I''m completely lost

[ny1324]

Hello,

I''m planning on purchasing an engagement ring this fall. I''ve been searching around this forum and other websites, but I''m still completely lost in the terminology. This forum seems like it''s full of experts and I was hoping to learn a thing or two. I also know that my same questions have been answered by many of you a thousand times, so I completely understand--and would still be very grateful--if you''d rather point me to an article or website that outlines the basics.

As for what I''m looking for in a ring, here goes:

I''d like a round cut (is that even the proper terminology?) in a platinum setting. Just one diamond on a band. I''d like something that really sparkles, without any coloring (to the naked eye). As for all the other categories, I''m mostly concerned with what can be viewed by only the naked eye. My budget is about $8,000.

So, what are my options? Also, what are your thoughts about going to the diamond district in NY (it''s only about 80 miles from me) versus online? Finally, if I buy the diamond online, what do I do about the setting and band?

Any help is greatly appreciated!

Thanks for your time.

 

[strmrdr]

There are some good vendors in the diamond district but it is also a shark pit for the unwary. Often you can get a better deal online.
The right term is Round Brilliant or RB
It is generally better to get the diamond set by the vendor who sold the diamond.

Color depends on how color sensitive you are in general the G-H range is very safe for most people.
When dealing with the better PS vendors the terminology would be G-H eyeclean well cut RB.
Then discuss with the vendor specific diamonds and their definition of eyeclean to make sure it meets your needs.
There are 2 levels of eyeclean, face up the second is eyeclean face up and sides.

To see what you can get use the cut quality search on the PS search above.
Try G and H for color and VS2-Si1 for clarity as a starting point.
Not all si1 diamonds are eyeclean but it is a good start.

You should be able to get into the 1.2x ct range
If you want to go larger then you can come down on color or clarity.

 

[jet2ks]

Storm has some great advice.

For a good start on the basics, go to the top of the page under Knowledge and read ALL the tutorials. Go back and read them again after you have a day or so to process, some of the things that didn't make sense the first time will click into place the second or third.

If you would prefer to look in person, several PS recommended vendors do have offices in the NYC diamond district, though you will want to call them for an appointment first. Their prices will be the same in person as online.

Those vendors include:
James Allen
Engagement Rings Direct
Excel Diamonds
ID Jewelry

Additionally, Good Old Gold's store is on Long Island and would be worth the trip.