Gypsy, Niel, other helpful experts ... need your help !

[professorpuppies]

Been lurking around this PS site for a little while now and love it. Everyone here is so willing to help us rookies out.

I don't have a lot of intel on what she wants but when browsing earrings she seemed to think the cushion cut was the prettiest. I looked through a few older threads and found this:
[URL='https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/help-choosing-a-cushion-cut-gypsy.213347/?hilit=cushion']https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/help-choosing-a-cushion-cut-gypsy.213347/?hilit=cushion[/URL]

Personally, I really liked (can't guarantee she will) these setting recommendations by Gypsy ...

http://www.jamesallen.com/engagement-rings/pave/14k-white-gold-cross-over-trellis-pave-diamond-split-shank-engagement-ring-item-50126
http://www.jamesallen.com/engagement-rings/pave/14k-white-gold-tailored-diamond-engagement-ring-item-41042

Need help now on selecting a stone for these. I know you guys here are some of the best so I would rather just put all my trust in your recommendations. Total Budget is max of $7000.00 ($6500 would make me ). Would like to go through JA so I can get some ASETs to have you guys help me cherry pick the best.


As a quick side note ... I was browsing around last night and found a recommendation by Niel to another user:
https://leonmege.com/index.php/portfolio/shop-now/asscher-cut-halo-engagement-ring-detail

I don't know much about an Asscher and the setting is quite different than the two above but I just thought that ring was stunning. I thought I would get your opinions on it vs. a cushion cut in case the other user doesn't go for it. Seems like it could be a real steal to get a LM ring and in my price range (if LM would bargain with me) !! Thank you in advance for all your help everyone.

 

[chrono]

A step cut has larger flashes but slower rate of flash compared to a cushion. The two are very different flavours.

 

[diamondseeker2006]

I don't think I'd go for a cushion or asscher under a carat because they are deep and face up smaller than some other cuts. A round is going to give you more size appearance for your money and will look good in the style settings you linked. It is really hard when you have no idea what she really likes. But if you are aiming for a cushion, you should also look at Good Old Gold as they usually stock well cut cushions.

I looked quick and GOG is low on cushions in your price range, but here is one good one. You could always call and see if they can get some in from their source.

http://www.goodoldgold.com/ecommerce/1ct-i-vvs2-signature-modern-cushion-diamond.html

 

[professorpuppies]

Sorry ... better get this out there right away to avoid any confusion. She definitely wants the ring to be platinum.

So from the two settings that Gypsy recommended that leaves me

Option #1 $7000-$1730 = $5270 for the stone
Option #3 $7000-$1200 = $5800 for the stone

What is everyone's opinion on a split shank? I rather like the look but what do they look like with a wedding band?. Her finger size is 5.5-6.

 

[JDDN]

You said "when browsing earrings she seemed to think cushion was the prettiest." I would stick to a cushion or a round brilliant then due to the faceting (assuming you weren't looking at antique cushion earrings). Asschers are gorgeous, but they are a flavor and not everyone loves them. Also, I don't think I've ever heard anyone say their Leon Mege ring was a steal. So I doubt you'll be getting any deals from him .

As far as split shank, personally I would avoid unless she has specifically said she likes them or wants one. A wedding band won't sit flush which is totally fine, but that is not okay for some and she may be bothered by it.

Can you choose based on what you think she will like? By her other jewelry, friends input, pinterest board, etc.? I know you've mentioned what you like and admitted that you don't know if she will like it. If you can't get more intel, then choose something more classic than something that's very much a personal taste.

For the reasons above, I like the 2nd JA setting better. I like the graduated stones on the shoulder and it doesn't look as busy to my eyes as the 1st one.

 

[Niel]

Sorry ... better get this out there right away to avoid any confusion. She definitely wants the ring to be platinum.

So from the two settings that Gypsy recommended that leaves me

Option #1 $7000-$1730 = $5270 for the stone
Option #3 $7000-$1200 = $5800 for the stone

What is everyone's opinion on a split shank? I rather like the look but what do they look like with a wedding band?. Her finger size is 5.5-6.

I largly prefer the setting that has the graduation vs the split shank. But I'm one who likes having that ribon of metal and a bright set pave, it seems to make the whole thing cleaner.

As for the stone, I haven't had time to look but I will!

