Shocked and disappointed

<p>A year ago, my partner and I purchased 2 B. ZERO1 Ref AN ********** 4-band 18 kt yellow gold ring from Bulgari for our wedding. They were expensive, but we wanted rings we could exchange that would last a lifetime. <br />However, less than a year later, 9 months to be precise, my ring is broken as the bands have unraveled. I did not do anything to cause the damage, I saw it was broken on my finger when a friend asked to see my ring. I was extremely upset, of course, and took it back to the Bulgari store in Washington D.C., USA where we had purchased the rings. I was told I would have to pay between $200 to $500 to have the ring repaired. I left the ring with Bulgari for them to send to their workshop, expecting it to be repaired Approximately 7 weeks later, I received a voicemail saying that because of the “design” it can’t be fixed. However, for approximately $800 US, I can get a replacement. This is very disappointing, we expected that the rings would last a long time, especially given the price. We also thought that Bulgari was a reputable company that stands behind their brand. Clearly, this is not the case. (In contrast, the few times that I have had a watch cleaned, etc. at Cartier, their customer service was very good. Many friends who bought rings, etc., from other stores have had excellent after sales service.)</p> <p>My ring remains at the store. I am not sure what to do next. The staff acts as though there is no reason for me to be upset. The attitude is just pay and you will get a “replacement.” I am even wondering how long before the new ring or my partner's ring unravels and what then? Is the replacement I am asked to pay for a new ring or one that the company somehow as able to repair. We are extremely disappointed in the Bulgari's after sales service.</p>