Hallo 5.318ct diamond? Holly might need a costume change!

[Phoenix]

So it's not even 6 months yet and Holly is looking rather slim (I don't think she had any of our rich Christmas food, he he) and my thoughts wander to halo styles...

At this moment, I am still not sure yet if I'd like to halo her, or should I just hold out for that larger vintage ring at some point in the future, which may or may not materialise. Absent this larger honker, Holly *might* need a costume change.

In any case, the solitaire setting was/ is supposed to be fairly temporary. I wanted to get the ring on my finger asap and would like to take time planning a more permanent home for Holly. I really wouldn't mind a slightly more ornate custom-setting, something unusual and rather one-off.

Would you ladies (and gents) like to help me and suggest some halo styles for her? I have no paricular thoughts at the moment, other than I am looking for a delicate setting, either vintage or modern - no particular preference. No thoughts yet either on gallery design. Would prefer platinum or WG or even very pink rose gold. I tend to not wear a band; or if I do, then only a skinny band (think LM string or Tiffany Metro).

Budget-wise, am looking at $6-8k, though if need be, it could be upped a little.

The key is for the centre stone to really shine and not be overwhelmed by the setting or any sidestones.

TIA

 

[Laila619]

Re: Hallo 5.318ct diamond? Holly might need a costume change

Hi Phoenix. How about Leon's Adrianna halo?

 

[Phoenix]

Re: Hallo 5.318ct diamond? Holly might need a costume change

Just in case anyone thinks my post above is a bit confusing, I'd just like to state that at the moment, I love Holly as she is but the setting I think is rather simple (understated elegance, some might say) and IMO doesn't really show off the centre stone very much.

In any case, I think I owe it to myself to at least look at possible settings and try and consider what Holly would look like in them. I just haven't gone through this exercise yet..and it's time!

Also, I am used to wearing my larger halo'ed pear and it looks "normal" to me, so larger rings are not unusual for my style (clothing-wise or socially). I may also get larger studs, like 3ct each (though God knows when they'll come about - could be a long wait ); so larger rings would match my earrings very well....or is it the other way round, lol (?!).

 

[Phoenix]

Re: Hallo 5.318ct diamond? Holly might need a costume change

Hi Phoenix. How about Leon's Adrianna halo?

A good suggestion, def worth considering. I have that for my pear and love it.

Thank you, Laila.

 

[justginger]

Re: Hallo 5.318ct diamond? Holly might need a costume change

I would love to see what Mike Robinson could come up with for Holly! If you want unique, one off, handcrafted goodness, I think he has a whole lot to offer.

 

[Phoenix]

Re: Hallo 5.318ct diamond? Holly might need a costume change

I would love to see what Mike Robinson could come up with for Holly! If you want unique, one off, handcrafted goodness, I think he has a whole lot to offer.

Another very good suggestion. Only thing is: isn't he based in NZ? The logistics aspects could be a bit of a nightmare! Any ideas to help there would be much appreciated.

 

[melave]

Re: Hallo 5.318ct diamond? Holly might need a costume change

I would love to see what Mike Robinson could come up with for Holly! If you want unique, one off, handcrafted goodness, I think he has a whole lot to offer.

Another very good suggestion. Only thing is: isn't he based in NZ? The logistics aspects could be a bit of a nightmare! Any ideas to help there would be much appreciated.

Fly over for a holiday??

I think he is booked out for all next year or something isn't he? so maybe not an option if you are in a hurry

 

[Laila619]

Re: Hallo 5.318ct diamond? Holly might need a costume change

What about adding pear side stones? Classy + extra bling.

 

[Phoenix]

Re: Hallo 5.318ct diamond? Holly might need a costume change

I would love to see what Mike Robinson could come up with for Holly! If you want unique, one off, handcrafted goodness, I think he has a whole lot to offer.

Another very good suggestion. Only thing is: isn't he based in NZ? The logistics aspects could be a bit of a nightmare! Any ideas to help there would be much appreciated.

Fly over for a holiday??

