8 main cushion brilliant vs. Chunky Cushion

[Roxie Bling]

I have been doing a lot self-educating over the past week, and have determined that I ideally would like to rule out Cushion Modified Brilliants and 4 Main Cushion Brilliants (thanks to all who have helped me along the way so far.)

So now, I am deciding between the 8 main cushion brilliant and the Antique chunky cushion look like the August Vintage at GOG or the Antique Cushion from ERD.

I know these are quite different looking cuts, and to me both are beautiful. Even though it seems the majority of cushion lovers here prefer the chunky facet look of cuts like GOG''s AV cushion, I was originally (maybe still am) leaning toward the modern cushion look. I like the RB symmetrical splintery look, but in a cushion shape. But I would love to see a side by side comparison of stones.

I saw that GOG had a video comparing 4 main to AV cushion, and a video comparing 8 main to H&A cushion, but I didn''t find one comparing 8 main to AV cushion. If not a video, are there any pictures?

I do have a local gemologist/jeweler I have been working with. How does "calling in" stones to see work? What sites can she get diamond from? All I have seen so far in person are modified cushion brilliants and from my understanding they pale in comparison. Is there any way, other than flying to NY or Texas to be able to compare in person the look of a modern cushion and vintage look?


Here is the vendor specific research I have done:

I spoke to Mark at ERD, and his modern Cushion Brilliants (8 main) only go up to 1.10, and he indicated that that was pretty much what the market had to offer. The 1.10 may work, so he is going to be sending me info/specs. He indicated that if I wanted to go with an antique cushion look, he could go larger in size.

I also called Brian Gavin because I saw that he is cutting modern cushion brilliants. They are going to check on their inventory and get back to me. I thought the one purchased by
311 Hokie was very nice. https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/brian-gavin-signature-cushion-cut-in-novela-platinum-setting.132007/

I have looked at GOGs cushions (all his offerings). My favorite look was the H&A but for the size I want, it is out of my price range. So am comparing August Vintage to he Modern Cushions, but none have stood out to me.

I would like me finished ring to be similar to the Tiffany Novo setting. I think I feel more comfortable getting the setting locally, as I tried one on here already that I really liked.

My diamond only budget is up to 10k, but the 7-8k range would be nice.

Carat size: 1.1 - 1.6? (have not tried on anything larger)

color: G - I

clarity: down to SI if eye clean

table: I love the look of small tables.

symmetry/polish: at least very good.

Ok, thanks for bearing with this long post. If anyone has any feedback I would love to hear it, otherwise, I think it was just cathartic/beneficial to get this all down in writing for myself.

Thank you in advance.

 

[rachelheart]

Ask Jon at GOG to make a video for you comparing what you want side by side. He is very easy to work with and will gladly go the extra mile to help your comparison shopping.

I would strongly suggest going with one of the vendors who can supply you with lots of information, such as pictures, ASET images and/or videos. It makes the process a lot easier!

Good luck.

 

[ChunkyCushionLover]

Date: 1/22/2010 6:02:23 PM
Author:Roxie Bling
I have been doing a lot self-educating over the past week, and have determined that I ideally would like to rule out Cushion Modified Brilliants and 4 Main Cushion Brilliants (thanks to all who have helped me along the way so far.)

So now, I am deciding between the 8 main cushion brilliant and the Antique chunky cushion look like the August Vintage at GOG or the Antique Cushion from ERD.

I know these are quite different looking cuts, and to me both are beautiful. Even though it seems the majority of cushion lovers here prefer the chunky facet look of cuts like GOG's AV cushion, I was originally (maybe still am) leaning toward the modern cushion look. I like the RB symmetrical splintery look, but in a cushion shape. But I would love to see a side by side comparison of stones.

I saw that GOG had a video comparing 4 main to AV cushion, and a video comparing 8 main to H&A cushion, but I didn't find one comparing 8 main to AV cushion. If not a video, are there any pictures?

I do have a local gemologist/jeweler I have been working with. How does 'calling in' stones to see work? What sites can she get diamond from? All I have seen so far in person are modified cushion brilliants and from my understanding they pale in comparison. Is there any way, other than flying to NY or Texas to be able to compare in person the look of a modern cushion and vintage look?


