I believe you should spend every cent you can spare on engagement ring. I was broke and jobless, but still managed to pull together 1500 for the ring.. And got it on killer sale. I pawned a bunch of shit and took a payment plan on it.. After struggling with it for a bit, I finally once again joined the ranks of the employed and paid it off.. I know 1500 isn't much, but at 20 years old with no job AND in college, I think I did damned well. The jeweler wanted 3k for it (sticker price) but that is just a starting point, they expect you to talk them down. Its only 3/4 total ct.. but the marquis is 1/2 carat.. and flawless/colorless. Got it from Friedman's.