Budget ring 1500$~ pls advice

[MollyMalone]

Yes it is exactly that ring! I asked about size of center stone. Not answer yet.

I dont feel very comfortable anymore to buy that ring, because lack of information given. No lab reports etc. Am I being too careful now?

ID Jewelry is closed from mid-afternoon (NYC time) on Fridays until mid-morning on Sundays in observance of the Jewish Sabbath. So that's undoubtedly why you've not heard back from them in the past 24 hours.

You may have some unrealistic expectations for a new $700 ring. I'm thinking it's possible that those modestly priced halo rings are not made by IDJ or made specially for IDJ. IDJ may receive the rings from a supplier already made up, without a report from a top tier lab. GIA doesn't grade mounted diamonds, so to now have the diamond in that ring graded would mean removing the stone & taking it over to GIA's lab (IDJ doesn't have to pay for shipping stones to GIA because GIA's New York City lab is less than a 5-minute walk away) & then resetting the stone. I'd guess most people who hope to spend less than $1000 for a halo ring aren't as fussed about the absence of a GIA/AGS report as PSers are; so long as the ring looks good to them, they probably wouldn't consider it worthwhile to spend the extra money. Here's the information page on the various kinds of diamond reports & GIA's table of fees:
https://www.gia.edu/doc/GIA_DtoZServices_120516_USD.pdf
https://www.gia.edu/gem-lab-service/diamond-grading

Maybe ask Joey at IDJ what's available that's a "step up" from the $700 ring, but still within your hoped-for budget?

 

[MollyMalone]

Thanks for that information, this forum have been very useful!
Her size local (finland) is 16, so I think if its converted to US size should be 5,5.

Yes, that's what the ring size conversion charts I'm looking at say as well. Since that's just 1 size up, don't think resizing will be a problem, even though there are diamonds set into the shoulders-top shank.

Here's my suggestion: show the Jewels By Grace's listing for the Tiffany ring to a couple of different jewelry repair "benches" (they'll like seeing all the pictures) and ask them for their opinion and a price quote, using a laser welder if those are in use in any of the shops convenient to you. That way, you'll have a more informed idea of how much additional money is needed in order to slip the Tiffany ring on her hand.

Also, does the $1500 need to cover VAT, whatever other taxes or duties you have to pay on a ring coming from the USA? I just realized we'd neglected to ask you if you're hoping $1500 will cover everything.

 

[flyingpig]

You already said she wants a halo. But, may I recommend a half-eternity??

 

[D maklen]

Yes, that's what the ring size conversion charts I'm looking at say as well. Since that's just 1 size up, don't think resizing will be a problem, even though there are diamonds set into the shoulders-top shank.

Here's my suggestion: show the Jewels By Grace's listing for the Tiffany ring to a couple of different jewelry repair "benches" (they'll like seeing all the pictures) and ask them for their opinion and a price quote, using a laser welder if those are in use in any of the shops convenient to you. That way, you'll have a more informed idea of how much additional money is needed in order to slip the Tiffany ring on her hand.

Also, does the $1500 need to cover VAT, whatever other taxes or duties you have to pay on a ring coming from the USA? I just realized we'd neglected to ask you if you're hoping $1500 will cover everything.

Thank you MollyMalone for helping me out and detailed info.

I think also I have some unrealistic expectations for 700$ ring. I'll ask if they can look some another one which have reports and are made for IDJ. We have to pay 24% taxes but 1500$ is budgeted for ring. Taxes and other fees are apart from that 1500$. Im sorry I should have told that in my opening post.

 

[D maklen]

You already said she wants a halo. But, may I recommend a half-eternity??

Im sorry but I stick with halo but thanks for recommendation!

 

[Niel]

I feel like there is something second hand we could find it's just a matter of time.

 

[Niel]

This has potential
http://m.ebay.co.uk/itm/Beautiful-A...%3A007af8db15d0aa668e860db5fff4eed5%7Ciid%3A5

 

[MollyMalone]

Any thoughts on this one?
https://www.rubylane.com/item/1442445-EMS-209/

ETA this:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Leo-Diamond-Engagement-Ring-14k-White-Gold-95ctw-Halo-Cert-/371893674387

 

[Niel]

They are asking a ridiculous price on this, but see what kind of vat you'd have to pay and make an offer
http://m.ebay.co.uk/itm/Platinum-Em...Ring-TDW-0-55ct-GIA-Cert-G-VVS2-/292108337522

 

[Niel]

Oh nvmd o thought the center was 50 points. Lame.