Here is the vendor specific research I have done:

I spoke to Mark at ERD, and his modern Cushion Brilliants (8 main) only go up to 1.10, and he indicated that that was pretty much what the market had to offer. The 1.10 may work, so he is going to be sending me info/specs. He indicated that if I wanted to go with an antique cushion look, he could go larger in size.

I also called Brian Gavin because I saw that he is cutting modern cushion brilliants. They are going to check on their inventory and get back to me. I thought the one purchased by
311 Hokie was very nice. https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/brian-gavin-signature-cushion-cut-in-novela-platinum-setting.132007/

I have looked at GOGs cushions (all his offerings). My favorite look was the H&A but for the size I want, it is out of my price range. So am comparing August Vintage to he Modern Cushions, but none have stood out to me.

I would like me finished ring to be similar to the Tiffany Novo setting. I think I feel more comfortable getting the setting locally, as I tried one on here already that I really liked.

My diamond only budget is up to 10k, but the 7-8k range would be nice.

Carat size: 1.1 - 1.6? (have not tried on anything larger)

color: G - I

clarity: down to SI if eye clean

table: I love the look of small tables.

symmetry/polish: at least very good.

Ok, thanks for bearing with this long post. If anyone has any feedback I would love to hear it, otherwise, I think it was just cathartic/beneficial to get this all down in writing for myself.

Thank you in advance.

Roxie,

8 main Antique Cushion Brlliant = August Vintage Cushion = 8 Main Chunky Cushion they are all naming the same type of cut.

So you are looking for a Modern Faceted 8 main cushion. You have ruled out the best optics in this type as a Square Cushion Hearts and Arrows due to the price. That may still be your best option something like:

http://www.goodoldgold.com/diamond/6829/ (under 9k) there are cheaper ones as well. Just ask Jon it seems he adjusted his prices downwards on these in the last couple of months but some haven't been adjusted on the website.

You will not get anywhere close to the same light performance from the BGD 8 main or from the 8 main modern in terms of fire, and performance in all lighting conditions but the BGD 8 main or the 8 mains non square cushion HA from ERD are still nice choices (my fiance has a 1.59 Ct in this style from Mark) abd they perform admirably in office lighting or strong spot lighting.

But I think you are speaking to the best vendors and there aren't going to be other vendors able to find better choices. There really are very few 8 main modern cushions around now, they are mostly being cut as rounds as the rough is worth more cut into a round.

Whatever stone you choose you may consider sending any choice to BGD to make you the novela style ring which is a tiffany novo inspired setting and pretty close to the original. ERD could do something close as well. In order to get anymore delicate and refined looking you would need to go handmade by Leon Mege, Ocean Pearlman or Maytal Hannah which will cost somewhere around 1500 - 2k more than CAD/CAM designers like BGD or ERD.

Iit sounds like you have done your homework and should now try to see your final choices in person or have them sent to a local appraisor and make the final selection using your eyes. You may be able to get them sent on memo if the vendors trust the appraisor you have chosen and have verified he has the proper insurance.

If it were me I'd send the 1.33 Square Cushion HA (or smaller ), the biggest modern 8 main mark can find for you and a BGD 8 main in your size range to a local appraisor and then choose based on that lineup. That would be a lineup I'd love to be present for. If you do go this route make sure you use an appraisor than can take good ASET, Idealscope and Photographs as well.

Best of luck please post pictures or what your final choice or choices are.

Regards,

CCl

 

[Dreamer_D]

I''d ask Jon to make the video you are interested in! He may be able to.

 

[ChunkyCushionLover]

Date: 1/22/2010 10:55:07 PM
Author: dreamer_dachsie
I''d ask Jon to make the video you are interested in! He may be able to.

I''d love to see Jon do the video as well I asked him for a similar comparison before unsuccesfully but if you guarantee him the sale he''ll probabaly be able to call in the 8 main modern cushions that ERD has access to as well.

