Diamond vs Setting? What''s More Important?

[lingpanda01]

In an engagement ring, if you had to choose, would it be a beautiful, expensive setting and a so-so diamond or a simple, so-so setting and an expensive, beautiful diamond?

Catch is, no upgrading or changing around later. It would be something you''d keep and wear forever.

That''s kind of my dilemma right now. My girlfriend is a very simple girl. When I give her the e-ring, she''ll be wearing and keeping it forever without a thought of upgrading or changing since both the setting and the diamond would hold sentimental value.

I can get a very simple, solitaire setting for $500 and a diamond for $2500...
Or I can get an absolutely beautiful setting for $1700 and a diamond for $1300...

In both cases, the diamond would be around .65~.75 ct.

What do you guys think is more important for an e-ring that will be forever?

 

[Todd Gray]

I''d rather see you focus on the diamond than the setting and encourage customers to do so when this question is posed by them when we meet...

 

[AprilBaby]

I would much prefer the nicer diamond and the simpler setting. I could always buy blingy bands to put around the simple setting.

 

[geckodani]

Date: 10/8/2009 12:39:41 PM
Author: AprilBaby
I would much prefer the nicer diamond and the simpler setting. I could always buy blingy bands to put around the simple setting.

Yup! Focus on the diamond! And for $500 - you can find a really nice, elegant, classy - and simple setting no problem.

 

[upgrade]

Diamond! In my opinion, even the most beautiful of settings will look just ho-hum with a dull diamond, but a simple solitaire with a spectacular stone- WOW!

 

[geckodani]

Food for thought: In a really quick search, I found the followinf settings - all around $500, and all fantastic.

http://www.whiteflash.com/Engagement-Rings/Styles/Solitaire/Hand-Over-Hand-Diamond-Solitaire_1341.htm#

http://www.whiteflash.com/Engagement-Rings/Styles/Solitaire/-The-Keystone--Diamond-Solitaire_1313.htm

http://www.whiteflash.com/Engagement-Rings/Styles/Solitaire/-Sleek-Lines--Diamond-Solitaire_688.htm

http://www.jamesallen.com/engagement-rings/solitaire/diamond-solitaire-ring.html

There are lots of setting options!

Diamond is more important!

 

[stitch]

A couple of my friends told me that they keep the setting for life. It has sentimental value to them. They prefer beautiful setting. They say that you can always upgrade the rock but not the setting. I happen to agree with them

 

[FancyDiamond]

After having gone through two diamond ring purchases (original and upgrade), I have the following conclusion. For a first diamond ring, invest as much as you can afford (or may stretch a little) on the best diamond (top cut) and keep the cost minimal on the setting. Why? There is no such thing as keeping something forever. People''s taste change over time. Your wealth will also increase. You will at some point get an upgrade. The stone will retain value, and can be sold or reset into something else (such as a pendant or sidestone for the next ring). The setting, however, is wasted. Yes, I am fortunate that gold price has risen three-fold since I purchased my first ring, and I can get a decent amount of money back by selling the scrap metal (though not expected to recoup all I paid). The workmanship that goes into the setting is, however, forever lost.

A simple solitaire setting will be perfect. It brings focus on your gorgeous stone. If you want extra bling or something fancy, a five-stone or seven-stone, or eternity band will add substantially to the beauty and bling. You can also pair up your solitaire ring with a simple band for casual occasions when you do not want too much bling.

 

[clgwli]

For me a setting makes or breaks a stone. I''ve seen perfect diamonds in a simple setting and I''ve seen smaller not quite perfect diamonds in a gorgeous setting and I am always drawn to a setting not a stone.

The only good part about doing a simple setting right now is that you could creat a jacket for it later on so that you can get the look of a good setting with a nicer stone.

My husband is getting me a new ring soon and my biggest hang up is actually the setting. I want it to be perfect.

I am somewhat picky on stones though. I don''t need Ideal, but I need at least a very good cut. I also like more color than most average so I don''t think I fall into the same category as most people here.

In short everyone is different. Go with what looks good and what you think your girlfriend would want. Some want perfection in a stone and some want it in the setting.

 

[FancyDiamond]

Date: 10/8/2009 12:53:49 PM
Author: stitch
A couple of my friends told me that they keep the setting for life. It has sentimental value to them. They prefer beautiful setting. They say that you can always upgrade the rock but not the setting. I happen to agree with them

I find it difficult and restrictive if I try to reuse my old setting. First, my new stone is much bigger than the old stone, so I need a new head that can accept a bigger stone. Second, the design of the old setting does not allow a big stone over 2 carats, so it would require much efforts to modify. Third, my taste has changed, and I fall in love with other setting styles that are more fitting for larger size stones.

