photoshop help pls - different sized studs?

[Phoenix]

Can someone (Yssie? or anyone else ) please help me photoshop these different sized stones?

8.52-8.56mm
8.64-8.67mm

The first one is an existing stone I have, a BGD G "blue" 2.374ct (which looks to me more like an F, thanks to the med blue fluor) and the other one a BGD H "blue" 2.436ct which I am considering purchasing. I am concerned the 0.1mm difference in size may be too much, is it (?).

FYI, there is another stone with the same exact measurements as my 2.374ct (give or take 0.01mm) but it's a Sign H&A stone in H colour. I am thinking that the colour difference (effectively my F/G to this H) would be too much/ too discernible. So I am discarding that one, at least for the time being.

 

[m-2-b]

I would ask Brian to see what his thoughts are w/ the comparison. I would stick w/ 2 "blues," though. Can't wait to see your new studs--what settings are you thinking about this time?

 

[Phoenix]

I would ask Brian to see what his thoughts are w/ the comparison. I would stick w/ 2 "blues," though. Can't wait to see your new studs--what settings are you thinking about this time?

Brian/ Lesley has asked me to send the 2.374ct to them and I'd be prepared to do this. The only thing is, I've sent Holly back to Leon for re-sizing (my fingers got fat!! ) and I'd like the studs to be done soon and sent back to me together with Holly. I'd like to avoid the Xmas period and in any case I'd like them all back sooner than later!

(LM/ Perry is closed on Thurs & Fri this week, thus another reason for my wanting to rush things).

I am getting 4-prong martini's, so exactly the same as my J studs but with 4 single claw prongs instead of 3, for extra security.

I blame you, lol! Your new studs have given me DSS!!

 

[diamondseeker2006]

Oh good, I really like the 4 and 6 prong martinis so much more! That will be beautiful!

Can Brian not find another stone in any color the size of your existing stone to take a picture of next to the one you are considering? I would absolutely have to see that size difference before buying. I usually like closer diameters than that.

 

[Phoenix]

Oh good, I really like the 4 and 6 prong martinis so much more! That will be beautiful!

Can Brian not find another stone in any color the size of your existing stone to take a picture of next to the one you are considering? I would absolutely have to see that size difference before buying. I usually like closer diameters than that.

Thank you, DS. I was hoping you'd see this and respond!

Brian has in fact cut a stone at my request and it turned out to be an H (without blue flour). I guess that's not too unexpected, in that no one really knows what colour a stone is gonna be until AGS/ GIA has certified it. That's the one I mentioned above, the one with matching measurements but the colour difference would, I think, give me cause for concern. I am a bit reluctant to ask him again. In any case, I am not sure I'm prepared to wait. I am sans studs at the moment, as both of my pairs of studs have been sent to Perry.

I really don't know what to do!

I think 4 prong martini's would be yummy. I just love martini settings - I love that they nestle into your earlobes and sink into your ears. I know I know most people would rather their studs sit up a bit more!

ETA: I re-read your post, DS. I've asked Lesley to take a pic of the 2.436ct H "blue" next to the one Brian's just cut (which is basically exactly the same measurement-wise as my existing stone), and am awaiting her response. Not sure if I will hear back in time, I think Lesley is busy at the moment with a personal matter.

 

[diamondseeker2006]

Oh good, I really like the 4 and 6 prong martinis so much more! That will be beautiful!

Can Brian not find another stone in any color the size of your existing stone to take a picture of next to the one you are considering? I would absolutely have to see that size difference before buying. I usually like closer diameters than that.

Thank you, DS. I was hoping you'd see this and respond!

Brian has in fact cut a stone at my request and it turned out to be an H (without blue flour). I guess that's not too unexpected, in that no one really knows what colour a stone is gonna be until AGS/ GIA has certified it. That's the one I mentioned above, the one with matching measurements but the colour difference would, I think, give me cause for concern. I am a bit reluctant to ask him again. In any case, I am not sure I'm prepared to wait. I am sans studs at the moment, as both of my pairs of studs have been sent to Perry.

I really don't know what to do!

I think 4 prong martini's would be yummy. I just love martini settings - I love that they nestle into your earlobes and sink into your ears. I know I know most people would rather their studs sit up a bit more!