 

[Dreamer_D]

Date: 1/22/2010 10:59:21 PM
Author: ChunkyCushionLover

Date: 1/22/2010 10:55:07 PM
Author: dreamer_dachsie
I''d ask Jon to make the video you are interested in! He may be able to.

I''d love to see Jon do the video as well I asked him for a similar comparison before unsuccesfully but if you guarantee him the sale he''ll probabaly be able to call in the 8 main modern cushions that ERD has access to as well.

Ah, if GOG does not have them in stock I can see why he would not do it, there is labour cost associated with making the movies I am sure.

 

[CharmyPoo]

I saw that GOG had a video comparing 4 main to AV cushion, and a video comparing 8 main to H&A cushion, but I didn''t find one comparing 8 main to AV cushion. If not a video, are there any pictures?

I have not seen GOG carry many 8 main modern cushions that are not square H&A. The 8 main modern cushions actually have a very different look for the square H&A. They look softer and the shape is closer to the Tiffany Novo. Mark can get some very pretty main modern cushions with beautiful shape. I have one myself and I adore it - I was suppose to upgrade to the AV which I did (and I love my AV) but I can''t bring myself to give up on my 8 main modern cushion. So I am self indulgent and keeping both.

I do have a local gemologist/jeweler I have been working with. How does ''calling in'' stones to see work? What sites can she get diamond from? All I have seen so far in person are modified cushion brilliants and from my understanding they pale in comparison. Is there any way, other than flying to NY or Texas to be able to compare in person the look of a modern cushion and vintage look?

Vendors calling in stones are getting stones from the virtual inventory or from their suppliers. August Vintage and I believe square H&A are unique to GOG and others won''t be able to get them. For example, Mark at ERD will not be able to source August Vintage and square H&A for you. Your local jeweler should be able to find you a modern cushion and a vintage cushion if she is educated in cushions - if not, I am not sure if she can find them for you. I found that my local jewelers knew nothing about cushions - they had no idea what I was talking about when I said I didn''t want a modified cushion.

I also called Brian Gavin because I saw that he is cutting modern cushion brilliants.

Personal preference - I am not a fan of BGD''s cushions but I love love love his rounds.

symmetry/polish: at least very good.

For cushions, you should be able to lower this to a good. You will be surprised at some of the nice options.

 

[Roxie Bling]

Thank you for your input.

I know exactly the diamond I want... it's just that Charmypoo won't give it up. How unfair that you get 2 exquisite diamonds while my finger is naked. I understand why though, but if you ever change your mind... It's pretty funny because as I was reading through posts I saw one you had made where you said you knew a 1.52 cushion brilliant that would soon be available (aka that you would be trading it in/up) and I made a mental note to look through more posts to see if I could find what it looked like. I also figured since I think I read that post was dated back in Oct. '09 that someone had certainly snapped it up by now... I just didn't realize it was you who snapped it back up.

CCL: Actually I really do like the H&A diamond you picked out from GOG. As a 1.33, but with such a deep depth, I wonder what carat size it will actually look like face up. Does the deep depth contribute to the light performance of the stone (ie. would a shallower diamond not shine as well, given all the other factors being the same?) I saw in one of your posts when you were searching for a stone for your fiance that you weren't really considering a H&A because of the depth, and I really LOVE the stone you ended up with you. You and Charmy are so lucky to have come across such rare and beautiful stones.

The largest that Mark could find for me was a 1.1. Well, unless I wanted to jump to a 2.1 carat which I cannot do money-wise, but those are what he has. He took a photo for me of the 1.1, the 2.1 and a similarly sized vintage cushion. The 1.1 looks like it has a dark patch but it may just be the lighting?

Face up, would the H&A diamond look about the same size as the 1.1? The 1.1 is about 5K cheaper, but perhaps the H&A performance and precision are what contribute to that? Charmy, are you saying that the 8 main modern cushions look more like the Novo cushion than the H&A? I thought I heard Jon say that the H&A were similar to the Novos, but maybe I am blurring what I hear. I have listened to so much.

