Best 5 stone setting for my E-ring?

[tfc_diamondlvr]

Hello PSers!!

This forum has provided me with enough guidance and eye candy that the bling bug has bitten me!

I decided that my wedding band will be a 5 stone ring. Total ct weight = 1. 66 approx ct.
Each diamond is around 30 pointers. One of the diamonds is .37 and the other is .38. The rest are around .30.

My ring size is a 4.75.
They'll be making the setting in 18k gold.
I am going to have the setting made by my local jeweler.

I forgot to take a photo of the setting that they suggested for my ring. They said the ring could be made by next Saturday.

However, I figured I'd better ask the PSers here for advice about what to do.

There's a lot of different settings out there, but I'm worried about height and style to best showcase the diamonds, but still have them securely in the setting and not completely chewing up my e-ring.

Do I need a spacer at all? I realize that the size might be super blingy for my e-ring, but I really don't care. I love chunky bling. I also wanted to get a WB that I could wear its own if I don't want to wear my e-ring (travel, babies etc)

I've looked at a bunch from Brian Gavin (that I love!) and other designs. I'm not experienced enough to tell what to beware of for these 5 stone settings.

Any help would be most appreciated! I'm going to try and get information to them asap (hopefully tomorrow) so they can change the setting!

I'm including a pic of my e-ring for reference (it's the Tiffany setting with channel band). My e-ring is a 1.37 ct.

 

[SimoneDi]

@tfc_diamondlvr have you tried a 5 stonen with your lovely e-ring? Do you like the look? I love 5 stones on their own, but sometimes they can clash eith e-rings. If I were you and wanted chunky bling look, I would probably go with a 7 stone 15 pointer each band.that would for you an “eternity” band look from the top and I think that it would still look ok with your e-ring. If you are to go with a 5 stone, I would actually just look at 25pt each because of your small ring size. I am not a fan of mismatched diamond and I can see a difference between 30pt vs 38pt. Are you working with a local jeweler for your band? Have you reached to IDJ to compare estimates? They make some beautiful bands and their diamonds are top notch. The only setting I would get if you want to wear it next to your e-ring would be a low set, shared prong setting. Similar to this:


I also like it when the prongs are pinched in together and created a scalloped look.

Please try on some larger bands before you commission your band to make sure that you like the overall look

 

[tfc_diamondlvr]

@SimoneDi Thanks so much for your insights!!!!!
I already put a deposit down on the ring, so I'm kinda stuck.
I guess what was going through my mind was I wanted a nice WB that I could wear as a standalone piece in the future = maybe even wear my ering on a separate hand to the WB.

Or, have a spacer between the ering and my WB to ease the larger size of the WB.

I was sorta influenced by @ilovethiswebsite gorgeous ring from IDJ.
https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/i-d-jewelry-5-stone-ring.142391/

I went with those sizes because they were willing to give me a decent price (cdn) for the piece if I took whatever they had in stock. The owner said that if he had to order in the stones, it would cost more money.

Thanks also for giving me insight into the style of band I should get for these diamonds! I'm going to try and talk with them today or tomorrow to show them the design I want = esp the lower profile!

 

[tyty333]

More than likely you will need a spacer band but without knowing your exact setting its impossible to say.

 

[SimoneDi]

@SimoneDi Thanks so much for your insights!!!!!
I already put a deposit down on the ring, so I'm kinda stuck.
I guess what was going through my mind was I wanted a nice WB that I could wear as a standalone piece in the future = maybe even wear my ering on a separate hand to the WB.

Or, have a spacer between the ering and my WB to ease the larger size of the WB.

I was sorta influenced by @ilovethiswebsite gorgeous ring from IDJ.
https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/i-d-jewelry-5-stone-ring.142391/

I went with those sizes because they were willing to give me a decent price (cdn) for the piece if I took whatever they had in stock. The owner said that if he had to order in the stones, it would cost more money.

Thanks also for giving me insight into the style of band I should get for these diamonds! I'm going to try and talk with them today or tomorrow to show them the design I want = esp the lower profile!

If you are able to get 30pt stones in your 2-3k previously indicated price range, that is pretty good. I would ask them to make sure to set the largest stone in the middle and depending on what the exact measurements of the other stones are - to set them graduated. You will most likely not see the difference. You will need a spacer between the band and your e-ring. Check eweddingbands, they have great quality spacers and are pretty affordable.
I would also entertain the idea of wearing your band on the other hand as to not to complete with your beautiful e-ring.