ETA: I re-read your post, DS. I've asked Lesley to take a pic of the 2.436ct H "blue" next to the one Brian's just cut (which is basically exactly the same measurement-wise as my existing stone), and am awaiting her response. Not sure if I will hear back in time, I think Lesley is busy at the moment with a personal matter.

Perfect!

 

[Phoenix]

Thank you, DS.

I am having really bad withdrawal symptoms, I don't have any studs at the moment!!

 

[m-2-b]

Phoenix--when I think of you, I think really big! Why don't you trade in your current diamonds and get 3 ct each studs and wow us!

 

[Phoenix]

Phoenix--when I think of you, I think really big! Why don't you trade in your current diamonds and get 3 ct each studs and wow us!

Hah, don't tempt me, lol! The thought *has* crossed my mind, once or twice!!

Seriously though, I need to sell my other stuff first before committing to larger studs, otherwise DH would kill me!

 

[diamondseeker2006]

Have they not sent you the pictures yet??? I really think these will be a great size for you!

 

[Phoenix]

Have they not sent you the pictures yet??? I really think these will be a great size for you!

Well, the 2.436ct "blue" has sold! but to be fair to BGD, I'd have felt bad hanging on to it when there was clearly another customer wanting to buy it. In any case, Lesley says that the size difference is visible/ noticeable and most likely it'd have bothered me.

She's asking me to consider the 2.358ct Sign H. I am going to do that, but am concerned that the H would be noticeably warmer than my 2.374ct "blue".

This is gonna be a bit more complicated than I thought! I can only wait out and see what happens. In the meantime, I am suffering from withdrawal symptoms!

 

[Dancing Fire]

Phoenix--when I think of you, I think really big! Why don't you trade in your current diamonds and get 3 ct each studs and wow us!

Mom2boys...
anything bigger you and Phoenix would needed to grow some bigger ear lobes...

 

[Alexiszoe]

Phoenix--when I think of you, I think really big! Why don't you trade in your current diamonds and get 3 ct each studs and wow us!

Phoenix,

I can't believe I missed this thread! I agree with mom2boys: trade it in for 3 ct studs on each ear...and then have some nice SS dangles (I remember you had it made?) for wearing at night for some glamor and tons of bling. Are you open to using your current 3 ct ring as the other stud? That way you only need to sell some of your bling to finance this trade since you mentioned your husband wants you to do that!

Re: what you said about diamond shapes on the pearl thread, I agree with you about the pragmatic side of rounds. I have been calling a couple of vendors to inquire and as you mentioned, rounds are the easiest to sell. With DSS (it never seems to stop!) being able to sell it without a huge loss is a nice safety net.

Off topic, but do you tell other non PS folks that your diamond is 5.3 carats or just 5 carats? I noticed when it comes to diamonds most people tend to think in whole numbers. And I hope you get your ring back soon from Leon - it must be awful without Holly and studs!

 

[Phoenix]

Phoenix--when I think of you, I think really big! Why don't you trade in your current diamonds and get 3 ct each studs and wow us!

Phoenix,

I can't believe I missed this thread! I agree with mom2boys: trade it in for 3 ct studs on each ear...and then have some nice SS dangles (I remember you had it made?) for wearing at night for some glamor and tons of bling. Are you open to using your current 3 ct ring as the other stud? That way you only need to sell some of your bling to finance this trade since you mentioned your husband wants you to do that!

Re: what you said about diamond shapes on the pearl thread, I agree with you about the pragmatic side of rounds. I have been calling a couple of vendors to inquire and as you mentioned, rounds are the easiest to sell. With DSS (it never seems to stop!) being able to sell it without a huge loss is a nice safety net.

Off topic, but do you tell other non PS folks that your diamond is 5.3 carats or just 5 carats? I noticed when it comes to diamonds most people tend to think in whole numbers. And I hope you get your ring back soon from Leon - it must be awful without Holly and studs!

Hey Alexis,

Thanks for your input. I do agree that my ultimate studs may be 3ct each. I have big earlobes so they certainly can accomodate 3ct's. I feel that anything smaller is a bit mis-matched with Holly. I blame DS and Dreamer and mom2boys for this, lol , they're the ones that talk abt proportion of studs and pendants to erings! I can't go any bigger (thank God!), as the holes in my lobes are pierced low, so even the 3ct's would have to be pushed in, in a certain way to make sure they don't hang below/ past my ears (not a refined look - it'd look like I was trying too hard, he he!!).

