Is this a good buy? Soleste Engagement Ring replica?

[flower123]

Hi Everyone.

I am new here and I would like to say I have learnt so much from browsing the pricescope website and hope to become an active member of the community.

My sweetheart and I are in the process of choosing our engagement rings. There is one design that I fell in love with, that of the Tiffany Soleste. We have many expenses and let's just say the opportunity cost of purchasing the ring does not work in our favour.

In my search to find a ring just like the Soleste, I found a jeweler who is willing to recreate the Soleste for me. These are the specs that they are offering:

The Soleste replica in 14K white gold with a 0.50 ct G SI1 GIA certified center diamond. I believe the cut should be very good. The setting has 0.45 ct diamonds in the same grade and quality, totaling .95 ct for the diamond and setting. I have attached a picture of the Soleste.

The total cost for the ring would be $3000.00 US.

Would this be a good purchase? The jeweler has stated that this is close to the the direct manufacturing cost for the ring and is non-negotiable. I really love the Soleste but I cannot afford it. If there is also anyone you can recommend who can custom make this ring in this price range, please share.

Please let me know if this is a good purchase. Thank you so much. I look forward to your responses.

 

[Niel]

here is one someone recently made with the stock setting from James Allen

[URL='https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/oval-double-pave-engagement-ring.190591/']https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/oval-double-pave-engagement-ring.190591/[/URL]

and get about the same size center stone for about 3k. My only concern is how well a stone that size will look in that large a halo. would you consider getting the stone now and updated the setting in a few years?


http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/cushion-cut/0.52-carat-h-color-si1-clarity-sku-125628

here is a picture of this setting with a .5 ct cushion. I think it would look about the same with the person you are working with, sense the price point you are looking at for a double halo isnt going to be the highest of quality

 

[flower123]

Thanks so much for your reply! You've been a great help!

By any chance, do you know of any stores in NYC where this replica may be available? I am visiting NY in a few weeks but I may not have enough time for it to be custom made if I decide to purchase there. I am a little bit apprehensive about buying online as well.

I guess you can say for me, if I can get it in a brick and mortar store, that would be perfect!

 

[Niel]

does it absolutely have to be a double halo?

 

[SB621]

Thanks so much for your reply! You've been a great help!

By any chance, do you know of any stores in NYC where this replica may be available? I am visiting NY in a few weeks but I may not have enough time for it to be custom made if I decide to purchase there. I am a little bit apprehensive about buying online as well.

I guess you can say for me, if I can get it in a brick and mortar store, that would be perfect!

As long as you understand that at a B&M store you are probably paying more for an inferior product. If your budget is 3k I would certainly buy online from a vendor who is trusted. That way you can compare. A great diamond will sparkle and appear (at least to me) much larger then a lesser performer. It makes me nervous when your jeweler says at least very good cut...what does that mean?

How do you feel about getting your diamond and then upgrading to the soleste setting on your i year or 2 year anniversary?

If you want that setting now then I would probably go through JA or IDJ as they are budget friendly and let them find you a diamond and set it. IDJ is in NY. I forget where JA is. But honestly if you are working with a budget I would definitely go online. I know it probably makes a lot of new people nervous but understand that an online store will have much better pricing since they don't have to cover overhead like rent, security, staff, etc so pricing will be cheaper. PS vendors or other places we recommend are recommended for a reason and that is because they have proven time and time again that they are trust worthy and have excellent customer service. I would just hate for you to put 3k towards a ring when you can do much better elsewhere for that money.

 

[flower123]

does it absolutely have to be a double halo?

Hi

Nope, it most definitely does not have to be. A single halo will also be great. Once it's a halo. What I love about the Soleste is the fact that the split shank does not show when looking at the top view of the ring. It is only from the side view that it is apparent. I love this so much, but I have searched and searched but can't seem to find this setting.

Wheile 3000US is my price range, I would prefer spending less. Really, I'm very simple and when expenses such as mortagages need fo be factored in, we really can't splurge. We're both pretty young, out of college a few years now and want to get married and settle down.

I would love a simple halo split shank (from the side) bridal set. That's all.

Thanks. If you can lead me to anyone who offers this, it would be greatly appreciated!

 

[flower123]

Thanks so much for your reply! You've been a great help!

By any chance, do you know of any stores in NYC where this replica may be available? I am visiting NY in a few weeks but I may not have enough time for it to be custom made if I decide to purchase there. I am a little bit apprehensive about buying online as well.

I guess you can say for me, if I can get it in a brick and mortar store, that would be perfect!

