Just Bought Princess...any thoughts?

[tigertas32]

Here are the specs of a princess cut I just got. I do not know how to find anything about it except for looking at it, but all comments are welcome.

Weight 1.46 CT
Shape PRINCESS
Color I
Clarity VS2
Measurements 6.47 x 6.23 x 4.47 mm
Depth 71.7%
Table 76%
Crown 7.4%
Pavilion 60.5%
Crown Angle 26.8°
Pavilion Angle 60°
Girdle THIN TO SL. THICK POLISHED
Polish GOOD
Symmetry VERY GOOD
Flour N/A

Without me telling anyone the price, what price should I be paying (or estimate)? It is a very eye clean VS2.

Everyone''s thoughts are welcome. Thanks.

Kevin

 

[swingirl]

Any photos? Certified? You can do a search for similar stones and see how yours measures up. Check the PRICES tab.

 

[tigertas32]

I do not have any photos. It is getting set right now. i have not found anything with the exact same specs. It is EGL USA. I have found others for cheaper and others more expensive that are in the same carat range +/- .02 carats. I like the fact that I was able to compare the stone next to others.

I thought maybe there was some kind of calculations anyone may have that could tell things, or if the specs of the stone may seem good or not so good to someone.

 

[Mediterranean]

Hi Tigertas!

Any chance that you''ve got the ratio for that princess?

Based only on what you''re posting here (and there are tons more determining factors when it comes to pricing) in my so-far-from-expert-that-it-aint-even-funny opinion (I just happen to be a princess lover) my best guess for what to put on the price sticker would be between $5,000 and $5,800. Probably closer to $5,000 is a better range. $5000-$5400, to narrow it down. Between $5500--$5800 would be my upper-end wild guess (LOL). But again, it''s such a stab in the dark with a princess. The calculations often don''t speak to the way they look in person, which is really the most important factor. RB''s are a bit more consistent when you''ve got all the specs.

I have had my own little "issues" with EGL certs. In my personal, isolated shopping experience (for a princess) I found (via independent appraisal) that the EGL stones'' color was generally lower than represented. Occasionally, the clarity dropped a grade in the estimation of the appraiser in my employ, but not as often as the color.

 

[Lorelei]

Date: 9/19/2008 12:50:09 AM
Author: tigertas32
I do not have any photos. It is getting set right now. i have not found anything with the exact same specs. It is EGL USA. I have found others for cheaper and others more expensive that are in the same carat range +/- .02 carats. I like the fact that I was able to compare the stone next to others.

I thought maybe there was some kind of calculations anyone may have that could tell things, or if the specs of the stone may seem good or not so good to someone.

Hi Kevin,

The info given is limiting, so we can't tell much, the table is larger than the depth, generally it is preferred for the table to be less - although this is a guideline only, also the crown height could be higher - but the main thing is if you love the diamond. That is what matters. Fancy shapes can't be evaluated by the numbers so much, so if you like the diamond and feel it is the right diamond, then that is fine!

You can use the search took above to check out the prices of similar with EGL reports, online prices are usually less than jewellers.

 

[tigertas32]

Date: 9/19/2008 10:14:52 AM
Author: Mediterranean
Hi Tigertas!

Any chance that you''ve got the ratio for that princess?

Based only on what you''re posting here (and there are tons more determining factors when it comes to pricing) in my so-far-from-expert-that-it-aint-even-funny opinion (I just happen to be a princess lover) my best guess for what to put on the price sticker would be between $5,000 and $5,800. Probably closer to $5,000 is a better range. $5000-$5400, to narrow it down. Between $5500--$5800 would be my upper-end wild guess (LOL). But again, it''s such a stab in the dark with a princess. The calculations often don''t speak to the way they look in person, which is really the most important factor. RB''s are a bit more consistent when you''ve got all the specs.

I have had my own little ''issues'' with EGL certs. In my personal, isolated shopping experience (for a princess) I found (via independent appraisal) that the EGL stones'' color was generally lower than represented. Occasionally, the clarity dropped a grade in the estimation of the appraiser in my employ, but not as often as the color.

I actually split your ranges right down the middle. You missed....5450.

The ratio I hope you are speaking of is the length by width which is 1.04.

Because I bought the setting from this jeweler I felt that he would be able to give me a good price on the stone as well. I was limited to choices, but actually any of them would have done the ring well.

Now as I think about it more since I did this last night, I am having a hard time with all of this. I could have gotten either:

1.22 - I - SI2 - $4400
or
1.52 - J - SI3 - $3700

They were both eye clean, but I did notice things under the loop. My girlfriend is only concerned about big, but I think I need some satisfaction in my purchase. I could have gotten either of these and been happy too.

I am so torn. What to do?

 

[Mediterranean]

What to do?

What is her finger size? If she''s a 5 or smaller, the "big"issue will take care of itself with a 1.5, I think.

