Hi Everyone,
I have been a longtime lurker since I expect to get engaged soon which is why my father recruited me for help finding my mother an upgraded engagement ring since they have been married 28 years. He gave me a budget of $8k-$10K total, he would prefer to stay closer to 8K but willing to go up to $10K. My mother prefers rings with a thicker band (~4mm+) in 18K white gold or platinum, doesn't care much for diamonds in the band and would like a carat size of 2ct (I know that is a stretch). Ideally I would like to get a RB as close to 2ct in size as possible, put the majority of the budget towards a diamond, and would not be opposed to going the custom route for a setting because my mother has expressed her strong dislike for thin bands.
I have done some online research and I know about using the HCA elimination tool and viewing the ideal-scope images. I like that Ritani gives the free in-store preview and since we live in NYC and I was wondering if it was worth it going to the diamond district to shop or should search online first at website such as GOG, WF, Ritani, BG, etc? Please send me diamond and setting suggestions.
Thank you for your help in advance!
I have been a longtime lurker since I expect to get engaged soon which is why my father recruited me for help finding my mother an upgraded engagement ring since they have been married 28 years. He gave me a budget of $8k-$10K total, he would prefer to stay closer to 8K but willing to go up to $10K. My mother prefers rings with a thicker band (~4mm+) in 18K white gold or platinum, doesn't care much for diamonds in the band and would like a carat size of 2ct (I know that is a stretch). Ideally I would like to get a RB as close to 2ct in size as possible, put the majority of the budget towards a diamond, and would not be opposed to going the custom route for a setting because my mother has expressed her strong dislike for thin bands.
I have done some online research and I know about using the HCA elimination tool and viewing the ideal-scope images. I like that Ritani gives the free in-store preview and since we live in NYC and I was wondering if it was worth it going to the diamond district to shop or should search online first at website such as GOG, WF, Ritani, BG, etc? Please send me diamond and setting suggestions.
Thank you for your help in advance!