Mall Diamond Clarity and Suggestions

[JordanM]

Hello everyone,

Ive been reading a couple threads on here after looking at some of the large mall chains and seeing that their diamonds are not very clear or clarity. I even looked at some Neil Lane ones and they also had this issue. I know a lot of people on here were suggesting Blue Nile and ID Diamond, however I have reservations about online. I like having a local store to be able to do inspections and warranty the ring. Do you get this same kind of warranty from an online store as they are unable to inspect the ring every 6 months? Also her finger is a size 3.5, does this pose an issue with the type of rings she is looking at being on the larger side? I would like to keep the price under $15,000. I will attach some picture of the type and style she likes. I am unsure of using any of the other local shops besides the ones in the mall. Any help and input is greatly appreciated.

Thank You

 

[Matthews1127]

Hello everyone,

Ive been reading a couple threads on here after looking at some of the large mall chains and seeing that their diamonds are not very clear or clarity. I even looked at some Neil Lane ones and they also had this issue. I know a lot of people on here were suggesting Blue Nile and ID Diamond, however I have reservations about online. I like having a local store to be able to do inspections and warranty the ring. Do you get this same kind of warranty from an online store as they are unable to inspect the ring every 6 months? Also her finger is a size 3.5, does this pose an issue with the type of rings she is looking at being on the larger side? I would like to keep the price under $15,000. I will attach some picture of the type and style she likes. I am unsure of using any of the other local shops besides the ones in the mall. Any help and input is greatly appreciated.

Thank You

If you’re looking for a quality diamond, and want to have it set locally, Yoram at GemConcepts, LTD is the place to go.

https://www.instagram.com/gemconcepts
I have personal, previous experience with him, and I absolutely adore him! 100% professional, honest, reasonable, and FAST! He was my first online experience, and I had absolutely no fear! He made everything so easy, and you can’t find the quality of diamonds that he cuts anywhere else; the man is a genius with rocks!

 

[OoohShiny]

Where are you in the world?

Getting stones set locally should be possible - you will have to enquire at your local (independent) jewellers as to whether they will set outside stones (and if so, if the stones are fully insured while doing so).

You will have no worries if you purchase from a Pricescope-recommended vendor - they all have excellent return policies if you don't like the stone, but TBH, I doubt you will want to return a stone if we help you find a good one!

Please post your desired colour, clarity and carat (size) preferences and we can see what might be available.

 

[rockysalamander]

If you can find a good local jeweler that is great, but the kind of settings you've posted really require a high degree of mastery to execute properly. That is really becoming a lost skill to both execute and repair.

She likes cushion shaped halos, most are double with a split or multishank. At her size, it will need to be custom made (not custom sized, actually custom made from scratch). So, I'd guess that will be $2500-4500. The center diamond stones look to be as many rounds as cushions, so I'd stick with rounds as they are easier to find. Two have color (one has colored diamonds in the halo and one a morganite center). She's split on metal (white or rose gold). I'd recommend platinum for settings like this, but I'd try to ferret out her preference. Also, most of the settings will be too wide (along the finger) or shaped to disallow a wedding band. Do you know if she wants a single ring or does the stetting need to accommodate a wedding band?

What I would suggest is that you see what we can find for you within budget and then decide if you still prefer local over internet. If you want to do that, we need just a few more details.

Are there any cultural reason to need a high color or clarity diamond? Most can start to see tint in a diamond at GIA I. We routinely find eye-clean SI1s. I personally prefer G and H in modern cuts. You have a good budget, so we can look once you give a bit more guidance.

For reference, here is a size 3.5 finger with a wide shank and 10 mm total width of coverage. That looks about the same as the rings she posted in total coverage.

 

[tyty333]

Looks like she wants a round brilliant in a cushion halo/double halo. Please do not buy from a mall jeweler. Having a local mall jeweler does not out
weight paying too much for a lesser quality stone and setting.

A couple of things...
- Find a non-mall, independent (not chain) jeweler to get your ring "checked" at. They will (usually) do it for free because they want your business.
They will also clean your ring.
- Buy insurance for your ring ($15k ring is a fair chunk of money). If it gets lost or stolen, a mall jewelry store will not cover it.

What size stone are you looking for? 3.5 finger is tiny...we have a web site where we can show you the finger coverage on a size 3.5 finger.