You are so right about there being so few 8 main modern cushions out there. I was really hoping for something around 1.5, but with cutters not really cutting that size, seems like my best shot would be if one got traded in for an upgrade (which is how Mark said he got the 2 ct. stone). Mark was definitely not very encouraging about the possibility of finding something larger than 1.1 in a square. I'm not in a rush, so I can wait to see if that ever happens... just so long as it never happens. Sigh, no amount of money can buy something that doesn't exist...

 

[Roxie Bling]

Wow, that picture posted big. I haven't been able to figure how to delete the picture and so that I can post it again in a size that won't take up 1 1/2 pages. If someone can lend me technical assistance I will be happy to change my post.

ps: I put a hold on the 1.33 H&A and will try giving GOG a call to talk to them tomorrow or Monday.

 

[ChunkyCushionLover]

Date: 1/23/2010 12:15:32 AM
Author: Roxie Bling
Thank you for your input.

I know exactly the diamond I want... it's just that Charmypoo won't give it up. How unfair that you get 2 exquisite diamonds while my finger is naked. I understand why though, but if you ever change your mind... It's pretty funny because as I was reading through posts I saw one you had made where you said you knew a 1.52 cushion brilliant that would soon be available (aka that you would be trading it in/up) and I made a mental note to look through more posts to see if I could find what it looked like. I also figured since I think I read that post was dated back in Oct. '09 that someone had certainly snapped it up by now... I just didn't realize it was you who snapped it back up.

My fiance proudly wears a 1.59 CT Square Cushion from ERD https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/the-shocking-final-diamond-choice-i-gave-to-my-fiance-which-one-would-you-pick.121154/. I'd trade it for a chunky AVC if I could but no way I would ever pry it off her beautiful hand

.

CCL: Actually I really do like the H&A diamond you picked out from GOG. As a 1.33, but with such a deep depth, I wonder what carat size it will actually look like face up. Does the deep depth contribute to the light performance of the stone (ie. would a shallower diamond not shine as well, given all the other factors being the same?)

The 1.33 Would look like a 1.1 CT cushion with average depth so not a bad compromise IMO if you are willing to pay the price and if you want perfect HA. They are cut a little deeper for fire, but if you compare them to an HA round and use the depth the same way it is calculated in Rounds the depth is about the same as a ideal cut round considering the corner to corner measurement for Length. Unfortunately for those optics the depth is required. The shallow cut Square Cushion HAs the few I've seen on GOGs website did not exhibit the same optics, but I did ask Jon why they couldn't cut them with about 68% depth and really thats a question only the one cutting house for these could answer.

The largest that Mark could find for me was a 1.1. Well, unless I wanted to jump to a 2.1 carat which I cannot do, but those are what he has. He took a photo for me of the 1.1, the 2.1 and a similarly sized vintage cushion. The 1.1 looks like it has a dark patch but it may just be the lighting?

Pictures can be misleading. From my experience with my own stone which is cut very similarly the dark areas are actually the best reflecting areas of the stone. The dead centre of the stone would be strongly reflecting light, whereas the outside of the table which is lighter in the photograph is actually an area of leakage as are parts of the edges of the stone. If you really want to confirm this get Mark to do an ASET, he can do them although he doesn't like to do them often. See the aset of a stone cut very similarly attached here. I would expect the ASET of that stone to be quite similar.

Face up, would the H&A diamond look about the same size as the 1.1? The 1.1 is about 5K cheaper, but perhaps the H&A performance and precision are what contribute to that? Charmy, are you saying that the 8 main modern cushions look more like the Novo cushion than the H&A? I thought I heard Jon say that the H&A were similar to the Novos, but maybe I am blurring what I hear. I have listened to so much.

I would expect a bigger difference in price between a 1.1 and a 2.1 unless you are going down in color and clarity. A 1.15 to a 1.6 is about a 5k jump, I'd expect a lot more to go up to 2.1.

You are so right about there being so few 8 main modern cushions out there. I was really hoping for something around 1.5, but with cutters not really cutting that size, seems like my best shot would be if one got traded in for an upgrade (which is how Mark said he got the 2 ct. stone). Mark was definitely not very encouraging about the possibility of finding something larger than 1.1 in a square. I'm not in a rush, so I can wait to see if that ever happens... just so long as it never happens. Sigh, no amount of money can buy something that doesn't exist...

