3 pages in and nobody has brought this up????? This place is slipping.
I will just throw in my two cents-
The size of the rock is just a piece of the puzzle. Having a huge rock that looks like shit because it's low quality you might as well give her one from a vending machine.
Color and clarity are just as important (in my opinion), the higher up the scales the more it's going to cost.
For your salary I don't think $10K is crazy but also think a 2 carat ring for that price means it's not a great looking diamond. If size is what you are after have at it but I think you are missing the boat.
Also one cut will "look bigger" than another cut even though they are the same number of carats.
Stay away from the mall jewelers or big chains. If possible go to a local jeweler that has been around for a long time and take your time in choosing, get educated before making a decision. They will give you the ins and outs of what part of the scale is important and what can't be seen by the naked eye, etc.
In my opinion upgrading later is silly. I have been married for 15 years and I could afford to upgrade now but my wife would look at me like I was crazy if I even mentioned it. To her it has sentimental value. You can always buy her other jewelry.
Good luck and congrats.