 

[professorpuppies]

I was worried about that with the split shank style. I do like the look of them but it seems to get pretty awkward when trying to pair a wedding band with it. Do some just not wear a wedding band?

I guess you are right ... Leon Mege seems to be very high but most on PS are happy with the results. She definitely liked the cushion cut earrings, I imagine that would be the same for a ring. That cushion that is shown on GOG looks very nice. I was hoping to get some recommendations from JA site so that I can do the ring and all in one shot.

 

[Niel]

Would you feel comfortable buying from blue Nile? They have 1ct signature cushions and pave settings that would keep you at or below your budget

 

[professorpuppies]

I don't know much about blue nile apart from the few reviews I have read. Most of those advised that JA was the clear winner in the head to head competition. I will say that I am a man of science so I really like the fact of getting an ASET that can be dissected beyond just personal opinion. Is $5800 not nearly enough for a nice cushion cut?

 

[Niel]

I don't know much about blue nile apart from the few reviews I have read. Most of those advised that JA was the clear winner in the head to head competition. I will say that I am a man of science so I really like the fact of getting an ASET that can be dissected beyond just personal opinion. Is $5800 not nearly enough for a nice cushion cut?

I think you should consider blue Nile in this instance. They don't always work, but for this I think they would. Their "signature cushion" provide photos, performance tests, and other information like James Allen.

This one if you get the referral discount (easy to do) it would be 100 off, pay with a wire transfer its under 5k

http://www.bluenile.com/diamond-details/LD05261061?keyword_search_value=LD05261061

 

[professorpuppies]

OK Niel I guess I will have to look into that. I must say I am a bit surprised that $7000.00 cannot buy me a very nice ring+stone with in a cushion cut. Is it that this cut of diamond is like ultra expensive or something?

 

[Niel]

OK Niel I guess I will have to look into that. I must say I am a bit surprised that $7000.00 cannot buy me a very nice ring+stone with in a cushion cut. Is it that this cut of diamond is like ultra expensive or something?

It's not that it can't, its just that cushions are harder to find than rounds, so you could buy any cushion, but a good one just takes longer to find. I do think you can find a nice one for your budget. I really think these will peak your interest once you look at them.

Say you did it with this setting. It's a bit more classic, but it really allows for all sorts of stacking options which will allow her to have a timeless ring that she can really make "her own" when mixing and matching bands. She could wear the plain matching one, wear a few different ones (Google Kate Beckinsale's e ring youlk see what I mean) or maybe a bit of mixed metal. It's seems very versatile and close to your 6500 goal
http://www.bluenile.com/build-your-own-ring/petite-pave-ring-platinum_17875?elem=img&track=product

 

[professorpuppies]

I feel a bit let down because I thought I had saved up enough for something good. Oh well just my luck I guess. I'll be honest this Blue Nile stuff scares me a little bit. I guess I just never really gave them much of a chance in my mind when I started out this process. I am going to have to let this sink in a bit. Hopefully if you come across anything Niel that fits me from JA or one of the others you will keep me in mind. Thank you for trying.

 

[Niel]

I feel a bit let down because I thought I had saved up enough for something good. Oh well just my luck I guess. I'll be honest this Blue Nile stuff scares me a little bit. I guess I just never really gave them much of a chance in my mind when I started out this process. I am going to have to let this sink in a bit. Hopefully if you come across anything Niel that fits me from JA or one of the others you will keep me in mind. Thank you for trying.

It's not your luck its everyone's luck. Diamonds are expensive. Plat is expensive. What size were you hoping to get with your budget?

 

[professorpuppies]

Well that original post that I referenced Gypsy recommended all of these:

http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/cushion-cut/1.20-carat-g-color-si1-clarity-sku-394088
http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/cushion-cut/1.20-carat-h-color-vs2-clarity-sku-217270
http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/cushion-cut/1.20-carat-h-color-si1-clarity-sku-288380

The PS member bought the first one ... 2 and 3 are still available. I thought I was pretty close to those I guess.

 

[Niel]

Well that original post that I referenced Gypsy recommended all of these:

http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/cushion-cut/1.20-carat-g-color-si1-clarity-sku-394088
http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/cushion-cut/1.20-carat-h-color-vs2-clarity-sku-217270
http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/cushion-cut/1.20-carat-h-color-si1-clarity-sku-288380

The PS member bought the first one ... 2 and 3 are still available. I thought I was pretty close to those I guess.