Unfortunately there won't be anymore available, these were cut originally in Belgium and bought up by a California vendor years later and the few left are what wasn't sold over the last few years. You could get one cut for you but since they weren't as well optimized as they could be like the Square Cushion HA I don't really see a great interest in another vendor continuing this line. The Square Cushion HA is optimized and is more interesting (save for the depth and price). I could see you getting a vendor to cut one for you but you'd pay a premium to do that not worth it IMO even if you could find someone to do it.

 

[Roxie Bling]

Face up, would the H&A diamond look about the same size as the 1.1? The 1.1 is about 5K cheaper, but perhaps the H&A performance and precision are what contribute to that? Charmy, are you saying that the 8 main modern cushions look more like the Novo cushion than the H&A? I thought I heard Jon say that the H&A were similar to the Novos, but maybe I am blurring what I hear. I have listened to so much.


I would expect a bigger difference in price between a 1.1 and a 2.1 unless you are going down in color and clarity. A 1.15 to a 1.6 is about a 5k jump, I''d expect a lot more to go up to 2.1.



Thanks. In terms of the price difference, I was referring to the difference in price between the 1.33 H&A and the 1.1 from ERD. What do you mean by not as well optimized? Meaning more light leakage? What is the picture you posted below of?

Well, maybe I will ask Mark to put me on a waiting list and to call me if someone does upgrade. From when they first came out from Belgium, maybe someone is looking for a 5-10 year upgrade?

Meanwhile, I''ll talk to GOG about taking a look at his 1.33 H&A. Do you think the price listed on the diamond of 8.7k is negotiable?

 

[ChunkyCushionLover]

Date: 1/23/2010 1:32:49 AM
Author: Roxie Bling




Face up, would the H&A diamond look about the same size as the 1.1? The 1.1 is about 5K cheaper, but perhaps the H&A performance and precision are what contribute to that? Charmy, are you saying that the 8 main modern cushions look more like the Novo cushion than the H&A? I thought I heard Jon say that the H&A were similar to the Novos, but maybe I am blurring what I hear. I have listened to so much.

>>>>>> Post the certificate of the 1.1 and I can tell you exactly or just compare the length and width yourself but I would expect them to be quite similar. A Tiffany Novo is closer to a Square Cushion HA in my opinion. But their cut isn''t perfect Hearts and Arrows though and isn''t as consistant as the Square Cushion HAs from one stone to another. However I am only using my eyes as noone I know of has bought a Tiffany Novo diamond and taken an ASET to post here.

Thanks. In terms of the price difference, I was referring to the difference in price between the 1.33 H&A and the 1.1 from ERD. What do you mean by not as well optimized? Meaning more light leakage? What is the picture you posted below of?

>>>>The picture above is an ASET image for a modern 8 main cushion similar to the 1.1 photographed for you by Mark. If you look at the ASET for the modern cushion I posted above you will see a big area of leakage at the edge of the table (the clear area), and the edges of the stone as well as many areas that are green which means they can only gather and reflect light from the sides. From looking at the photograph you posted I would expect a similar aset if mark were to take one of the 1.1 cushion for you, I think you should ask for one. What this means is that these stones have areas that will not lightup and they perform better in office or indoor lighting than they would in an area where light is not bouncing of walls for example. This is in contrast to the square cushion HA which should perform very well under almost all lighting conditions.

I can''t comment on pricing without seeing the full certificate, too many factors but if the price difference is that great what is the color and clarity of the 1.1 which would cost under 4k?

Well, maybe I will ask Mark to put me on a waiting list and to call me if someone does upgrade. From when they first came out from Belgium, maybe someone is looking for a 5-10 year upgrade?

What is your timeframe for this purchase?

Meanwhile, I''ll talk to GOG about taking a look at his 1.33 H&A. Do you think the price listed on the diamond of 8.7k is negotiable?

Not sure but feel free to ask Jon.

 

[CharmyPoo]

Date: 1/23/2010 12:15:32 AM
Author: Roxie Bling
Thank you for your input.

