I'm a guy from the UK looking to buy an engagement ring for my girlfriend. I knew nothing about diamonds a month ago (other than they sparkle and are pretty expensive) but this website has been invaluable in getting me up to speed - or at least giving me a starting point.
After a bit of research I'm planning on buying a diamond online and taking it to our local jeweller for a bespoke setting (I like the idea of a personal touch). My budget isn't huge unfortunately - thinking ~£2000 for the stone and ~£1000 for the setting (this style bypass with a different setting and a couple of small diamonds on each side in the gaps if possible https://eshop.gabrielny.com/product/ER6680W4JJJ).
From what I've seen I'm looking at around the 0.7-0.8ct mark. The stones that have caught my eye currently are:
http://www.whiteflash.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut-loose-diamond-3599481.htm?source=pricescope (probably the front runner on the strength of ACA reviews on here)
http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/0.76-carat-h-color-vs1-clarity-ideal-cut-sku-783722
If anyone has any strong views on these stone (or better suggestions!) please let me know. At this size is going for the very best cut overkill? If it helps I'm not planning on proposing until March so have a little time if there are likely to be better stones in the next couple of months. My gf is also not particularly materialistic or a diamond expert so don't care about the stats - just want a nice looking stone!
PS if anyone can recommend a reputable UK online dealer then I'm all ears, avoiding the import tax buying from the US would mean I could increase my budget.
After a bit of research I'm planning on buying a diamond online and taking it to our local jeweller for a bespoke setting (I like the idea of a personal touch). My budget isn't huge unfortunately - thinking ~£2000 for the stone and ~£1000 for the setting (this style bypass with a different setting and a couple of small diamonds on each side in the gaps if possible https://eshop.gabrielny.com/product/ER6680W4JJJ).
From what I've seen I'm looking at around the 0.7-0.8ct mark. The stones that have caught my eye currently are:
http://www.whiteflash.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut-loose-diamond-3599481.htm?source=pricescope (probably the front runner on the strength of ACA reviews on here)
http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/0.76-carat-h-color-vs1-clarity-ideal-cut-sku-783722
If anyone has any strong views on these stone (or better suggestions!) please let me know. At this size is going for the very best cut overkill? If it helps I'm not planning on proposing until March so have a little time if there are likely to be better stones in the next couple of months. My gf is also not particularly materialistic or a diamond expert so don't care about the stats - just want a nice looking stone!
PS if anyone can recommend a reputable UK online dealer then I'm all ears, avoiding the import tax buying from the US would mean I could increase my budget.