I like that number 3 based on the asets in the other tread. Can you just buy that? Ask if they have any referral or Pricescope discount to apply to that, might take it down to your 5800 budget

 

[professorpuppies]

Well if they do offer any discount then I should be right around the $7k total if I get that #2 setting (no the split shank). I think I will ask them now.

 

[Niel]

Well if they do offer any discount then I should be right around the $7k total if I get that #2 setting (no the split shank). I think I will ask them now.

Fingers crossed. That second setting is my favorite, anyways.

 

[hooty]

Puppies - I was in your boat about a month or two ago. I was on a similar budget trying to find a nice cushion over a carat. I can attest that it definitely takes some time and research/homework to be able to find something worthwhile. For a completely untrained eye, it is extra difficult because GIA doesn't grade cushions like they grade rounds. I will say that often times a lot of these cushions will not look their weight, so it is important to keep an eye on each stone's actual dimensions more so than carat weight so that you aren't paying for weight that you can't see.

It took me a month or two of daily research, but I would up with a great antique style cushion for my gf that I can't wait to receive. If you go the James Allen route, definitely see if they can do a "preferred customer" discount, and that'll hopefully take a hundred or two off.

You'll get some great advice here if you are willing to listen to others who are knowledgeable! Good luck, you'll do great I'm sure.

 

[ariel144]

(JA's cushions have been really bad lately...just a bunch of gray mush...who cuts all these horrible cushions? for a while you could find a few antique cuts but lately they are so scarce.)

small but lovely antique cushion on JA:

http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/cushion-cut/1.00-carat-k-color-vs2-clarity-sku-363617

http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/cushion-cut/1.51-carat-j-color-vs1-clarity-sku-565879

http://www.jewelsbygrace.com/loose-diamonds/1-ct-to-2-00/1-39ct-antique-cushion-cut-diamond-gia-j-si1#.VaiN0CpViko
http://www.jewelsbygrace.com/loose-diamonds/1-ct-to-2-00/1-31ct-antique-cushion-cut-egl-j-vs2#.VaiQHSpViko

Large ..faces up like a 2c cushion:
http://www.jewelsbygrace.com/loose-diamonds/1-ct-to-2-00/1-58ct-antique-cushion-cut-diamond-gia-l-vs1#.VaiPoSpViko

http://www.goodoldgold.com/ecommerce/1.40ct-i-si1-signature-modern-cushion-diamond.html

http://www.goodoldgold.com/ecommerce/1-20ct-k-vs1-august-vintage-star-cushion-diamond.html

This one on Ebay:
(Someone commented on this stone on another cushion thread the other day. She had it sent to Erica and she said it was really a very nice stone. This is a very reputable vendor and has a store in Chicago. She also stated that if you go to their website and buy it there she thought they would take around $6500 for it. There is a video on youtube of this stone:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/151742868091?_trksid=p2060353.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT

https://youtu.be/ryNYoRnz928

I didn't see if you prefer the antique cut cushion or modern so posted some of both.

You can set it with double claw prongs in the corners and it will square off the shape nicely.

Good luck with your search ...it most definitely is like finding a needle in a haystack to find a nice cushion these days.

 

[JDDN]

Not to derail all the wonderful options, but what about a round brilliant in a cushion halo?

Albeit this is a larger stone and a custom setting that exceeds your budget, but it gives you an idea of what it would look like. Round brilliants are much easier to shop for too . I haven't had a chance to look, but I'm sure there are some options of this type of setting in your budget.

[URL='https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/my-new-2-ct-aca-victor-canera-emilya-cushion-2-row-pave.214748/']https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/my-new-2-ct-aca-victor-canera-emilya-cushion-2-row-pave.214748/[/URL]

 

[ariel144]

Not to derail all the wonderful options, but what about a round brilliant in a cushion halo?

Albeit this is a larger stone and a custom setting that exceeds your budget, but it gives you an idea of what it would look like. Round brilliants are much easier to shop for too . I haven't had a chance to look, but I'm sure there are some options of this type of setting in your budget.

[URL='https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/my-new-2-ct-aca-victor-canera-emilya-cushion-2-row-pave.214748/']https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/my-new-2-ct-aca-victor-canera-emilya-cushion-2-row-pave.214748/[/URL]

Yes, that is a super options especially if you want that chunky antique faceting....buy an Old European cut (OEC) round and put it in a cushion halo. Many more options available in OEC's too. You will get a larger face up diamond and beautiful cushion shaped ring. I think this OP wants a solitaire setting though.

