Help choosing a Cushion Cut Diamond (Engagement ring)

[BluePrint33]

Happy Friday Everyone!

First time poster and thanks in advance for your help. I'm looking for engagement rings and have narrowed my diamond choice down to a cushion (My girlfriend prefers a classy / vintage look). My budget is $5,000 and here are some quick preferences:

Color / Clarity: I definitely want something eye-clean
Cut: Very good at a minimum (want it to shine!)
Carat: I heard cushion diamonds don't hold it's size as well so hopefully as large as I can get within my budget (1.25 - 1.4 carats)
Setting: Looking at Antique / Vintage settings.


Any thoughts on these 5 diamonds? Also, any recommendations on other things to consider to get the most bang for buck? Really appreciate it!


1. https://www.ritani.com/products/1-29-carat-cushion-diamond-d-1afryci3pd


2. https://www.ritani.com/products/1-21-carat-cushion-diamond-d-1afrf9if6b



3. https://www.ritani.com/products/1-20-carat-cushion-diamond-d-1afrhxawde


4. https://www.rarecarat.com/product/88199036


5. https://www.rarecarat.com/product/87939427

 

[maryjane04]

Since your gf likes antique or vintage style settings, maybe consider an antique cushion cut diamond?

August Vintage Cushion

The August Vintage Cushion is the world's first patented Super Ideal Vintage Cut Old Mine Brilliant.

www.distinctivegem.com

 

[MsShnooks]

I think that the options are really nice colour/clarity grades. Number 1 seems to have quite a few inclusions for a VS2 right under the table so I wouldn’t choose it over the others. I’d also take off the one with strong fluorescence as it’s could make a diamond appear hazy/oily or it could start glowing in strong sunlight (there is a very recent thread on here with a medium fluoro diamond glowing too but I think that’s less usual).
I’m struggling a bit with how the videos are filmed so not sure sure which one I find the prettiest.

 

[BluePrint33]

I think that the options are really nice colour/clarity grades. Number 1 seems to have quite a few inclusions for a VS2 right under the table so I wouldn’t choose it over the others. I’d also take off the one with strong fluorescence as it’s could make a diamond appear hazy/oily or it could start glowing in strong sunlight (there is a very recent thread on here with a medium fluoro diamond glowing too but I think that’s less usual).
I’m struggling a bit with how the videos are filmed so not sure sure which one I find the prettiest.

Thank you! Just to be sure, which number diamond has the strong fluorescence?

 

[MsShnooks]

https://diamond-assets.ritani.com/GIA-6375188322/certificate.pdf

This one. It’s stated on the report.

And here’s the link to the thread with the glowing diamond. If you scroll down, the poster added 2 photos including one in the sunshine with the diamond glowing blue.

3.01 Carat- 2.8 HCA Score. Help Please!!

Hi, I just purchased a 3.01 carat, I color diamond...and am picking up at Blue Nile store in Portland next week. But now I went and got the HCA score and shows 2.8, very good. Should I not buy it, given it's a score above 2? Also, is it bad to get an I color for a diamond above two carats...

www.pricescope.com

 

[BluePrint33]

Since your gf likes antique or vintage style settings, maybe consider an antique cushion cut diamond?

August Vintage Cushion

The August Vintage Cushion is the world's first patented Super Ideal Vintage Cut Old Mine Brilliant.

www.distinctivegem.com

Will do! A lot of the diamonds on this website are out of my price range, but my gf is more focused on an antique setting, less the diamond

 

[tyty333]

I personally dont care for any of the stones. They are all somewhat "mushy" in the center. Personally, I think you need to
lower your carat size/color or both to find a better cut stone. (Or up your budget...hate to tell you that). Is there a setting
that your girlfriend has found that she really likes? It would be best to look there for stones. Post a link to the setting(s) she
likes if she has found any.