 

[tfc_diamondlvr]

More than likely you will need a spacer band but without knowing your exact setting its impossible to say.

Yes, that's what I suspect. I'll be on the hunt for a nice spacer band soon.
I'm going to post another thread asking about spacers. I was at another jewelry store and the gemologist there told me to absolutely NOT get spacers. She said they break and pinch your skin and could break into your skin or your setting.
I was like "whaaaat?" It didn't make sense based on what I've read on here.

So, I'm still good for a spacer. But, I'm curious what other PSers think about that info.

If you are able to get 30pt stones in your 2-3k previously indicated price range, that is pretty good. I would ask them to make sure to set the largest stone in the middle and depending on what the exact measurements of the other stones are - to set them graduated. You will most likely not see the difference. You will need a spacer between the band and your e-ring. Check eweddingbands, they have great quality spacers and are pretty affordable.
I would also entertain the idea of wearing your band on the other hand as to not to complete with your beautiful e-ring.

Again, as always, your wise words are always appreciated.

I'll add that I also emailed ID jewelry as you suggested and I'm hoping they'll get back to me today with some type of quote.

I ended up paying $5k taxes in.
The deal was:
5 stones
.38 VVS2 G color
.37 VVS1 H color
.30 VVS1 H color
.32 VVS1 F color
.30 VS1 H color

18K white gold setting.

All will be laser inscribed and will come with their individual certificates from Gemscan.

I put a $500 deposit on the ring.
If you folks think it isn't a great deal than I'll get them to give me the $500 deposit back before they start making the ring *hopefully they will!*

I'll ask them to set the stones in a graduated fashion.
The stones were quite nice when I looked at them visually. Of course, I'm not an expert, but they didn't look cloudy.

I'll be on the hunt for an inexpensive spacer then. Of course.....I was half looking at small channel set bands as a spacer for me That might be overkill.

I'm quite excited for the ring. I can't wait to be part of the 5 stone club on here!

 

[SimoneDi]

Yes, that's what I suspect. I'll be on the hunt for a nice spacer band soon.
I'm going to post another thread asking about spacers. I was at another jewelry store and the gemologist there told me to absolutely NOT get spacers. She said they break and pinch your skin and could break into your skin or your setting.
I was like "whaaaat?" It didn't make sense based on what I've read on here.

So, I'm still good for a spacer. But, I'm curious what other PSers think about that info.



Again, as always, your wise words are always appreciated.

I'll add that I also emailed ID jewelry as you suggested and I'm hoping they'll get back to me today with some type of quote.

I ended up paying $5k taxes in.
The deal was:
5 stones
.38 VVS2 G color
.37 VVS1 H color
.30 VVS1 H color
.32 VVS1 F color
.30 VS1 H color

18K white gold setting.

All will be laser inscribed and will come with their individual certificates from Gemscan.

I put a $500 deposit on the ring.
If you folks think it isn't a great deal than I'll get them to give me the $500 deposit back before they start making the ring *hopefully they will!*

I'll ask them to set the stones in a graduated fashion.
The stones were quite nice when I looked at them visually. Of course, I'm not an expert, but they didn't look cloudy.

I'll be on the hunt for an inexpensive spacer then. Of course.....I was half looking at small channel set bands as a spacer for me That might be overkill.

I'm quite excited for the ring. I can't wait to be part of the 5 stone club on here!

The quote seems high for me, for roughly the same amount of money, you can have ideal cut certified stones. IDJ will likely come under. Please tell IDJ that you are looking for PS quality stones.

I would definitely call the jeweler and tell them to hold off. You have plenty of time before the wedding, a band will only take a few weeks to make. I am not a fan of the size difference between the stones, but it could be done. Since your center stone is an I color, you also don’t need F and G color diamonds in your band. I would look for an H color band VS2/SI1 eyeclean “PS quality” shared prong low set. That will give you a nice balance of color and budget. I would seriously consider 25pt instead of 30. On my hand size 5.5 25pt I found to be ideal size that can still be worn with a e-ring. 30pt are great, but you have a very small ring finder and most likely the side stone will rub against your adjacent fingers. However, it is your ring in the end, so you need to be happy with it please only get a small 1mm plain spacer for now and add more bling later

 

[Gussie]

I have to agree with @SimoneDi. Please try the 5 stone with your ring. I have a 1ctw 7 stone (14pts each) and I do not like it at all with my 2.5 ct ering. It overpowers the ering IMHO. A 5 stone with 30 pointers would be an awesome RHR!