I think he is booked out for all next year or something isn't he? so maybe not an option if you are in a hurry

He he, I'd love to. DH and I went to NZ a few years ago and loved it! We did it as part of our Oz+ NZ adventure and we'd do it again a heartbeat! But realistically though, I'd need two trips, right? One to go over there and discuss details with Mike and the other to pick up the finished ring.

Wow, he's certainly popular. I am not in a hurry at all - I'd rather be a 100% certain about it. So do I look at his website for ideas of what he can do and perhaps shoot him an email to see what he may suggest?

 

[Phoenix]

Re: Hallo 5.318ct diamond? Holly might need a costume change

What about adding pear side stones? Classy + extra bling.

I love this too. Kristydarling's previous ring is certainly classy. I'd need to try it on in person though to see how it'd look on *me*.

 

[justginger]

Re: Hallo 5.318ct diamond? Holly might need a costume change

I would love to see what Mike Robinson could come up with for Holly! If you want unique, one off, handcrafted goodness, I think he has a whole lot to offer.

Another very good suggestion. Only thing is: isn't he based in NZ? The logistics aspects could be a bit of a nightmare! Any ideas to help there would be much appreciated.

I can understand the hesitation. There are people who have shipped incredibly expensive stones before though, with no issues - maybe one will chime in here, because I'm relatively sure there is a dedicated diamond transport sort of company around. I think perhaps if you contacted him, he would be able to arrange it all for you. I do think he is booked out until the middle of next year though, so if you're wanting something quickly, it would not be a good match for you.

Do check out his website, it gives you a good idea of his capabilities. His artistic abilities are amazing.

 

[Phoenix]

Re: Hallo 5.318ct diamond? Holly might need a costume change

I would love to see what Mike Robinson could come up with for Holly! If you want unique, one off, handcrafted goodness, I think he has a whole lot to offer.

Another very good suggestion. Only thing is: isn't he based in NZ? The logistics aspects could be a bit of a nightmare! Any ideas to help there would be much appreciated.

I can understand the hesitation. There are people who have shipped incredibly expensive stones before though, with no issues - maybe one will chime in here, because I'm relatively sure there is a dedicated diamond transport sort of company around. I think perhaps if you contacted him, he would be able to arrange it all for you. I do think he is booked out until the middle of next year though, so if you're wanting something quickly, it would not be a good match for you.

Do check out his website, it gives you a good idea of his capabilities. His artistic abilities are amazing.

I know I can use Brinks but am a bit hesitant. I used them before to ship Holly over for re-sizing + some loose diamonds for sale. It cost a bl**dy fortune and Brinks held my package hostage for over 2 weeks! I'd much rather fly over there and get a holiday out of it too! But if he, as a vendor with a corporate account, could help arrange the transportation at a much lower cost and a LOT LESS hassle than my using Brinks as an individual, that'd certainly be a great help.

Am not in a rush, would rather go with someone + a design that I really love. Also, looking at his website now....WOWZA!!

My only tenny tiny concern is that his designs seem VERY elaborate, whereas what I am looking for whilst blingy would need to be a bit more subdue, does that make any sense? So to illustrate my point, his designs look more like Roberto Cavalli dress designs - incredibly gorgeous but younger and more showy than I am and IMHO much more suited to someone taller with lots of beautiful curves. My style is more Gucci, Armani and Karen Millen...something more suitable for a woman in her mid-to-late-40's with ..ahem..less pronounced curves...he he ...).

I may be completely "off" with my analysis though and would love to be corrected.

 

[justginger]

Re: Hallo 5.318ct diamond? Holly might need a costume change

I would love to see what Mike Robinson could come up with for Holly! If you want unique, one off, handcrafted goodness, I think he has a whole lot to offer.

Another very good suggestion. Only thing is: isn't he based in NZ? The logistics aspects could be a bit of a nightmare! Any ideas to help there would be much appreciated.

I can understand the hesitation. There are people who have shipped incredibly expensive stones before though, with no issues - maybe one will chime in here, because I'm relatively sure there is a dedicated diamond transport sort of company around. I think perhaps if you contacted him, he would be able to arrange it all for you. I do think he is booked out until the middle of next year though, so if you're wanting something quickly, it would not be a good match for you.

Do check out his website, it gives you a good idea of his capabilities. His artistic abilities are amazing.

