Erica Grace rings - advice needed

[The3rdMan]

I am trying to find a vintage engagement ring and Erica Grace''s prices seem reasonable. I was looking at her site:

http://www.jewelsbyericagrace.com/antique_and_reproduction_rings

The first four are definite possibilities, especially the first one. Wanted to get a few expert opinions on the diamonds and which one stands out as the best. Also, what are soem people''s experience with Erica Grace?

 

[neatfreak]

I haven't bought from them, but their prices seem reasonable and they are super nice and very knowledgeable. Both post here often actually!

I think buying old stones is really a personal thing. Does one of those make YOUR heart sing? I like them all for different reasons personally.

If I were choosing for myself, I would probably also choose the first one...that one strikes me the most.

 

[Lorelei]

Date: 10/28/2008 5:16:56 PM
Author: neatfreak
I haven''t bought from them, but their prices seem reasonable and they are super nice and very knowledgeable. Both post here often actually!

I think buying old stones is really a personal thing. Does one of those make YOUR heart sing? I like them all for different reasons personally.

If I were choosing for myself, I would probably also choose the first one...that one strikes me the most.

Ditto and from what I can see, I adore that first diamond, it is really lovely!

 

[LGK]

They are definitely a reputable seller. Lots of folks on PS have some great old cuts from them, and I don't think I've ever heard a single gripe, which is pretty remarkable. They hand pick for beautiful performers, which is nice... a smaller stock of all hand picked merchandise is a great way to go, I think!

I do think that first one you posted is great!

 

[forensics1]

The first one by a long shot!! Oh my goodness, I would be over the moon! Erica Grace have some awesome rocks! I''m trying to get my hands on one as we speak.

 

[beaujolais]

I Love all things Erica Grace.

Either No. 1 or No. 3. Depends on your tastes with that really.

No. 1 is probably more what more people would choose. It''s a safer bet. The stone is a bit more up-to-date looking than the others. I do love the setting on it.

No. 3 would be more for somone who likes a bit more of an antique look.

For me, I find I end up looking at No. 3 more. However, No. 1 is still great.

Which one is more your flavor?

 

[The3rdMan]

Interesting reactions - my girlfriend likes #4 but I like #1 like the rest of you. The setting is just nicer. And sonomacounty if you look at the pics of #3 the setting looks very uneven. I liked #3 until i inspected the pics closer.

 

[neatfreak]

Date: 10/28/2008 8:16:59 PM
Author: The3rdMan
Interesting reactions - my girlfriend likes #4 but I like #1 like the rest of you. The setting is just nicer. And sonomacounty if you look at the pics of #3 the setting looks very uneven. I liked #3 until i inspected the pics closer.

If your GF likes #4, get the girl what she likes!

 

[NewEnglandLady]

Date: 10/28/2008 8:22:20 PM
Author: neatfreak

Date: 10/28/2008 8:16:59 PM
Author: The3rdMan
Interesting reactions - my girlfriend likes #4 but I like #1 like the rest of you. The setting is just nicer. And sonomacounty if you look at the pics of #3 the setting looks very uneven. I liked #3 until i inspected the pics closer.

If your GF likes #4, get the girl what she likes!

I second this, plus it would leave room in the budget for a nice wedding band...

 

[The3rdMan]

Yes I guess thats what is so hard about ordering these things online. I guess I was trying to get opinions based on the quality of the rings based on people who have alot of experience with diamonds. I am actually tempted in ordering both and returning the one I dont like.

I called the merchant and was told the first ring is all original work and that the diamond itself has a finer cut to it, while the 4th one was a loose diamond placed into a vintage setting and that the diamond isnt as symmetrical. So trying to decide.

-NewEnglandLady - nice Newfie. We have a Dane.

 

[NewEnglandLady]

I think ordering both and choosing the one you (and she) loves with your eyes is a fantastic idea! I have a feeling that seeing both would probably solidiify your (and her) decision one way or another. Both are so beautiful (I can''t help but love that gorgeous bezel, though). I tend to think she might want to see an L color in person, though, since it might be a little too warm for her.

Danes are the best! Byron (our newf) has several Dane friends at the dog park--I love to watch the big ol'' goofballs play. There is another PSer (2Danes) who has...you guessed it! Two Danes--she might not be around anymore, but she was in the process of having her e-ring reset after she broke her finger walking one of her danes.

When Byron was a pup, I used to read the great dane lady''s (Linda Arndt) website all the time--such a great resource!

Anyway, good luck with this decision and we can''t WAIT to see you what you choose!

 

[beaujolais]

Re: the setting in No. 3 being uneven - maybe but that wouldn''t bother me. These stones are so different, if it was the stone I wanted but it was set a bit uneven - so what, imo.

No. 4 is cool, too. Definitely. It has the oldest look, I think. I just left it out because one really has to like a very vintage looking stone to like 4.

I''d really let her choose, though. They are very different looks and she is the one who will be wearing it.

 

[Diamond*Dana]

I have never purchased from them, but I would like to one day! That first ring is stunning! OMG, it is just perfect!

 

[The3rdMan]

OK = it looks like we''re ordering the first one. What kind of paperwork should I ask/expect for a vintage ring?

 

[neatfreak]

Date: 10/28/2008 10:03:01 PM
Author: The3rdMan
OK = it looks like we''re ordering the first one. What kind of paperwork should I ask/expect for a vintage ring?

It''s not about the paperwork with old stones. Just make sure when you get it you take it to an independent appraiser, preferably one with experience in old stones, to verify that it is what it is supposed to be and that there aren''t any undisclosed chips, etc. in the stone.

 

[goobear78]

Congrats on your purchase. I think you and your GF will be very happy! The ring looks beautiful!

 

[arjunajane]

Fantastic choice, that would''ve definately been my pick of the bunch.

Just ask Erica or Grace what to expect in way of ppwk, but I''m pretty sure most of their stones aren''t certified. As NF mentioned, this is usually not teh focus with older stones.
You should find an appraiser who specializes in older cuts and rings and get an appraisal after you decide to keep it.

Can''t wait to see pics !

 

[LtlFirecracker]

I really liked the first one the best too. That looks like a great stone, and lovely setting.