I’m thinking about proposing to my girl, however we both think diamonds as a standard is stupid and overrated, we both prefer much more colorful and comparatively cheaper gemstones like rubies and sapphires, but I’m having trouble finding a good place for that, I’ve never done this before, any ideas?
Some cities have a jewelry district, and those are very worth going to. The one in downtown Los Angeles is drivable for me, and I've saved huge amounts going there. You can also usually get someone to make something custom for you there that doesn't cost a lot more. I've bought loose gems and had them set a few times and the cost was less than half of a mall jeweler for something much better quality.