I know I can use Brinks but am a bit hesitant. I used them before to ship Holly over for re-sizing + some loose diamonds for sale. It cost a bl**dy fortune and Brinks held my package hostage for over 2 weeks! I'd much rather fly over there and get a holiday out of it too! But if he, as a vendor with a corporate account, could help arrange the transportation at a much lower cost and a LOT LESS hassle than my using Brinks as an individual, that'd certainly be a great help.

Am not in a rush, would rather go with someone + a design that I really love. Also, looking at his website now....WOWZA!!

My only tenny tiny concern is that his designs seem VERY elaborate, whereas what I am looking for whilst blingy would need to be a bit more subdue, does that make any sense? So to illustrate my point, his designs look more like Roberto Cavalli dress designs - incredibly gorgeous but younger and more showy than I am and IMHO much more suited to someone taller with lots of beautiful curves. My style is more Gucci, Armani and Karen Millen...something more suitable for a woman in her mid-to-late-40's with ..ahem..less pronounced curves...he he ...).

I may be completely "off" with my analysis though and would love to be corrected.

I could be wrong, but I suspect that he is perfectly capable of executing less 'showy' designs - he is probably showcasing his most intricate and difficult designs online to convey his level of workmanship. Does that make sense? I think he puts forth the most elaborate because they're the most difficult, and therefore show the height of his bench's ability.

I remember seeing some lovely watercolors on here that he did for a three stone ring and it was significantly more clean-lined than most of what is shown on his website. So it is possible - perhaps just touch base with him and see what he has to say re: shipping, times, and potential design ideas.

 

[Phoenix]

Re: Hallo 5.318ct diamond? Holly might need a costume change

[]

I could be wrong, but I suspect that he is perfectly capable of executing less 'showy' designs - he is probably showcasing his most intricate and difficult designs online to convey his level of workmanship. Does that make sense? I think he puts forth the most elaborate because they're the most difficult, and therefore show the height of his bench's ability.

I remember seeing some lovely watercolors on here that he did for a three stone ring and it was significantly more clean-lined than most of what is shown on his website. So it is possible - perhaps just touch base with him and see what he has to say re: shipping, times, and potential design ideas.

Ah I see. That makes perfect sense and seems to be the smart thing for him to do. I wasn't sure if *I* was making any sense, lol!

Hmmm..I've not seen those watercolours. If you, or anyone else, come across them, please would you mind directing me to the relevant link?

I will contact him. Thank you, Ginger.

 

[susimoo]

Re: Hallo 5.318ct diamond? Holly might need a costume change

Phoenix

Here is the thread Ginger is thinking of ( at least I think it is )

[URL='https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/initial-sketches-from-mike-for-three-stone-avc.177514/']https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/initial-sketches-from-mike-for-three-stone-avc.177514/[/URL]

Can't wait to see what you do!

 

[SB621]

Re: Hallo 5.318ct diamond? Holly might need a costume change

Hey Phoneix...you're aware I'm pretty obsessed with halos right?!

Anyhow here are a few that I really love. I'm not sure if they would look great with an RB, but I thought I would share them. My personal favorite, which unfortunately doesn't show extremely well is the pink and white diamond double halo Tiffany Soleste. I was actually thinking about this being the permenate home of my OMC whe the bling budget comes around again.

 

[justginger]

Re: Hallo 5.318ct diamond? Holly might need a costume change

Phoenix

Here is the thread Ginger is thinking of ( at least I think it is )

[URL='https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/initial-sketches-from-mike-for-three-stone-avc.177514/']https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/initial-sketches-from-mike-for-three-stone-avc.177514/[/URL]

Can't wait to see what you do!

Yes! Good work, susimoo!

 

[Phoenix]

Re: Hallo 5.318ct diamond? Holly might need a costume change

Phoenix

Here is the thread Ginger is thinking of ( at least I think it is )

[URL='https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/initial-sketches-from-mike-for-three-stone-avc.177514/']https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/initial-sketches-from-mike-for-three-stone-avc.177514/[/URL]

Can't wait to see what you do!

Thank you, susimoo. That is very nice and demonstrates Ginger's point very well. I can see how flexible Mike is. That's really good to know.