Comments on the ones you picked
1) Very mushy through the center...lacking well-defined facets that return light
2) Better than #1, but you can still do better IMO
3) About the same as #2
4) still mushy through the center
5) Still mushy through the center
6) Not a real image of a stone
7) Again, still somewhat mushy

You need to go look at this thread. It shows a lot of different types of cushions. See what type your GF/you like. If she likes antique
settings, she may like an antique cushion. Let us know what type she likes.

Cushion 101 : My Experience in Making a "Harry Winston" Halo

The Harry Winston Micropave halo ring is a very popular ring that has been made many times. The ring has a cushion diamond which is a slightly rounded square/rectangular diamond. A cushion diamond has a lot more variation than a diamond which makes it necessary for a bit more education. The ring...

www.pricescope.com

 

[elizat]

I unfortunately don't like any of those either. Cushions come in a big variety as @tyty333 noted and she has a great eye. If you like an elongated style cushion, and your budget all in is $5k, this is worth a look.

1.01ct G SI2 Cushion Diamond

This is an awesome 1.01ct G SI2 Cushion Cut Diamond. The color and clarity give this stone a great value. The sparkle is amazing!

www.diamondsbylauren.com

Also, look at the mm size of the stones not just the carat weight.

ETA: looked at Blue Nile. Not a lot in budget and not the size you want. This is the only one I thought could have potential in your budget, setting the lowest color at G. It is a modern, defined facet style cushion not a crushed ice or antique style.

1.13-Carat Cushion Cut Diamond | Blue Nile

www.bluenile.com

 

[MsShnooks]

I unfortunately don't like any of those either. Cushions come in a big variety as @tyty333 noted and she has a great eye. If you like an elongated style cushion, and your budget all in is $5k, this is worth a look.

1.01ct G SI2 Cushion Diamond

This is an awesome 1.01ct G SI2 Cushion Cut Diamond. The color and clarity give this stone a great value. The sparkle is amazing!

www.diamondsbylauren.com

Also, look at the mm size of the stones not just the carat weight.

With the twining wisps through the middle and SI 2 grading, it could get pretty foggy.

 

[elizat]

With the twining wisps through the middle and SI 2 grading, it could get pretty foggy.

I didn't think the videos looked bad even with the clarity. Everyone has different tolerances though, for certain.

 

[tyty333]

With the twining wisps through the middle and SI 2 grading, it could get pretty foggy.

A Feather is the grade making inclusion. @BluePrint33 talk to David at Diamonds by Lauren if you are interested.

Edit...here is a decent-looking H at Ritiani. They have a few Gs that dont look too bad but they are more square instead of elongated.

1.28 Carat Cushion Diamond | Ritani

www.ritani.com

 

[lovedogs]

Agree with @tyty333 and @elizat that I dont love the original choices and think you can do better. I really like the diamonds by lauren option, but obviously would speak with David about the inclusions and get more info.

 

[BluePrint33]

I personally dont care for any of the stones. They are all somewhat "mushy" in the center. Personally, I think you need to
lower your carat size/color or both to find a better cut stone. (Or up your budget...hate to tell you that). Is there a setting
that your girlfriend has found that she really likes? It would be best to look there for stones. Post a link to the setting(s) she
likes if she has found any.

Comments on the ones you picked
1) Very mushy through the center...lacking well-defined facets that return light
2) Better than #1, but you can still do better IMO
3) About the same as #2
4) still mushy through the center
5) Still mushy through the center
6) Not a real image of a stone
7) Again, still somewhat mushy

You need to go look at this thread. It shows a lot of different types of cushions. See what type your GF/you like. If she likes antique
settings, she may like an antique cushion. Let us know what type she likes.

Cushion 101 : My Experience in Making a "Harry Winston" Halo

The Harry Winston Micropave halo ring is a very popular ring that has been made many times. The ring has a cushion diamond which is a slightly rounded square/rectangular diamond. A cushion diamond has a lot more variation than a diamond which makes it necessary for a bit more education. The ring...

www.pricescope.com

Thanks for the honest feedback! Will definitely check out your recs

 

[LLJsmom]

No to all the stones you posted. I would definitely consider an antique cut cushion to go with an antique setting. Too much mushiness in the center as @tyty333 . Please read her post carefully.

Here is a link to antique cushions that would look wonderful in an antique setting.

1.00ct Elongated Antique Cushion Cut Diamond, GIA F SI1

One of the most requested shapes of late - the elongated antique cushion cut! This particular stone was rescued from a Georgian-era brooch, where it appears she had been "residing" for over 150 years! The diamond is a rare icy-white color at F, and the SI1 clarity is due to a minuscule nick on...

www.jewelsbygrace.com

1.01ct Old Mine Cushion Cut Diamond, GIA H SI2

Beautiful and charming old mine cushion cut diamond with a classic cushion shape, with crisp facets picking up the light and colors around it. Generous diameter make it appear much larger than its stated carat weight to boot! 100% eye-clean.Diamond measures 6.52 x 6.15 x 2.98 mmGIA link here

www.jewelsbygrace.com

1.01ct Old Mine Cushion Cut Diamond, GIA H VS1

Super pretty diamond with the perfect combo of chunk and fire! The diamond is super fiery, with an elegant silhouette perfect for a ring or any project you may have in mind! And wonderful combo of higher color and clarity to boot.Diamond measures 6.69 x 6.34 x 3.15 mmGIA link here

www.jewelsbygrace.com

 

[BluePrint33]

Happy Friday Everyone!

First time poster and thanks in advance for your help. I'm looking for engagement rings and have narrowed my diamond choice down to a cushion (My girlfriend prefers a classy / vintage look). My budget is $5,000 and here are some quick preferences:

Color / Clarity: I definitely want something eye-clean
Cut: Very good at a minimum (want it to shine!)
Carat: I heard cushion diamonds don't hold it's size as well so hopefully as large as I can get within my budget (1.25 - 1.4 carats)
Setting: Looking at Antique / Vintage settings.


Any thoughts on these 5 diamonds? Also, any recommendations on other things to consider to get the most bang for buck? Really appreciate it!


1. https://www.ritani.com/products/1-29-carat-cushion-diamond-d-1afryci3pd


2. https://www.ritani.com/products/1-21-carat-cushion-diamond-d-1afrf9if6b



3. https://www.ritani.com/products/1-20-carat-cushion-diamond-d-1afrhxawde


4. https://www.rarecarat.com/product/88199036


5. https://www.rarecarat.com/product/87939427

No to all the stones you posted. I would definitely consider an antique cut cushion to go with an antique setting. Too much mushiness in the center as @tyty333 . Please read her post carefully.

Here is a link to antique cushions that would look wonderful in an antique setting.

1.00ct Elongated Antique Cushion Cut Diamond, GIA F SI1

One of the most requested shapes of late - the elongated antique cushion cut! This particular stone was rescued from a Georgian-era brooch, where it appears she had been "residing" for over 150 years! The diamond is a rare icy-white color at F, and the SI1 clarity is due to a minuscule nick on...

www.jewelsbygrace.com

1.01ct Old Mine Cushion Cut Diamond, GIA H SI2

Beautiful and charming old mine cushion cut diamond with a classic cushion shape, with crisp facets picking up the light and colors around it. Generous diameter make it appear much larger than its stated carat weight to boot! 100% eye-clean.Diamond measures 6.52 x 6.15 x 2.98 mmGIA link here

www.jewelsbygrace.com

1.01ct Old Mine Cushion Cut Diamond, GIA H VS1

Super pretty diamond with the perfect combo of chunk and fire! The diamond is super fiery, with an elegant silhouette perfect for a ring or any project you may have in mind! And wonderful combo of higher color and clarity to boot.Diamond measures 6.69 x 6.34 x 3.15 mmGIA link here

www.jewelsbygrace.com

Thoughts on this Cushion Modified Brillant?

https://v360.in/v360studio/vision360.html?d=81-AP-304881

 

[affguy]

Thoughts on this Cushion Modified Brillant?

https://v360.in/v360studio/vision360.html?d=81-AP-304881

I prefer the big facets of vintage cushion cuts to the crushed ice look of radiant cuts, but that's just my taste (and why I went with an august vintage cushion). I do like this one significantly more than the stones in your original post.