Charmy, are you saying that the 8 main modern cushions look more like the Novo cushion than the H&A? I thought I heard Jon say that the H&A were similar to the Novos, but maybe I am blurring what I hear. I have listened to so much.

My personal opinion and it may not be a fact. I had the chance to see many Novos up close and personal - I was planning to get one myself and many of my closest friends own one. To me, the square H&A have a stronger more mascualine feel - perhaps it is because of the strong edges and strong lines. The 8 main modern cushions that Mark gets have softer lines and a different shape which is really pleasing to my eye. Do they perform as well as the square H&A - perhaps not - but they have so much appeal and personality on their own. My guy friend sitting across from me was commenting that my ring was blinding him all night because it was so sparkly and I haven''t cleaned the ring in weeks and it was filled with fingerprints.

I found three potential options for you - they aren''t exactly what you are looking for but I don''t know how much time you have to wait for the right stone.

 

[CharmyPoo]

This one is over 20K but on paper looks pretty good except for the culet

 

[CharmyPoo]

Not a fan of culets in modern cushions and this one is a medium. The strong blue flourescence could be interesting or not depending on your preference. The stone is also more rectangular. Priced at around $15 K.

 

[CharmyPoo]

This one is a chunky one. You will be paying a premium for an IF but again - stock is limited to what is available and how long you can wait. Strong Blue could be interesting and helps with price. I find it kind of cool. The table is a little larger but the stone can be very nice. This stone will appear square. It is not too deep so it will face up larger but need to double check and see if the optics are impacted. Vendor comments notes that it is a super beauty. Priced just under $10,000.

 

[CharmyPoo]

Ooops .. ignore those options. I just went back to read your budget and not sure what I was thinking.

 

[ChunkyCushionLover]

Date: 1/23/2010 8:33:57 AM
Author: CharmyPoo
Not a fan of culets in modern cushions and this one is a medium. The strong blue flourescence could be interesting or not depending on your preference. The stone is also more rectangular. Priced at around $15 K.

Woah nice find I have never seen a modern 8 main with a LW ratio of 1.18. Strong Fluoro wouldn't bother me, but the LW might.
I think Medium culet is nothing to worry about in real life not more than a small point.

 

[Roxie Bling]

Thanks Charmy. Were you wearing your chunky or your modern cushion when the guy said that about it being blinding? I''m sure you never get tired of hearing that. Since a lot of your friends have the Tiffany Novo, how do you think your diamond compares to them. Can you see a difference?

I would consider the last one you showed me, but the strong blue fluorescence does make me hesitate.

I am really not in a rush at all. Of course, I''d like to find a diamond so that I can wear a ring again. But, I''ve waited this long, I can wait longer for a stone I won''t ever feel I settled for.

Do either of you know who the original vendor of the 8 main cushions was? I was thinking that maybe people would be turning their old ones in for an upgrade, and that would be my in to the 8 main modern cushion carat world. I personally would love to see Antique cushions get even MORE popular so that people who have the modern kind start trading in.

Where did you find the diamonds you sent me reports for? I''d love to monitor supply. I had been doing searches, but hadn''t even found anything that was both square and a modern 8 main. Please keep recommendations coming if you come across diamonds you think I might like.

Thank you!

 

[CharmyPoo]

I was wearing my stone from Mark. The blinding comment might not just be the center diamond - it could also be the split shank pave - I went with Maytal and she uses very high quality melee diamonds. Of course .. the bright restaurant lights also help. However, I must say that I have received many compliments on this particular ring even from strangers walking down the street. My August Vintage hasn''t been set yet - I have been trying to find some time to sit down with Leon and figure it out. To be honest, I haven''t seen my AV in more than 5 months. It has been sitting with the Appraiser waiting to be sent to Leon. You can tell .. I am not in a rush ... all my spare time goes to the craziness of planning a wedding (and trying to find the perfect vendors).

My honest answer is that my diamond is nicer than any of the novos I have seen. I can be bias but I honestly feel that way. You just get so much more for your money.