Sorry OP I read your original post as the budget for the stone was 6500- 7000

 

[JDDN]

Ok, I didn't see where he wanted a solitaire. The Leon Mege ring he posted is a halo.

I love an OEC too, but a modern round brilliant would be gorgeous in a cushion halo. Easier to shop for. OEC would be a nice choice if she liked the antique cushions, but if not, then a MRB would have the faceting similar to a modern cushion.

What kind of cushion earrings did she like?

 

[professorpuppies]

Thank you so much to all of you for all your help. So far I have placed these two stones on hold. Based on the previous thread I think I am doing well with Stone #2

Stone #1 = http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/cushion-cut/1.20-carat-h-color-vs2-clarity-sku-217270
Stone #2 = http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/cushion-cut/1.20-carat-h-color-si1-clarity-sku-288380

Niel ... I know you are the stone expert so I will default to you. Do you think that it is worth looking into any of the stone that ariel144 posted above? Also I found these at JA website and wanted your thoughts? Is it worth trying to get an inspection/ASET on anything else or do you think the two I have on hold fit me best?

http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/cushion-cut/1.41-carat-i-color-vs2-clarity-sku-532368
http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/cushion-cut/1.30-carat-j-color-vs1-clarity-sku-45862
http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/cushion-cut/1.31-carat-i-color-vs1-clarity-sku-290928

Thanks again for everyone who has helped me. If it weren't for this site I would be up a creek for sure.

 

[chrono]

Hold these two:
Stone #1 = http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/cushion-cut/1.20-carat-h-color-vs2-clarity-sku-217270
Stone #2 = http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/cushion-cut/1.20-carat-h-color-si1-clarity-sku-288380

Pick a 3rd cushion, then ask JA to get the ASET on all 3. I'm sorry I have a meeting coming up and don't have the time to help you pick the third contender.

 

[Stone Hunter]

You're doing great! Cushions are worth the extra effort.

Pay close attention to the facet pattern and how it looks to you in the videos and pick the one you like the best. Each cushion has a slightly different look. That's part of their appeal.

 

[Niel]

Thank you so much to all of you for all your help. So far I have placed these two stones on hold. Based on the previous thread I think I am doing well with Stone #2

Stone #1 = http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/cushion-cut/1.20-carat-h-color-vs2-clarity-sku-217270
Stone #2 = http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/cushion-cut/1.20-carat-h-color-si1-clarity-sku-288380

Niel ... I know you are the stone expert so I will default to you. Do you think that it is worth looking into any of the stone that ariel144 posted above? Also I found these at JA website and wanted your thoughts? Is it worth trying to get an inspection/ASET on anything else or do you think the two I have on hold fit me best?

http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/cushion-cut/1.41-carat-i-color-vs2-clarity-sku-532368
http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/cushion-cut/1.30-carat-j-color-vs1-clarity-sku-45862
http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/cushion-cut/1.31-carat-i-color-vs1-clarity-sku-290928

Thanks again for everyone who has helped me. If it weren't for this site I would be up a creek for sure.

None of those ones you link look promising. As for the ones posted above, though I personally am OK with Js and Ks, I would buy a plat setting with as large of melee as that graduated setting has. The color will be too noticeable.

I will look again see if there are any more , but if not, I see no reason you can't just but the one H si1, sense we known all we need to know about it.

 

[arkieb1]

I am not sure what you have against the best cut Blue Nile stones, Gypsy, Niel and a heap of other people myself included have recommended them and a couple of people have purchased them and they were VERY nice looking stones. There is no risk I can see with Blue Nile they are just as reputable as JA. Sometimes it is a matter of finding the best stones available at the time with a few recommended vendors and going from there.

