Please Help Me Find an Aquamarine

[MikeyTown]

Hi all,

First post here, but I've been lurking around this form for a while now. I'm a noob, in ever sense of the word, so please excuse my ignorance.

I finally found someone worth getting on one knee for. Pretty exciting! Now that the hard part is over, on to the other hard part... The ring.

She really like aquamarines, so I'd like to start by acquiring the center stone. We will end up working together to pick out or design a setting. Since I pretty much know what she is looking for in a center stone, I figured that I would do that on my own (well, hopefully with some help from you guys, so not really on my own, but you know what I mean).

Size
She has long, slender fingers (size 5) and she's leaning towards a halo setting of some sort. She wants the ring to remain fairly delicate, so she wants to stay in the 0.75-1.00 ct. range for the center stone.

Shape
Cushion... It doesn't need to be perfectly symmetrical, so if it's close, it will be just fine.

Clarity
Flawless sounds great, but I'll be happy as long as it's eye-clean. She will be happy as long as it "sparkles a lot."

Color
She really likes the lighter blue colors. Something similar to the color of the stone in the attached photo would be about perfect.

Other
I really don't care if it's natural, or lab created. This will not be a collectors piece that is stashed away as an investment. Honestly, she will probably end up wearing her wedding band by itself, most of the time, after we get married. At the end of the day, I'm just looking for a quality stone, from a reputable seller, that will look great on her finger when she wants it to.

Thank you, in advance, for your time... I really appreciate it!


Cheers,

Mike

 

[chrono]

Aquamarine is not an everyday ring stone. They tend to be chippy. With care, it can be an e-ring stone but it needs to be removed once she steps through the house door so no housework, yardwork, exercizing, and etc with it on. Secondly, just because someone likes aquamarine does not automatically mean she'll like it as an e-ring. Please suss out whether she'd love it as an e-ring.

Size - go by mm size since the same ct weight can measure very differently depending on the cut (and there is no standardized cut)
Shape - cushion shaped but also with a mixed brilliant cut?
Clarity - eye clean is the standard. In terms of sparkle, aquamarine has low refractive index so it will never be a sparkly stone. However, with fancy cutting (lots of teeny tiny facets), it can flash very nicely.
Colour - light blue is good because most aquas are light.
Other - sorry but we cannot discuss synthetics. Natural aqua in small sizes and light colours are not expensive in the first place so I would skip the synthetic route.

And the most important thing that you glossed over is BUDGET! I wish I can steer you to a vendor but none specialize in aquamarine. You'll have to trawl through many websites to see what is available.

[URL='https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/list-of-vendors-for-reference.208782/']https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/list-of-vendors-for-reference.208782/[/URL]

 

[Arcadian]

Congratulations!

So you're going to be told this but aqua isn't a great candidate for an ering. IMO, as long as she dosen't wear it doing household stuff, gardening, or ditch digging, (I'm kidding about ditches...sort of ) and wears it as an occassional ring, then she'll be fine.

She's got a small finger (well by my standards its small! ) so you'll be able to find one with excellent coverage.

BTW, whats your budget? do you plan on going with platinum or 18K (or even 14K) for the setting?

 

[MikeyTown]

Aquamarine is not an everyday ring stone. They tend to be chippy. With care, it can be an e-ring stone but it needs to be removed once she steps through the house door so no housework, yardwork, exercizing, and etc with it on. Secondly, just because someone likes aquamarine does not automatically mean she'll like it as an e-ring. Please suss out whether she'd love it as an e-ring.

Size - go by mm size since the same ct weight can measure very differently depending on the cut (and there is no standardized cut)
Shape - cushion shaped but also with a mixed brilliant cut?
Clarity - eye clean is the standard. In terms of sparkle, aquamarine has low refractive index so it will never be a sparkly stone. However, with fancy cutting (lots of teeny tiny facets), it can flash very nicely.
Colour - light blue is good because most aquas are light.
Other - sorry but we cannot discuss synthetics. Natural aqua in small sizes and light colours are not expensive in the first place so I would skip the synthetic route.

And the most important thing that you glossed over is BUDGET! I wish I can steer you to a vendor but none specialize in aquamarine. You'll have to trawl through many websites to see what is available.

[URL='https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/list-of-vendors-for-reference.208782/']https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/list-of-vendors-for-reference.208782/[/URL]

I understand that aquamarine isn't the most durable of stones, but she told me that it's what she wants. When the lady speaks, I listen.

As for shape, would a mixed brilliant be best on a cushion cut? If so, then that would be the way I'd like to go.

I really don't have a budget. I know that it's an affordable stone, so I'm more concerned with finding the specifics she prefers. If I can find a stone that meets all of her wants, I should be able to make the budget work.

 

[MikeyTown]

Congratulations!