As long as you understand that at a B&M store you are probably paying more for an inferior product. If your budget is 3k I would certainly buy online from a vendor who is trusted. That way you can compare. A great diamond will sparkle and appear (at least to me) much larger then a lesser performer. It makes me nervous when your jeweler says at least very good cut...what does that mean?

How do you feel about getting your diamond and then upgrading to the soleste setting on your i year or 2 year anniversary?

If you want that setting now then I would probably go through JA or IDJ as they are budget friendly and let them find you a diamond and set it. IDJ is in NY. I forget where JA is. But honestly if you are working with a budget I would definitely go online. I know it probably makes a lot of new people nervous but understand that an online store will have much better pricing since they don't have to cover overhead like rent, security, staff, etc so pricing will be cheaper. PS vendors or other places we recommend are recommended for a reason and that is because they have proven time and time again that they are trust worthy and have excellent customer service. I would just hate for you to put 3k towards a ring when you can do much better elsewhere for that money.

Hi, could you please elaborate a little more on where I can locate JA or IDJ if they are online stores.

Also do you know of any online store that offers the side view split shank halo? The split shank that only shows from the side? Thanks!

 

[Niel]

does it absolutely have to be a double halo?

Hi

Nope, it most definitely does not have to be. A single halo will also be great. Once it's a halo. What I love about the Soleste is the fact that the split shank does not show when looking at the top view of the ring. It is only from the side view that it is apparent. I love this so much, but I have searched and searched but can't seem to find this setting.

Wheile 3000US is my price range, I would prefer spending less. Really, I'm very simple and when expenses such as mortagages need fo be factored in, we really can't splurge. We're both pretty young, out of college a few years now and want to get married and settle down.

I would love a simple halo split shank (from the side) bridal set. That's all.

Thanks. If you can lead me to anyone who offers this, it would be greatly appreciated!

oh ok that really does so sort of open up your options. Next question, do you want a cushion? or are you open to other shapes like rounds or ovals?? Lastly, are diamonds down the side a necessity? Understandable if so, I just know a nice split shank cushion halo (for a cushion or a round) with a plain shank that might be nice on the budget.

heres the one i was thinking of
http://www.ritani.com/engagement-rings/french-set-halo-diamond-engagement-ring-in-14kt-white-gold/6114
Id ask for a real picture from one of the sales reps, but i think it meets your criteria. Then i found 2 stones i think would be nice.


This one im sure would be nice sense it got their "reserve" rating
http://www.ritani.com/diamonds/round-diamond-0-51-Carat-H-color-GIA-certified/D-T3519R

and i think this one could be nice but id have to see the cert before Id say buy it or not.

http://www.ritani.com/diamonds/round-diamond-0-70-Carat-J-color-AGSL-certified/D-Z195SR

or a cushion one that i feel like could be nice (but admittedly im not as good at cushions)
http://www.ritani.com/diamonds/cushion-diamond-0-54-Carat-H-color-GIA-certified/D-V37VRW

 

[flower123]

does it absolutely have to be a double halo?

Hi

Nope, it most definitely does not have to be. A single halo will also be great. Once it's a halo. What I love about the Soleste is the fact that the split shank does not show when looking at the top view of the ring. It is only from the side view that it is apparent. I love this so much, but I have searched and searched but can't seem to find this setting.

Wheile 3000US is my price range, I would prefer spending less. Really, I'm very simple and when expenses such as mortagages need fo be factored in, we really can't splurge. We're both pretty young, out of college a few years now and want to get married and settle down.

I would love a simple halo split shank (from the side) bridal set. That's all.

Thanks. If you can lead me to anyone who offers this, it would be greatly appreciated!

oh ok that really does so sort of open up your options. Next question, do you want a cushion? or are you open to other shapes like rounds or ovals?? Lastly, are diamonds down the side a necessity? Understandable if so, I just know a nice split shank cushion halo (for a cushion or a round) with a plain shank that might be nice on the budget.

heres the one i was thinking of
http://www.ritani.com/engagement-rings/french-set-halo-diamond-engagement-ring-in-14kt-white-gold/6114
Id ask for a real picture from one of the sales reps, but i think it meets your criteria. Then i found 2 stones i think would be nice.


This one im sure would be nice sense it got their "reserve" rating
http://www.ritani.com/diamonds/round-diamond-0-51-Carat-H-color-GIA-certified/D-T3519R

and i think this one could be nice but id have to see the cert before Id say buy it or not.

http://www.ritani.com/diamonds/round-diamond-0-70-Carat-J-color-AGSL-certified/D-Z195SR

or a cushion one that i feel like could be nice (but admittedly im not as good at cushions)
http://www.ritani.com/diamonds/cushion-diamond-0-54-Carat-H-color-GIA-certified/D-V37VRW

Niel I can't begin to describe how stunning that setting is!!! Thank you so much for suggesting it. I have very small hands ans I think that this may look even better than the soleste. I would have loved if the diamonds could run down the sides. I will check out the other settings and see if they have one like this. If you come across one, please let me know. That would be ideal. Would they consider that change?

