how large a stone...

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On 10/28/2003 3:57:04 AM pooji wrote:

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Knowing that in Canada, it is still customary to give an engagement ring, I would really enjoy any help you could give me on how large the ring should be, how much to spend, et cetera. blockquote>



Please be advised that typically engagement rings have diamonds that are about 0.75 ct in size. However, if you ask on this board for advice on the size of e-ring diamond you'll get recommendations of 1+ ct weight. You should buy a diamond that is within your budget. If you are buying the e-ring through financing arrangements then it is my opinion that you have already overextended yourself on cost. Buy what you can comfortably afford - only you can truly answer that.

Now, regarding your question of what to buy. I would recommend that you first go through the tutorial on this site and educate yourself on the four "C"s if you have not already done so. After familiarizing yourself on what the "C"s are then you can proceed on looking for a diamond and buy informed and wisely. However, prior to proceeding, you must determine what your priorities are in terms of the "C"s.

Personnally, I would put cut above all others. A well cut diamond will increase the likelihood that it will be a very good performer. After you've set your cut parameters then search for a diamond that fits your other criteria (i.e., carat size, color, and clarity) in your price range. You can trade off amongst size, color, and clarity to get the best cut diamond that fits your budget.

Please note that a G or H color diamond still are quite white and when faced up in a well cut diamond you can't really tell it is not white without having other whiter stone to comapre in a side by side comparison. So my recommendation would be to not waste yur money on a "D" color stone becasue surely you'll pay a premium for that color that can't really be discerned from a G or H by an untrained eye.

As you can see, everything is a personal choice. There is no norm for what a e-ring should be.

Best wishes.

........... Karl has joined the diamond trade and is now posting as Karl_K

Sursum Corda!

Mess with Texas.