Frugal Engagement Rings

[u/skrillavilla]

I'm going to propose to my girlfriend. I'm thinking about something in the $1000-$1500 range.

How can I find an engagement ring at a good price and not get ripped off?

EDIT: I'm just going through all the responses now, and just wanted to say thank you so much for all the input I really appreciate it!!

[u/cuppington007]

I paid nothing. My mom gave me her ring after my dad died. (I never asked for it, she offered) Then I hiked through the aftermath of a literal blizzard in Chicago just to get the ring box from a jewelry store my mom used to frequent. Getting that box was more work for me than getting the ring.