My WF ACA Engagement Ring Upgrade is Here!

[Shannon72781]

This is going to be long, mainly to explain certain details that I scoured Pricescope for in my decision-making process with the hopes to help others that may be searching for similar in the future. Thanks to all who chimed in to help narrow my diamond search!

Original Post for Diamond Search Here

Stats: 2.28 ct G VS2 A Cut Above link here (upgraded from 1.22ct G SI1 Expert Selection from WF purchased in 2007. I’ve kept it to use for a pendant in a future project)
Setting: solitaire in 18kt yellow gold with platinum head Vatche U113
Ring size: 3.5

I am posting pictures with my Memoire eternity wedding band (7 ideal pointers, 1.42 ctw, GSI1 melee), my new spacer (Ferko’s 1.2mm in YG) and my WF custom open basket eternity band (25 ACA pointers, 3.75 ctw, FG VS melee). I think the solitaire “pops” more with the smaller eternity band but it’s nice to have the blingier option when I want, or to wear solo as the larger eternity holds its own (I should probably do a separate post on this).

• Setting: I debated between the WF Tiffany version with modification option and the Vatche. I ultimately selected the Vatche because it seemed a bit sturdier (2.5mm at the shoulder and reverse taper to 2.4mm at 3 and 9 o’clock) and I loved the basket shape. It truly looks like a Tiffany classic solitaire with the right swoopiness. I asked about the platinum alloy mix to be 90 Plat / 10 iridium but that could not be accommodated and they are only casting 95 Plat / 5 iridium. Wasn’t the end of the world to me. I also chose the “tab prongs” and honestly, way overthought this lol. I can hardly see them in real life but am pleased with how they turned out. I did need to pay more for the larger carat head and the turnaround time from wiring the money to delivery was 16 business days (in time for Christmas!!)
• Insurance: I have Geico for car and homeowners, so through them I purchased Jeweler’s Mutual. It was super easy. I only insured my new e-ring and my 2ctw ACA HSI1 diamond studs (again….should probably do a review on these too lol. These are my second pair that are an upgrade from my 1.2 ctw studs). Cost for insurance was ~2% of total cost yearly with $0 deductible. As both pieces are <24 months old, I was able to use my receipt and certificates vs an appraisal.
• Spacer: To space or not to space. Belabored this as well. My previous setting was chewed up by my wedding eternity band. I was never thrilled with that setting but became concerned with prong integrity. I knew I wanted to prevent this and even with the Vatche’s donut, and the fact the band is a low-setting Memorie…it was still a risk. I’ve attached close ups so you can see with/without the spacer.
• Whiteflash: As you can probably tell by now, I’ve been a customer for over 15 years and purchased multiple pieces from them (discovered via PS of course). Michelle has always gone above and beyond over the years and this time was no different. From taking videos the night before Thanksgiving, to expediting the Vatche turnaround, working with me on some pricing flexibility and close communication, I always felt taken care of and a valued customer. No question was “too silly” or “too picky” – just complete friendly professionalism. I have always recommended Whiteflash to people in real life (as I’m not on the boards much…too addicting!) and will continue to do so.

So now on to the fun part, which is all of the pictures I took in various lightings, close ups, further away, etc. (and a video to show the fire!)

Thank you for reading and hope this was helpful to others that are searching!!

Video action shot

 

[oldcutclubmember]

Wow! It’s beautiful and I love your whole new set! It’s so cohesive and complimentary.

 

[Austina]

It's beautiful and looks huge on your lovely dainty fingers.

 

[Catmom]

This is going to be long, mainly to explain certain details that I scoured Pricescope for in my decision-making process with the hopes to help others that may be searching for similar in the future. Thanks to all who chimed in to help narrow my diamond search!

Original Post for Diamond Search Here

Stats: 2.28 ct G VS2 A Cut Above link here (upgraded from 1.22ct G SI1 Expert Selection from WF purchased in 2007. I’ve kept it to use for a pendant in a future project)
Setting: solitaire in 18kt yellow gold with platinum head Vatche U113
Ring size: 3.5

I am posting pictures with my Memoire eternity wedding band (7 ideal pointers, 1.42 ctw, GSI1 melee), my new spacer (Ferko’s 1.2mm in YG) and my WF custom open basket eternity band (25 ACA pointers, 3.75 ctw, FG VS melee). I think the solitaire “pops” more with the smaller eternity band but it’s nice to have the blingier option when I want, or to wear solo as the larger eternity holds its own (I should probably do a separate post on this).