Possible settings (there are others)
https://www.whiteflash.com/engageme...passion-halo-diamond-engagement-ring-4545.htm
https://www.whiteflash.com/engageme...2459-passion-diamond-engagement-ring-3446.htm
https://www.whiteflash.com/engageme...1rz1327-halo-diamond-engagement-ring-3886.htm

So if we say about $3k for the setting, these would be possible stones (there are more depending on your needs)
https://www.whiteflash.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut-loose-diamond-3947658.htm
https://www.whiteflash.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut-loose-diamond-3947628.htm
https://www.whiteflash.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut-loose-diamond-3947714.htm

Here is the 1.45 and the 1.25 stones I posted so you can see the size on a 3.5 finger. You'll have to imagine it with a single or double halo on it.
(we might be able to mock something up using a cushion to give you a better idea).


Edit...ok, I see that RS just mocked up a halo look for you

 

[tyty333]

So, here is a 9x9mm cushion shape (mock up of stone with 2 halos I think) on a size 3.5 finger. FYI

 

[JordanM]

Thank you for all of your help and I will try to answer all of your questions now.
I would like the clarity to be VS2 or higher with a color of I or higher. I am unsure of what size. It would depend on the setting and what looks the best. I do want it to relatively large, but I know she does not like rings that sit very high and will snag on things, as she works in the medical profession. I know she wants white gold and the diamond to be clear.
It could have a band but does not need to. I know some in the pictures do but this would depend on the overall appearance as well. If the ring was already wide enough without the band then it would not be needed.
Do you get more sparkle from a round or cushion cut?
There is no cultural reason for a whiter color or clearer, however if I am going to be spending this much money I would like it to be as close to perfect as possible within budget with no noticeable imperfections.
I live in the Midland, Saginaw Area in Michigan.

Here are a few others that "I" have found that look similar to the ones she likes from above, however the color and clarity is not there.
https://www.zales.com/158-ct-tw-cus...agement-ring-14k-white-gold-fsi1/p/V-20145348
https://www.zales.com/2-ct-tw-cushi...e-engagement-ring-14k-white-gold/p/V-20145579
https://www.zales.com/neil-lane-bri...e-engagement-ring-14k-white-gold/p/V-19996143
http://www.jared.com/en/jaredstore/...gold-ring-08105610799--1/101524/101524.101531
http://www.jared.com/en/jaredstore/...nds--14k-white-gold-ring/101524/101524.101531
http://www.jared.com/en/jaredstore/...gold-ring-08106970099--1/101524/101524.101531
http://www.kay.com/en/kaystore/r6-r...1-4-ct-tw-14k-white-gold/101488/101488.101495

 

[foxinsox]

I wouldn’t get hung up on returning the ring to the maker for checking - if you buy a mall pave setting, you’d need their support warranty as their pave won’t be anywhere near the quality of a pave specialist like Victor Canera or Steven Kirsch.
You will get a bigger and better quality diamond and setting from an online vendor who specialises in high quality diamonds and settings. Then find a local independent jeweller who has their own bench and use them for your checks and any maintenance that wouldn’t void your support from the ring maker.
Malls have to pay huge overheads for their stores and they’re seldom either actual manufacturers or specialists in the sort of ring you’re after.

 

[canuk-gal]

HI:

Is your intended planning to wear this ring everyday/to work?

cheers--Sharon

 

[JordanM]

HI:

Is your intended planning to wear this ring everyday/to work?

cheers--Sharon

Yes she will be wearing it every day.

 

[canuk-gal]

Yes she will be wearing it every day.

Then, given her profession and choice of ring style, I recommend a vendor who specializes in this type of work/setting. Lots of vendors sell this multi-stone setting but not all are equivalent.

cheers--Sharon

 

[MarionC]

I would not be concerned with purchasing online at all. Over time I have used 8 different Pricescope vendors, both large and small companies, and met two more vendors in person that others here can vouch for. They are all safe to purchase from and accountable for the descriptions of their products.
That combined with the good advice you will get here should assist you greatly in reaching your goal.