 

[D maklen]

Thank you niel and molly!

Those above links this rubylane was my favourite!

https://www.rubylane.com/item/1442445-EMS-209/

Any question should be asked about that ring?

And for your information, if it selled by european union country even UK (brexit) I dont have to pay VAT for order.

 

[muskokathompson]

I noted that the ruby Lane ring also has two matching bands for purchase. You may want to buy one or both to save trouble later on!

 

[D maklen]

I have got so many options here (thank you all) that I noticed this ruby lane ring already posted here.

Rubylane email answer about that ring

"The diamond is a modern round
brilliant cut so that would date it any time after 1950. There
are no scratches, the ring has been polished and the stones are
in perfect shape. "

Just received email from idj

https://www.gabrielny.com/engagement-ring/ER911074R1T44JJ.CSD4

The center on this one is 0.25ctw the halo diamonds and surprise diamonds together weight 0.16ctw.

And can give it to me 1200$.

 

[soxfan]

This has potential
http://m.ebay.co.uk/itm/Beautiful-Art-Deco-1-25ct-Old-Cut-Diamond-18ct-White-Gold-Ring-D0670-/162546239449?hash=item25d882c7d9:g:4V8AAOSwNnRYg41o&_trkparms=pageci%3Ad71ebf61-5eb4-11e7-8c02-74dbd180610b%7Cparentrq%3A007af8db15d0aa668e860db5fff4eed5%7Ciid%3A5

THIS would be my choice.

 

[rockysalamander]

For the budget you have, I'd still look at putting it all into the diamond in a simple setting. She can add a halo via a ring guard when you save a bit more. This would let her put her own design style on the ring too.

• https://www.etsy.com/listing/194176...KYFaG97gjRDOHgTmCDXW6sLI1EUeB9xcaAhGUEALw_wcB
• https://www.etsy.com/listing/706767...query=diamond ring enhancer&ref=sr_gallery_11
• https://www.etsy.com/listing/526038...query=diamond ring enhancer&ref=sr_gallery_21

Maybe this seller is within visiting distance? Maybe a bit too small?
https://www.etsy.com/listing/294584047/diamond-double-halo-ring-in-18-carat?ref=shop_home_active_38
https://www.etsy.com/listing/473128...engagement-ring-in-18?ref=shop_home_active_15

 

[rockysalamander]

SETTING - https://www.etsy.com/listing/240511223/1ct-diamond-halo-14k-white-gold?ref=shop_home_active_28

 

[MollyMalone]

Thank you niel and molly!
Those above links this rubylane was my favourite!
https://www.rubylane.com/item/1442445-EMS-209/
Any question should be asked about that ring?

And for your information, if it selled by european union country even UK (brexit) I dont have to pay VAT for order.

I have got so many options here (thank you all) that I noticed this ruby lane ring already posted here.
Rubylane email answer about that ring
"The diamond is a modern round
brilliant cut so that would date it any time after 1950. There
are no scratches, the ring has been polished and the stones are
in perfect shape. "

Does Elizabeth Simpson-The Jeweled Crescent, the RubyLane vendor, realize that you are in Finland? Not every US vendor is willing to handle international shipping. (Wilson Brothers, the eBay seller of that Leo halo ring I linked above, definitely ships to Finland; I was happy with Wilson Brothers when I made an eBay purchase from them a couple of years ago.)
Also, I'm hoping others will take a look at the photos of that RubyLane ring. I'm fearing the center stone has a "nailhead" (which you don't want), but maybe I'm not interpreting the pics correctly.

Definitely easier & less expensive for you to make the purchase from a vendor in the UK or elsewhere in the European Union; that's why Niel looked on eBayUK for you last night. But there are few halo rings listed on eBayUK in your price range or somewhat above that $1500 USD number -- and every one I initially thought might be worth considering had a "no return" policy; not being able to make a return & get a refund is a deal breaker for me on a purchase like this.

Are you under a deadline; if you're not enthusiastic about the Art Deco ring in the UK that Niel has suggested, could you wait a couple of weeks to see if other second-hand options appear?

