Diamond Engagement Ring with Inclusions: Should You Request a Replacement?

Question
My fiance has just purchased me a beautiful diamond engagement ring that I love. The center stone on the ring has a giant inclusion though, and the ring was nearly $4000.  The center stone is only .48 carats, with the surrounding stones making the total weight 1 carat set in 14K gold.  I want to take it to the jeweller to ask if he will replace the stone (the flaws in the diamond are very very noticable to the naked eye and do detract from the ring) but I was wondering if you could tell me whether we should be paying extra for the diamond to be replaced or if he was charging more than the diamond is worth?

Thank you so much for your time!

Answer
Hi Coraley,

Congradulations on your engagement. First off you should have taken it back immediately and complained. Without actually seeing the ring and stone I can't tell you if it is worth the $4000 your fiance paid for it. But if the stone is that horrible you won't be happy with the ring. Your best bet is to talk to that jeweler and try to get him to replace that stone with something that is not as noticeable. Don't forget you'll get more flies with honey than with vinegar. Be nice and don't accuse him of cheating you. He wants to stay in business and an unhappy cutomer is bad for business. Talk to the owner if you can or at least the manager only. Good Luck

Peter