 

[ariel144]

Thank you so much to all of you for all your help. So far I have placed these two stones on hold. Based on the previous thread I think I am doing well with Stone #2

Stone #1 = http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/cushion-cut/1.20-carat-h-color-vs2-clarity-sku-217270
Stone #2 = http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/cushion-cut/1.20-carat-h-color-si1-clarity-sku-288380

Niel ... I know you are the stone expert so I will default to you. Do you think that it is worth looking into any of the stone that ariel144 posted above? Also I found these at JA website and wanted your thoughts? Is it worth trying to get an inspection/ASET on anything else or do you think the two I have on hold fit me best?

http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/cushion-cut/1.41-carat-i-color-vs2-clarity-sku-532368
http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/cushion-cut/1.30-carat-j-color-vs1-clarity-sku-45862
http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/cushion-cut/1.31-carat-i-color-vs1-clarity-sku-290928

Thanks again for everyone who has helped me. If it weren't for this site I would be up a creek for sure.

You are welcome.

FYI:
I didn't post any of those 3 above...the 1.41, 1.3 or 1.31...those are not good cushion cuts.

I posted this 1.51 J vs1 from JA modern cushion:
http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/cushion-cut/1.51-carat-j-color-vs1-clarity-sku-565879

Will be interesting to see the ASETS.

 

[professorpuppies]

OK, so i've got all the info back from JA on the three stones. Now I desperately need some help to make the final decision and pull the trigger. I really have no idea what to look for in an ASET. I have copied and pasted the email from JA below followed by the new ASET images of all three stones. I have also attached the ASETs from that original thread that I found these stones from (Taken back in June and placed "ORIGINAL" in the image filename) for comparison. Thank all of you so much for helping me through this difficult process. I would be lost without my fellow PS'ers !!!

Email from JA:

Hello,

Thank you for your patience while waiting for the ASET images of diamonds 565879, 288380, and 217270. I've attached an interpretation guide for ASET images to the bottom of this email, so please read that over. Other customers have found it very helpful and I hope you agree! Additionally, I've made each of their item numbers a hyperlink to their listing on our website.

You’ll be happy to know that diamond 565879 ($6,140) is a fantastic option and is highly recommended by the gemologist! It has strong light return, which is distributed evenly throughout the diamond. The gemologist found it to have a very attractive shape and confirmed that it has a true “J” color and faces completely eye clean. All three of your diamonds are beautiful, but this diamond is the stand-out of the three.

Diamonds 288380 ($5,950) and 217270 ($6,170) are bright as well, and tie for second in terms of light performance. Both of them are perfectly eye clean and white in color, however, diamond 217270 is not recommended because one of its cavities breaks the outline of the diamond. The gemologist is curious if it could be a durability concerned if the diamond was struck with just the right amount of pressure.

I encourage you to move forward with diamond 565879. If offers great fire, brilliance, and scintillation, and will serve as the perfect center piece for your ring!

Please take a moment to review this information and let me know if you have any additional questions. I have extended your hold on these diamonds for an additional 24 hours while you consider your options. If I don't hear back from you, I'll reach out to you within 24 hours to see if you need any assistance in finalizing a purchase. After that time we will release them back to our inventory.

To finalize a purchase, simply call our Customer Service department at 877-826-9866. We are staffed to assist you 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Please don't hesitate to contact us with any additional questions. I hope to hear from you soon.

All The Best,

ASET History & Interpretation Guide
The ASET camera system was developed by AGS several years back as a method of determining the different types of light return/reflection in a diamond. The ASET camera system is based on the simple idea that as light travels towards a diamond, the direction of that light can be captured and recorded by a filter (or cone) placed above the diamond and painted (or colored) into different horizontal sections.

The bottom section of the filter is colored GREEN and represents light that comes from the horizontal plane. This light is often called "INDIRECT LIGHT" and so any GREEN in the diamond image is good and represents that indirect light being reflected back to the camera. The middle section of the filter is colored RED and represents light that comes from the most common angles (such as lights in a ceiling, the sun, etc). This light is referred to as DIRECT LIGHT. Since direct light is most common in real-life viewing environments, we hope to see lots of RED in the captured ASET image. The more RED, the better job the diamond is doing at reflecting light from its primary light sources. The top section of the filter is colored BLUE and represents light that is often blocked by the viewers head/body. This light is generally referred to as OBSTRUCTED. Obstructed light is important for creating contrast in a diamond and is what makes the arrows "pop" in a Hearts & Arrows diamond. Seeing BLUE in an ASET image is also good, although there should not be too much of it. Lastly, the camera can capture areas in the diamond where light is "leaking", or not being reflected back to the viewer. In the ASET camera developed by AGS, this leakage is shown as BLACK.

Here are the ASET images: