Help and Guidance Needed

[jamus8]

Hi,

Like a lot of people here I am trying to buy an engagement ring and looking for guidance on making the best choice.

I have been reading through this forum and am honestly a bit overwhelmed with the depth and breadth of knowledge! Have tried to get the basics before posting this but do have some questions I'm hoping some of you can help with.

Here is what I know:

1. Going to buy the diamond online and then get it set locally

2. Going to look at these online retailers:

www.briangavindiamonds.com
www.whiteflash.com
www.jamesallen.com

3. My budget is $5,000 for the diamond

4. I need to find either a princess or cushion cut

5. Seems like for my budget I'm in this type of range: I, SI1 or VS2, 1ct, Ideal cut

Here is what I need help with:

- what should I specifically be looking for in a princess cut?
- any consensus on princess vs cushion (only direction to me is square vs round!)
- any recommendations on things to do before/after buying?

 

[chemgirl]

Not much help, but personally would go with a cushion. Generals you can get a lot for your money in the less traditional cuts. I also find cushions to be more modern.

Brian Gavin has hearts and arrows cushions. They are a bit of a different look, but loads of sparkle. You can probably get away with lower color (h,I) because of the light return on them.

 

[tmot14]

I don't know much about buying cushions or princess cuts (though I LOVE August Vintage Cushions), but is there a reason why you want to have it set locally? Many vendors offer a discount if you buy the setting and diamond together, so this may allow you to get a better bargain.

 

[Gypsy]

Get a cushion. You don't have the budget for an AGS0 at one carat. But you can get a GIA cushion with excellent performance like the one below and it will be an amazing performer. http://www.goodoldgold.com/ecommerce/1ct-i-vs1-signature-modern-cushion-diamond.html


That is the one I would recommend. It is a fantastic stone. Under budget and GOG will make a video of it for you.

 

[jamus8]

Thanks so much for the suggestions. It's really appreciated.