Engagement Ring - Help!

[phillyringer]

Hey guys,

I'm new to the world of jewelry but have done a fair amount of due diligence. Thus said, I was hoping to get an approximation of what I might expect when going to a jeweler. I live just outside of Philadelphia so I assume I will likely hit jewelers row.

I think I have a pretty good idea of what ring style and setting she would like. She would like more of a wider "squarish" ring. I have attached 2 ideas for the ring itself, not totally sure about the setting yet. I also think she would like Platinum.

http://www.bluenile.com/tapered-baguette-diamond-engagement-ring-platinum_27482 --> I like this but without the baguettes.

http://www.zales.com/product/index.jsp?productId=13239439&fd=Over+%245%2C000.00&fd=Solitaire&size=96&fv=00500000%7E-%7E999999999999&fv=Ring+Style%2FSolitaire&ff=StorePrice&ff=PAD ---> This is also a top contender


However where I am stuck is the diamond. Ideally I would like to go as big as possible, but I know that I don't want something that looks like a piece of coal. I'm hoping that I could possible get into the 3-3.5 ct. arena. I would like to do either cushion or round solitaire.

I haven't quite defined my budget yet. I could do $15k but may be able to go as high as about $20k.

Carrot wise, where am I in those price ranges?

Much appreciated!

 

[Dancing Fire]

$20k will buy you a nice 2ct RB but not a 3ct.

 

[krisjon]

Also, that first setting you posted is $4500. Is your total budget $15-20k or is that what you can put towards a stone?
You won't come close to 3-3.5 carats, though. That's just completely unrealistic for your budget.

 

[04diamond<3]

Here's a 2.55 ct beautiful cushion:

http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/fancy-color/yellow/cushion-cut/2.55-carat-vs1-clarity-sku-202471

 

[phillyringer]

Thanks for the replies!

I guess I was a little overzealous...

The budget is just for the stone.

The one posted above is gorgeous but I think its a little too yellow for my liking. I was hoping for something completely clear or with very little yellowing.

I have a couple of more questions.

1) Approx how much would I need for a decent 3 ct?

2) Do you get more "bang for your buck" with a round or a cushion cut?

3) I have a family member (aunt) who purchases all of her stones through a diamond broker. She said the last one she purchased was 2.5 ct and I forget the color and clarity but she said it was pretty good, for $12.5 - are you guys aware of the approx discount I might get if dealing with the broker were to actually pan out?

Much appreciated!!!

 

[krisjon]

Here's a 2.55 ct beautiful cushion:

http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/fancy-color/yellow/cushion-cut/2.55-carat-vs1-clarity-sku-202471

Nice. You could put together a unique/standout ring with that for $20k. A nice halo would really set that thing off.

 

[arkieb1]

Thanks for the replies!

I guess I was a little overzealous...

The budget is just for the stone.

The one posted above is gorgeous but I think its a little too yellow for my liking. I was hoping for something completely clear or with very little yellowing.

I have a couple of more questions.

1) Approx how much would I need for a decent 3 ct?

2) Do you get more "bang for your buck" with a round or a cushion cut?

3) I have a family member (aunt) who purchases all of her stones through a diamond broker. She said the last one she purchased was 2.5 ct and I forget the color and clarity but she said it was pretty good, for $12.5 - are you guys aware of the approx discount I might get if dealing with the broker were to actually pan out?

Much appreciated!!!

The only diamonds that size and price that would be available through a broker are EGL International stones which are frequently 4 to 5 (it can be more shades) incorrectly graded in colour compared to GIA and around 2 to 3 misgraded in clarity. There are no cutting corners when you purchase a diamond.

 

[krisjon]

She said the last one she purchased was 2.5 ct and I forget the color and clarity but she said it was pretty good, for $12.5

"Pretty good" isn't what you're going to find recommended around here.

Quality over quantity (carat).
Cut is king.

Follow that (plus the guidance/advice here) and you'll end up in a good place.

 

[Dancing Fire]

Thanks for the replies!

1) Approx how much would I need for a decent 3 ct?


Much appreciated!!!