So you're going to be told this but aqua isn't a great candidate for an ering. IMO, as long as she dosen't wear it doing household stuff, gardening, or ditch digging, (I'm kidding about ditches...sort of ) and wears it as an occassional ring, then she'll be fine.

She's got a small finger (well by my standards its small! ) so you'll be able to find one with excellent coverage.

BTW, whats your budget? do you plan on going with platinum or 18K (or even 14K) for the setting?

LOL... no ditch digging for her!

I really don't have a set budget. I know that the stones are very affordable in that size range, so I'm more concerned with finding something that meets her preferences.

When I turn my attention towards the setting, it will probably be 18K white.

 

[chrono]

Yup, then aquamarine it is.

I like the cut on this one but it's much too large. It might be worth your time to ask the vendor if he has anything smaller.
http://www.clearcutgems.com/aquamarine.html

The same goes for this place too.
http://gemrite.com/14-aquamarine

 

[Arcadian]

Chrono, that one at the top was really nice!

BTW http://www.gemfix.com/aquamarine.html

http://gemrite.com/14-aquamarine

http://www.moregems.com/loose-cut-gemstones/aquamarine-loose-gemstones.html

http://www.africagems.com/aquamarine.html (they're pretty darn expensive)

I didn't see much at litnon
http://www.litnon.com/index.php?page=view&cat=199

master cut gems had one that was a possible but it's gigantic (9cts!!!)

 

[dk168]

Congratulations!

If you cannot find anything suitable off the shelf, perhaps you would consider going down the custom-cut route and contact one of the trusted gem-cutters.

I have been chatting with Jeff White of Whitesgems.com about getting a 6ct+ emerald cut light colour aquamarine from him for next year recently, and he mentioned he has roughs in smaller sizes. Therefore, it is worth contacting him to enquire.

Examples of his aquamarines can be found via this link: http://www.whitesgems.com/berylgallery.html, and you can trawl through his other galleries of sold gemstones for examples and inspirations of different cuts.

Jeff Davies has a few aquamarines listed on his eBay store (I like them all ), way too big for your other half's delicate hand and finger. It is worth contacting him to see if he has anything smaller as he has a big inventory:

http://stores.ebay.co.uk/Fine-Gemst..._fsub=15&_sid=122712575&_trksid=p4634.c0.m322

I got my emerald cut light colour aquamarine from Jeff D, and am very happy with the stone in terms of colour and cut quality, as I got it at a very good price.

Good luck with your search.

DK

 

[MikeyTown]

Thank you all for the suggestions.

I've contacted a few of the sellers that were suggested and will keep this thread posted as options are presented, and decisions are made.


Thanks again!

Mike

 

[Niel]

Edited to change.

I was going to comment about durability. But if shell hardly wear ir then never mind. Lol

 

[dk168]

Quick, this one is available from Lisa Elser in Canada, as seen in her latest catalogue received yesterday via e-mail (priced in USD):



DK

 

[dk168]

Jeff D has this one listed on his site as an auction, light in colour, however, SI clarity (I would still buy it as it looks sparkly in the video):

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/CUSTOM-CU...909?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item56751f34fd



DK

 

[SparkliesLuver]

Congratulations on "completing" the first hard part. And welcome to PS!

I know it's not a true cushion, but I wasn't sure if that's flexible. If not, that's fine!
1.00 ct
6.3 x 4.9 x 4.6mm
No enhancements
$550
https://www.johndyergems.com/catalog_pages/gemstone-Aquamarine3635.html


You could also work with Doug of Bespoke gems and have him cut you something. Rough #r170 looks to be up your alley, but it warrants a much more in-depth conversation with him.
http://www.bespoke-gems.com/SacredGeometrics_Gemstones_Rough_Aquamarine.php#image_r235


You may not want to purchase a completed ring, but it could be worth checking out what Julia has:
https://www.etsy.com/shop/JuliaBJewelry/search?search_query=aquamarine&order=date_desc&view_type=gallery&ref=shop_search

 

[Niel]

Not a cushion, but a lovely option so I thought I'd share. Again, of it doesn't work no hard feelings.

Asking 630 and would be lovely in a halo on a long thin finger like you describe.

 

[MikeyTown]

Thanks a ton for all of the continued suggestions, everyone!

I'm currently talking to Jeff (jeffdvs101 on ebay) and he says that he has some material similar to what this stone came from: http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/CUSTOM-CUSHION-CUT-12-27ct-LIGHT-BLUE-AQUAMARINE-MADAGASCAR-WATCH-VIDEO-/321572773008?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item4adf3b1c90

He suggested an asscher cut, but she's pretty set on the cushion. He said he was going to "cut something and show me," and that it would take 2-3 days. Pretty fantastic service, if you ask me.

We'll see how this works out. If this doesn't end up being a good option, then we can take it from there.

 

[dk168]

Glad that Jeff D can help you, and I look forward to see the aquamarine he is cutting for you.

