

without seeing that other band you're referring to, it's hard to comment. but a larger diamond will cost more than two or more diamonds of an equal or greater total weight.

so if the other ring had two or twenty diamonds that equaled 1/3 carats, that will have more value and appreciation (both economically and aesthetically) than 40 diamonds totalling .44 carats. you're also comparing clarity and*

if it's a matter of whether we like it, yes, it's a pretty ring. and if you love it, and it speaks to you, then my opinion should have little relevance. but if it's a question of value, I don't think you're getting a "deal."

I think you could print that out and go to a number of reputable local stores and see what they can do for you. and if you have to pay a couple hundred extra to make sure it sparkles the way you want, then that would be worth it.

I don't think there is anything inherently wrong with paying $1500+ for an engagement ring. but you might want to look at how it will line up with your marriage band before plunking down that amount.

EDIT: *this got cut out, comparing clarity, color, and size, but you need to also consider cut. and cut, since the stone is already set, can't really be assessed without looking at the ring. It will have noticeable effect on the brilliance and sparkle (wow factor) of the ring.

__________________
"The theory of a free press is that truth will emerge from free discussion, not that it will be presented perfectly and instantly in any one account." -- Walter Lippmann

"You measure democracy by the freedom it gives its dissidents, not the freedom it gives its assimilated conformists." -- Abbie Hoffman