Here's a top cut H SI1.

http://www.briangavindiamonds.com/diamonds/diamond-details/3.018-h-si1-round-diamond-ags-104052954001

 

[arkieb1]

Carat wise for around $18 000 preloved you will get a top cut GIA or AGS graded J colour Round Brilliant. I would suggest one of these;

http://loupetroop.com/listings/loose-stones-diamond/two-2-dot-3ct-each-j-vs2-bgd-super-ideal-diamonds

She also has a larger diamond for sale that is a top cut as well;

http://loupetroop.com/listings/loose-stones-diamond/2-dot-656ct-h-si2-bgd-super-ideal-diamond

For $12 000 you will get an EGL International diamond that is most likely a mid to low coloured stone with around an I2 clarity by comparison to GIA standards in a large size, badly cut and full of inclusions that you will see.

 

[Rhea]

Carat wise for around $18 000 preloved you will get a top cut GIA or AGS graded J colour Round Brilliant. I would suggest one of these;

http://loupetroop.com/listings/loose-stones-diamond/two-2-dot-3ct-each-j-vs2-bgd-super-ideal-diamonds

She also has a larger diamond for sale that is a top cut as well;

http://loupetroop.com/listings/loose-stones-diamond/2-dot-656ct-h-si2-bgd-super-ideal-diamond

For $12 000 you will get an EGL International diamond that is most likely a mid to low coloured stone with around an I2 clarity by comparison to GIA standards in a large size, badly cut and full of inclusions that you will see.

I was just coming to post these! I can't believe they haven't sold yet with the amount of posters we have looking for 2 carats with a $20K budget! These are such a great deal!!

 

[Tekate]

If she has GIA cert she should put that in.. maybe that is why they haven't moved.

Carat wise for around $18 000 preloved you will get a top cut GIA or AGS graded J colour Round Brilliant. I would suggest one of these;

http://loupetroop.com/listings/loose-stones-diamond/two-2-dot-3ct-each-j-vs2-bgd-super-ideal-diamonds

She also has a larger diamond for sale that is a top cut as well;

http://loupetroop.com/listings/loose-stones-diamond/2-dot-656ct-h-si2-bgd-super-ideal-diamond

For $12 000 you will get an EGL International diamond that is most likely a mid to low coloured stone with around an I2 clarity by comparison to GIA standards in a large size, badly cut and full of inclusions that you will see.

I was just coming to post these! I can't believe they haven't sold yet with the amount of posters we have looking for 2 carats with a $20K budget! These are such a great deal!!

 

[CymoneD]

http://www.bluenile.com/build-your-own-diamond-ring?first_step=diamond&forceStep=DIAMONDS_STEP

This diamond is in your price range although I am a colored gem person myself this one is ok. It is an ideal cut H in color SI1 in clarity and is 2.21 carats 8.34x8.38mm.

http://www.bluenile.com/build-your-own-diamond-ring?first_step=diamond&forceStep=DIAMONDS_STEP#diamonds_forceStep=DIAMONDS_STEP|builder=BYOR|pid=LD03962605

This diamond is under your budget but although it is larger in carat weight the mm size is smaller. GIA reports are ok in describing a diamons but you'll never really know what it looks like by the description.

 

[CymoneD]

James Allen is great for showing the actual stone.

 

[CymoneD]

http://www.ritani.com/diamonds/round-diamond-2-01-Carat-H-color-GIA-certified/D-VS5YHX

http://www.ritani.com/diamonds/round-diamond-2-30-Carat-H-color-GIA-certified/D-MJS0JB

Here's a few more...

 

[Cluless]

This one might be too yellow for you also, but for the size the price seems like a bargain and it has fluorescence which may help. I don't know I guess it's best to speak with David.

http://www.diamondsbylauren.com/index.php/jewelry/loose-yellow-diamond-333ct-natural-light-yellow-cushion-cut-diamond-r5567

 

[teobdl]

This one might be too yellow for you also, but for the size the price seems like a bargain and it has fluorescence which may help. I don't know I guess it's best to speak with David.

http://www.diamondsbylauren.com/index.php/jewelry/loose-yellow-diamond-333ct-natural-light-yellow-cushion-cut-diamond-r5567

That is one cool diamond. DBL has great stuff.