 

[tfc_diamondlvr]

The quote seems high for me, for roughly the same amount of money, you can have ideal cut certified stones. IDJ will likely come under. Please tell IDJ that you are looking for PS quality stones.

I would definitely call the jeweler and tell them to hold off. You have plenty of time before the wedding, a band will only take a few weeks to make. I am not a fan of the size difference between the stones, but it could be done. Since your center stone is an I cooor, you also don’t need F and G color diamonds in your band. I would look for an H color band VS2/SI1 eyeclean “PS quality” shared prong low set.

Yes, I'll try to call IDJ today if they don't get back to me.
I'll call the jeweler as well.
My issue was the cdn dollar vs U.S. dollar differences with costs.
I'm curious what IDJ can do for PS quality diamonds!
Thanks and I'll keep updating this post with info as I get it!

 

[SimoneDi]

Yes, I'll try to call IDJ today if they don't get back to me.
I'll call the jeweler as well.
My issue was the cdn dollar vs U.S. dollar differences with costs.
I'm curious what IDJ can do for PS quality diamonds!
Thanks and I'll keep updating this post with info as I get it!

Ok makes sense re the price! IDJ are usually prompt in their responses. Joey is the person I usually work with, she is super friendly and always quick with her responses, but the entire team is great

 

[tfc_diamondlvr]

I have to agree with @SimoneDi. Please try the 5 stone with your ring. I have a 1ctw 7 stone (14pts each) and I do not like it at all with my 2.5 ct ering. It overpowers the ering IMHO. A 5 stone with 30 pointers would be an awesome RHR!

Hmm...
You folks have given me some food for thought.
I should also say that my parents want to help out with this ring. I think my mom was impressed with the clarity for the price at the shop we were at. In a retail environment in Canada, she hasn't seen prices like that for those diamonds etc. Esp when we were comparing those prices to Tiffany's

My dilemma is that I might not always be wearing my e-ring. Esp if I have children, I think the WB might be a safer and more casual option.
So, I was trying to pool my money together for the largest WB possible knowing that I could always find a smaller band later on to properly go with my e-ring.
I was trying to think about the size of the WB that might still be substantial enough to wear on its own but could *maybe* go with my e-ring if I had a spacer.

I see your point though. The sizing is what I'm afraid of.
But, I just didn't want to make the same mistake I did with Tiffany's where I went for a smaller stone, but realized later that it just wasn't right for me.

I appreciate your insight and giving me your own experience as an example.
Let's see what IDJ has to say today!
If anyone else would like to recommend another retailer, I'm definitely interested!

 

[tfc_diamondlvr]

Ok makes sense re the price! IDJ are usually prompt in their responses. Joey is the person I usually work with, she is super friendly and always quick with her responses, but the entire team is great

Do you happen to have a direct email to Joey?
I sent an email from their website, but perhaps I might get a quicker response with Joey?

Thanks!!

 

[ac117]

You should be able to live chat with IDJ, too - just go on their website. I'd hold off on this purchase....don't rush into decisions and regret them later. That seems to have happened with your Tiffany ring and I'm so glad it turned out great for you in the long run, but it was a long frustrating road!

 

[tyty333]

Yes, that's what I suspect. I'll be on the hunt for a nice spacer band soon.
I'm going to post another thread asking about spacers. I was at another jewelry store and the gemologist there told me to absolutely NOT get spacers. She said they break and pinch your skin and could break into your skin or your setting.
I was like "whaaaat?" It didn't make sense based on what I've read on here.

So, I'm still good for a spacer. But, I'm curious what other PSers think about that info.

What??? What was this jeweler wearing for a spacer ring? Barbed-wire? We have plenty of PSers who wear spacer bands (also called separator bands).
If you get one with smooth edges I dont see why you should have any problems. I would definitely wait until you get your 5 stone before getting your
spacer band...wait to make sure you need one.

There are lots of choices on etsy when the time comes...
https://www.etsy.com/listing/573237...26eeb6b042a2c26eac684fd4ea7293b92c9:573237541
https://www.etsy.com/listing/533018...ld-thin-stacking-band?ref=shop_home_active_31

I wore a small rose gold one with my previous ering setting and you couldnt really even feel it was there.

 

[SimoneDi]

Do you happen to have a direct email to Joey?
I sent an email from their website, but perhaps I might get a quicker response with Joey?

Thanks!!