I really want to thank you for this. My finger size is 5.5. What size of stone do you think would be best? I do not want a 1 ct center stone. That may be too big and also costly. The diamond you suggested was lovely but quite pricey. I was reading that a good cut on a G SI1 would sparkle just as much as a higher grade diamond. Is this so?

Also would your reccomend the round over the cushions. i always saw myself as a square/cushion. The cushion halo in the setting you suggested is perfect! And the round looks great with it.

One last question. Is the French set different from Pave? Is it a type of Pave? I do not like channel sets so I want to ensure that the diamonds in the halo are as close together as possible.

Thank you so much for your patience and time. i really appreciate it! I can't begin to thank you.

 

[Niel]

they do have one that would have diamonds done the side, but its about 2k, which is 2/3rds of the top of your budget, you know, so its kind of a cost, benefit thing. When i had a halo ( it was also ritani) i opted for a plain shank because A: it was more unique than the number of halos out there today B: it was cheaper ; and C: It felt more casual to me ..... only you know if you think that extra 800 is worth it or not. But yes i know they have one (and i believe it can fit a cushion or round with cushion halo) But remember if you go with a plain one its cheaper, and you can always pair it with a diamond band, and get a similar look.


http://www.ritani.com/engagement-rings/french-set-halo-diamond--v--band-engagement-ring-with-surprise-diamonds-in-14kt-white-gold/10615


Sparkle to a diamond is attributed to the cut, not color. The only thing about the color you'll want to be concerned about is if it will match the halo around it. With the size you are looking for, I would say for rounds that lets you go down to a J, if you decide cushion , probably an H-I, depending on how chunky of a cushion you go. If the facets are larger, you can get away with more color, if the facets make it look very "crushed ice" you dont want to go too low, because that type of cut holds more color. One reason i was throwing the idea of a round in a cushion halo at you was because rounds are easier to pick, there are a specific set of numbers you can use that help you find a well cut diamond. Another reason, because of the type of cut, you can go lower in color without it being as noticeable, not all types of cut afford you that luxury. Lastly, because a well cut round isnt near as deep as a cushion, they face up larger, so for the same CTW of a cushion, a round will have more mm when you look at it from the top.

Oh, and a round has the most sparkle out of any cut, I believe because thats the most popular and people have spent more time perfecting the cut.

Cushions are nice too of course and if you had your heart set on them you should get one, they are just a little harder to pick, and take a little more knowledge and knowhow.

I know those diamonds are a bit expensive, but unfortunately thats the name of the game when it comes to diamonds these days. But if you truely are content with a lower ctw, then you can find a cheaper stone, too, just keep in mind, a stone will shrink on the finger after years of wear.

http://www.ritani.com/diamonds/round-diamond-0-52-Carat-J-color-AGSL-certified/D-ZTRW10

and a french set is just a kind of pave. heres an example of that ring so you can see the pave, i cant remember the ctw of this but i know it was high




also what was nice about ritani for you was that they let you ship it to a local retailer before buying it so you can view it in person, that sometimes makes first time buyers that are doing it over the internet feel more comfortable (but i can say no need to feel uncomfortable, these are reputable establishments that have just found a better way to sell diamonds to more people )

 

[Niel]

they do have one that would have diamonds done the side, but its about 2k, which is 2/3rds of the top of your budget, you know, so its kind of a cost, benefit thing. When i had a halo ( it was also ritani) i opted for a plain shank because A: it was more unique than the number of halos out there today B: it was cheaper ; and C: It felt more casual to me ..... only you know if you think that extra 800 is worth it or not. But yes i know they have one (and i believe it can fit a cushion or round with cushion halo) But remember if you go with a plain one its cheaper, and you can always pair it with a diamond band, and get a similar look.


http://www.ritani.com/engagement-rings/french-set-halo-diamond--v--band-engagement-ring-with-surprise-diamonds-in-14kt-white-gold/10615


Sparkle to a diamond is attributed to the cut, not color. The only thing about the color you'll want to be concerned about is if it will match the halo around it. With the size you are looking for, I would say for rounds that lets you go down to a J, if you decide cushion , probably an H-I, depending on how chunky of a cushion you go. If the facets are larger, you can get away with more color, if the facets make it look very "crushed ice" you dont want to go too low, because that type of cut holds more color. One reason i was throwing the idea of a round in a cushion halo at you was because rounds are easier to pick, there are a specific set of numbers you can use that help you find a well cut diamond. Another reason, because of the type of cut, you can go lower in color without it being as noticeable, not all types of cut afford you that luxury. Lastly, because a well cut round isnt near as deep as a cushion, they face up larger, so for the same CTW of a cushion, a round will have more mm when you look at it from the top.

