Expensive taste doesn't have to always engender expensive prices.

With more than 200 wholesalers, manufacturers and retailers selling wares at discounted prices, the Jewelry Mart is a souk for savvy gem- and jewel-lovers. Everything from gemstones to pearls, platinum to gold, and diamonds to designer watches are sold at a discount. It's located in Downtown's jewelry district, which stretches from 5th to 8th streets between Broadway and Olive streets, making it easy to compare prices at different dealers. Lovebirds can find excellent discounts on diamonds and engagement ring settings, but when trying on different styles, the diamonds are most often not mounted on the ring. Shopkeepers will pull out cubic zirconia rocks so the sparkle isn't completely left to your imagination.