I don’t want to list her info here, but if you call and ask for her, she will get in touch with you. You can mention my name, she would probably remember me

 

[tfc_diamondlvr]

Ok makes sense re the price! IDJ are usually prompt in their responses. Joey is the person I usually work with, she is super friendly and always quick with her responses, but the entire team is great

I just got a response for IJD! They are extremely prompt AND professional!
They are pretty amazing! You folks were 100% right!

So, for 5 .30 stones with GIA certs and VVS quality with F colors etc I'm looking at $5k for everything. So, if I was to compare that with my pricing = that's around $6.2K. I assume that a .37 and a .38 will be a bit more.
I suppose the comparable is $5k cdn vs around $6.5 - 6.8K cdn for the same thing.
The only other thing is I don't know if I'll pay customs at the border etc for the ring too.

Honestly, if I lived in the US I'd go with IDJ for my gems in a heartbeat!

You should be able to live chat with IDJ, too - just go on their website. I'd hold off on this purchase....don't rush into decisions and regret them later. That seems to have happened with your Tiffany ring and I'm so glad it turned out great for you in the long run, but it was a long frustrating road!

Yah, I might see if I can get that deposit back.
You're right about the Tiffany ring! I thought this time I'd do the right thing and turn to PSers. However, I broke my rule and didn't consult PSers first.

What??? What was this jeweler wearing for a spacer ring? Barbed-wire? We have plenty of PSers who wear spacer bands (also called separator bands).
If you get one with smooth edges I dont see why you should have any problems. I would definitely wait until you get your 5 stone before getting your
spacer band...wait to make sure you need one.

There are lots of choices on etsy when the time comes...
https://www.etsy.com/listing/573237541/solid-14k-white-gold-ring-thin-band?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=spacer band&ref=sc_gallery-1-2&plkey=f256526eeb6b042a2c26eac684fd4ea7293b92c9:573237541
https://www.etsy.com/listing/533018...ld-thin-stacking-band?ref=shop_home_active_31

I wore a small rose gold one with my previous ering setting and you couldnt really even feel it was there.

Amazing!
Thanks for that information. I'll be looking up the Etsy listings for ideas!

 

[tfc_diamondlvr]

I don’t want to list her info here, but if you call and ask for her, she will get in touch with you. You can mention my name, she would probably remember me

No problem! I realized that wasn't a good idea after I sent out the reply.

 

[ringo865]

Still going with VVS and F? Wonder what they'd quote for H color VS2/SI1 stones?

 

[SimoneDi]

Still going with VVS and F? Wonder what they'd quote for H color VS2/SI1 stones?

I second the idea. Honestly, I wouldn’t want 30pt F colorless diamonds next to my I color center. The I color never bothers me on its own and it is very white facing. However, next to colorless stones, I can see the difference. VVS clarity is usually an overkill, especially for smaller stones. Again, this is my opinion. At the end, the band is yours OP and you need to be happy with it!

 

[JDDN]

Exciting times!

I am going to mirror the others and say please do your homework and try on bands with various size stones with your e-ring and alone before you go forward with a custom project. Don't rush, you have time. A LOT of people come here after they have started or after the project is complete and are dissatisfied when all that could have been avoided! Also at 30 pointers, and even 20 and 15 pointers, cut totally matters . So have you gotten to see the grading reports or see these stones with your own eyes?

Again....take your time with this because it's an important piece of jewelry and you are spending a fair amount on it. From someone who has made mistakes and changed her mind a lot, take your time and get it right the first time !

 

[tfc_diamondlvr]

Still going with VVS and F? Wonder what they'd quote for H color VS2/SI1 stones?

Well, I think that I'd be paying the same price (with the rate of exchange) for VVS quality vs less quality with IDJ. That's not their issue, that's the cdn dollar issue. IDJ is a great price!
I can ask them about quotes for the lower quality ones out of curiosity and post my findings on here!

I second the idea. Honestly, I wouldn’t want 30pt F colorless diamonds next to my I color center. The I color never bothers me on its own and it is very white facing. However, next to colorless stones, I can see the difference. VVS clarity is usually an overkill, especially for smaller stones. Again, this is my opinion. At the end, the band is yours OP and you need to be happy with it!

I AGREE with your statement.
I'm going to throw another wrench into the works:

So, I took my parents to this jeweler just for them to get a feel for things too. Like I mentioned in the past, my parents love jewelry shopping, so this was a treat for them.