I believe and I can be wrong that the diamonds are from the source that ERD gets some of their 8 main modern diamonds from. I believe they are a vendor that sells to the public and to vendors. When I got my diamond, the stock number resembled the naming convention used by this vendor. I am sure ERD can source these diamonds for you and you will get their policies and service. The other vendor does not have any of the customer service that comes with it. I get mailed a newsletter from them with their inventory. I am hesistant to actually post the vendor because I am not recommending them to an average customer even though they may be able to get a better price.

Take your time and wait for the right diamond. It will take a lot of effort on your part to keep checking the online inventories and making sure your selected vendors know what you are looking for and that you are serious. CCL seems to be a little obsessive like me so we will be here for you

Many PSers know my journey. My fiance first got me a 4 main cushion but he wasn''t sure about it so after 3 months of poor Mark holding the diamond .. my fiance took me there to look at it (I was resistant at first because I wanted it to be a surprise). It was gorgeous but then Mark pulled out another PSer''s 8 main modern cushion. Instantly, I knew that was what I wanted .. I couldn''t even consider the 4 main cushion (this is why I really push others to look at them in real life before making the decision). Luckily, on that day, he found my current modern cushion and my fiance purchased it and set it (the setting is another long story that I will save for another day). So come the new year and our decision that the setting just wasn''t it, we decided to start on our journey to look for a new diamond - this time I wanted a chunky stone. I saw many beautiful ones but none of them were it since high performance, color, clarity, ratio etc were on all my list of must haves. 10 months later - I finally got my August Vintage which met my desires. In the end, none of this really matters - my fiance got tired of waiting for the ring and proposed last October with a ring he made out of cardboard (this is now a whole 1.5 years after he started on his diamond search). In this time, we joke around that we could have gotten married and had kids!

Ok.. time for me to shut up before I sound more shallow than I already do. I am not proud of what I put my poor fiance through .. I am so lucky to have such a sweetheart that went along and still is riding the engagement ring train.

I am here for you!

 

[Roxie Bling]

Date: 1/23/2010 8:37:01 AM
Author: CharmyPoo
This one is a chunky one. You will be paying a premium for an IF but again - stock is limited to what is available and how long you can wait. Strong Blue could be interesting and helps with price. I find it kind of cool. The table is a little larger but the stone can be very nice. This stone will appear square. It is not too deep so it will face up larger but need to double check and see if the optics are impacted. Vendor comments notes that it is a super beauty. Priced just under $10,000.

How can you tell that this one is a chunky and not a modern cushion? I think Mark from ERD found this same diamond, so I want to know what as much about it as possible for when we discuss it.

Strong blue... when would this be an issue/ or not?

Thank you.

 

[ChunkyCushionLover]

Date: 1/27/2010 3:16:12 PM
Author: Roxie Bling

Date: 1/23/2010 8:37:01 AM
Author: CharmyPoo
This one is a chunky one. You will be paying a premium for an IF but again - stock is limited to what is available and how long you can wait. Strong Blue could be interesting and helps with price. I find it kind of cool. The table is a little larger but the stone can be very nice. This stone will appear square. It is not too deep so it will face up larger but need to double check and see if the optics are impacted. Vendor comments notes that it is a super beauty. Priced just under $10,000.

How can you tell that this one is a chunky and not a modern cushion? I think Mark from ERD found this same diamond, so I want to know what as much about it as possible for when we discuss it.

Strong blue... when would this be an issue/ or not?

Thank you.

Its a chunky, look on the certificate at the inclusion plot, if the arrows are thick its chunky if thinner its the modern faceted thinner style.

Strong Blue is usually not a problem, some of them are milky but that is very rare and I doubt from this vendor that would be the case you can ask mark about it.
With Strong blue Fluoro in some lighting(with more UV) like sunlight it may have a slight blue purple appearance to it, I like this appearance and find it attractive in higher colors but its a matter of preference.
You get a discount because of the Fluoro but you pay extra for it being internally flawless, the depth is slightly lower (64% versus 65-69) than I would typically want to see for a chunky 8 main so look for darkness(obstruction) under the table especially near the culet but this could also be perfectly fine its so close to ideal.

If you want more opinions get Mark to do an ASET and photograph and post them here.

Good-Luck,
CCl

 

[ChunkyCushionLover]

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