Oh, and a round has the most sparkle out of any cut, I believe because thats the most popular and people have spent more time perfecting the cut.

Cushions are nice too of course and if you had your heart set on them you should get one, they are just a little harder to pick, and take a little more knowledge and knowhow.

I know those diamonds are a bit expensive, but unfortunately thats the name of the game when it comes to diamonds these days. But if you truely are content with a lower ctw, then you can find a cheaper stone, too, just keep in mind, a stone will shrink on the finger after years of wear.

http://www.ritani.com/diamonds/round-diamond-0-52-Carat-J-color-AGSL-certified/D-ZTRW10

and a french set is just a kind of pave. heres an example of that ring so you can see the pave, i cant remember the ctw of this but i know it was high




also what was nice about ritani for you was that they let you ship it to a local retailer before buying it so you can view it in person, that sometimes makes first time buyers that are doing it over the internet feel more comfortable (but i can say no need to feel uncomfortable, these are reputable establishments that have just found a better way to sell diamonds to more people )

 

[lovebug1031]

henri daussi also makes a nice double (or single i believe) split shank halo!

 

[flower123]

Niel. It is unbelieveable what Ritani offers. The free consultations and in store preview. To think I never knew of their service before! I absoloutely love that setting with the diamonds down the side. It is pricey comparing to the other one so I will to consult with my bf to see what we will decide. What I like with the one with the plain sides is the plain matching wedding band which is very affordable. I think the diamond one is quite pricey!

I love this setting so much! I'm a lover of the cushion so I might make an appointment to do the online consultation for the halos and rounds and see which one looks best. While I think the round will be wonderful and looks great too, I love the cushion look.

I don't want a stone that is too big because my fingers are very small plus the halo will make the stone appear bigger. I want a really nice and dainty ring. So I will be looking for about a .5 center cushion.

Thanks so much Niel. I have one questions concering the 14k v 18k. Which do you think is better. I don't mind paying the few hundreds for the18k but is it worth it with your experience?

Thanks Niel and I look forward to your response.

 

[flower123]

henri daussi also makes a nice double (or single i believe) split shank halo!

Thanks!

 

[Niel]

Niel. It is unbelieveable what Ritani offers. The free consultations and in store preview. To think I never knew of their service before! I absoloutely love that setting with the diamonds down the side. It is pricey comparing to the other one so I will to consult with my bf to see what we will decide. What I like with the one with the plain sides is the plain matching wedding band which is very affordable. I think the diamond one is quite pricey!

I love this setting so much! I'm a lover of the cushion so I might make an appointment to do the online consultation for the halos and rounds and see which one looks best. While I think the round will be wonderful and looks great too, I love the cushion look.

I don't want a stone that is too big because my fingers are very small plus the halo will make the stone appear bigger. I want a really nice and dainty ring. So I will be looking for about a .5 center cushion.

Thanks so much Niel. I have one questions concering the 14k v 18k. Which do you think is better. I don't mind paying the few hundreds for the18k but is it worth it with your experience?

Thanks Niel and I look forward to your response.

Its good that you like both at least. You may like one better, but if you guys decide to go for the more budget friendly one, it would still make a stunning ring. As for the matching band, there is no reason why you have to get that now, or even from the same place. For example, if you get the plain shank one, you can get a diamond band from someplace else that would be less expensive. Like ID Jewelry. They sell diamond bands at good prices, and you could pair that with the plain shank halo, and it would still would look blingy and nice. like these



I think its a GREAT idea if they will let you to get two sent to you and see which you like best. One with a cushion and one with a round in a cushion halo. You can see if you prefer the sparkle of the round or the shape of the cushion. So once you decide on the setting, I would totally do that too.

and as for 14 vs 18, for me it depends on the color you are getting.

I assume you are talking about white. If so, i would go for 14k. Its cheaper, and because it has less gold, it looks whiter than 18k. I actually had my ritani 14k white gold and it was unplated, and it still looked very white. So, basically, you can go a little longer between platings, or, when the rhodium wears off, you might even like it that way, who knows.

but if you were going with yellow or rose gold (which i think would be amazing) i would go with 18k yg or rs in the shank, because the 18k actually does make the metal look a lot better, and then i would do the halo in 14k wg. But again, i assume you meant white