This is what annoys me. The geek and idealist in me doesn't want to give her a diamond because it's not that valuable.
Yet, I don't want to be cheap. I don't want her to feel like I don't value her enough.
Why not get something expensive, yet valuable then?
If you have any gold, I'll take it off your hands.
Now, moissanite or CZ for fun jewellery, watches, earrings etc DOES seem like a perfect time to use those diamond-like stones!
Seriously though, a plain band is way less annoying to wear.