clarity problem with new engagement ring

[caramelcoffee]

My then-boyfriend bought a Neil Lane engagement ring from Kay. They had told him it was a size 7, but it was actually a 9, so after he proposed, I had to get a new one ordered.

The new center diamond has two noticeable black inclusions and a bubble, right in the center — while the one he proposed with didn't. I know the clarity on the site is S2-I1, but I was hoping the inclusions wouldn't be so dark or in the center. I've contacted Kay about my options (I'm still within the 60 day limit but really don't want to return it altogether). I know I've seen that other people have looked at other diamonds at Kay, so I'm hoping they will be open to putting a different center diamond in or something along those lines.

If not, we were considering buying a slightly upgraded clarity to put in the ring. Will Kay do this, does anyone know? Will they only do it if it is their diamond, and if so, can I trust their gradings? If I order it through Blue Nile or somewhere else, will they put it in and honor my lifetime guarantee and warranty?

I can learn to ignore the inclusions and it still sparkles and shines, but it bothers me that they gave him an eye-clean ring to propose with that they had to know wouldn't fit me, and then replaced it with what looks like a I1 with centered, dark inclusions. What would you guys do?

Thanks!

 

[krisjon]

Return the ring you have and exchange it for the same kind/style with a clearer diamond. If you like the ring, get one from them that works for you. It's as simple as that if you're within their return period. Predicting Kay's replacement policies, customer service or what Blue Nile will (or won't do) isn't something any of us can accurately answer on here.

 

[caramelcoffee]

Thanks

 

[Candygrl]

They can usually order in a few rings and you can choose the one you like the best. I did this with my earrings. She ordered a couple sets for me to choose from. Doesn't hurt to ask

 

[krisjon]

They can usually order in a few rings and you can choose the one you like the best. I did this with my earrings. She ordered a couple sets for me to choose from. Doesn't hurt to ask

Absolutely ask for this. It sounds like there's a real variance in clarity of the stones they use for your particular ring.

Good luck! Hopefully you can get this resolved easily.

 

[pandabee]

I'm just a little confused...why did they need to change your diamond if the ring was just the wrong size? Couldn't they have just resized the ring with your old diamond that was eye clean?

 

[distracts]

I'm just a little confused...why did they need to change your diamond if the ring was just the wrong size? Couldn't they have just resized the ring with your old diamond that was eye clean?

It's Kays, that's why.

 

[caramelcoffee]

I needed a size that was three sizes smaller than the ring, so they said the sizing didn't work (the band is infinity style and goes back pretty far to the rear of my finger).

 

[caramelcoffee]

Thanks! That helps a lot. I'm just hoping I'll be able to keep the same setting, basically, and won't have to wait for another sizing.

 

[Candygrl]

Is your heart absolutely set on this setting? If not could you get a refund and go elsewhere? Just curious

 

[caramelcoffee]

It is, but only because he picked it out, etc. We've only been engaged a month, and I knew it would bother him if I told him I wanted to ditch the setting.

 

[diamondseeker2006]

It is, but only because he picked it out, etc. We've only been engaged a month, and I knew it would bother him if I told him I wanted to ditch the setting.

Then my very strong suggestion is to return the diamond while you are within your return period and buy only the setting. Then come back here and let us help you find the best quality diamond within your budget. I can pretty much guarantee you'll end up with a better stone.

 

[RockyRacoon]

It is, but only because he picked it out, etc. We've only been engaged a month, and I knew it would bother him if I told him I wanted to ditch the setting.

What if someone were able to find you the same/similar setting at a more reputable vendor? Same setting style your guy picked, but with a higher quality stone? Seems like a win-win!

Post a picture of the setting and I'm sure some of the setting experts will chime in!

 

[caramelcoffee]

Thanks. I'll talk to him and the store and check back here.