Good value for this vintage eternity band?

[anIndecisiveBride]

Hi,
I just gave into impulse and purchased this ring:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180829576915#ht_1954wt_1163
The appraisal card and the return policy put me at ease, but I'd love some second opinions.



I'm also assuming I should take it to be appraised myself when it arrives, to verify all the information -- does anyone have a recommendation for a good, affordable independent appraiser in the NYC area?
Thanks!!

 

[diamondseeker2006]

I think it looks like it may be really beautiful, but I feel like the price was a little high. EGL is known to be loose in grading, so those stones are likely a little lower in color and clarity. You can get a 2.20 eternity from WhiteFlash with ideal cut, F-G VS diamonds and brand new for $4400. I am sure you could get a G-H SI eternity from ID Jewelry for $3500. I feel like older pieces should be sold at a discount as compared with new unless there is something special about the piece (such as the maker, etc.). I like the setting a lot if it turns out to be well made and in excellent condition, which I can't quite tell from the pictures. Let me add that I know comparing this ring to a new one with modern round brilliants isn't exactly fair because it might cost more to reproduce that exact ring new. I think if you love it when you get it, then it would be worth keeping, but if you have any doubts, then don't.

 

[Gypsy]

I wouldn't have paid that much, myself. But I'm not you.

BUT it is a unique piece with true old cuts. To me, if the piece is PERFECT and exactly what you want, as long as you don't overpay too much, a little of a 'perfection' premium is okay. And I don't think you paid a ridiculous price for it so... ENJOY!

I hope you wear it in the best of health! Congrats.

 

[Amys Bling]

It's a lovely band

 

[SweetAsscher]

I don't know if it's a good value or not, it's pricey for me.. but, I love the band! it's gorgeous with the single cuts all the way around!

 

[Enerchi]

Its definitely a very nice looking ring and it you really like it - so wait till you see what it really looks like, then you can decide to return or not. If you keep it, get it appraised for sure. I like the single cuts on it

It is lovely!! I hope it works out for you!

 

[anIndecisiveBride]

Thanks everyone! The band should arrive tomorrow so hopefully I'll be able to post an update soon!

 

[anIndecisiveBride]

Verdict: It's really beautiful -- I think the diamonds are the perfect size, and they look very clear and white to me all the way around, which I was a little worried about. Still planning to get it re-appraised, but I really appreciate your guys' input (and the reassurances that while I may not have gotten a steal, I at least didn't get taken for a ride)! Thanks!!

 

[anIndecisiveBride]

Good news!

I got the ring appraised today by a GIA certified appraiser (http://www.gemlab.com/) and he agreed with EGL's evaluation of the color and clarity of the diamonds. So that's awesome! He also gave me a market value range of $3-4k, and what we paid was right in the middle -- so it seems like we paid a fair price.

One thing he did say, though, is that he wouldn't recommend insuring the ring for EGL's retail value ($9300) -- he said insuring it for $4 or $4.5k should be sufficient, and that anything more would just be me paying unnecessary premiums.

I'm falling more and more in love with the single cuts -- not sure it's fair that I have to wait two months to wear this ring!

The appraiser also said that in 25 years working in the diamond district, this is the first single-cut eternity band he's seen in an original setting.

 

[Enerchi]

That's great that it worked out so well for you! Enjoy now with confidence (or in the next few months, when you can REALLY wear it!)

It looks lovely on you. So glad it had a happy ending.

 

[diamondseeker2006]

I am so happy for you! It does look beautiful and I am so glad the appraisal turned out well! I also am happy he told you not to insure for an inflated amount. So did he write the appraisal for $4000? I think that is a good price to insure it for, too!

 

[tyty333]

I think it is very pretty...so glad you are happy with it!

 

[Rhea]

It looks great!

 

[Amys Bling]

Looks great on you

 

[Gypsy]

So basically, you paid retail for the band but didn't overpay. And it's for a unique true vintage piece that is in excellent condition.

Sounds like you've got yourself a lovely band. I would insure it for 4k max. NO WAY would I insure it for 9k, because that's inflated, ridiculous and inaccurate.

It also sounds like you have an excellent appraiser.

Overall, win/win.