DK

 

[Niel]

Thanks a ton for all of the continued suggestions, everyone!

I'm currently talking to Jeff (jeffdvs101 on ebay) and he says that he has some material similar to what this stone came from: http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/CUSTOM-CUSHION-CUT-12-27ct-LIGHT-BLUE-AQUAMARINE-MADAGASCAR-WATCH-VIDEO-/321572773008?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item4adf3b1c90

He suggested an asscher cut, but she's pretty set on the cushion. He said he was going to "cut something and show me," and that it would take 2-3 days. Pretty fantastic service, if you ask me.

We'll see how this works out. If this doesn't end up being a good option, then we can take it from there.

Is he going to cut it a stock size so its easy to find a setting for it?

 

[lilmosun]

He suggested an asscher cut, but she's pretty set on the cushion.

Has she seen a nice asscher cut aqua? I know its a matter of personal taste and not all stones are well suited for asscher cuts. But its great for ligher colored stones and my dream aqua was always one with a nice (not a?) asscher cut. Now that I have one, I personally think its the ideal cut for an aqua.

 

[MikeyTown]

Hi all,

I just wanted to pop back in with an update on the stone that Jeff cut for me.

It's a 1.18 ct. (6.8mm) light blue aqua. My lady loves the color, is very happy with the cut and we can't wait to see it in person.

At the price he charged me, I almost feel like I stole it. I'll try to post an in-hand photo, or two, after it makes its trip to Southern CA.

Another big thank you to the community for all of your great suggestions. I don't see how I would have found this stone without you.


Cheers,

Mike

 

[SparkliesLuver]

Excellent! Can't wait to see your pictures.

 

[Arcadian]

Beautiful! Can't wait to see what you think when you get it in hand!

 

[Niel]

Awesome. Can't wait to see the finished ring.

 

[dk168]

It's lovely, thanks for sharing!

DK

P.S. I bagged the JD square aqua I posted above this morning.

 

[MikeyTown]

It's lovely, thanks for sharing!

DK

P.S. I bagged the JD square aqua I posted above this morning.

Awesome! That's a really pretty stone. What are you planning on doing with it?


Now I just need to start some research on settings. We found a Ritani setting that is absolutely perfect. I just need to find someone who will re-create it for us without having to pay for the big name designer label.

I don't know about you guys, but I think that aqua will look quite nice in this setting...

 

[dk168]

I'd probably bezel set mine in a simple halo, plain shank, 14K WG, not too flashy so that I can wear it for work.

Good luck with your setting search.

DK

 

[Niel]

David klass can do a custom halo for you


He's going to be your cheapest route for custom

Take a look at them

[URL='https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/show-us-your-david-klass-bling.196654/']https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/show-us-your-david-klass-bling.196654/[/URL]

He has a double halo similar to what you want on the last page.

 

[MikeyTown]

David klass can do a custom halo for you


He's going to be your cheapest route for custom

Take a look at them

[URL='https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/show-us-your-david-klass-bling.196654/']https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/show-us-your-david-klass-bling.196654/[/URL]

He has a double halo similar to what you want on the last page.

Thank you for that... The double halo is very nice, and the shank is perfect.

I've emailed David with some details, so we'll see what he says.


Thanks Niel!

 

[Niel]

David klass can do a custom halo for you


He's going to be your cheapest route for custom

Take a look at them

[URL='https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/show-us-your-david-klass-bling.196654/']https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/show-us-your-david-klass-bling.196654/[/URL]

He has a double halo similar to what you want on the last page.

Thank you for that... The double halo is very nice, and the shank is perfect.

I've emailed David with some details, so we'll see what he says.


Thanks Niel!

He could do that ring with only one halo, too.

What's your budget for the setting. Going custom can cost more,even with someone who works well on a budget like dk. I can look around see if anything works.

 

[MikeyTown]

David klass can do a custom halo for you


He's going to be your cheapest route for custom

Take a look at them

[URL='https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/show-us-your-david-klass-bling.196654/']https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/show-us-your-david-klass-bling.196654/[/URL]

He has a double halo similar to what you want on the last page.

Thank you for that... The double halo is very nice, and the shank is perfect.

I've emailed David with some details, so we'll see what he says.


Thanks Niel!

He could do that ring with only one halo, too.

What's your budget for the setting. Going custom can cost more,even with someone who works well on a budget like dk. I can look around see if anything works.

I'd like to keep the setting under $2K, but $1500 would be better. I've also contacted Adiamor. It looks like they have a split shank double halo that they can make into a single halo, as well. That one seems pretty affordable... Especially in 14k.

 

[Acinom]

Congrats with your beautiful stone!
Jeff has a great inventory and his pricing is super reasonable.
Good luck in finding a great setting. Looking forward to see your pics when they arrive.