It''s a NIIIIICE size (she''ll be proud to show it off, everyone will oooh and aahh, trust me, I''m a "she," LOL).

Incidentally, the "weight" can often be less relevant to making the stone''s size really "pop" than the CUT, the CUT, the CUT.

Not shape, but cut. If the cutter did an AMAZING job, the light return will be greater. We looked and looked for the perfect princess for a while. My fiance never got tired of it, but to be honest with you, I was exasperated to the point of almost going with my second choice (Asscher). The light leakage near the points, the thin girdles that made me worry about cracking the stone during setting, the lifeless princesses I saw for weeks during the search. The fact that NO AGS000 stones in the desired carat range seemed to exist, nor did any of the particular branded princess cut I loved exist in my desired size range. It was like looking for Bigfoot or the Loch Ness Monster. I''m ashamed to say, I gave up there at the end, and my fiance figured it out. I guess it was a more fun surprise that way, though.

 

[John P]

Date: 9/19/2008 8:14:35 PM
Author: Mediterranean

Not shape, but cut. If the cutter did an AMAZING job, the light return will be greater. We looked and looked for the perfect princess for a while. My fiance never got tired of it, but to be honest with you, I was exasperated to the point of almost going with my second choice (Asscher). The light leakage near the points, the thin girdles that made me worry about cracking the stone during setting, the lifeless princesses I saw for weeks during the search. The fact that NO AGS000 stones in the desired carat range seemed to exist, nor did any of the particular branded princess cut I loved exist in my desired size range. It was like looking for Bigfoot or the Loch Ness Monster. I'm ashamed to say, I gave up there at the end, and my fiance figured it out. I guess it was a more fun surprise that way, though.

Hi Mediterranean,

I'm working on an internal piece about this very thing (re princess cut quality in the mainstream). May I quote the highlighted and use it?

Tigertas, please pardon the off-topic.

 

[Rhino]

Date: 9/18/2008 11:56:45 PM
Author:tigertas32
Here are the specs of a princess cut I just got. I do not know how to find anything about it except for looking at it, but all comments are welcome.

Weight 1.46 CT
Shape PRINCESS
Color I
Clarity VS2
Measurements 6.47 x 6.23 x 4.47 mm
Depth 71.7%
Table 76%
Crown 7.4%
Pavilion 60.5%
Crown Angle 26.8°
Pavilion Angle 60°
Girdle THIN TO SL. THICK POLISHED
Polish GOOD
Symmetry VERY GOOD
Flour N/A

Without me telling anyone the price, what price should I be paying (or estimate)? It is a very eye clean VS2.

Everyone's thoughts are welcome. Thanks.

Kevin

Hi Kevin,

What information inspired you to purchase this? Curious. Was it the clarity/color and particularly the size combo?

 

[Mediterranean]

Date: 9/19/2008 8:34:34 PM
Author: John Pollard

Date: 9/19/2008 8:14:35 PM

Author: Mediterranean


Not shape, but cut. If the cutter did an AMAZING job, the light return will be greater. We looked and looked for the perfect princess for a while. My fiance never got tired of it, but to be honest with you, I was exasperated to the point of almost going with my second choice (Asscher). The light leakage near the points, the thin girdles that made me worry about cracking the stone during setting, the lifeless princesses I saw for weeks during the search. The fact that NO AGS000 stones in the desired carat range seemed to exist, nor did any of the particular branded princess cut I loved exist in my desired size range. It was like looking for Bigfoot or the Loch Ness Monster. I''m ashamed to say, I gave up there at the end, and my fiance figured it out. I guess it was a more fun surprise that way, though.

Hi Mediterranean,


I''m working on an internal piece about this very thing (re princess cut quality in the mainstream). May I quote the highlighted and use it?


Tigertas, please pardon the off-topic.

Please feel free to use whatever part of my post would work for your article.....


Cheers!

 

[tigertas32]

Thanks for some of the input all.

She is a size 7 with really long fingers....kind of like the hand claw seen from Beetlejuice where the shrimp/crab hand comes and eats their faces...sorry.

I chose this diamond because out of the choices I was able to look at, this one seemd like the best. The two 1.5 carats look exact in size. I could tell a little difference in color but not really. Under the loop is where I saw the difference. Like I said, they are both eye clean.

I had him put the ring on hold as I explore my options more. Getting this diamond at 5450 makes me go over my budget by $1000. I really wanted to stay within my budget, because I still have to get the band and my ring.

I will call him on monday to decide what to do. I have a lot of thinking to do.

 

[tigertas32]

Date: 9/19/2008 8:14:35 PM
Author: Mediterranean
What to do?

What is her finger size? If she''s a 5 or smaller, the ''big''issue will take care of itself with a 1.5, I think.

It''s a NIIIIICE size (she''ll be proud to show it off, everyone will oooh and aahh, trust me, I''m a ''she,'' LOL).

