so, i've been seeing this girl since the summer. i really, really like her and want to get her something nice. i know she really wants a diamond solitaire necklace, and i want to get her one.

i've bought jewellery for girlfriends before, but i've always just gone the tiffany route. this time i think tiffany is probably too much too fast and will make her uncomfortable. it's not the cost as much as it is expectations that come with the little blue box.

so, i'm relatively unknowledgable about diamonds. i know not all jewellers are reputable. i don't want to get ripped off. how do i select a decent jeweller (i'm in vancouver canada if anyone has any recommendations) and what do i need to know before i buy? how much should i be spending for something she won't be embarassed to wear in 10 years?