Just an update folks.
Went in bright and early last Saturday with the best friend.
Started in the Happy Ring House. Some nice rings but I have to say the level of service was terrible. The woman we spoke to seemed like she couldnt be bothered. Near the end of our conversation I brought up the subject of a discount and she looked at me like I had 2 heads!
We said we'd like to have a look around and that we'd call back later and we barely got a goodbye from her.
Anyway, from there onto Appleby's and I have to say the difference was amazing. They couldnt do enough for us and the lady we seen (Mary O'Meara) was fantastic. Really explained the ins and outs of it all and seemed genuinely interested in helping us choose the right ring from for my girlfriend (rather than the most expensive one!).
In the end we picked a fantastic brilliant cut platinum solataire, FVS1, .7 carat. Listed price was E5250 but she dropped the price to E4700 once I told her I worked for a bank and that my parents bought their ring there 30 odd years ago (not 100% on that one... I know it was some jewellers off Grafton St though!).
She also said that we could exchange the ring if by chance my girlfriend doesnt like it and even get a refund if she can't one she'd prefer there.
I have to say that I'm very happy with our choice though and I think it's perfect. Whether my gfriend thinks the same is another matter!
Thanks to everyone for their help and I would highly recommend Appleby's for anyone also on the look out!
Now all I have to do is plan how I'm going to pop the question!!
Dunner