As for the specs, I am very tempted to trade in the BGD 2.374ct and 2.656ct to take advantage of their Black Friday offer, but unfortunately the only ones that they have in that size are J's and K's. Well, there's a J with blue fluor, and I think I'd be ok with that but the other J is their regular H&A J, which may be too tinted. There'd be no point in selling my 2ct J's and buy 3ct J's instead, would there? Shall I just wait? Perhaps I should start a new thread to ask for advice.

I *have* also been thinking that perhaps I should get another F or even a G (hopefully one wt MBF) to match my 3ct F. I think though I'd go for SI1 (a very clean one) this time to save money. You are right, DH doesn't want me to sell that so maybe getting a match for it and turning them into studs wouldn't be a bad idea, ha ha...thanks for enabling!!

You're also right about the pearl dangles, I have a few pairs and I love wearing them when I really want to bling out!

Glad to hear that you're thinking of RB's. Seriously, on something as important as an ering where you're likely to spend a large amount of money (well, I hope I am not being too presumptuous, but you did mention a 4ct+, he he ), I personally think it's important to know your bling isn't going to decline in value or that you might have problem reselling it / upgrading it in the future. DSS is an ugly beast , I am already thinking that maybe for my next significant b'day, could upgrade Holly, lol! Does it ever stop?!

Ha ha, to most non-diamond people, I just say 5ct. If someone asks me for details, I'll see 5.3ct or 5.318ct and if they really press, I'll give them the whole specs, but most people just say "oh wow, 5ct?!" and then we don't talk abt it any more). Some people don't even notice I have a new ring, lol!

I hope I get Holly back soon too. It feels funny (as in strange) not having her around! Doubly strange not having Holly AND not having any studs either!!

 

[Alexiszoe]

Hey Alexis,

Thanks for your input. I do agree that my ultimate studs may be 3ct each. I have big earlobes so they certainly can accomodate 3ct's. I feel that anything smaller is a bit mis-matched with Holly. I blame DS and Dreamer and mom2boys for this, lol , they're the ones that talk abt proportion of studs and pendants to erings! I can't go any bigger (thank God!), as the holes in my lobes are pierced low, so even the 3ct's would have to be pushed in, in a certain way to make sure they don't hang below/ past my ears (not a refined look - it'd look like I was trying too hard, he he!!).

As for the specs, I am very tempted to trade in the BGD 2.374ct and 2.656ct to take advantage of their Black Friday offer, but unfortunately the only ones that they have in that size are J's and K's. Well, there's a J with blue fluor, and I think I'd be ok with that but the other J is their regular H&A J, which may be too tinted. There'd be no point in selling my 2ct J's and buy 3ct J's instead, would there? Shall I just wait? Perhaps I should start a new thread to ask for advice.

I *have* also been thinking that perhaps I should get another F or even a G (hopefully one wt MBF) to match my 3ct F. I think though I'd go for SI1 (a very clean one) this time to save money. You are right, DH doesn't want me to sell that so maybe getting a match for it and turning them into studs wouldn't be a bad idea, ha ha...thanks for enabling!!

You're also right about the pearl dangles, I have a few pairs and I love wearing them when I really want to bling out!

Glad to hear that you're thinking of RB's. Seriously, on something as important as an ering where you're likely to spend a large amount of money (well, I hope I am not being too presumptuous, but you did mention a 4ct+, he he ), I personally think it's important to know your bling isn't going to decline in value or that you might have problem reselling it / upgrading it in the future. DSS is an ugly beast , I am already thinking that maybe for my next significant b'day, could upgrade Holly, lol! Does it ever stop?!

Ha ha, to most non-diamond people, I just say 5ct. If someone asks me for details, I'll see 5.3ct or 5.318ct and if they really press, I'll give them the whole specs, but most people just say "oh wow, 5ct?!" and then we don't talk abt it any more). Some people don't even notice I have a new ring, lol!

I hope I get Holly back soon too. It feels funny (as in strange) not having her around! Doubly strange not having Holly AND not having any studs either!!

Hi Phoenix,

since BGD doesn't have what you really want in stock I think waiting for the right diamond would be a good idea. There will always be diamonds, and well cut rounds with the specs you want are probably easier to find than fancies. Settling for something that you might not like might result in another upgrade again, and it's a hassle (although also a joy!) to start the hunt. Or just trade it up for your 3 carat and make some lovely studs already!