 

[D maklen]

N

For the budget you have, I'd still look at putting it all into the diamond in a simple setting. She can add a halo via a ring guard when you save a bit more. This would let her put her own design style on the ring too.

• https://www.etsy.com/listing/194176...KYFaG97gjRDOHgTmCDXW6sLI1EUeB9xcaAhGUEALw_wcB
• https://www.etsy.com/listing/70676796/diamond-ring-enhancer-25ct-guard-band?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=diamond ring enhancer&ref=sr_gallery_11
• https://www.etsy.com/listing/526038209/14k-gold-14ct-diamond-solitaire-enhancer?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=diamond ring enhancer&ref=sr_gallery_21

Maybe this seller is within visiting distance? Maybe a bit too small?
https://www.etsy.com/listing/294584047/diamond-double-halo-ring-in-18-carat?ref=shop_home_active_38
https://www.etsy.com/listing/473128...engagement-ring-in-18?ref=shop_home_active_15

https://www.etsy.com/listing/294584047/diamond-double-halo-ring-in-18-carat?ref=shop_home_active_38

Its just what I am looking for very nice looking halo setting ring and its from UK. Over 1.1ctw with big center diamond Never heard about aardvark jewellery tho.

 

[D maklen]

Does Elizabeth Simpson-The Jeweled Crescent, the RubyLane vendor, realize that you are in Finland? Not every US vendor is willing to handle international shipping. (Wilson Brothers, the eBay seller of that Leo halo ring I linked above, definitely ships to Finland; I was happy with Wilson Brothers when I made an eBay purchase from them a couple of years ago.)
Also, I'm hoping others will take a look at the photos of that RubyLane ring. I'm fearing the center stone has a "nailhead" (which you don't want), but maybe I'm not interpreting the pics correctly.

Definitely easier & less expensive for you to make the purchase from a vendor in the UK or elsewhere in the European Union; that's why Niel looked on eBayUK for you last night. But there are few halo rings listed on eBayUK in your price range or somewhat above that $1500 USD number -- and every one I initially thought might be worth considering had a "no return" policy; not being able to make a return & get a refund is a deal breaker for me on a purchase like this.

Are you under a deadline; if you're not enthusiastic about the Art Deco ring in the UK that Niel has suggested, could you wait a couple of weeks to see if other second-hand options appear?

Actually no, I didnt mention to Elizabeth that im living outside states. For jewelsgrace I mention where Im living and they said shipping will cost about 140$ by fedex insurance. It was that tiffany ring which im still considering.

There is no need to rush. I have set timeline middle of august

Nice looking second hand tiffany&co halo ring from EU would make my day.

 

[MollyMalone]

https://www.etsy.com/listing/294584047/diamond-double-halo-ring-in-18-carat?ref=shop_home_active_38

Its just what I am looking for very nice looking halo setting ring and its from UK. Over 1.1ctw with big center diamond Never heard about aardvark jewellery tho.

Argh, I really dislike those stylized photos that don't give you any real idea of what the diamonds look like -- but even Tiffany & Co. uses that kind of stock photo. Don't know if you saw that it's a UK size S, which is equivalent to US ring size 9.5. It would have to be sized down 4 whole (US) sizes. So I'll again recommend that you talk to a local jewelry repair shop about that, show them the Etsy pics (and see if they'd like the Aardvark to send you any other shots) before further considering the purchase.

.

 

[Niel]

This has been for sale for ever. Message them see if they will consider 1500
http://www.ebay.com/itm/182172736436

 

[D maklen]

Argh, I really dislike those stylized photos that don't give you any real idea of what the diamonds look like -- but even Tiffany & Co. uses that kind of stock photo. Don't know if you saw that it's a UK size S, which is equivalent to US ring size 9.5. It would have to be sized down 4 whole (US) sizes. So I'll again recommend that you talk to a local jewelry repair shop about that, show them the Etsy pics (and see if they'd like the Aardvark to send you any other shots) before further considering the purchase.

.

I sent email to Aardvark if they can provide other pictures or video footage. You are right..stock photos always looks better than they really are irl.

 

[D maklen]

This has been for sale for ever. Message them see if they will consider 1500
http://www.ebay.com/itm/182172736436

Oval shape is also negative from her opinion

 

[Niel]

Oval shape is also negative from her opinion

It's not oval but I get your point. Is only round acceptable?

