Newbie needs help

[jrob529]

I found this site a couple of months ago and while I find it has put me on the right path of choosing a diamond for my girlfriend''s e-ring, I still would like some advice. If I want to spend $5000-$6000 on a diamond, what would everyone recommend? I''m open to all cuts. Obviously, I''m a novice at this so any advice is appreciated. And what online dealer does everyone think is best? I realize this is a really open topic but I feel inundated with info and need a push in the right direction. Thanks.

 

[jaz464]

Welcome to PS

As far as shape, do you have any idea what your GF likes? There are so many shapes and so many different opinions. I would try to at least find out what shape she likes because that is a very personal choice.

 

[jrob529]

Thanks. Unfortunately, I've asked what shape she prefers and she really doesn't know. All she knows is that she really wants a ring and I told her that within the next year, she'd get one. For the money, what shape is the best to buy? Are signature diamonds worth the extra money?

I plan on buying a platinum setting. And I like the antique style settings.

 

[JulieN]

Date: 7/5/2006 2:48:22 PM
Author: jrob529
For the money, what shape is the best to buy?

I would venture to say it depends on if you''re looking for performance or character..

 

[jrob529]

Performance or character- I'm someone who wants the best combination of performance and character. I want to go too far one way or the other. Does that make sense?

Heres more info-I live in Dallas and I do want to be at least a VG.

 

[jaz464]

In that case, take her to the mall and have her look at lots of different diamonds. Have her try on lots of rings. Choosing a shape is based on personal preferences and one''s finger shape/size (as well as other factors like price and availability). Someone with short stubby fingers may not like the look of a princess cut but may love the way an elongated shape like an oval or marquise makes the fingers appear longer. Sometimes, women love a shape until they get it on. Not every cut looks good on everyone''s fingers. So let her see the diamonds on her hand so that she can at least point you in the right direction.

 

[Regular Guy]

How far is Houston from you? WF is a recommended vendor, who happens to have this option going for $5847, after Pricescope discount. Maybe they''ll let you make arrangements to drive over, and then send it over to your aunt out of town and save tax if you like it?

Also, re shapes...I dunno. Read the first two lines in the section on "fancy shapes" in the tutorial, and find I and most (at least 1/2?) go for rounds. You''ve done due diligence (and more) by asking.

Best of wishes!

 

[widget]

Date: 7/5/2006 2:52:50 PM
Author: jazmine
In that case, take her to the mall and have her look at lots of different diamonds. Have her try on lots of rings.

I really agree with Jasmine. If she doesn''t know now what shape/cut she likes, she''ll have a better idea after such an excursion to the mall. At the very least, you''ll have a shorter list of her favorites, and you''ll know what cuts she DOESN''T like.

You might want to keep in mind that some shapes l@@k bigger (have more spread per carat weight) than others.

Oh, and by the way...my advice is to look at the mall stores, but not actually buy there! Beware pushy salespeople!

Have fun!
widget

 

[JulieN]

Rounds: clearly the best performers for the usual carat size. Character: sparkle! light return! the round shape is very common.

Shapes can be divided into several categories:

Step cuts (emeralds and asschers): described as mesmerizing ...elegant (?)
Radiants and princesses: decidedly contemporary
cushions, ovals, and rounds: soft and romantic
pears, hearts, marquise: some soft edges and some pointy edges...

 

[jrob529]

Date: 7/5/2006 3:10:16 PM
Author: Regular Guy
How far is Houston from you? WF is a recommended vendor, who happens to have this option going for $5847, after Pricescope discount. Maybe they''ll let you make arrangements to drive over, and then send it over to your aunt out of town and save tax if you like it?

Also, re shapes...I dunno. Read the first two lines in the section on ''fancy shapes'' in the tutorial, and find I and most (at least 1/2?) go for rounds. You''ve done due diligence (and more) by asking.

Best of wishes!

Houston is relatively close. Her parents live there so I''m down there every few months. I didn''t realized WF was in Houston. I didn''t think about the tax saving idea but it should save me some money. And from what I''ve read, I really like their reputation.

 

[jrob529]

Date: 7/5/2006 3:18:15 PM
Author: JulieN
Rounds: clearly the best performers for the usual carat size. Character: sparkle! light return! the round shape is very common.

Shapes can be divided into several categories:

Step cuts (emeralds and asschers): described as mesmerizing ...elegant (?)
Radiants and princesses: decidedly contemporary
cushions, ovals, and rounds: soft and romantic
pears, hearts, marquise: some soft edges and some pointy edges...

Nice summary. I appreciate it. I''m leaning toward a round.