 

[Phoenix]

Re: Hallo 5.318ct diamond? Holly might need a costume change

Hey Phoneix...you're aware I'm pretty obsessed with halos right?!

Anyhow here are a few that I really love. I'm not sure if they would look great with an RB, but I thought I would share them. My personal favorite, which unfortunately doesn't show extremely well is the pink and white diamond double halo Tiffany Soleste. I was actually thinking about this being the permenate home of my OMC whe the bling budget comes around again.

Wow, those are some gorgeous designs! . Thank you, Sarah.

You're going to do the double halo with your new 5ct? Wowza, how are you going to lift your hand, he he?! That'd be one fantastically blingy ring!

I think we're on the right track here...I am thinking a single thin delicate halo with white diamonds around the stone, maybe use very pink rose gold as the metal of choice (either on the head or throughout the ring). I am loving the dsign on Blake Lively's ring also. Then perhaps some hand-engraved details on the shank, near to the head. And then white or pink melee on the band.

Some details on the gallery would be nice too, but I'd like for the details not to completely cover the gallery as I'd like to be able to see the pavillion and it'd be more practical as far as cleaning the stone.

Too much? I am not sure, but at least these are the details floating around in my head at the moment. These pics really help, Sarah.

ETA: I didn't know you were obsessed with halo's. Can we call you the Halo Queen, he he?!

 

[SB621]

Re: Hallo 5.318ct diamond? Holly might need a costume change

Hey Phoneix...you're aware I'm pretty obsessed with halos right?!

Anyhow here are a few that I really love. I'm not sure if they would look great with an RB, but I thought I would share them. My personal favorite, which unfortunately doesn't show extremely well is the pink and white diamond double halo Tiffany Soleste. I was actually thinking about this being the permenate home of my OMC whe the bling budget comes around again.

Wow, those are some gorgeous designs! . Thank you, Sarah.

You're going to do the double halo with your new 5ct? Wowza, how are you going to lift your hand, he he?! That'd be one fantastically blingy ring!

I think we're on the right track here...I am thinking a single thin delicate halo with white diamonds around the stone, maybe use very pink rose gold as the metal of choice (either on the head or throughout the ring). I am loving the dsign on Blake Lively's ring also. Then perhaps some hand-engraved details on the shank, near to the head. And then white or pink melee on the band.

Some details on the gallery would be nice too, but I'd like for the details not to completely cover the gallery as I'd like to be able to see the pavillion and it'd be more practical as far as cleaning the stone.

Too much? I am not sure, but at least these are the details floating around in my head at the moment. These pics really help, Sarah.

Thanks Phoneix! Yes I'm really leaning towards the double halo with pink or yellow diamonds. I told DH I would wear the OMC (I really need to name her as I hate refering to "the OMC") as a solitare for at least 2 years to see what I like. Then I would make a decision about keeping or selling my currect VC ring. I honestly just don't see myself having more then 1 ering. So for a little while I will see how it goes and see what I like. But truly this design sings to me! I'm actually really surprized I love the pink as I think it isn't nearly as classica as the regular white diamonds... honestly plus I just hate Pink!! Who would have thought right?!

Before my computer crashed I had several dozens halos that were two toned saved in my inspiration folder. I will see what I can find out. I do love the idea you described but would hesitate with the engraving on the shank. I think you can pick melee or engraving. To do both seems a little too much.

Hmmm I'm off to google Blake L's ring now. I dont' think I have seen it yet.

 

[Christina...]

Re: Hallo 5.318ct diamond? Holly might need a costume change

[]

I could be wrong, but I suspect that he is perfectly capable of executing less 'showy' designs - he is probably showcasing his most intricate and difficult designs online to convey his level of workmanship. Does that make sense? I think he puts forth the most elaborate because they're the most difficult, and therefore show the height of his bench's ability.

I remember seeing some lovely watercolors on here that he did for a three stone ring and it was significantly more clean-lined than most of what is shown on his website. So it is possible - perhaps just touch base with him and see what he has to say re: shipping, times, and potential design ideas.

Ah I see. That makes perfect sense and seems to be the smart thing for him to do. I wasn't sure if *I* was making any sense, lol!