Thanks for your advice on RB. I absolutely agree with you - with DSS it's better knowing I can easily upgrade or sell it compared to a fancy! We dipped our toes and *ahem* went browsing yesterday - and he actually had fun! Maybe I might be able to convert him into a diamond fanatic.

I hope you will be able to get Holly back before Christmas - perfect time to flaunt your bling!! I think you need to go to NY and go on a massive jewelry browsing/hunting expedition...stop by Leon's, browse and try on large bling at Harry Winston, and go home with some massive studs!

 

[diamondseeker2006]

Phoenix! According to our formula, you can have studs at 2.65 cts each, not 3 cts!

 

[Phoenix]

Hey Alexis,

Thanks for your input. I do agree that my ultimate studs may be 3ct each. I have big earlobes so they certainly can accomodate 3ct's. I feel that anything smaller is a bit mis-matched with Holly. I blame DS and Dreamer and mom2boys for this, lol , they're the ones that talk abt proportion of studs and pendants to erings! I can't go any bigger (thank God!), as the holes in my lobes are pierced low, so even the 3ct's would have to be pushed in, in a certain way to make sure they don't hang below/ past my ears (not a refined look - it'd look like I was trying too hard, he he!!).

As for the specs, I am very tempted to trade in the BGD 2.374ct and 2.656ct to take advantage of their Black Friday offer, but unfortunately the only ones that they have in that size are J's and K's. Well, there's a J with blue fluor, and I think I'd be ok with that but the other J is their regular H&A J, which may be too tinted. There'd be no point in selling my 2ct J's and buy 3ct J's instead, would there? Shall I just wait? Perhaps I should start a new thread to ask for advice.

I *have* also been thinking that perhaps I should get another F or even a G (hopefully one wt MBF) to match my 3ct F. I think though I'd go for SI1 (a very clean one) this time to save money. You are right, DH doesn't want me to sell that so maybe getting a match for it and turning them into studs wouldn't be a bad idea, ha ha...thanks for enabling!!

You're also right about the pearl dangles, I have a few pairs and I love wearing them when I really want to bling out!

Glad to hear that you're thinking of RB's. Seriously, on something as important as an ering where you're likely to spend a large amount of money (well, I hope I am not being too presumptuous, but you did mention a 4ct+, he he ), I personally think it's important to know your bling isn't going to decline in value or that you might have problem reselling it / upgrading it in the future. DSS is an ugly beast , I am already thinking that maybe for my next significant b'day, could upgrade Holly, lol! Does it ever stop?!

Ha ha, to most non-diamond people, I just say 5ct. If someone asks me for details, I'll see 5.3ct or 5.318ct and if they really press, I'll give them the whole specs, but most people just say "oh wow, 5ct?!" and then we don't talk abt it any more). Some people don't even notice I have a new ring, lol!

I hope I get Holly back soon too. It feels funny (as in strange) not having her around! Doubly strange not having Holly AND not having any studs either!!

Hi Phoenix,

since BGD doesn't have what you really want in stock I think waiting for the right diamond would be a good idea. There will always be diamonds, and well cut rounds with the specs you want are probably easier to find than fancies. Settling for something that you might not like might result in another upgrade again, and it's a hassle (although also a joy!) to start the hunt. Or just trade it up for your 3 carat and make some lovely studs already!

Thanks for your advice on RB. I absolutely agree with you - with DSS it's better knowing I can easily upgrade or sell it compared to a fancy! We dipped our toes and *ahem* went browsing yesterday - and he actually had fun! Maybe I might be able to convert him into a diamond fanatic.

I hope you will be able to get Holly back before Christmas - perfect time to flaunt your bling!! I think you need to go to NY and go on a massive jewelry browsing/hunting expedition...stop by Leon's, browse and try on large bling at Harry Winston, and go home with some massive studs!

Alexis,

Yes, I agree. Although I do enjoy the hunt, it's a real hassle not to mention costly to send diamonds back and upgrade. I was REALLY temped to get the BGD 3ct's, partly because I don't have any studs @ the moment and partly because it'd have been less of a hassle to just trade in the 2.374 and the 2.656 with them than to sell all my smaller diamonds and start all over again, but my gut was telling me that I wouldn't be happy with J's. I thought abt it though for the whole w/e, thank God the Black Friday sale is over now!

