Any BGD experience to share?

[Double E]

Hi all, looking for a replacement Ering diamond as an anniversary gift, with original post here: https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/diamond-ring-as-anniversary-gift.241646/

Just wondering if any one have experience having custom cut stone with fluorescence from BGD due to no suitable BGD Blue stone available in the inventory? Is it harder to request custom fluorescent stone with desired spec than diamonds without it?

Am now awaiting BGD to provide a video or photo comparison for high and lower colour stones (like J) in order to make up my mind whether to narrow down my desired range as F to H / VS / 0.8X c after having many feedback from fellow PSer in the previous post. Would appreciate if anyone could share their experiences and views.

 

[SimoneDi]

I have purchased and upgraded through BGD multiple times and I have had a great experience overall each and every time.

I am not sure if I would necessarily go the custom route. BGD also has their “advance” selection where they list stones that are currently in production.

What is your budget for the stone? Also, which lab certified your wife’s existing diamond? And lastly, what ring size is she?

 

[Double E]

I have purchased and upgraded through BGD multiple times and I have had a great experience overall each and every time.

I am not sure if I would necessarily go the custom route. BGD also has their “advance” selection where they list stones that are currently in production.

What is your budget for the stone? Also, which lab certified your wife’s existing diamond? And lastly, what ring size is she?

It's a GIA 0.75 / F / VS2 on my wife's finger which honestly commented as "steep deep" by some volks here, which I agree not the best cut.

Originally offered a custom cut Black by BGD of 0.8-0.85 c / F or G / VS 1 or 2 costing Max $5800 which is a bit higher than my original budget, $5000 (although I m happy to raise a bit). Just wanna check if I can save a bit by requesting a fluorescent stone in similar color range with them.

 

[Double E]

Understood that I will need to significantly drop the color if I want a larger size, that's why I would like the video comparison to judge or at least have a better idea of the color difference; I may rather prefer to focus on the cur quality upgrade rather than bigger size jump, considering it's just our first upgrade for our 1st anniversary.

 

[SimoneDi]

Understood that I will need to significantly drop the color if I want a larger size, that's why I would like the video comparison to judge or at least have a better idea of the color difference; I may rather prefer to focus on the cur quality upgrade rather than bigger size jump, considering it's just our first upgrade for our 1st anniversary.

Ah that is so sweet of you to want to upgrade her ring for your first anniversary! Hm.. I have another idea. If your main goal is to improve cut, why don’t you send in your existing diamond to Brian Gavin for a recut evaluation? I have personally done 3 diamond recuts with BGD and all of them came back amazing! If your existing is a steep/deep, then you probably wouldn’t lose much of the diameter either way. The recuts run about $350 per carat, but you can ask them for updated pricing. You can then upgrade your wife’s setting/band, etc. Or you can add two small side stones and make a three stone ring. Many options available that don’t need to break the bank

 

[Double E]

BTW I am curious if it's unusual to ask for specific video or photo before finalising a deal? Cox It's been 2 days since I asked such...

 

[SimoneDi]

BTW I am curious if it's unusual to ask for specific video or photo before finalising a deal? Cox It's been 2 days since I asked such...

I would give them a call.

 

[tyty333]

BTW I am curious if it's unusual to ask for specific video or photo before finalising a deal? Cox It's been 2 days since I asked such...

I know another vendor that does it all the time so I wouldnt think it would be an issue for BGD. I would also call...might get the ball rolling a little faster.

 

[tyty333]

I didnt completely read your other thread but wondering why you are considering going the custom route when there are similar vendors that
have stones available in your price range/specs. I would never recommend going custom unless there was a particular reason you had to.