Hmmm..I've not seen those watercolours. If you, or anyone else, come across them, please would you mind directing me to the relevant link?

I will contact him. Thank you, Ginger.

I would definitely email Mike, he is so wonderful and attentive. We haven't spoken since early October but at that point he told me that he thought that he wasn't going to be taking on new projects so that he could concentrate on his own designs, however, it sounds as though he has booked into the middle of the year so perhaps that has changed. He did send me some watercolors of designs that other clients hadn't used, but asked that I not share them, as they were done for others. There are a few threads here that contain some of the watercolors that he has done for PSers though. And you should definitely check out his facebook page, it's full of new work that he has done and some example of his watercolors.

I truly can't say enough about how wonderful he is. He is so friendly, honest, and full of amazing wonderful ideas. I felt that we were really envisioning the same design...that he 'got it'..kwim? Oh, and he will have suggestions for shipping and also knows or can find out about any duties you may have to pay. I would love to see what Mike could do with Holly!!

 

[Phoenix]

Re: Hallo 5.318ct diamond? Holly might need a costume change

Thanks Phoneix! Yes I'm really leaning towards the double halo with pink or yellow diamonds. I told DH I would wear the OMC (I really need to name her as I hate refering to "the OMC") as a solitare for at least 2 years to see what I like. Then I would make a decision about keeping or selling my currect VC ring. I honestly just don't see myself having more then 1 ering. So for a little while I will see how it goes and see what I like. But truly this design sings to me! I'm actually really surprized I love the pink as I think it isn't nearly as classica as the regular white diamonds... honestly plus I just hate Pink!! Who would have thought right?!

Before my computer crashed I had several dozens halos that were two toned saved in my inspiration folder. I will see what I can find out. I do love the idea you described but would hesitate with the engraving on the shank. I think you can pick melee or engraving. To do both seems a little too much.

Hmmm I'm off to google Blake L's ring now. I dont' think I have seen it yet.

Yes, yes...name her! She has so much personality, she should be referred to by a unique name!

That's so funny about you loving that Tiffany design whilst not loving pink as a colour! I myself love pink (typical girl that I am), so I've always wanted some rose pink incorporated into my bling at some point (well I did have the Tiffany Metro but that's not really pink - more coppery).

Hmmm...yes, you may have a point about having both engraving and melee. I think what I'll do is put some ideas together, see all the pics posted here and float them with Mike (once I am a bit firmer on what I'd like - I usually prefer to have at least some ideas before going to talk to someone) and see what he says.

That's an excellent idea about taking your time and see how you feel after a while. If you don't see yourself wearing anything else other than your new super-gorgeous 5ct, then of course it wouldn't make sense to hang onto your VC ring, but taking time to think about it is always a good idea - making sure you don't rush into anything you might regret later.

I'd def love to see more pics - if you come across them later.

The link to Blake Lively's ring and some other celebritities' erings is on the upper right corner of this page (not uppermost) - under Jewelry Blog!

Thank you again, Sarah.

 

[SB621]

Re: Hallo 5.318ct diamond? Holly might need a costume change

Thoughts on this design? I love that from the top down it is a "traditional" halo.

 

[diamondseeker2006]

Re: Hallo 5.318ct diamond? Holly might need a costume change

Phonenix, you have excellent taste and I have no doubt that whatever you choose will be beautiful. I sincerely mean that.

However, and you probably already know what I am going to say...5 carat rounds just don't need a halo, and in fact, I think very large rounds with halos look like they are trying too hard to be something else. Some of the most elegant large rings on here that I can think of do not have halos. I can't remember the name of the gal with the large EC, but she did the beautiful French cut sides, I think, and there just isn't a much more classy ring than that, in my opinion. Bright Ice has a similar ring that she had set with a large rb and then changed to an OEC, I believe. So that would be my choice for your ring. Classy and elegant and not over the top. (And I think studs at 2-2.5 cts each is really nice and as large as most people can wear as well as in proportion to your ring. I hope you know I consider you a friend and am just being honest.) And another reason I would not do a halo is that you have one on the pear, and if you ever wanted to wear them together, I think two halos is a mistake.

http://www.victorcanera.com/jewelry/engagement-rings/the-sophia-french-cut-solitaire-with-round-brilliant.html

[URL='https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/my-vc-sophia-setting-and-oec-are-finally-together.173883/']https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/my-vc-sophia-setting-and-oec-are-finally-together.173883/[/URL] (love brightice's ring!!!!)