I am going to take back the 1.5ct's and have them halo'ed to settle my withdrawal, lol! and then when I manage to sell some things (which may take anywhere from 6 months to a year or maybe even longer, I reckon), I'll get a match for the 3ct F.

Did you take any pics of your trip? Which shops or vendors did you go to? Sounds like a lot of fun. Reminds me of when DH and I went to Antwerp - our very first diamond trip together - it was sooooo much fun! I have very fond memories of the trip.

I hope so too. Holly and Xmas together, how perfect would that be?!

I am def planning a trip to NYC in the summer next year. It'd be fantastic if I could sell some or most of the stuff I have for sale by then. I'd LOVE to go home with some massive studs!

 

[Phoenix]

Phoenix--when I think of you, I think really big! Why don't you trade in your current diamonds and get 3 ct each studs and wow us!

Mom2boys...
anything bigger you and Phoenix would needed to grow some bigger ear lobes...

DF, the resident clown!

 

[Phoenix]

Phoenix! According to our formula, you can have studs at 2.65 cts each, not 3 cts!

Ha ha, I rounded up!

Actually, I just want to have a "forever" pair. I really mean it this time. I kidded myself into thinking the J's were white enough. Well, they are - face up. But they were not "mind-clean" enough for me. Also, with my earlobes, 2.3ct each still looked smaller, more like 2ct or even less . Fortunately, my ears can only accomodate 3ct's as the holes are piereced low, so that'd stop me from going any larger than 3ct. THANK GOD!!

I also love having more than one pair of studs for versatility and variety reasons, one pair for casual wear/ for work (the 1.5caraters with tiny delicate halo's should do the trick) and the larger 3ct's for going out/ more blingy occassions. I have tried many different combinations and variations of studs and many many pairs in the process, I really hope I get it right this time.

I actually really enjoyed wearing the 1.5ct's before I sent them packing - I loved how white they are, resting on my lobes. I think it's because I am so white (even whiter than most Asians), esp. my face, that warmer stones just really stick out, or at least that how I perceived it! I don't really know why I sent the 1.5ct's away . Even after I told DH, he told me I should've kept them. And I think he's on board with me keeping the 3.02ct F VS2 - so hopefully he'd be ok with me getting a matching one after I've sold some stuff.

On another note, I might upgrade Holly to a 6.5-7ct later, or alternatively and more likley get an antique stone around 7ct (I've seen quite a few in London and almost bought one last year). So 3ct studs would go very well with a larger ering, he he!!

 

[Alexiszoe]

Phoenix,

glad you decided to wait it out! I am sure when the right 3 carater comes along, you will pounce
on it quickly enough

That's one thing about trying to sell diamonds though, it's much harder to sell than say, a Birkin! I have been putting feelers out about selling my cushion, and the offers I have had from vendors were the lowest possible based on the appraisal resale value - about 50 to 60% off. At this rate I feel better leaving it in the vault than selling it. Do you have any tips about selling?

Sadly I left my camera at home, and my cell phone's macro function is lousy, so no pictures! We went to Tiffany's and several larger local jewelery stores in the area to browse, since they are more likely to have large bling Antwerp must be amazing to bring back some fond memories for you

A trip to NYC sounds fantastic! It would be really fun seeing the works of Leon, ERD and SK in person, and then followed by super large bling at all the major design houses. Plus all the food..and the Birkins & Kellys..heehee. I love NY but always feel very short since almost everywhere I turn I see some fabulous 6 feet tall model. And since walking is pretty much de rigueur, I feel even shorter in flats! I assume you will be making a trip to Hermes?

I am hoping to get the diamond and setting all done in NY because it would be very convenient for us to drop by and see everything in person. I realize that I tend to fall in love with the most unlikely settings IRL compared to pictures, so getting something custom done without seeing a physical representation (which I have done before) has had poor results. Are you guys thinking of just visiting NY, or will you be going to other areas as well?

and what's this I see about an upgrade for Holly?

 

[Phoenix]

Phoenix,

glad you decided to wait it out! I am sure when the right 3 carater comes along, you will pounce
on it quickly enough

That's one thing about trying to sell diamonds though, it's much harder to sell than say, a Birkin! I have been putting feelers out about selling my cushion, and the offers I have had from vendors were the lowest possible based on the appraisal resale value - about 50 to 60% off. At this rate I feel better leaving it in the vault than selling it. Do you have any tips about selling?