 

[CharmyPoo]

To meet your budget, your best bet is eBay or Rubylane with a heck of a lot of searching, waiting, negotiating, and snatching up a deal. It will be very difficult as one of the ebay gurus on here will likely snatch it up versus sharing it publicly.

With that said, here are a few options for your consideration:

Not loving the potential dark center.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Vintage-Conflict-Free-27-Carat-Old-European-Diamond-Engagement-Ring-Platinum-/370986573601

Lovely setting and sold for a great price. Example of what you can find on ebay.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Antique-3-39ct-Square-Emerald-Cut-Diamond-Platinum-Engagement-Ring-NR-/390713415819?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEWAX%3AIT&nma=true&si=NEL%252FFDKcsrHPRlAhQx2Ap%252FjZXVQ%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc

 

[teobdl]

Interested in a lower color OEC?

10% over budget: 3.3 ct M VS2 set OEC for $22K. Someone here can speak to discounts, if any, at JbEG. Bottom of this page http://www.jewelsbyericagrace.com/antique_vintage_and_reproduction_rings_page_4

 

[Ellejae1]

If she has GIA cert she should put that in.. maybe that is why they haven't moved.

Carat wise for around $18 000 preloved you will get a top cut GIA or AGS graded J colour Round Brilliant. I would suggest one of these;

http://loupetroop.com/listings/loose-stones-diamond/two-2-dot-3ct-each-j-vs2-bgd-super-ideal-diamonds

She also has a larger diamond for sale that is a top cut as well;

http://loupetroop.com/listings/loose-stones-diamond/2-dot-656ct-h-si2-bgd-super-ideal-diamond

For $12 000 you will get an EGL International diamond that is most likely a mid to low coloured stone with around an I2 clarity by comparison to GIA standards in a large size, badly cut and full of inclusions that you will see.

I was just coming to post these! I can't believe they haven't sold yet with the amount of posters we have looking for 2 carats with a $20K budget! These are such a great deal!!

Hi Tekate-
They are all AGS certs. I'm actually interested in the 2.656. Does the Pricescope community hold AGS to the standards they do to GIA?

 

[arkieb1]

If she has GIA cert she should put that in.. maybe that is why they haven't moved.

Carat wise for around $18 000 preloved you will get a top cut GIA or AGS graded J colour Round Brilliant. I would suggest one of these;

http://loupetroop.com/listings/loose-stones-diamond/two-2-dot-3ct-each-j-vs2-bgd-super-ideal-diamonds

She also has a larger diamond for sale that is a top cut as well;

http://loupetroop.com/listings/loose-stones-diamond/2-dot-656ct-h-si2-bgd-super-ideal-diamond

For $12 000 you will get an EGL International diamond that is most likely a mid to low coloured stone with around an I2 clarity by comparison to GIA standards in a large size, badly cut and full of inclusions that you will see.

I was just coming to post these! I can't believe they haven't sold yet with the amount of posters we have looking for 2 carats with a $20K budget! These are such a great deal!!

Hi Tekate-
They are all AGS certs. I'm actually interested in the 2.656. Does the Pricescope community hold AGS to the standards they do to GIA?

Pretty well, in this case they are Brian Gavin Signature stones, so you honestly have very little to worry about other than making sure the SI2 is 100% eyeclean for you (which it is supposed to be).

 

[phillyringer]

Hey guys,

Thanks for all of the insight!!!

Just curious of what you think with something like this?

http://www.ebay.com/itm/160740044386?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1423.l2649

Also, Carrot wise, as I'm looking to do a solitaire, what would actually look "bigger" - a round or cushion? For instance if I had a 3 carrot round and cushion next to each other, which is going to look bigger in the setting?

Also, for a round and cushion cut, same 4 c's --> are they for the most part going to be priced the same or is one of those cuts priced lower?

 

[JulieN]

for the same ct weight, a round is bigger. But it costs significantly more.