• Setting: I debated between the WF Tiffany version with modification option and the Vatche. I ultimately selected the Vatche because it seemed a bit sturdier (2.5mm at the shoulder and reverse taper to 2.4mm at 3 and 9 o’clock) and I loved the basket shape. It truly looks like a Tiffany classic solitaire with the right swoopiness. I asked about the platinum alloy mix to be 90 Plat / 10 iridium but that could not be accommodated and they are only casting 95 Plat / 5 iridium. Wasn’t the end of the world to me. I also chose the “tab prongs” and honestly, way overthought this lol. I can hardly see them in real life but am pleased with how they turned out. I did need to pay more for the larger carat head and the turnaround time from wiring the money to delivery was 16 business days (in time for Christmas!!)
• Insurance: I have Geico for car and homeowners, so through them I purchased Jeweler’s Mutual. It was super easy. I only insured my new e-ring and my 2ctw ACA HSI1 diamond studs (again….should probably do a review on these too lol. These are my second pair that are an upgrade from my 1.2 ctw studs). Cost for insurance was ~2% of total cost yearly with $0 deductible. As both pieces are <24 months old, I was able to use my receipt and certificates vs an appraisal.
• Spacer: To space or not to space. Belabored this as well. My previous setting was chewed up by my wedding eternity band. I was never thrilled with that setting but became concerned with prong integrity. I knew I wanted to prevent this and even with the Vatche’s donut, and the fact the band is a low-setting Memorie…it was still a risk. I’ve attached close ups so you can see with/without the spacer.
• Whiteflash: As you can probably tell by now, I’ve been a customer for over 15 years and purchased multiple pieces from them (discovered via PS of course). Michelle has always gone above and beyond over the years and this time was no different. From taking videos the night before Thanksgiving, to expediting the Vatche turnaround, working with me on some pricing flexibility and close communication, I always felt taken care of and a valued customer. No question was “too silly” or “too picky” – just complete friendly professionalism. I have always recommended Whiteflash to people in real life (as I’m not on the boards much…too addicting!) and will continue to do so.

So now on to the fun part, which is all of the pictures I took in various lightings, close ups, further away, etc. (and a video to show the fire!)

Thank you for reading and hope this was helpful to others that are searching!!

Video action shot

It's gorgeous, congratulations! I envy your long fingers.

 

[purplesilk]

Great job!
Your new ring is gorgeous!!!

 

[Mlh]

So perfect on you!! Just beautiful!!

 

[RMOO]

Stunning, just stunning!

 

[MissGotRocks]

It is gorgeous - knew it would be! Love the Vatche setting as it makes the ring look so substantial! The swoopiness is just perfection! All of the rings are very complimentary - so happy for you!! Merry Christmas!

 

[Calliecake]

It look beautiful on your hand and with all your bands @Shannon72781. Congratulations!

 

[xjsbellamias13]

Your set looks so perfect together! Beautiful!

 

[Ally T]

Absolutely beautiful. And your whole set is stunning

 

[Farleysmom]

Your set looks beautiful and compliment each other well. It looks huge on your tiny finger. . Merry Christmas.

 

[Rubies-R-Me]

Wow! Your new ring is fabulous and looks perfect on your hand! Enjoy!!!

 

[kathley]

Your ring is stunning and the setting perfectly shows your diamond!

 

[MamaBear]

It’s beautiful, of course! I’m really happy that this came to you!!

 

[Sprinkles&Stones]

Perfection!

 

[canuk-gal]

HI:

Fabu! Looks massive on your tiny hand!!!

cheers--Sharon

 

[Shannon72781]

It is gorgeous - knew it would be! Love the Vatche setting as it makes the ring look so substantial! The swoopiness is just perfection! All of the rings are very complimentary - so happy for you!! Merry Christmas!

Thank you @MissGotRocks - you were certainly instrumental in this selection process! Hope you also had a merry Christmas and holidays!!

 

[Shannon72781]

It’s beautiful, of course! I’m really happy that this came to you!!

Thank you!! I’m so happy with it and appreciate all of your feedback along the way. It goes to show how personal diamond shopping is and this forum promotes how people should feel when selecting theirs! <3

 

[Shannon72781]

This is going to be long, mainly to explain certain details that I scoured Pricescope for in my decision-making process with the hopes to help others that may be searching for similar in the future. Thanks to all who chimed in to help narrow my diamond search!