 

[JuneRose]

Re: Hallo 5.318ct diamond? Holly might need a costume change

I would love to see what Mike Robinson could come up with for Holly! If you want unique, one off, handcrafted goodness, I think he has a whole lot to offer.

I was going to suggest him too! I'm sure I've seen some sleeker, simpler things by him -his craftmanship is just incredible

 

[JuneRose]

Re: Hallo 5.318ct diamond? Holly might need a costume change

ps: Check out his facebook page for more photos of his work.

 

[Niel]

Re: Hallo 5.318ct diamond? Holly might need a costume change

What about adding pear side stones? Classy + extra bling.

My thoughts exactly! I saw a Leon mege three stone that was just fabulous!
https://www.artofplatinum.com/vault/three-stone-classic-ring

 

[SB621]

Re: Hallo 5.318ct diamond? Holly might need a costume change

Phonenix, you have excellent taste and I have no doubt that whatever you choose will be beautiful. I sincerely mean that.

However, and you probably already know what I am going to say...5 carat rounds just don't need a halo, and in fact, I think very large rounds with halos look like they are trying too hard to be something else. Some of the most elegant large rings on here that I can think of do not have halos. I can't remember the name of the gal with the large EC, but she did the beautiful French cut sides, I think, and there just isn't a much more classy ring than that, in my opinion. Bright Ice has a similar ring that she had set with a large rb and then changed to an OEC, I believe. So that would be my choice for your ring. Classy and elegant and not over the top. (And I think studs at 2-2.5 cts each is really nice and as large as most people can wear as well as in proportion to your ring. I hope you know I consider you a friend and am just being honest.) And another reason I would not do a halo is that you have one on the pear, and if you ever wanted to wear them together, I think two halos is a mistake.

http://www.victorcanera.com/jewelry/engagement-rings/the-sophia-french-cut-solitaire-with-round-brilliant.html

[URL='https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/my-vc-sophia-setting-and-oec-are-finally-together.173883/']https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/my-vc-sophia-setting-and-oec-are-finally-together.173883/[/URL] (love brightice's ring!!!!)

So what you are really saying is because I want to double halo my OMC that it will look tacky?!?!?! JUST KIDDING DS! DS you know I think you have excellent taste, but I have to say that I completely understand Phoneix on wanting to halo it. While a classic solitare is stunning in so many ways I think for some people it can just be a little too understated for them. I think Phoneix likes that extra little excitment in her jewelry. When I was at Tiffany's last month I tried on a 9ct RB with a halo and it was STUNNING! I think as long as the ring is done well then a halo. no matter what size of diamond, will always compliment.

 

[Phoenix]

Re: Hallo 5.318ct diamond? Holly might need a costume change

I would definitely email Mike, he is so wonderful and attentive. We haven't spoken since early October but at that point he told me that he thought that he wasn't going to be taking on new projects so that he could concentrate on his own designs, however, it sounds as though he has booked into the middle of the year so perhaps that has changed. He did send me some watercolors of designs that other clients hadn't used, but asked that I not share them, as they were done for others. There are a few threads here that contain some of the watercolors that he has done for PSers though. And you should definitely check out his facebook page, it's full of new work that he has done and some example of his watercolors.

I truly can't say enough about how wonderful he is. He is so friendly, honest, and full of amazing wonderful ideas. I felt that we were really envisioning the same design...that he 'got it'..kwim? Oh, and he will have suggestions for shipping and also knows or can find out about any duties you may have to pay. I would love to see what Mike could do with Holly!!

Thank you, Christina.

Mike sounds AMAZING! I will look for other threads containing his designs and check out his FB page.

I'd love to hear what he says too about Holly.

 

[Phoenix]

Re: Hallo 5.318ct diamond? Holly might need a costume change

Thoughts on this design? I love that from the top down it is a "traditional" halo.

Another lovely design, Sarah.