So you see, I cannot reuse my old setting. If I keep it, it will end up in my jewelry box forever. I am more of a practical person than a sentimental one. I do not like waste.

 

[vanderaf]

I''m a simple gal so I would prefer a simple setting and put all of the money towards the diamond. I think you can''t go wrong with a classic solitaire....

 

[jadedpony]

Diamond, period.

That is what I did recently. My advice though would be to try to get an idea of what she expects in an engagement ring. Then make your decision.

 

[HVVS]

Date: 10/8/2009 12:27:07 PM
Author:lingpanda01
In an engagement ring, if you had to choose, would it be a beautiful, expensive setting and a so-so diamond or a simple, so-so setting and an expensive, beautiful diamond?

Catch is, no upgrading or changing around later. It would be something you'd keep and wear forever.

That's kind of my dilemma right now. My girlfriend is a very simple girl. When I give her the e-ring, she'll be wearing and keeping it forever without a thought of upgrading or changing since both the setting and the diamond would hold sentimental value.

I can get a very simple, solitaire setting for $500 and a diamond for $2500...

Or I can get an absolutely beautiful setting for $1700 and a diamond for $1300...

In both cases, the diamond would be around .65~.75 ct.

What do you guys think is more important for an e-ring that will be forever?

Definitely a .75ct larger and better cut diamond. Keeping a setting forever is not realistic nowadays. Unless it's a peg head, it may not be practical to reuse it for a different or larger stone later. Tastes change, styles change, lifestyles change, finger sizes change, and a good diamond will adapt itself to all of that and still look great 100 years from now. Settings just don't have that same track record, lol. Besides, nobody says the guy has to buy both the dream diamond and the ultimate dream setting for it. If she has a job, she can buy her own dream ring setting. Yep, I'm a woman and I say that you don't have to do it all, lol.

Edit: It's your decision, of course. I'm just pointing out things that I've learned from experience. Given choice between .6 and .75, I'd take .75 in a plainer setting, performance and color being equal. Another thing is, with a superideal cut diamond, your and/or she just might prefer it plain and not cluttered by a "busy" setting. It's the poorly cut stones that you might really want to boost with a lively setting. There are many women on this broad who over a 5-year time span went from solitaire to 2 or 3 diamond-loaded settings, then back to a solitaire.

 

[D&T]

go for the diamond, your gal can fund the dream setting later.... if she feels that she needs one or you both can work towards that for an anniversary reset later.

 

[Collee]

IMO without a doubt, the diamond is WAY more important.

 

[lingpanda01]

I know it makes sense that tastes change and whatnot and that she *may* eventually want to upgrade. But she''s worn the original ring I gave her for such a long time with no mention of ever getting something new or different. She''s really simple. When I say an expensive, beautiful setting, I''m not saying something that is insanely extravagant or over the top. Maybe something like this Maevona setting:

http://www.michaelcfina.com/engagement-wedding-rings/engagement-rings/maevona-platinum-solitaire-semi-mounting-PL0728SOAY0008.html

But I do like the idea of a shiny bright diamond on a simple solitaire setting...

Thanks for all the responses. I''m re-reading each and every response twice so it''s really appreciated.

 

[geckodani]

Date: 10/8/2009 4:14:11 PM
Author: lingpanda01
I know it makes sense that tastes change and whatnot and that she *may* eventually want to upgrade. But she''s worn the original ring I gave her for such a long time with no mention of ever getting something new or different. She''s really simple. When I say an expensive, beautiful setting, I''m not saying something that is insanely extravagant or over the top. Maybe something like this Maevona setting:

http://www.michaelcfina.com/engagement-wedding-rings/engagement-rings/maevona-platinum-solitaire-semi-mounting-PL0728SOAY0008.html

But I do like the idea of a shiny bright diamond on a simple solitaire setting...

Thanks for all the responses. I''m re-reading each and every response twice so it''s really appreciated.

Settings, even the most expensive settings, will someday need to be repaired or replaced. It''s the nature of having a bit of metal on your HANDS all the time.

I''d absolutely want a simple setting with a kick ass diamond over a kick ass setting with a Meh diamond. Think about this as well - only people reeeaally close will notice the setting. Folks across the room may see a diamond sparkle.