 

[BluePrint33]

I prefer the big facets of vintage cushion cuts to the crushed ice look of radiant cuts, but that's just my taste (and why I went with an august vintage cushion). I do like this one significantly more than the stones in your original post.

I really appreciate your push on the vintage cut! Just saw this Old Mine Cut (1.16ct, D, SI1) for the same price:

https://v360.in/movie/1446_113-R-30068

Thoughts on this vs. the Modified Brilliant Cut?

 

[tyty333]

Can you get an ASET image of that newer cushion you posted the picture of? I worry a little about what's going on
(or not going on) under the table.

That old cushion is pretty but its such a different look than what you've been looking at.
What do you think? It definitely has a vintage look if thats what your GF likes. We tend to like them around here.

Whats the LxW on both the stones?

Edit...I think its a really good price for a D 1.16.

 

[BluePrint33]

Can you get an ASET image of that newer cushion you posted the picture of? I worry a little about what's going on
(or not going on) under the table.

That old cushion is pretty but its such a different look than what you've been looking at.
What do you think? It definitely has a vintage look if thats what your GF likes. We tend to like them around here.

Whats the LxW on both the stones?

Edit...I think its a really good price for a D 1.16.

The more I read into Mine Cut vs. Modified Brillant, the more I'm leaning towards the Antique look. My gf def wants a unique / classy ring

Here is the breakdown of both diamonds:

1. Modified Brillant: https://www.gia.edu/report-check?reportno=5366005988
2. Old Mine Cut: https://www.gia.edu/report-check?reportno=5171219530

 

[affguy]

I really appreciate your push on the vintage cut! Just saw this Old Mine Cut (1.16ct, D, SI1) for the same price:

https://v360.in/movie/1446_113-R-30068

Thoughts on this vs. the Modified Brilliant Cut?

That mine cut is much more my jam. The whisper is kind of obvious blown up like this, but should be much less noticeable at normal scale, especially being white in a D colored stone. I approve, but of course the much more important question is whether your intended will love it.

 

[tyty333]

Relative size difference on size 6 finger. Basically the same face-up size!

 

[Yimmers]

That D color old mine looks really nice. Set in an antique type setting will look fantastic - definitely unique.

 

[tyty333]

If you are interested in that D 1.16...I would put it on hold.

Its a rare stone (being a D/old cut/good price). The date on the GIA report is 2015. You might ask about that. It may be a newer cut
OMC. I cant tell but some of our old cut experts may be able to tell. Not sure.

Lets see if we can get @Karl_K and @ForteKitty to take a look at it.

 

[MjK1]

Just chiming in here...why does it look like the first three photos are exactly the same pic? For three different stones?

 

[Karl_K]

If you are interested in that D 1.16...I would put it on hold.

Its a rare stone (being a D/old cut/good price). The date on the GIA report is 2015. You might ask about that. It may be a newer cut
OMC. I cant tell but some of our old cut experts may be able to tell. Not sure.

Lets see if we can get @Karl_K and @ForteKitty to take a look at it.

IS or ASET available?
girdle range indicates it might have been repaired at one point.
video looks great
report looks like s tue si1
a lot of things can happen to a diamond since 2015 it needs a fresh report.

 

[tyty333]

Just chiming in here...why does it look like the first three photos are exactly the same pic? For three different stones?

Generic pictures (yes, it is the same). You have to click on the link then you'll see the actual stone.

 

[MjK1]

Ah, ok...I am not crazy then. Well...maybe...

 

[ForteKitty]

the D si1 looks pretty good. Even at the far tilt, I don't see girdle mush. There might be a little face on at the four pavilion joints but most cushions will have that, and this looks much better than the moderns. Put it on hold in case there are vultures lurking.