Anyways, they were pretty impressed with the quality of the stones and the price

Side story: (they helped my brother get his engagement ring at a larger diamond store and let's just say that PSers would be unimpressed with the pricing. He was stuck because he had a 1 ct diamond ring from an old relationship and didn't want to use the same diamond. So, he needed to exchange the diamond. Nowhere in our area would give him the same value that he paid except this place (Mark Lash Jewelers). The only reason they gave him the same amount is because he doubled his money. So, he purchased a 1.35 ct VS2 H color diamond with a $5.8K diamond 18k wg band for $25K).

My mother really liked the idea of me getting the highest quality diamonds possible. I insisted that I didn't need to spend the money on such high quality diamonds, esp because my main stone isn't even that great.

However, she really wanted me to have a larger diamond wedding band that was the best quality possible (she's old school, so she doesn't know about super ideal cuts etc...but besides, it doesn't seem like that's possible in my budget).
So, she took me aside and told me she'd like to contribute about 40% of the cost for the ring.
My father independently wanted me to have the ring so he put down the deposit.
They agreed that this ring would also function as a standalone piece when I didn't want to wear my e-ring.
Again, I am beginning to see what you folks are talking about.
Perhaps I should go to a few jewelry stores tomorrow to see sizes.
I'm just worried we'll lose out on my dad's deposit. I know my mom might be a bit bummed out

Thanks again for your efforts in helping me find peace with my jewelry. I have a few more dynamics in play with this ring, so things are getting a bit complicated.
You have been such an advocate, and in this situation, you are amazing!

Exciting times!

I am going to mirror the others and say please do your homework and try on bands with various size stones with your e-ring and alone before you go forward with a custom project. Don't rush, you have time. A LOT of people come here after they have started or after the project is complete and are dissatisfied when all that could have been avoided! Also at 30 pointers, and even 20 and 15 pointers, cut totally matters . So have you gotten to see the grading reports or see these stones with your own eyes?

Again....take your time with this because it's an important piece of jewelry and you are spending a fair amount on it. From someone who has made mistakes and changed her mind a lot, take your time and get it right the first time !

Thanks for your insights!
I did get a chance to look at the appraisals and see the stones myself. Again, I'm a newbie in this process, so I don't know exactly what to look for when it comes to cut with the naked eye. But, as far as I could tell, the diamonds seemed quite lovely.

Would you mind telling me a story or two about some of your own learning lessons? I want to make PSers proud of my purchase, so I hope that if I go forward with this ring...it wouldn't be a disappointment.

Because my parents are helping me pay for the ring, I'm able to purchase another less expensive wedding band to go with my e-ring.
I was thinking about making an offer on this one:
https://www.idonowidont.com/weddingbands/tiffany-co-diamond-wedding-band-channel-set

The thing is, I don't know if that's the same band as I tried on at Tiffany's (honestly, I tried looking at the Tiffany website, but it's hard to tell what is what).

Here's a pic of the band I tried on at Tiffany's that I thought was cute. I was hoping that the one on IDNID was the same one:



Thanks again for your help.

 

[princessk]

Where are you in Canada? I have a jeweller/wholesaler who is excellent in Vancouver.

 

[tfc_diamondlvr]

Where are you in Canada? I have a jeweller/wholesaler who is excellent in Vancouver.

Oh la la!
I'm in Toronto! Thanks for your willingness to share your jeweler info!
Please feel free to PM me the info. I guess I need to act fast before the folks end up making my ring. I'm so worried about losing the deposit. My poor dad took out money from his savings for it (unbeknownst to me).

 

[JDDN]

So I'm confused (and a bit slow, lol). You put down a $500 deposit at your local jewelry store....is that the same place your dad put down the deposit? In other words, there is only one $500 deposit currently and it is from your dad?

Okay, mind you this is only my suggestion, but I suggest you slow down and get your deposit back before they make the ring. If you decide to move forward they will still take your money! There is no meanness or judgement in my next statement, but you are not ready to proceed. You don't know what you want yet and thus you don't know what to ask for. This is the dangerous territory I was talking about. People come here and they have paid non-refundable deposits or half the total and they do not like the end result. They figure out what exactly they want AFTER the fact and they either realize the jeweler cannot create what they want or they are better served somewhere else and they land in the painful situation of losing out of a lot of $$ and starting over or settling for a ring that they are only so-so about. And I can tell you it is largely because they rushed and didn't take the time to vet out what exactly they want. Doing a custom project, even something seemingly simple like a 5 stone band can get nuanced, so please let us help you figure out exactly what you want before you proceed.

