Can someone help me?

[jskatt21]

My gf has been looking at this ring at Kay's and I am looking to find a much better ring, diamond, and of course much better price. I have seen others recieve some direction on what they are looking for with good resluts and I am looking for the same.

Here is the ring:
http://www.kay.com/product1|10101|10001|-1|990643900|15051|15051.21826.22081


Any suggestions or ideas.

 

[rubybeth]

Absolutely, we can help! What's the budget and any specifics you have in mind for the center stone?

 

[MichelleCarmen]

Does your GF specifically want a cushion? What about the following:

http://www.whiteflash.com/engagement-rings/diamond-settings/park-avenue-diamond-engagement-ring-1669.htm

Then you can have a certified diamond put into it. The Kay ring says the center diamond is 1 ct, however technically they can put a diamond slightly under 1 ct in and list it as a "1 ct," which means you're paying a mark-up on a stone that may be smaller - and chances are it is slightly under. The 1 carat causes a price jump. You want to be sure you're paying for the size you're getting!

 

[rubybeth]

This setting from Gabriel & Co. looks similar:

http://bridal.gabrielny.com/style/ER7061W83JJ

But without the 3-sided pave look that makes wearing a wedding band tricky (diamonds rub against the band).

A few Pricescope vendors sell Gabriel & Co. settings so you'd have options, but I think an August Vintage Cushion would look great in that setting:

http://goodoldgold.com/diamond/8725/

It would make it look more like a true antique, if that's what your girlfriend is after.

 

[jskatt21]

I think that there are a couple things I should add and maybe answer. She hasn't tried the ring on, so neither of us is sure it is the look and fit she is wanting. As for price range, I am thinking more along the 3-5k range. The 3 would be great, and probably most affordable. It also wouldnt have to be that big, but the style and design would be key.

I was previously married and bought the previous ring from Kays. They of course stated I could trade in the rings and get my money back as long as I spent double. Not sure that it is worth that, however it would be nice to get my $1000 back (that was for the wedding ring, band, and my band).

I cannont break the bank either, so that is a concern, but my gf deserves something nice and beautiful, just like her!

I am not sure about the 5 c's. I am familiar with them, but not enough to tell the difference, which is why I am hoping to lean to you wonderful folks for your expertise.

Do you think it is possible to get something similar in the range (crosses fingers on lower side) I am asking about?

 

[mandasand]

My advise would be to sell the old ring on Craigslist or take the diamond out, sell the setting as scrap and make a nice pendant for your mom/sister/female family member. I sort of don't like the idea of using something from a previous relationship for the new one. But, that's just me. For the type of setting you are looking for, you're going to have to max your listed budget. You may not be able to get a full 1 ct center, but I'm sure the experts here can get you something close.

I LOVE that Gabriel setting. Usually if you purchase the setting and stone from the same place, you will get a discount on the ring. At least, that is what our jeweler is doing for us with a Gabriel setting I picked out. There are a couple of online companies that are Gabriel dealers, like ID Jewelry and Good Old Gold. I'm sure there are others. Apparently, ID Jewelry is great at working within the budget you give them. I would start there.

http://idjewelryonline.com/index.php

 

[Lotus99]

I'd advise you to go to various jewelry stores just to try on rings. That way, you can figure out what you want and what suits your girlfriend. Go to a variety of jewelers -- mall/chain jewelers, family jewelers, high-end jewelers, etc.

You don't have to buy anything, and you can then look online for similar rings. (In general, don't tell the stores you plan to buy online, it tends to upset them).

For some reason, what looks pretty on the Internet or in a jeweler's case doesn't always look good on the hand. For example, a delicate ring may look better than a more substantial one.

 

[slg47]

Here is another Gabriel and co setting (less ornate and also less $$)

http://bridal.gabrielny.com/style/ER6268W44JJ

diamond option

http://goodoldgold.com/diamond/4920/

I would definitely encourage her to try on rings of that style to make sure that is what she likes before buying the ring!

 

[rubybeth]

A split shank setting without pave on the shank would keep you more in budget: http://bridal.gabrielny.com/style/ER7807W44JJ

 

[jskatt21]

First I want to thank everyone for their advice and help thus far. This will be a bit of a learning process as well as trial and error. We talked a bit the other day, and she did in fact try the Kay's ring on. She said she loved the detail, but we both agree the cost is an issue. I have a feeling that we both will have some learning to do in this process.

I will take up the offers of going to places and checking out things. I am hoping that the jewelers at the stores can educate as well. I also need to get her size so this will help too

I think no matter the ring she will be happy, just want her to have a little say in it as well.

As for the other rings, what is the best way to go about selling something like that on Craigslist, or how can I get the most money for the set? I don't think I will keep them as keepsakes, and agree the thought of trading up doesn't appeal to me. Any suggestions?