extra $500 in budget -- put it into color grade or into setting?

[gcallas]

From what I''ve seen, the difference in price between an H stone and an I stone of similar quality and size is about $400-$500. At the same time, the difference between a fairly basic 6-prong solitaire setting and a setting with some small channel-set sidestones also seems to be about $500.

I think I''m going to have to choose between an H with no sidestones or an I with some small sidestones, and I''m looking for opinions on what people think looks better.

 

[Daniela]

I think that if it were me I would go for the H. I really like the looks of a classic solitaire, anyway. Have you seen any really well cut H's and I's in person? It might help to sway your decision.

 

[hlpkaixin3344]

How big is your center stone?

 

[Mara]

I'd probably go H over I if given the chance. You can always upgrade the setting later....

 

[KittyTiger]

Hi~~

I'd go for the higher color. I think the solitaire setting is very pretty..

and then anytime later.. , like Mara says.. you can upgrade the setting..

 

[gcallas]

----------------
On 12/17/2003 5:21:54 PM Anonymous Wrote:

How big is your center stone?----------------

I've been looking in the 1.00 - 1.25 range.

So far, sounds like the color is more important. (Good point about upgrading the setting down the road.)

 

[bling]

I too would go for the H..like the others said..you can always upgrade the setting later. Plus, with that size stone..it will stand out so nicely in a classic solitaire setting..imho..

 

[MichelleCarmen]

I'd also go for the H color. Settings can be upgraded and also, a lot of them tend to date over time, so I can't imagine spending too much for a setting. It makes more sense to get a great eng. diamond and a simple timeless solitaire.

Michelle

 

[strmrdr]

Id put the $500 into diamond size.
But then I have looked at I colored diamonds and they look great to me.
Check some out localy and if an I color is livable for you then either save the money or get a bigger diamond.

 

[mdurkin]

I would go with the H or the larger stone if it were me! The solitaire setting is so classic - you can't go wrong...

 

[bof]

i would keep the $500 and invest it. i think that it is great that you have found what you are look for under budget and don't see why you need to spend the difference. if you have already decided on a stone and setting be happy with it and don't worry about what you should be upgrading.

bof

 

[canadiangrrl]

H

 

[aljdewey]

H, too......I just bought an H, and it's GORGEOUS!

 

[Caratz]

I would spend the extra money on the setting. In my mind, a diamond is a commodity. The ring is where you have the opportunity to be truly unique.

 

[chris-uk04]

Go for the sidestones. Diamond aficionados like the better color but chances are your woman would like the extra sparkle of the sidestones.

 

[fire&ice]

What will the ring be used for - an engagement? If so, I would go w/ a larger I in a solitaire. In this size stone, the difference b/t an H & I is *so* minimal. If it's an anniversary ring, I'd go I color w/ sidestones. JMHO

 

[Giangi]

I too would get the H color.

 

[hoorray]

Do you have any idea what she likes setting-wise? Some women love solitares, some really want the side stones. It's a personal thing. I'd see if you can feel her out, or ask sisters/friends what you tink she would prefer for the setting. She probably won't really know the difference if asked between the H and I color, although I'd try to go H if you can.