Here are a couple concerns that I'd need to discuss with any jeweler before any money is put down (for me, lol):
- There's a reasonable difference between .38 and .30, be careful that you actually don't mind that. You may! So get them all lined up the way you think you'd want them and see how you feel.

- Let us see the reports on the stones and we can tell you if they are well cut. Are they only appraised by the jewelry store? Or do they have actual grading reports? That will tell us a lot (or a little, lol).

- Will they be doing a CAD for you? A wax model for you to try on?

- You need to discuss how you want the stones set. Shared prong, individual prong, etc. And how high and how low. I second SimoneDi's suggestion of a low set shared prong, but really you need to try on different styles to know what you like best.

- Have you discussed what happens if you are not satisfied with the end result? Will they remake the ring at no charge? Can you get a refund? Store credit? And then decide what is satisfactory to you.

I don't mean to overwhelm you but I've seen these 'simple' projects take lots of twists and turns and create a lot of stress. You seem like a very sweet person and after everything with your e-ring, I want this to be a successful the first time around project!!

And for my own personal experience....I've had them ALL. I could write a novel . Ask something specific and I'll see if I can recount .

 

[tfc_diamondlvr]

So I'm confused (and a bit slow, lol). You put down a $500 deposit at your local jewelry store....is that the same place your dad put down the deposit? In other words, there is only one $500 deposit currently and it is from your dad?

Okay, mind you this is only my suggestion, but I suggest you slow down and get your deposit back before they make the ring. If you decide to move forward they will still take your money! There is no meanness or judgement in my next statement, but you are not ready to proceed. You don't know what you want yet and thus you don't know what to ask for. This is the dangerous territory I was talking about. People come here and they have paid non-refundable deposits or half the total and they do not like the end result. They figure out what exactly they want AFTER the fact and they either realize the jeweler cannot create what they want or they are better served somewhere else and they land in the painful situation of losing out of a lot of $$ and starting over or settling for a ring that they are only so-so about. And I can tell you it is largely because they rushed and didn't take the time to vet out what exactly they want. Doing a custom project, even something seemingly simple like a 5 stone band can get nuanced, so please let us help you figure out exactly what you want before you proceed.

Here are a couple concerns that I'd need to discuss with any jeweler before any money is put down (for me, lol):
- There's a reasonable difference between .38 and .30, be careful that you actually don't mind that. You may! So get them all lined up the way you think you'd want them and see how you feel.

- Let us see the reports on the stones and we can tell you if they are well cut. Are they only appraised by the jewelry store? Or do they have actual grading reports? That will tell us a lot (or a little, lol).

- Will they be doing a CAD for you? A wax model for you to try on?

- You need to discuss how you want the stones set. Shared prong, individual prong, etc. And how high and how low. I second SimoneDi's suggestion of a low set shared prong, but really you need to try on different styles to know what you like best.

- Have you discussed what happens if you are not satisfied with the end result? Will they remake the ring at no charge? Can you get a refund? Store credit? And then decide what is satisfactory to you.

I don't mean to overwhelm you but I've seen these 'simple' projects take lots of twists and turns and create a lot of stress. You seem like a very sweet person and after everything with your e-ring, I want this to be a successful the first time around project!!

And for my own personal experience....I've had them ALL. I could write a novel . Ask something specific and I'll see if I can recount .

You are simply awesome!
Thanks for taking the time to write such a detailed reply!
Okay to get to your questions:

1) my dad put down a deposit at the same location
2) they have Gemscan reports for each stone. She offered to send the stones to get GIA appraisals, but said it would cost a bit more
3) I can probably get access to the reports.
4) I'm going to go in tomorrow and see if I can get my refund. I'm worried since it's a small place that they won't give me my deposit back. But, we'll see.
5) They do CAD models of the rings and I could see the ring ahead of schedule if I want
6) They did ask what style I wanted. However, I don't know if they can do exactly the style I want. They will be more than happy to line up the stones as I see fit.
7) I haven't asked them what happens if I don't like the setting. I will ask them tomorrow about that.

I'm sad if I've got to lose the deposit for my ring, but let's see what can be done.
I'll try and get the reports tomorrow too if I can't get the refund!
So, have you ever been in my situation before where you jumped the gun to commission a custom piece and wound up disappointed? How did you resolve the issue? How did you get over the potential of losing money?

 

[JDDN]

Cool! Okay, before I answer your questions, something very important popped out at me in your 6) response...."However, I don't know if they can do exactly the style I want." Okay so this is exactly what I am talking about, lol. Take a step back and let PS help you, LOL!!!

