While you are right on most of your advice, I disagree on the CZ. I have a diamonique epiphany band, platinum over silver and I am a dog groomer. My hands are in harsh chemicals for a portion of each day and my ring, after a year or so is still brilliant and sparkling. I've told my boyfriend if we ever get married, spend the money on the metal, not the stone. Metal can be hocked. Most places wont give you much for the stone. Am I a cynic about marriage? Yepper!
NOT cynical here, about marriage. But don't live together first. It is really so different and it is a very rocky and uncommitted way to start. Even with a ring and a date. The vows change everything. Congrats! Marriage can be wonderful.