 

[TreeScientist]

Ah that is so sweet of you to want to upgrade her ring for your first anniversary! Hm.. I have another idea. If your main goal is to improve cut, why don’t you send in your existing diamond to Brian Gavin for a recut evaluation? I have personally done 3 diamond recuts with BGD and all of them came back amazing! If your existing is a steep/deep, then you probably wouldn’t lose much of the diameter either way. The recuts run about $350 per carat, but you can ask them for updated pricing. You can then upgrade your wife’s setting/band, etc. Or you can add two small side stones and make a three stone ring. Many options available that don’t need to break the bank

The re-cut is a great idea @SimoneDi! The current diamond of the OP honestly isn't that bad (judging by the specs posted in his other thread) and as a GIA graded F/VS the rough is obviously of high quality. It might make much more sense to have the current stone re-cut to ideal proportions if it would cost you under $500 to do so, especially if you have no other plan for your current stone. Would likely only lose a bit of carat weight and, as @SimoneDi said, the face-up diameter would likely remain the same.

 

[SimoneDi]

The re-cut is a great idea @SimoneDi! The current diamond of the OP honestly isn't that bad (judging by the specs posted in his other thread) and as a GIA graded F/VS the rough is obviously of high quality. It might make much more sense to have the current stone re-cut to ideal proportions if it would cost you under $500 to do so, especially if you have no other plan for your current stone. Would likely only lose a bit of carat weight and, as @SimoneDi said, the face-up diameter would likely remain the same.

Oh that’s great! I haven’t checked the other thread. Recut is usually $350 per carat and that’s the min charge even if the stone is under 1ct. A new AGS certification is $250 plus shipping. So just about $500. My first recut with them was a steep/deep and I only lost 0.2mm if I recall correctly.

 

[Double E]

I didnt completely read your other thread but wondering why you are considering going the custom route when there are similar vendors that
have stones available in your price range/specs. I would never recommend going custom unless there was a particular reason you had to.

I didn't mean to opt for custom originally, but was kindly informed that due to lack of suitable stone on inventory, they can specially cut one for me. Was greatful for the offer despite a bit over budget, because it shown they strived to get what I desired. May be I was being so tentative in our email communication, but I rather believe it's just myself being over sensitive as haven't got their reply yet.

 

[Double E]

Oh that’s great! I haven’t checked the other thread. Recut is usually $350 per carat and that’s the min charge even if the stone is under 1ct. A new AGS certification is $250 plus shipping. So just about $500. My first recut with them was a steep/deep and I only lost 0.2mm if I recall correctly.

As a cut enthusiast, I buy the recut idea as its like a reborn for the diamond, But I am not that confident to convince her as it may possibly make the Tock smaller, despite it may be hard to detect the difference. You know that man

 

[SimoneDi]

As a cut enthusiast, I buy the recut idea as its like a reborn for the diamond, But I am not that confident to convince her as it may possibly make the Tock smaller, despite it may be hard to detect the difference. You know that man

The cut difference will definitely be noticeable, but it is your decision. You can always have him evaluate the stone and decide what to do afterwards. Would she be interested in a halo/setting upgrade? A halo can add a lot of presence.

 

[sledge]

I love BGD. Lesley is awesome to work with, but an extremely busy lady. Definitely pick up the phone and call her. She will make you a priority!

Reading through the above, it sounds like you want to buy the diamond I chose a few months back. Mine is a BGD Blue 0.867ct, H, VS2. Price was around $4,800. Here is the video, pics, etc of it. They don't normally post the hearts image for the Blue series, but I asked and Lesley emailed it because she rocks.

https://www.briangavindiamonds.com/...0.867-h-vs2-round-diamond-ags-bl-104098623002



What are your plans with the existing GIA stone? Are you going to sell it and put the funds towards the cost of the new BGD stone to offset your out-of-pocket expense? If so, has BGD offered to work with you on a trade option? As you probably know, used market on diamonds can be less than desirable. Many times you only get back 50 cents for every dollar you originally spent, and sometimes less than that.

I only ask because if BGD can take your existing stone and cut & certify to superideal standards without sacrificing the L x W dimensions in a significant way, this would help you get the most bang for the buck. FYI, it takes about 0.20mm difference for the naked eye to see a size difference. So if your current stone is 6.00 x 6.00mm, theoretically you could go down to about 5.80 x 5.80mm without seeing a true size reduction. Yes, the carat weight will reduce because carat weight is based on multiplying the horizontal planes (L & W) by the vertical planes (D, or depth).