I think if you go in and are very conciliatory but firm and simply tell them that you are sorry but you just need some time to really, really figure out what you want before going forward with a custom project they hopefully will give your deposit back. Keep it simple and say you jumped the gun out of excitement but you realized you need to think about such an investment. Maybe throw in that you are happy that you have such a wonderful local jewelry store to frequent . If they didn't start and they are reputable I think you have a shot at getting it back. Especially if you hurry, lol.

So to answer you....Yes. I have jumped the gun with a custom project and wound up incredibly disappointed and out a lot of money. I was too inexperienced to remedy the situation so I kept it and then eventually scrapped it. If it were now, I'd deal with it entirely differently and I would get all my money back knowing what I know now. The main reason it happened in the first place is because I didn't do my due diligence in researching the jewelers quality of work, I didn't ask the right questions ahead of time and I didn't think I had a choice to not accept the end result. This was a pendant that I chose out of a stock catalog and he created an completely different pendant, different prongs, entirely different size and he added another diamond without asking me and charged me for it. It was expensive and I got over the loss of money by chalking it up to inexperience and vowed never to let it happen again. Other learning lessons involve my own indecision, thinking I liked something and then when I get it I realize I do not like it after all, etc. The pendant debacle arose out of my wedding band. I thought I wanted a 'bigger' eternity but I think I got greedy and got it too big and then I didn't like it, lol. Thus the start of my very expensive, on-going bling experiment. Much to my husband's chagrin I might add!

 

[Sunstorm]

@tfc_diamondlvr my problem with you getting an "amazing deal" at this jeweler is that I am not sure you really know what you are getting. You THINK you are getting great quality at a great price. If they are indeed so much lower in price, I just would like to point out a few factors to you before you get ripped off.

As to your chosen local jeweler, do your have realistic basis to trust them? If a deal sounds too good to be true, it usually is, especially so when it comes to diamonds.

You yourself said they you are not that experienced with diamonds and of course the diamonds looked sparkly to you, they usually do to the untrained eye.

My question is does said jeweler give you a certificate/some type of a warranty explicitly stating diamond quality?

Or even better are the diamonds individually certified by a major lab?

Are you able to verify cut quality? Are you able to verify color and clarity are those stated? This is important because unless say you have an individual GIA report on each stone, they may be several grades lower than what is sold to you.

Please also ask them this question, if you take the finished piece to an appraiser chosen by you, one maybe recommended here, and the stones are found to be lower quality than what they are claiming them to be, will they honor their warranty/store certificate and give your money back?

Also, very importantly have you seen their metal work? Do you like the quality/are you able to differentiate between top quality workmanship and subpar? How are the prongs?

If you cannot verify the above, to be safe follow the advice here. When it comes to jewelry and jewelers, the most important factor is that you have to be able to trust those you are working with. If you do not really know what they are selling, proceed only with a lot of caution. Buyer beware, just a word of caution to you. Things I would be asking if I was buying.

 

[tfc_diamondlvr]

Cool! Okay, before I answer your questions, something very important popped out at me in your 6) response...."However, I don't know if they can do exactly the style I want." Okay so this is exactly what I am talking about, lol. Take a step back and let PS help you, LOL!!!

I think if you go in and are very conciliatory but firm and simply tell them that you are sorry but you just need some time to really, really figure out what you want before going forward with a custom project they hopefully will give your deposit back. Keep it simple and say you jumped the gun out of excitement but you realized you need to think about such an investment. Maybe throw in that you are happy that you have such a wonderful local jewelry store to frequent . If they didn't start and they are reputable I think you have a shot at getting it back. Especially if you hurry, lol.

So to answer you....Yes. I have jumped the gun with a custom project and wound up incredibly disappointed and out a lot of money. I was too inexperienced to remedy the situation so I kept it and then eventually scrapped it. If it were now, I'd deal with it entirely differently and I would get all my money back knowing what I know now. The main reason it happened in the first place is because I didn't do my due diligence in researching the jewelers quality of work, I didn't ask the right questions ahead of time and I didn't think I had a choice to not accept the end result. This was a pendant that I chose out of a stock catalog and he created an completely different pendant, different prongs, entirely different size and he added another diamond without asking me and charged me for it. It was expensive and I got over the loss of money by chalking it up to inexperience and vowed never to let it happen again. Other learning lessons involve my own indecision, thinking I liked something and then when I get it I realize I do not like it after all, etc. The pendant debacle arose out of my wedding band. I thought I wanted a 'bigger' eternity but I think I got greedy and got it too big and then I didn't like it, lol. Thus the start of my very expensive, on-going bling experiment. Much to my husband's chagrin I might add!