Original Post for Diamond Search Here

Stats: 2.28 ct G VS2 A Cut Above link here (upgraded from 1.22ct G SI1 Expert Selection from WF purchased in 2007. I’ve kept it to use for a pendant in a future project)
Setting: solitaire in 18kt yellow gold with platinum head Vatche U113
Ring size: 3.5

I am posting pictures with my Memoire eternity wedding band (7 ideal pointers, 1.42 ctw, GSI1 melee), my new spacer (Ferko’s 1.2mm in YG) and my WF custom open basket eternity band (25 ACA pointers, 3.75 ctw, FG VS melee). I think the solitaire “pops” more with the smaller eternity band but it’s nice to have the blingier option when I want, or to wear solo as the larger eternity holds its own (I should probably do a separate post on this).

• Setting: I debated between the WF Tiffany version with modification option and the Vatche. I ultimately selected the Vatche because it seemed a bit sturdier (2.5mm at the shoulder and reverse taper to 2.4mm at 3 and 9 o’clock) and I loved the basket shape. It truly looks like a Tiffany classic solitaire with the right swoopiness. I asked about the platinum alloy mix to be 90 Plat / 10 iridium but that could not be accommodated and they are only casting 95 Plat / 5 iridium. Wasn’t the end of the world to me. I also chose the “tab prongs” and honestly, way overthought this lol. I can hardly see them in real life but am pleased with how they turned out. I did need to pay more for the larger carat head and the turnaround time from wiring the money to delivery was 16 business days (in time for Christmas!!)
• Insurance: I have Geico for car and homeowners, so through them I purchased Jeweler’s Mutual. It was super easy. I only insured my new e-ring and my 2ctw ACA HSI1 diamond studs (again….should probably do a review on these too lol. These are my second pair that are an upgrade from my 1.2 ctw studs). Cost for insurance was ~2% of total cost yearly with $0 deductible. As both pieces are <24 months old, I was able to use my receipt and certificates vs an appraisal.
• Spacer: To space or not to space. Belabored this as well. My previous setting was chewed up by my wedding eternity band. I was never thrilled with that setting but became concerned with prong integrity. I knew I wanted to prevent this and even with the Vatche’s donut, and the fact the band is a low-setting Memorie…it was still a risk. I’ve attached close ups so you can see with/without the spacer.
• Whiteflash: As you can probably tell by now, I’ve been a customer for over 15 years and purchased multiple pieces from them (discovered via PS of course). Michelle has always gone above and beyond over the years and this time was no different. From taking videos the night before Thanksgiving, to expediting the Vatche turnaround, working with me on some pricing flexibility and close communication, I always felt taken care of and a valued customer. No question was “too silly” or “too picky” – just complete friendly professionalism. I have always recommended Whiteflash to people in real life (as I’m not on the boards much…too addicting!) and will continue to do so.

So now on to the fun part, which is all of the pictures I took in various lightings, close ups, further away, etc. (and a video to show the fire!)

Thank you for reading and hope this was helpful to others that are searching!!

Video action shot

Thank you everyone so much. I love when people solicit help with choosing their diamond and come back to post their selection - it helps with closure haha. This forum shows so much passion and support for such an emotional purchase…not everyone in my life understands this and it’s nice to have a place that’s welcoming to have these conversations.
Now onto selecting how I’m going to repurpose my original engagement diamond into a pendant. I’ve spied some amazing DK custom pieces that blend the right amount of “floating” pendants to really showcase the diamond. I love “less is more” for settings in all my pieces and will be looking to see who can achieve this best!!
Thank you again for letting me share my special ring!!

 

[MissGotRocks]

Thank you everyone so much. I love when people solicit help with choosing their diamond and come back to post their selection - it helps with closure haha. This forum shows so much passion and support for such an emotional purchase…not everyone in my life understands this and it’s nice to have a place that’s welcoming to have these conversations.
Now onto selecting how I’m going to repurpose my original engagement diamond into a pendant. I’ve spied some amazing DK custom pieces that blend the right amount of “floating” pendants to really showcase the diamond. I love “less is more” for settings in all my pieces and will be looking to see who can achieve this best!!
Thank you again for letting me share my special ring!!

So glad you are happy and thank you for letting us be a part of your journey! Can’t wait to see your pendant ideas! Enjoy every sparkle of your new ring!!

 

[Kim N]

Just stunning! I love your Memoire band as well!

 

[Scandinavian]

Amazing! Just wow!

 

[springerspaniel]

This is gorgeous!!!!

 

[LLJsmom]

It looks huuuuuuuuuuge on your size 3.5 fingers. OMG. I looks at least 3 cts on your hand. Amazing. Congratulations!!

