I agree it is easier to negotiate in person, but local dealer won't budge so am having to call places out of town.
I agree that stores with certain brands are supposed to sell at the manufacturer's retail price with no discounts, and some will absolutely not budge and tell you you're wrong if you say another store will. However, I have repeatedly had the experience with brand-name jewelry that if you look long and hard enough, there are authorized dealers who will offer a discount. The reality is that the mark-up on jewelry is very, very high so even at a discount they are making a significant profit. I have found that in these cases, they will typically only tell you in person or via phone and not by e-mail. My guess is they don't want it in writing.