 

[D&T]

Date: 10/8/2009 4:21:53 PM
Author: geckodani

Date: 10/8/2009 4:14:11 PM
Author: lingpanda01
I know it makes sense that tastes change and whatnot and that she *may* eventually want to upgrade. But she''s worn the original ring I gave her for such a long time with no mention of ever getting something new or different. She''s really simple. When I say an expensive, beautiful setting, I''m not saying something that is insanely extravagant or over the top. Maybe something like this Maevona setting:

http://www.michaelcfina.com/engagement-wedding-rings/engagement-rings/maevona-platinum-solitaire-semi-mounting-PL0728SOAY0008.html

But I do like the idea of a shiny bright diamond on a simple solitaire setting...

Thanks for all the responses. I''m re-reading each and every response twice so it''s really appreciated.

Settings, even the most expensive settings, will someday need to be repaired or replaced. It''s the nature of having a bit of metal on your HANDS all the time.

I''d absolutely want a simple setting with a kick ass diamond over a kick ass setting with a Meh diamond. Think about this as well - only people reeeaally close will notice the setting. Folks across the room may see a diamond sparkle.

good point Dani

Take if from someone who has changed her setting four times in one year!.... please go with a nice diamond the best you could afford

 

[FancyDiamond]

Date: 10/8/2009 4:14:11 PM
Author: lingpanda01
I know it makes sense that tastes change and whatnot and that she *may* eventually want to upgrade. But she''s worn the original ring I gave her for such a long time with no mention of ever getting something new or different. She''s really simple. When I say an expensive, beautiful setting, I''m not saying something that is insanely extravagant or over the top. Maybe something like this Maevona setting:

http://www.michaelcfina.com/engagement-wedding-rings/engagement-rings/maevona-platinum-solitaire-semi-mounting-PL0728SOAY0008.html

But I do like the idea of a shiny bright diamond on a simple solitaire setting...

Thanks for all the responses. I''m re-reading each and every response twice so it''s really appreciated.

This is in response to the Maevona setting. It may be name brand or special style, but I think it is way over priced. For $1000 or less (less than half the price of your Maeona setting) , I can get a decent looking, high quality, and acceptable workmanship type of platinum setting. Besides, that particular style does not sing to me.

 

[jstarfireb]

Better diamond with simpler setting. Then if you save more money by the time the wedding rolls around, she can get a blingy wedding band.

 

[E B]

In your case, I''d choose the happy medium. $2000 - $2300 on the diamond, $700 - $1000 on the setting. If she''s not the upgrading kind, you should choose a nice quality setting AND beautiful diamond.

 

[E B]

Date: 10/8/2009 4:14:11 PM
Author: lingpanda01

http://www.michaelcfina.com/engagement-wedding-rings/engagement-rings/maevona-platinum-solitaire-semi-mounting-PL0728SOAY0008.html

Far too pricey for what it is, IMO. Something like this that has a similar feel and is much less expensive:

Motion by Knox

Though if you're going to go contemporary (like the setting above), be sure it's the direction SHE'D go. Actually, you should make sure any setting you purchase would be one that she'd love, especially if it's the forever setting.

 

[Lizzrd02]

Date: 10/8/2009 6:27:21 PM
Author: EBree
In your case, I''d choose the happy medium. $2000 - $2300 on the diamond, $700 - $1000 on the setting. If she''s not the upgrading kind, you should choose a nice quality setting AND beautiful diamond.

I totally agree. Some people are just so sentimental they would never even think about upgrading/changing. I am soo not one of those people but I have a few friends and sister who would wholeheartedly agree that they will NEVER change their set. So I think in your case the smartest thing to do would be to make sure she will adore the whole package, because I think that is what she will focus on, not just the diamond or just the setting. Plus, it really doesn''t matter all that much what is going to get the most attention or whatever, because as long as she adores it, you are golden. Also, do you know if she wants a simple solitaire or would she be open to other settings? By all means, get the girl what she likes, but I personally prefer a few diamonds or detail for a solitaire with a diamond in that size range. These are some beautiful settings might work:
http://www.jamesallen.com/engagement-rings/settings-with-sidestones/basket-set-Engagement-Ring.html

http://www.jamesallen.com/engagement-rings/settings-with-sidestones/Common-Prong-Engagement-Ring.html

http://www.bluenile.com/diamond-engagement-ring-platinum_9919

http://www.bluenile.com/diamond-engagement-ring-setting-white-gold_12960

If she is more of a simple solitaire type:
http://www.jamesallen.com/engagement-rings/solitaire/round-solitaire-diamond-rings.html

http://www.whiteflash.com/Engagement-Rings/Styles/Solitaire/-W-Prong--Diamond-Solitaire-by-WF_741.htm

Hope that helps a little!

