In search for the perfect engagement ring for me

[Chargers777]

Hi there!

I'm starting to shop for engagement rings and would love some help on selecting the right diamond. I've heard this is the place to be to request for some advice.

I've been looking on JamesAllen and BlueNile for starters, but do not really have a good idea on the differences between the many choices of diamonds.
My criteria for the ring is:
Round and about ~0.6 carat (happy with anything between 0.5 and 0.7). Just want it to be eye-clean.

Other than that, I've been looking at 14k gold basic solitaire setting (perhaps the classic tapered from BlueNile for a bit of extra uniqueness), and have an approximate budget of $3500 for the ring.

Any suggestions?

Thanks in advance for any help. Much appreciated.

 

[Niel]

14k white or yellow?

 

[MissGotRocks]

I would consider something like this stone: well cut, eye clean, near colorless. You can see it almost maxed out the budget but if you are going with a simple solitaire setting, I would spend most the money on the stone since the setting should be not be expensive. It also gives you the high end of your size parameter - http://www.whiteflash.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut-loose-diamond-3567120.htm?source=pricescope

 

[Niel]

I like this one

http://www.jamesallen.com/mobile/loose-diamonds/round-cut/0.71-carat-h-color-vs2-clarity-ideal-cut-sku-584732

With this
http://www.jamesallen.com/mobile/engagement-rings/solitaire/18k-white-gold-six-prong-knife-edged-solitaire-engagement-ring-handmade-item-22590

Its the most classic of plain solitaire settings, but its actually not all that common.

If you go set your self up for the reffer a friend discount (you would essentially just need two emails) you can get 100 off that purchase and make it under budget

 

[Chargers777]

Thanks!

I'm looking for a white gold setting.
Is the difference between Ideal cut and the Signature Ideal / True Hearts Ideal noticeable for these sized diamonds?

 

[Niel]

Thanks!

I'm looking for a white gold setting.
Is the difference between Ideal cut and the Signature Ideal / True Hearts Ideal noticeable for these sized diamonds?

Some will say yes, others no.

My personal take is that id rather take the whole ring into consideration and get the best overall look rather than have a "throw away" setting. Where there may be a negligible difference in performance, there can be a noticeable difference in setting

However many plan to upgrade down the road and don't hold the same opinion.

 

[MissGotRocks]

Niel is correct - only you can decide for yourself if the stone or the entire ring is your priority. I think in terms of normal viewing, these diamonds would be very similar. I would also caution you about choosing a vendor with a good trade up policy if you think this is a stone your might want to upgrade later. If not, then choose what seems good for you. We'd always be available to give thoughts and comments on any stone or setting you might think you like!