To recap if you can re-cut the existing stone to BGD superideal standards, get AGS certification and keep your dimensions at 0.20mm or less in the L & W horizontal planes, then that is a steal for $600 (cut & cert fees). Spend some money and do a beautiful halo setting of some sort, and your girl will have super sparkly plus the ring will feel bigger because of the halo setting. I'm guessing your all in cost will be about $2,500 or so.

You'd need to talk with BGD and have Brian confirm what he can or can't do with your specific stone. But assuming it's a go, I really like this option. Better yet, I'd ask Brian if this would now qualify you for his upgrade program. Assuming he would be agreeable, this might be the best way to maximize the dollar value of your existing stone.

Definitely not trying to talk you out of a BGD stone. I can just see how your specific situation might lend a different path that is more advantageous for you. If you do decide to bite the bullet and get a new stone now, I really couldn't think of anyone better than BGD. Love them and their cut quality.

 

[KirstLWA]

@Double E BGD have been flat out lately so I am sure they haven't forgotten you and will respond when they can. I think this diamond business is a balancing act and all the vendors do the best they can to please everyone.

I don't know how Lesley does it but that amazing woman seems to work 38 hours a day! Give her some time and she will give you the same focussed attention she gives everyone.

I am yet to receive my ring however so far, their customer service and willingness to please has been exceptional. Outstanding.

Hang in there, it will be worth the wait!

 

[bmfang]

I don't know how Lesley does it but that amazing woman seems to work 38 hours a day! Give her some time and she will give you the same focussed attention she gives everyone.

Agreed, my purchases from BGD with her were agreed upon at midnight Houston time (around 3pm in the afternoon the following day here in Australia). Cannot fault her dedication to customer service at all!

 

[Dancing Fire]

Lesley is one of the best!

 

[Double E]

I love BGD. Lesley is awesome to work with, but an extremely busy lady. Definitely pick up the phone and call her. She will make you a priority!

Reading through the above, it sounds like you want to buy the diamond I chose a few months back. Mine is a BGD Blue 0.867ct, H, VS2. Price was around $4,800. Here is the video, pics, etc of it. They don't normally post the hearts image for the Blue series, but I asked and Lesley emailed it because she rocks.

https://www.briangavindiamonds.com/...0.867-h-vs2-round-diamond-ags-bl-104098623002



What are your plans with the existing GIA stone? Are you going to sell it and put the funds towards the cost of the new BGD stone to offset your out-of-pocket expense? If so, has BGD offered to work with you on a trade option? As you probably know, used market on diamonds can be less than desirable. Many times you only get back 50 cents for every dollar you originally spent, and sometimes less than that.

I only ask because if BGD can take your existing stone and cut & certify to superideal standards without sacrificing the L x W dimensions in a significant way, this would help you get the most bang for the buck. FYI, it takes about 0.20mm difference for the naked eye to see a size difference. So if your current stone is 6.00 x 6.00mm, theoretically you could go down to about 5.80 x 5.80mm without seeing a true size reduction. Yes, the carat weight will reduce because carat weight is based on multiplying the horizontal planes (L & W) by the vertical planes (D, or depth).

To recap if you can re-cut the existing stone to BGD superideal standards, get AGS certification and keep your dimensions at 0.20mm or less in the L & W horizontal planes, then that is a steal for $600 (cut & cert fees). Spend some money and do a beautiful halo setting of some sort, and your girl will have super sparkly plus the ring will feel bigger because of the halo setting. I'm guessing your all in cost will be about $2,500 or so.

You'd need to talk with BGD and have Brian confirm what he can or can't do with your specific stone. But assuming it's a go, I really like this option. Better yet, I'd ask Brian if this would now qualify you for his upgrade program. Assuming he would be agreeable, this might be the best way to maximize the dollar value of your existing stone.

Definitely not trying to talk you out of a BGD stone. I can just see how your specific situation might lend a different path that is more advantageous for you. If you do decide to bite the bullet and get a new stone now, I really couldn't think of anyone better than BGD. Love them and their cut quality.