 

[tyty333]

Thank you for all of your help and I will try to answer all of your questions now.
I would like the clarity to be VS2 or higher with a color of I or higher. I am unsure of what size. It would depend on the setting and what looks the best. I do want it to relatively large, but I know she does not like rings that sit very high and will snag on things, as she works in the medical profession. I know she wants white gold and the diamond to be clear.
It could have a band but does not need to. I know some in the pictures do but this would depend on the overall appearance as well. If the ring was already wide enough without the band then it would not be needed.
Do you get more sparkle from a round or cushion cut?
There is no cultural reason for a whiter color or clearer, however if I am going to be spending this much money I would like it to be as close to perfect as possible within budget with no noticeable imperfections.
I live in the Midland, Saginaw Area in Michigan.

Here are a few others that "I" have found that look similar to the ones she likes from above, however the color and clarity is not there.
https://www.zales.com/158-ct-tw-cus...agement-ring-14k-white-gold-fsi1/p/V-20145348
https://www.zales.com/2-ct-tw-cushi...e-engagement-ring-14k-white-gold/p/V-20145579
https://www.zales.com/neil-lane-bri...e-engagement-ring-14k-white-gold/p/V-19996143
http://www.jared.com/en/jaredstore/...gold-ring-08105610799--1/101524/101524.101531
http://www.jared.com/en/jaredstore/...nds--14k-white-gold-ring/101524/101524.101531
http://www.jared.com/en/jaredstore/...gold-ring-08106970099--1/101524/101524.101531
http://www.kay.com/en/kaystore/r6-r...1-4-ct-tw-14k-white-gold/101488/101488.101495

Are you looking for comments on these or are you just trying to show us what she likes?

 

[Snowdrop13]

I expect that when your gf is at work she will have to wash her hands a lot, and possibly wear gloves at times too? I don’t mean to be negative but I’m just wondering if these sorts of settings are really practical if she wants to wear it every day??

 

[PintoBean]

Where are you located? Some of these online vendors could be local to you.

 

[JordanM]

Sharon, What vendor do you suggest that specifies in these rings?
tyty333, I am looking for comments on these and do you think they are comparable to the ones from the first post that she likes?
Ultimately I am hoping you guys can guide me to a retailer for the perfect ring. I am not sure if this entails just purchasing the main diamond online and having a mall set it in the setting or if this entails sourcing the entire ring from one supplier online. Based on my location in midland / Saginaw do you see any local stores that would specialize in this type of thing. I don't want a mom and pop shop that will be gone in a few years either.

 

[KristinTech]

Sharon, What vendor do you suggest that specifies in these rings?
tyty333, I am looking for comments on these and do you think they are comparable to the ones from the first post that she likes?
Ultimately I am hoping you guys can guide me to a retailer for the perfect ring. I am not sure if this entails just purchasing the main diamond online and having a mall set it in the setting or if this entails sourcing the entire ring from one supplier online. Based on my location in midland / Saginaw do you see any local stores that would specialize in this type of thing. I don't want a mom and pop shop that will be gone in a few years either.

Are you ever near Battle Creek? Pearlman’s is down there...

 

[JordanM]

Are you ever near Battle Creek? Pearlman’s is down there...

No I have never been to battle creek.
Here is a picture of her current ring I got her 5 years ago as a promise ring that she wears everyday.

 

[kenny]

Friends don't let friends drive drunk, or buy diamonds at a mall.

 

[canuk-gal]

No I have never been to battle creek.
Here is a picture of her current ring I got her 5 years ago as a promise ring that she wears everyday.

Lovely. Are you looking to trade this in?

You want to deal face to face with a vendor, correct?

cheers--Sharon

 

[JordanM]

Lovely. Are you looking to trade this in?

You want to deal face to face with a vendor, correct?

cheers--Sharon

No I don't plan to trade it in and I don't need to deal face to face if I find the right one.

 

[MissGotRocks]

If you are looking for a quality diamond with lots of sparkle, do not buy at the mall stores. There are many here that will help you find a great stone once you narrow down exactly what you are looking for. She has a small finger and that works to your benefit as a smaller stone haloed will give her lots of great finger coverage!

 

[KristinTech]

No I have never been to battle creek.
Here is a picture of her current ring I got her 5 years ago as a promise ring that she wears everyday.

