Does the higher price lens always reflect better quality regardless of it being 3rd party or not?

When looking at various lenses you will see the camera manufacturer lenses made by the camera manufacturer. Then you will see other 3rd party lenses (Tamron, Sigma, etc). Does it pay to get the manufacture lens over the 3rd party lens?

I ask because I have seen some lenses price vary drastically between two lenses.

Here is an example, this Nikkor Lens is priced at $586 (USD) while this Sigma Lens with the same specifications is priced at $169. That is a $417 dollar price difference! With the lower price I would assume lower quality?

Note: I do understand that this can and does vary depending on the manufacturer, model of lens, etc. The answer I am looking for is 1) What is the general rule of thumb? (if there is one) And 2) What do other photographers generally buy?

Edit - I have looked at this question and this one and those two do not answer my question.

Edit 2 - After reading this question and answers I guess my question comes down to this: Does the higher price lens always reflect better quality regardless of it being 3rd party or not?

Answer

When comparing lenses, it is important to look at all the qualities and features. In this case, those really are not comparable lenses. The Sigma is their base line, whereas the Nikon is a stabilized, internally focusing, high quality glass lens. The Sigma would compare better to this lens from Nikon, also compatible in price.

When comparing lenses, its important to examine the lens 'name' to know what to look for:

Nikon 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED IF AF-S VR

Focal Length: (70-300) be sure both lenses are similar focal length: 70-300 in this case

Maximum aperture:(f/4.5-5.6) Aperture has a big impact on price, as lenses with lower aperture numbers require larger pieces of glass to support such large aperture. Some zooms, like these, provide multiple maximum apertures (4.5-5.6) meaning it is f4.5 at 70, and f5.6 at 300. Pricier lenses will list f2.8 for example.

Stabilization: (VR) mechanics that reduce vibration or shake are expensive. These are called VR, IS or OS by several brands.

High quality glass: (ED) special low distortion or low dispersion lenses add to the quality of the image, but also the cost. Nikon uses the words ED, Canon doesn't use a designation, but their L lenses have such glass.

Other: (AF-S indicates ultrasonic focus motor [hat tip rfusca], IF means Internally Focusing)