Sorry for your loss, I think the nr 1 rule is to google the hell out of any site that you pay in BTC before you actually send the funds. Theres some of them out there that seem every bit legit, but turn out to be a scam.
Im fairly new to this Bitcoin mining too and the idea of sending BTC to an unknown entity without any path of redress is a bit disconcerting to say the least. A bit of prior investigation as to the legitimacy of any seller, I think, is absolutely required. I have total faith in the BTC concept though and hope that it continues to grow for years to come.

I feel your pain mate.

Hello.

A couple of months ago I bought 2 x Blades and 90 USBs total cost of about AUS$1k. About 1 month ago I picked up 3 of the Blue furies for about AUS$100 each.  I wouldn't even contemplate buying anything that is in hand at the current prices, and id be even less inclined to pay $ now for something that will arrive in possibly 3 months. The BFL story has scared me away from that idea. So just have to mine with what ive got, and see how long it lasts I guess.

Don't know too many of these other "E-Currencies" that can be utilised in as many places or ways as Bitcoins at the moment. Although it would be good if one of the other mineable coins that hasn't already been overrun with big mining outfits comes up to the plate.