 

[McLaren]

Classic and beautiful. Congratulations!

 

[Tonks]

Holy smokes, that is one gorgeous ring! Perfect finger coverage on you, and so bright and fiery! Your U113 is stunning as well.

I am intrigued that WF told you it would be 95/5 iridium. When I asked the other day I was told 95/5 ruthenium. I need to do more reading on both, but would like to know which it is for sure.

My one reservation about this type of setting is whether it would spin on the hand more than a cathedral type setting. Would love your input here if you have a minute.

Congrats again on the upgrade—it is truly beautiful!

 

[Shannon72781]

Holy smokes, that is one gorgeous ring! Perfect finger coverage on you, and so bright and fiery! Your U113 is stunning as well.

I am intrigued that WF told you it would be 95/5 iridium. When I asked the other day I was told 95/5 ruthenium. I need to do more reading on both, but would like to know which it is for sure.

My one reservation about this type of setting is whether it would spin on the hand more than a cathedral type setting. Would love your input here if you have a minute.

Congrats again on the upgrade—it is truly beautiful!

Thank you! Your ACA will have the same fire and brilliance, it’s so fun to look at

Hmmm that’s strange given my purchase was only 3 ish months ago…unless the alloy market changed since then? No idea. Good idea to confirm for sure. I did want ruthenium as the harder alloy but have not had an issues with mine to date.

Do you think if you get a solitaire you’ll use a spacer? I saw you liked to stack. I honestly don’t mind mine now that I have it and feel it preserves the head from getting scratched up.

So far, no issues with spinning even in the winter weather when my fingers undoubtedly shrink! Having the spacer may help “anchor” a bit since it pushes the band closer to my knuckle. I do notice after washing my hands that it slips a bit more but as soon as they are dry again there are no issues.

Choosing the setting is the next best piece of the process! I started out thinking I wanted sidestones and pavé but so happy I stuck with the classic solitaire. It truly showcases the diamond!! Good luck with your next step!

 

[Tonks]

Thank you! Your ACA will have the same fire and brilliance, it’s so fun to look at

Hmmm that’s strange given my purchase was only 3 ish months ago…unless the alloy market changed since then? No idea. Good idea to confirm for sure. I did want ruthenium as the harder alloy but have not had an issues with mine to date.

Do you think if you get a solitaire you’ll use a spacer? I saw you liked to stack. I honestly don’t mind mine now that I have it and feel it preserves the head from getting scratched up.

So far, no issues with spinning even in the winter weather when my fingers undoubtedly shrink! Having the spacer may help “anchor” a bit since it pushes the band closer to my knuckle. I do notice after washing my hands that it slips a bit more but as soon as they are dry again there are no issues.

Choosing the setting is the next best piece of the process! I started out thinking I wanted sidestones and pavé but so happy I stuck with the classic solitaire. It truly showcases the diamond!! Good luck with your next step!

I will be sure to ask again as I would also prefer ruthenium. Good to know no issues with yours, though!

For a solitaire, if I were wearing my shared prong band (the type everyone refers to as a chainsaw), yes, I would probably use a spacer. For some of my other bands, maybe not. I only say this because they are made in such a way that the only thing that would contact the prongs is metal. My french cut band is bezel set, and my pave band is bright set pave (which means it almost looks channel set). So those two should be good to go.

Your spacer looks great in your profile photo! Where did you get it and do you have details on width, etc?

 

[Shannon72781]

I will be sure to ask again as I would also prefer ruthenium. Good to know no issues with yours, though!

For a solitaire, if I were wearing my shared prong band (the type everyone refers to as a chainsaw), yes, I would probably use a spacer. For some of my other bands, maybe not. I only say this because they are made in such a way that the only thing that would contact the prongs is metal. My french cut band is bezel set, and my pave band is bright set pave (which means it almost looks channel set). So those two should be good to go.

Your spacer looks great in your profile photo! Where did you get it and do you have details on width, etc?

That makes sense re band type and spacer needs. I only have shared prong type eternity bands so a spacer was a must. It completely “chainsawed” my original ering prongs!

I purchased it at Ferko’s online. Very reasonably priced, fast shipping. It’s 1.2mm in width, just wide enough to keep a safe but inconspicuous distance
I have pictures above that show it with my smaller and large sized eternity bands plus a couple profile shots so you can see how it rests against the U113 donut. I’d recommend Ferko’s if you go that route! I found them via pricescope of course lol