Hmmm... I have to agree about the cork. I don't think this particular pair is worth the money and I bet you could find something very similar for a lot less money. Have you checked zappos or shoes.com yet? Their search engines are pretty good for stuff like this!
The curved heel is ineresting and probably unique to this shoe, but you could find others similar for less. Wedges are everywhere this season and you can find any style cheaper; I had to tell myself that when I almost ordered a too expensive pair.
I think it was Dot who said something along these lines in regard to a pair of espadrilles, don't spend that much on a natural fiber that can't easily be repaired (and will likely be trashed by the end of the summer). cheers -F