 

[distracts]

Also, for a round and cushion cut, same 4 c's --> are they for the most part going to be priced the same or is one of those cuts priced lower?

A cushion cut will likely be priced lower, but it will also face-up smaller.

I don't like that ebay seller. In general, if it has a stock pic and is presenting as "new" on ebay, it's going to be a ripoff. The diamond pictured is not actually what you will receive - you can see that all their listings for cushion stones have the same picture. I wouldn't ever buy anything with just a stock picture. Plus, for that one, it says EGL USA H/VS2 in the title and by the grading but in the body it says GRA certified.

And re: ripoff, that is priced at almost 26k, but look at the price of this similarly-specced diamond on Solomon Bros: http://www.solomonbrothers.com/DiamondDetail.aspx?sku=IC161011&affiliate=9318613A-AD0C-4530-A456-0409DFEFB8DE&utm_source=PriceScope

And here is what a similarly-specced/priced GIA-graded diamond looks like:
http://www.ritani.com/diamonds/cushion-diamond-3-05-Carat-H-color-GIA-certified/D-VM3QJP
You can see it's cheaper than others no doubt because of the easily-seen black inclusions

If you want to do ebay, you need to buy something USED. Otherwise you won't be realizing a savings over retail. And then, to get a good 3+ ct at 20k or less, you probably are going to be having to wait for a seller who is uneducated or in distress.

Here are the 3+s in your budget at JA:
http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/3.18-carat-h-color-i1-clarity-very-good-cut-sku-252620
http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/cushion-cut/3.02-carat-j-color-si2-clarity-sku-275170
http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/cushion-cut/3.03-carat-j-color-si2-clarity-sku-275171
http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/princess-cut/3.22-carat-k-color-si1-clarity-sku-246246
http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/princess-cut/3.04-carat-k-color-si1-clarity-sku-212638
http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/princess-cut/3.00-carat-k-color-si1-clarity-sku-212629
http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/radiant-cut/3.00-carat-k-color-vs2-clarity-sku-40490

I actually like the 3.03 cushion and the 3.22 princess cut.

It is important for you to realize though that no matter what the paper SAYS if you are getting a 3 ct for 20k or less it is going to look at best as good as one of the JA ones above. Unless you are getting a miracle of a deal on a used diamond, which I have only seen happen even for PSers a handful of times. Personally I would try to get a 2-2.5 ct that fits most of your specs.

 

[Ellejae1]

If she has GIA cert she should put that in.. maybe that is why they haven't moved.

Carat wise for around $18 000 preloved you will get a top cut GIA or AGS graded J colour Round Brilliant. I would suggest one of these;

http://loupetroop.com/listings/loose-stones-diamond/two-2-dot-3ct-each-j-vs2-bgd-super-ideal-diamonds

She also has a larger diamond for sale that is a top cut as well;

http://loupetroop.com/listings/loose-stones-diamond/2-dot-656ct-h-si2-bgd-super-ideal-diamond

For $12 000 you will get an EGL International diamond that is most likely a mid to low coloured stone with around an I2 clarity by comparison to GIA standards in a large size, badly cut and full of inclusions that you will see.

I was just coming to post these! I can't believe they haven't sold yet with the amount of posters we have looking for 2 carats with a $20K budget! These are such a great deal!!

Hi Tekate-
They are all AGS certs. I'm actually interested in the 2.656. Does the Pricescope community hold AGS to the standards they do to GIA?

Pretty well, in this case they are Brian Gavin Signature stones, so you honestly have very little to worry about other than making sure the SI2 is 100% eyeclean for you (which it is supposed to be).

thanks for the reply! in your opinion is this stone a good value and can I trust this seller and Leon Mege who it is listed through? They both say it's 100% eyeclean.

 

[krisjon]

As said before, Brian Gavin doesn't attach his name to crap, so as long as you get confirmable paperwork/reports that match the serial # on the stone, you should be fine. Most BG diamonds with AGS reports should have BG's name listed on the report.

Also, if it's a previous BG diamond, there should be images for it, too. Might have to check with BG's archives.