I've been trying to fight and get my deposit back from these guys!
Thankfully, I only put down $500. The total ring would have cost $5000.

All the diamonds are certified by Gemscan, but the more I read on here, the more I am suspicious of the grading!

The jewelers said they already started making the ring, so they wouldn't get me my deposit back.
Of course, I felt bad talking to them because I knew they were going to make a fuss. But, the folks on PS gave me a bit more courage to be more assertive and state my demands. $5k isn't a small amount of cash, so I should be completely happy with my results.

So, now the entire ring is done and I'm not sure what to do.

@tfc_diamondlvr my problem with you getting an "amazing deal" at this jeweler is that I am not sure you really know what you are getting. You THINK you are getting great quality at a great price. If they are indeed so much lower in price, I just would like to point out a few factors to you before you get ripped off.

As to your chosen local jeweler, do your have realistic basis to trust them? If a deal sounds too good to be true, it usually is, especially so when it comes to diamonds.

You yourself said they you are not that experienced with diamonds and of course the diamonds looked sparkly to you, they usually do to the untrained eye.

My question is does said jeweler give you a certificate/some type of a warranty explicitly stating diamond quality?

Or even better are the diamonds individually certified by a major lab?

Are you able to verify cut quality? Are you able to verify color and clarity are those stated? This is important because unless say you have an individual GIA report on each stone, they may be several grades lower than what is sold to you.

Please also ask them this question, if you take the finished piece to an appraiser chosen by you, one maybe recommended here, and the stones are found to be lower quality than what they are claiming them to be, will they honor their warranty/store certificate and give your money back?

Also, very importantly have you seen their metal work? Do you like the quality/are you able to differentiate between top quality workmanship and subpar? How are the prongs?

If you cannot verify the above, to be safe follow the advice here. When it comes to jewelry and jewelers, the most important factor is that you have to be able to trust those you are working with. If you do not really know what they are selling, proceed only with a lot of caution. Buyer beware, just a word of caution to you. Things I would be asking if I was buying.

Thank you very much for taking the time to outline these concerns.
They wouldn't refund me my $500 deposit, but I told them that I wouldn't pay until I could verify each stone with a GIA certificate. That's where we're at at this point.

I think I'm going to do exactly what you suggested. I was really upset about losing the $500 deposit, but at this point, if I can't trust Gemscan certification for the diamonds than I'm overpaying for less quality!

They were going to give me individual Gemscan certificates for each diamond, but I don't think that's good enough.

If you have any advice, please feel free to share it as I'm in a bit of a dilemma and I don't want to talk to these jewelers until I have a clearer answer.
Thanks!!!!!

 

[Sunstorm]

The problem is that a Gemscan F (and if I remember correctly there was also a G and an H stone, not only F-s) could be a GIA H and say their VS may be a GIA SI easily. Then, it is already not such an amazing deal anymore.

You are lucky that you only had to put down 500. Many places require a half down deposit. It is true that many places do not refund you that amount but when it comes to a reputable business, they will try to go out of their way to make you happy even if this costs them something.

You can request from them a receipt stating that all diamonds are XYZ as stated, then verify by an appraiser recommended here. I am afraid if you pay the full amount, they may not refund you either way. Or just let that 500 go, I know it hurts but could have been worse, and go with a vendor that people here recommend whom you know will sell you the quality you are paying for. Others can most likely help you here as to the options you have.

Good luck! Hope you get the ring of your dreams!

 

[diamondseeker2006]

They shouldn't have proceeded in making this ring! Why did they do that when you were telling them you wanted your deposit back? I was just now catching up as I had missed the last posts. You've been given great advice.

A five stone ring of 30 pointers is definitely not going to work with an engagement ring. It's a fabulous right hand ring or standalone band to wear on the left hand when you don't wear your engagement ring. But I'd make it clear to your parents that this is not your wedding band.

The stones aren't GIA graded, so no deal. You have zero idea of cut quality. Plus, the sizes are maybe too different! They either all need to have the same diameter, or else if you prefer graduated, they would be selected for the pairs after the center to be exactly matched in diameter.

I'll tell you, I'd rather have a Whiteflash ACA 5 stone ring with 5 H VS2's over ungraded, unknown cut, D VVS1s. Cut quality is number one, then sure, go as high as you prefer on the color and clarity.