I need help buying an EC

[racertim]

Hi everyone!

I am in the process of buying an emerald cut and would like to get it purchased in the next couple weeks. I have looked at a couple of the local (non-Sterling) stores and the prices seem to be much higher than comparable items at Blue Nile, as expected. They also only have a couple ECs in stock too. I have also looked at some of the other places mentioned on here, GOG, WF, etc. and they seem to have a poor selection of ECs.

From what I have read on here, it is very important to see these stones in person before making a purchase. Do you not recommend buying online or should I just make sure to take advantage of the 30 day return if there is a problem?

What are some tips for searching and buying locally? What kind of places will offer the best selection and prices?

I appreciate your help!

 

[Lorelei]

Welcome Tim!

EC's are tricky to evaluate by numbers unfortunately. Buying online can definitely be an excellent way to proceed, but it can be best to use a vendor who has in house diamonds, and has done the cut analysis on the stone, and also can provide pictures of the diamond so you can see how it looks. The problem with BN, to the best of my knowledge they don't have all their diamonds in house or supply photos or other info, so you don't know how the diamond will actually look. Another vendor who has a good eye for an EC as well as GOG and WF is Mark at www.engagementringsdirect.com I would proceed by contacting a vendor you like, one who has in house diamonds, tell them what you are looking for and see what they suggest. They might be able to find something for you even if it isn't listed on their site.
Here is a chart you can use which has some suggested proportions, but please use them as a guide only. Otherwise if you get too hung up on the numbers, you could miss out on some beautiful diamonds. http://diamonds.pricescope.com/fnc2.asp

Also if you can, get out to some stores to look at some EC's in person, so you can see what type you like, also for colour grade ( GIA.) Clarity, generally a higher clarity is needed for an EC as this shape can show inclusions more readily, so VS clarity can be a good choice or above. Also don't go by labels describing a diamond's cut such as Ideal Cut, Premium Cut etc, as this is no guarantee of a well cut diamond. Finally, use your eyes to make your ultimate selection, EC's can vary in appearance, so go with the one you find beautiful.

 

[leasj1]

Give Jon at GOG a shout, tell him what your looking for and he will call them in for you, he personally has a good look at them and gives his honest opinion on them. All his staff are very helpful. Im just refering to Jon because thats who i have just purchased my emerald off. Im sure other pricesccope vendors are the same though.