1-2 Ct. on approx. 7 size finger + other advice needed

[sarapm1104]

Hi all,

This is my first post so forgive me if I'm posting in the wrong area... I have just begun research on an engagement ring (for myself). My boyfriend asked a friend of mine to discreetly find out what I would like to have, as he knows nothing about rings (of course she called me immediately and told me everything - ha!). I think it's important to make an educated decision when making this large of a purchase, so I'm trying to get a good grasp on things before responding. My question here is really in 4 parts:

1. Can you please post a picture of your ring if you're close to a size 7? I am trying to get an idea of how different carats look on that size finger.
2. I am interested in a quality stone, bright/sparkly/etc. that visually suggests a high quality. I know the basics of the "4 C's," but I'm not sure about real world application. I know we can afford something in the 1-2 Ct. range, but exactly what size will depend on the quality (of course). What are the minimum grades you recommend for each level for a high-end look? Does anyone know what Tiffany's standards are for their diamonds?
3. Our friends have recommended Blue Nile as a source for high quality, fair priced items. Good? Bad? Anything better that you would recommend? I'm fine with not using a brick and mortar store as I just want a plain band with a round solitaire so I won't need to try on several settings, etc.
4. White gold vs. Platinum? Suggestions?

I know I'm asking a lot Thanks in advance for any help you can offer!

 

[SB621]

On the right hand side of the screen click report concern. Then request the MOD move this to RT. You will get more responses.

Hi all,

This is my first post so forgive me if I'm posting in the wrong area... I have just begun research on an engagement ring (for myself). My boyfriend asked a friend of mine to discreetly find out what I would like to have, as he knows nothing about rings (of course she called me immediately and told me everything - ha!). I think it's important to make an educated decision when making this large of a purchase, so I'm trying to get a good grasp on things before responding. My question here is really in 4 parts:

1. Can you please post a picture of your ring if you're close to a size 7? I am trying to get an idea of how different carats look on that size finger.
2. I am interested in a quality stone, bright/sparkly/etc. that visually suggests a high quality. I know the basics of the "4 C's," but I'm not sure about real world application. I know we can afford something in the 1-2 Ct. range, but exactly what size will depend on the quality (of course). What are the minimum grades you recommend for each level for a high-end look? Does anyone know what Tiffany's standards are for their diamonds?
3. Our friends have recommended Blue Nile as a source for high quality, fair priced items. Good? Bad? Anything better that you would recommend? I'm fine with not using a brick and mortar store as I just want a plain band with a round solitaire so I won't need to try on several settings, etc.
4. White gold vs. Platinum? Suggestions?

I know I'm asking a lot Thanks in advance for any help you can offer!

Instead of carat weight look at mm size as some diamond can be cut deeper then others. Meaning a 1ct diamond should be 6.5mm ( I believe), but if it is cut steep the weight will still be 1ct, but it will appeal smaller at 6.2 or 6.3mm. Also are you looking at round diamonds? From your post I'm assuming so.

On PS you will find that more people care about cut then color. So many on here will go down to an I color for better cut. It sounds like you might be color sensative so I would stay above H or better. As far as clarity SI1 is the lowest I would go. I don't care if a diamond has clarity issues as long as i can't see it with the naked eye for my ering. However if you are uncomfortable with SI1 you can go VS2.

As far as Tiffanys I don't consider them high end for diamonds. You can find much better ones out there. I would look at James Allen, Brian Gavin Diamonds and Whiteflash. If you post your budget you will be amazed at what the diamonds mavens on this forum can do. I would not do a B&M store as they have higher prices (have to pay for staff, labor, shipping of diamonds etc).

As far as WG vs. PLAT that is usually personal perference. Both will look different over time. WG can be redipped over time to look shiney and new again while PLAT will patina. However, I would say the setting you choose will probably dicate what metal you choose. For example melee is usually stronger in PLAT then WG. Also pending on how much of your budget you spend on the dimaond will also/ could affect your budget for the ring taking away your choice of metal etc.

Goodluck in your search.

 

[Niel]

In regards to the 4 Cs:
Cut is most important. Don't compromise on that
Color is subjective. You can go down to an I relatively safely. But if you have time go look st a J-k range before you buy. I have one and love the color, and they are great money savers
Clarity for some is a mind clean thing, but if you don't care what your certificate says, you can drop down to vs2-si1 stones that are eye clean. You can't see the inclusions so that's all you need, right?
Carat is dictated by budget.

I chose to get a little smaller stones and get side stones so that the ring had more visual impact on my finger. This can be done with a halo too.
Sorry its a little smaller than you were looking but its a 7.25

 

[Niel]

Worse pictures but better perspective. 1.8ish tcw the center is. 84

 

[sarapm1104]

Thank you for all the great information!

I am hoping to stay around $10,000 for the solitaire (round). I just want a simple cathedral band 2-3mm in either white gold or platinum to leave my options open for a wedding band.

I will do some research on the other online sites mentioned. Thanks again to you both for replying!

 

[melz]

Here's an example of what you can do for $9,855 in what many would consider a "safe" color and clarity range. GOG has a great upgrade policy, too.

http://www.goodoldgold.com/diamond/9039/

As far as diamond to finger size, I actually went on Etsy and purchase a few cz's in different sizes and some cheapo settings, then just plopped them in. The whole thing was really inexpensive and it gave me a great perspective. Of course, you can just go to the mall and try things on too but then you don't get to wear them around the house.

 

[Niel]

This would be my choice. And gives you a budget for the perfect solitaire. (Take a look around their site, I know this cut is doing afferent than yours familiar but once you get familiar its EASY to fall in l ve

http://www.goodoldgold.com/diamond/9599/

 

[arcticcatmatt]

Tiffany is a waste of money. I've seen a few in person and seen much better for the money elsewhere.

Here is the one I just bought for my fiance last week. .90 ideal cut round on about a 6 finger.. scores 1.1 on the HCA, color i, clarity SI1 eye clean. She is getting a ton of compliments on its size and sparkle

 

[AprilBaby]

That good old gold diamond is a beauty!