What a gem! Simply beautiful! Thank you so much for your sharing and the kind recommendations too. This time, having a new stone will still be my priority~but after that, in the future, I will definitely check and see if our original stone can be transformed into an ideal one! Having all your stones being the sparkliest is so tempting, don't you agree?^^

 

[Double E]

@Double E BGD have been flat out lately so I am sure they haven't forgotten you and will respond when they can. I think this diamond business is a balancing act and all the vendors do the best they can to please everyone.

I don't know how Lesley does it but that amazing woman seems to work 38 hours a day! Give her some time and she will give you the same focussed attention she gives everyone.

I am yet to receive my ring however so far, their customer service and willingness to please has been exceptional. Outstanding.

Hang in there, it will be worth the wait!

Thanks and Well aware that BGD is having promotion recently, this may make them more busy at the moment, I will be more patient

 

[Double E]

Thanks so much guys, you did calm me down while I am waiting for their feedback. I just s emailed them again gently checking for updates and hopefully will hear from them soon. And may be I just make use of the time at the moment to look into desired ring style first~

 

[WillyDiamond]

People who have read my posts over the years know I am a big fan of BGD and Lesley.
And for good reason.
Have had multiple purchases from her over the years.
Yes, she is a busy lady so pick up the phone and call her. I find her very endearing and so easy to work with. Also, on my last project she got Brian involved, so she called me one day and told me that Brian wanted to talk with me. What I thought would be a few minute call turned into about 25-30 minutes. Brian loves to talk about diamonds and his work, he is a perfectionist, I am not. ha ha.
He not only wants to get it right, he wants you to be 100% happy.
Anyway, best of luck.

 

[Shinybaubles]

In my experience, BGD's customer service has been flawless. My solitaire is a blue and I recently bought the BGD 2-ct shared prong bangle in platinum. I love my sparkly stone (just regret buying an "I" because I see the tint -- will eventually upgrade), however, I am completely mad about my bangle. The melee is drop-dead stunning. When I wear it, I am transfixed by how beautiful each individual stone is. I really can't fathom how BGD cuts each small stone so perfectly. Even dirty, the stones are on fire. Sooooo, I would not hesitate to either wait for what you want to pop up, or have them do a custom cut. My trust level is 100%.

 

[Double E]

People who have read my posts over the years know I am a big fan of BGD and Lesley.
And for good reason.
Have had multiple purchases from her over the years.
Yes, she is a busy lady so pick up the phone and call her. I find her very endearing and so easy to work with. Also, on my last project she got Brian involved, so she called me one day and told me that Brian wanted to talk with me. What I thought would be a few minute call turned into about 25-30 minutes. Brian loves to talk about diamonds and his work, he is a perfectionist, I am not. ha ha.
He not only wants to get it right, he wants you to be 100% happy.
Anyway, best of luck.

What an amazing experience, you can talk directly to the master! And thanks for your share too!!

 

[Double E]

In my experience, BGD's customer service has been flawless. My solitaire is a blue and I recently bought the BGD 2-ct shared prong bangle in platinum. I love my sparkly stone (just regret buying an "I" because I see the tint -- will eventually upgrade), however, I am completely mad about my bangle. The melee is drop-dead stunning. When I wear it, I am transfixed by how beautiful each individual stone is. I really can't fathom how BGD cuts each small stone so perfectly. Even dirty, the stones are on fire. Sooooo, I would not hesitate to either wait for what you want to pop up, or have them do a custom cut. My trust level is 100%.

Thanks! And I agree crafting tiny stones to such precision is even harder than bigger ones. Simply an art.

 

[Double E]

Guys~I got BGD's reply and am back on track now!^^

 

[Double E]

Hi all, just let you know that I just confirmed to start a custom cut project with BGD, looking forward to that!

 

[SimoneDi]

Awesome! Keep us posted!

 

[sledge]

Congrats....what specifically are they building for you? You going for a Blue, Standard or Black?

 

[Double E]

Congrats....what specifically are they building for you? You going for a Blue, Standard or Black?

I custom order a 0.85 - 0.89 BGD Black with F or G, Lesley and Jamie are so kind. My picky requests have even communicated to Brian by them. I am now summarising my idea on the ring, but the taper six prong is already quite delicate!