Incidentally, the ''weight'' can often be less relevant to making the stone''s size really ''pop'' than the CUT, the CUT, the CUT.

Not shape, but cut. If the cutter did an AMAZING job, the light return will be greater. We looked and looked for the perfect princess for a while. My fiance never got tired of it, but to be honest with you, I was exasperated to the point of almost going with my second choice (Asscher). The light leakage near the points, the thin girdles that made me worry about cracking the stone during setting, the lifeless princesses I saw for weeks during the search. The fact that NO AGS000 stones in the desired carat range seemed to exist, nor did any of the particular branded princess cut I loved exist in my desired size range. It was like looking for Bigfoot or the Loch Ness Monster. I''m ashamed to say, I gave up there at the end, and my fiance figured it out. I guess it was a more fun surprise that way, though.

I guess I am a little new, but what do you mean by the CUT. How would you explain what to look for when i am viewing them at the store.

 

[swingirl]

Cut refers to the angles and proportions of a stone. It's what makes one stone look beautiful and sparkly and another look dull or dark. Most of us who are not jewelers can be fooled by looking at diamonds in a store. Bad lighting, no magnification, not knowing what to look for, shaky hands, pushy salesman, etc.

PSers have gotten used to viewing stones at 40x when you can study the patterns and assess the facets. Good online vendors also have equipment that takes measurements. All these tools are used to assess the cut. Most stones look good in stores especially when they may only be able to show you 2 or 3 that are even contenders in your size range. If they are all lousy cuts how can you pick a good one? Most stores don't carry a lot of good ones unless you are at a high-end jeweler.
Info on diamond cut

 

[Rhino]

Date: 9/19/2008 8:14:35 PM
Author: Mediterranean
What to do?

What is her finger size? If she''s a 5 or smaller, the ''big''issue will take care of itself with a 1.5, I think.

It''s a NIIIIICE size (she''ll be proud to show it off, everyone will oooh and aahh, trust me, I''m a ''she,'' LOL).

Incidentally, the ''weight'' can often be less relevant to making the stone''s size really ''pop'' than the CUT, the CUT, the CUT.

Not shape, but cut. If the cutter did an AMAZING job, the light return will be greater. We looked and looked for the perfect princess for a while. My fiance never got tired of it, but to be honest with you, I was exasperated to the point of almost going with my second choice (Asscher). The light leakage near the points, the thin girdles that made me worry about cracking the stone during setting, the lifeless princesses I saw for weeks during the search. The fact that NO AGS000 stones in the desired carat range seemed to exist, nor did any of the particular branded princess cut I loved exist in my desired size range. It was like looking for Bigfoot or the Loch Ness Monster. I''m ashamed to say, I gave up there at the end, and my fiance figured it out. I guess it was a more fun surprise that way, though.

I share your frustration Med. AGS ideal princess cuts are far and few which oftentimes leads me to search out GIA options which I''ve been doing with pretty good success over the course of time we''ve been picking for light performance. Equally frustrating is locating Asscher''s and Cushions with the type of light performance that I would feel comfortable backing with lifetime policies.

 

[Rhino]

Date: 9/20/2008 9:46:42 PM
Author: tigertas32
Thanks for some of the input all.

She is a size 7 with really long fingers....kind of like the hand claw seen from Beetlejuice where the shrimp/crab hand comes and eats their faces...sorry.

I chose this diamond because out of the choices I was able to look at, this one seemd like the best. The two 1.5 carats look exact in size. I could tell a little difference in color but not really. Under the loop is where I saw the difference. Like I said, they are both eye clean.

I had him put the ring on hold as I explore my options more. Getting this diamond at 5450 makes me go over my budget by $1000. I really wanted to stay within my budget, because I still have to get the band and my ring.

I will call him on monday to decide what to do. I have a lot of thinking to do.

At 5450 I can certainly understand the attraction. Quite honestly the numbers don''t thrill me tiger. When table > total depth and crown height < 10% you''re generally off to not so good of a start regarding high optics in a princess cut and the fact that its an EGL graded stone also doesn''t raise optimism. A 1.4xct in the size you''re looking at though, were the stone cut with a different set of goals in mind (ie. cut quality/light performance) would have lost more weight and would be a more costly stone. I recently purchased two 1.48ct Ideal Princess cuts that cost me at wholesale notably more than what you are paying for this stone but worth every penny. There are trade offs with diamonds. If you hunt down one with rare optics in this size range it will not be as inexpensive so in that price range you''d most certainly sacrifice weight but you would gain a whole new world of beauty but at around the $5450 mark in an I color VS2-SI1 you can still get a size that''s not too far off but with optics that you would most definitely see a difference in. If you''re in a rush and you''re happy with what you have and the size is a major factor perhaps you should stick with what you have. If you have a little time you may find it worth while working with someone who can hunt down a rare one. Keep us posted.