+1 on Utopian's input - all of it.
I know you're feeling like poop about now. 'Very sorry.
There are good bladesmiths out there. It'll be okay. To continue, my perfect hindsight would be to buy from classifieds or preferably from some of the private guys/vendors. 'Sounds like sales pump, but it's actually the cheapest way to have a shot at quality that will satisfy. I have no dog in the fight - no financial interest at all. There are blades on the boards that are wonderful and super cheap - $30-60. Also, there's a link to a map of forum members in your area. I just finished a pm to a member in my area (Pacific North Wet), volunteering the use of my gear at my place. Tutoring for the less experienced, chance to try gear without going broke, learning what you like best before pulling out your wallet.
After a while, you'll take that lovely blade in hand and know you know how to treat it right.