"Two month Salary Last Forever", was coined by DeBeers along time ago and has been the norm ever since.  Though as a good guideline I feel it doesn't stand true anymore.  That’s because a long time ago the average 1ct diamond cost less than $2500, though a one carat today can easily exceed $6000.  We still need to survive! So what is your take on the old adage, and what advice can you provide for a first time diamond buyer?

- Troy Lob, Graduate Gemologist (GIA), Vice President, Liberty Diamonds