That is a beautiful ring! If you’re in Saginaw, Michigan, Pearlman’s is a 2-hour drive. I’m not sure if there’s another PS vendor nearer to you, but many of the ladies here have purchased from Pearlman’s and I believe they would recommend them! Maybe they’ll chime in. It would be a better place to peruse jewelry shop n person other than the mall. You’re already headed in the right direction if you’re here.

 

[canuk-gal]

That is a beautiful ring! If you’re in Saginaw, Michigan, Pearlman’s is a 2-hour drive. I’m not sure if there’s another PS vendor nearer to you, but many of the ladies here have purchased from Pearlman’s and I believe they would recommend them! Maybe they’ll chime in. It would be a better place to peruse jewelry shop n person other than the mall. You’re already headed in the right direction if you’re here.

KT offers a great suggestion. You could contact Pearlman's online follow up in person? You could ask them to have a selection of stones/settings (or talk custom) before you make the trek. Then go. Perhaps stay overnight at a fun place--for supper and stuff? (cuz when you are married there is NO time for FUN)

Your budget is fabu.

VC, SC, MH and LM (in no order) make beautiful, heirloom rings. That said, I'd go to Tiffany and get their Soleste.

cheers--Sharon

 

[KristinTech]

OP, you guys could do a craft brewery tour of Michigan (after the shopping, lol). I’d be ship-watching if I lived where you do!

 

[JordanM]

Thanks guys I will contact Pearlmans. The hardest part is doing this without her really knowing, so its a surprise. We take her promise ring back in next month for a cleaning to zales so that should give me the opportunity to have her try a few more on and see what she likes style wise.

 

[canuk-gal]

Thanks guys I will contact Pearlmans. The hardest part is doing this without her really knowing, so its a surprise. We take her promise ring back in next month for a cleaning to zales so that should give me the opportunity to have her try a few more on and see what she likes style wise.

Surprise? Much success to you.

 

[scarsmum]

There’s a reason nobody is jumping on the idea of you using Kay’s or Jared or any other chain store - the quality of the diamonds and the workmanship is known to be poor in many of the Products; you will pay a good 30% more for their rent, and will sometimes even be duped about what you are receiving. On ps we tend to value a great cut first which is very rare to find in a mall jeweler and even at high end retailers. If you want the best then you want to be selecting your own diamond and customizing your own setting. The vendors that have been mentioned here can do that for you and they, as opposed to any of the chains, have excellent reputations. You will not regret going with one of them and the result will be so far above the mall quality. Your options, if you go this route, are to select your own center diamond from an online retailer and send it to the jeweler for setting, or to work with the vendor for selecting a diamond. The process is then to discuss the setting you want, receive a cad drawing of it and either go straight to setting or receive a cast mold to examine before setting. Only when you are satisfied is the end product sent to you. I suggest you read through some of the other threads to get more familiar with the process around getting a custom ring and then let us know if you want help sourcing a center diamond.

 

[Bron357]

I’ll just add that I live in Australia and have been happily and safely buying “online internationally” for more than a decade now.
We, the consumers, can rejoice that we aren’t limited anymore by what the shop at the Mall has on offer.
I think on your beloveds petite and beautiful fingers, a diamond around 1.5 carats will look fabulous.
Personally, I would consider a 4 or 6 prong low profile and if you want diamonds in the shoulders / band, consider “channel set”, no prongs to catch on anything.

 

[MaisOuiMadame]

Op, seconding all of the above opinions. @scarsmum is right.I'm getting kind of nervous when I read you're going to zales for cleaning to try on some rings - as the regulars here often recommend: leave your wallet at home. There are some pretty pushy salespeople out there.
There are so many stories regarding this on PS. A quick search should bring them up for you...
Secondly, outstanding craftsmanship is pretty rare or extremely expensive .
Like @Bron357 I've been using ps vendors even from overseas due to their consistent high quality.

Thirdly, when I read that your SO is working in the medical field, wearing gloves and intending to wear her ring every day, I recommend trying the style you're looking at with gloves. Your gorgeous promise ring has channel set diamonds and seems all in all much lower than her examples / dream ring.
My friends in the medical field usually either wear their rings in a necklace if it's too delicate or high set or were aware of the problem and chose low set rings or bezels .
I'm wearing gloves only for cooking and I've ripped so mAny gloves with my solitaire...