 

[Lizzrd02]

Date: 10/8/2009 6:29:36 PM
Author: EBree

Date: 10/8/2009 4:14:11 PM
Author: lingpanda01

http://www.michaelcfina.com/engagement-wedding-rings/engagement-rings/maevona-platinum-solitaire-semi-mounting-PL0728SOAY0008.html

Far too pricey for what it is, IMO. Something like this that has a similar feel and is much less expensive:

Motion by Knox

Though if you''re going to go contemporary (like the setting above), be sure it''s the direction SHE''D go. Actually, you should make sure any setting you purchase would be one that she''d love, especially if it''s the forever setting.

EBree you and I are on the same wavelength! I was just looking for that picture on knox''s site! That is very similar to the ring posted.

 

[yssie]

I have to say beware going overboard on your first setting!

If (god forbid) you happen to chip your stone, for example, and when you replace you want to upgrade to a BIGGER one, or a different shape, unless you've got the simplest peg-head style your setting is pretty much toast (depending of course on how much bigger, setting type, material, etc.).

Trust me, you don't want an old empty 1500$ setting sitting in your jewellery box.

 

[LGK]

Better diamond. Settings can get damaged much more easily than a diamond. Also her taste sounds more like she''d appreciate a solitaire anyway.

 

[swingirl]

Date: 10/8/2009 12:53:49 PM
Author: stitch
A couple of my friends told me that they keep the setting for life. It has sentimental value to them. They prefer beautiful setting. They say that you can always upgrade the rock but not the setting. I happen to agree with them

I have kept my setting for 30 years, 15 of those years it's been in a box in my drawer. My original setting did not last as long as my marriage has. I have a new stone and setting for my next 30 years. The diamond has been reset in a pendant and it holds the same sentimental feeling around my neck as it did on my finger.

So don't assume there will never be an upgrade. Metal wears.

 

[lingpanda01]

Thanks so much for all the opinions and ideas. You guys are so kind and helpful for taking the time to post pics and stuff.

I think she doesn't mind the simple solitaire style. But I'm 100% sure she'd be more interested in a contemporary style e-ring. Although a Tiffany style solitaire is always a safe bet.

We were looking at wedding rings awhile back for "fun" and she didn't really like pave settings at all. But when she looked at simple solitaires, she was more like, "Ooh...pretty" instead of "WOW! PRETTY!"

But when we saw the pictures of some of the Maevona rings, she really liked them. The Motion by Knox is interesting but I don't like how from the side view, the diamond sits really flat with the ring. She did mention that she didn't like how some of the diamond sat too high on top of the simple solitaires. So I was thinking of a happy medium in that respect.

But I'm starting to agree with you guys that the Maevona rings might be a bit too pricey. Although the 18 ct white gold version of that is cheaper: $1750.

I do think this Knox ring is absolutely beautiful and her style, though:
http://www.knoxjewelers.biz/products/solera
Plus, she wanted a thin band since her fingers are really dainty.
Is Knox a very trusted online jeweler? And are their diamond prices comparable to WhiteFlash and BlueNile? It says "Availability: Sold as Complete Ring Only"
As I'm typing this...I think that Solera ring is BEAUTIFUL!!!
But $890 is still expensive for a 14ct online ring, isn't it?

Ahhhh!!! So much to think about!!!
But this forum is so helpful. I was on two other diamond forums before I found this one and they were not nearly as active or helpful.

Thanks guys! I feel so happy thinking about giving her the ring. I know she'll love whatever I come up with.
She thinks the proposal will come some time next year. But I'm going to surprise her on Christmas Day. Cliche, I know. But I love it anyways!

Bah. I just saw the handshot of that Solera ring. It looks weird on the finger...
Maybe I should just go with the simple solitaire and a super shiny diamond...

 

[JSRNM]

I would go for the diamond.
My 18 year old e-ring setting is worn and scratched. I just sent it to BGD to be reset in platinum with larger side baguettes. It is an upgraded replica of my original setting. The old gold setting will be scrap. I would never dream of changing the center stone since I love it so much and we picked it out together so both my husband and I are sentimental about it. I travel a lot and am a busy mom so I prefer staying with the 1ct center stone. I leave the bling and more trendy stuff for my right hand.

I would vote for the diamond.

 

[kenny]

To me it is all about the diamond.

The perfect setting would be invisible.