 

[D maklen]

It's not oval but I get your point. Is only round acceptable?

I think shape can be round, cushion and princess. Most worse was heart shape .

 

[rockysalamander]

Argh, I really dislike those stylized photos that don't give you any real idea of what the diamonds look like -- but even Tiffany & Co. uses that kind of stock photo. Don't know if you saw that it's a UK size S, which is equivalent to US ring size 9.5. It would have to be sized down 4 whole (US) sizes. So I'll again recommend that you talk to a local jewelry repair shop about that, show them the Etsy pics (and see if they'd like the Aardvark to send you any other shots) before further considering the purchase.
.

Good point MollyMalone. I totally forgot to check the size. I'm so used to just assume everything is tiny (compared to my size 10 fingers).

Aardvark has good reviewed on Etsy and a number of folks on another board I frequent have bought from them. Hopefully, the stones look good!

I've bought from the following seller several times.
https://ivyandrose.com/products/vin...atinum-engagement-ring-retro-1950?taxon_id=41
https://ivyandrose.com/products/ide...d-engagement-ring-classic-vintage?taxon_id=41
{needs rezing, but I they do it for a small fee}

 

[Steahl]

Just looking through MyDiamondZone's eBay store, here are a few options that might work! One of the two halo settings below, paired with one of the diamonds below. I suggest contacting Ilya, the owner, to make sure the diamond you want will fit in the setting. He's super nice to work with, btw. I've had a few custom things made by him, and have talked to him a lot over the last few years. Always very helpful. And his prices are very reasonable!

The settings below will also work with modern cuts btw, let me see if I can find some good modern cut options...

Settings:
http://www.ebay.ca/itm/VINTAGE-DIAM...927916?hash=item238814ec2c:g:fUkAAOSwZ4dZN2n2

http://www.ebay.ca/itm/SEMI-MOUNT-R...232297?hash=item5d72a2d429:g:bcQAAOSwCmZZUuwY

Antique diamonds:
http://www.ebay.ca/itm/GIA-CERTIFIE...826304?hash=item2387d65640:g:5hsAAOSwXetZUv7X

http://www.ebay.ca/itm/VINTAGE-0-58...981904?hash=item2838c2cb10:g:Ij4AAOSwrfVZUnRl

http://www.ebay.ca/itm/VINTAGE-0-64...566723?hash=item2838cbb783:g:vZgAAOSwjvJZUtp7

http://www.ebay.ca/itm/0-67ct-VINTA...267445?hash=item2838b7e435:g:j-EAAOSwceNZUe4q

http://www.ebay.ca/itm/1900s-G-VS2-...995844?hash=item2387f77104:g:D~AAAOSw3h1ZS-H6

 

[Steahl]

A few MRB options. These fit within the recommended price scope specs for round diamonds, and will generate a HCA of 2+ (which should give you ideal light return.) Also all at least 0.5ct

http://www.b2cjewels.com/dd/9349204/Round-Diamond-I-Color-SI1-Clarity

http://www.b2cjewels.com/dd/9450313/Round-Diamond-J-Color-SI1-Clarity

http://www.b2cjewels.com/dd/9392931/Round-Diamond-J-Color-SI1-Clarity

http://www.b2cjewels.com/dd/9383463/Round-Diamond-J-Color-VS2-Clarity

There are plenty more, B2C is a pretty reasonable site for diamonds if you feel up for sifting through their inventory. You can also use the chat option to talk to their staff. You could have the diamond sent to Ilya to have it set and then have him ship the complete ring to you. Hope this helps!

 

[D maklen]

Hi all,

Feel little bit frustrated about this ring hunting. Really feel that I just need to push the button and pick something now or else this this going to last forever. Have you find something on second hand or new ones?

 

[msop04]

Hi all,

Feel little bit frustrated about this ring hunting. Really feel that I just need to push the button and pick something now or else this this going to last forever. Have you find something on second hand or new ones?

I understand how you may feel some frustration, but I wouldn't advise you "push the button" until you've found something you know she'll love. This is an expensive and very important purchase, so I'm sure your future fiancé would appreciate the additional time spent to find her ring. One thing is for certain -- this search will absolutely NOT last forever.