Sadly I left my camera at home, and my cell phone's macro function is lousy, so no pictures! We went to Tiffany's and several larger local jewelery stores in the area to browse, since they are more likely to have large bling Antwerp must be amazing to bring back some fond memories for you

A trip to NYC sounds fantastic! It would be really fun seeing the works of Leon, ERD and SK in person, and then followed by super large bling at all the major design houses. Plus all the food..and the Birkins & Kellys..heehee. I love NY but always feel very short since almost everywhere I turn I see some fabulous 6 feet tall model. And since walking is pretty much de rigueur, I feel even shorter in flats! I assume you will be making a trip to Hermes?

I am hoping to get the diamond and setting all done in NY because it would be very convenient for us to drop by and see everything in person. I realize that I tend to fall in love with the most unlikely settings IRL compared to pictures, so getting something custom done without seeing a physical representation (which I have done before) has had poor results. Are you guys thinking of just visiting NY, or will you be going to other areas as well?

and what's this I see about an upgrade for Holly?

Alexis,

Well, that's the theory but I really would like to sell some of my existing stuff before buying yet another diamond. That's what I should keep telling myself, as I find that sometimes I am not disciplined enough!

Yes, selling is always harder than buying, esp so for diamonds. You are 100% right about that. I've found that consignment is the best route to go - you don't have to deal with all sort of enquiries and the cash-handling part is risky (you know abt my Metro?). Did you use the quotation service on PS? Selling directly to vendors is prob amongst the worst routes to go, you only get abt 50-60% of what you paid/ appraisal value, as you've found out.

Another thing to bear in mind is that diamond prices are still down at the moment. This is a good time to buy (and what's why I bought Holly), but if you have to sell not so good! Perhaps if you don't have to sell your cushion right now, maybe put it in the vault and sell when prices are up, which they're bound to (you only have to look at the chart over the last 10-20yrs, not that I am sure you'd have to wait that long). You know, right, that a few PS'ers have sold at a profit, as they bought quite a while ago (or at least that's what I seem to remember)? I may very well do this myself, as my package (containing Holly and other diamonds, loose) is stuck at Brinks NY. Some idiot there is giving me a hard time...loooong story...but I basically told him that i) all my goods originated from the US, ii) loose diamonds are exempt from US Customs duty and ii) Holly is returned for repair. But he's making me jump through hoops..and is still asking all kinds of stupid Q's ...I am getting really fed up and have told Brinks SG that if it doesn't get sorted out tonight, can they just send everything back to me! I can just hand carry them to NYC when I visit next summer.

That's too bad you didn't manage to take pics. Would've loved to see them. Well anyway, you and SO had a great time, that's what counts. DH and I really enjoyed Antwerp, not just because of the bling (well that was the highlight ), but also because of the whole place - we generally love Europe, the food & wine, the people, the scenery, architecture etc...

I'd love to go to NYC and other places, but most likely we'll combine NYC with our yearly visit to see DH's family. I am certainly going to make appt's to see Leon/ Perry, SK et...and see all the major jewellery stores. Hermes is for sure not to be missed! . As for the 6' models, well let's just say I am used to be the shortest/ or second shortest one, as DH's siblings and cousins are all very very tall and most of my friends are 5'6" and above. What can I say, all good things come in small packages - yeah, denial works for moi, he he!!

Nothing beats seeing the loose bling AS WELL AS choosing your own custom-design setting in person. I can't wait to see what you end up with. Is there any kind of time frame, clues as to what you'll get?! He he, I know I am being nosey and somewhat naughty , but am really excited for you!!

Well, that might be wishful thinking re Holly. Ya'know, you go through 5-6 years yearning and longing for the one thing and when you get it, you start thinking of something bigger. DSS is indeed an ugly beast. Don't get me wrong, I LOVE Holly but alas, I see big bling everywhere I go and not just on PS (the American Club is amongst the worst or is it the best, he he , incidentally the ones with the largest bling at the club are American Chinese ladies - I wonder why that is?!). Honestly, I shall have to see what our finances are gonna be like in a year or two or three.... I'd love to upgrade Holly to say a 6-7ct but I may have to go down in colour and/ or clarity, or alternatively I may just get an antique cushion or OEC from London; the latter would prob end up costing me way less than upgrading Holly. We shall see...

 

[Alexiszoe]

Alexis,

Well, that's the theory but I really would like to sell some of my existing stuff before buying yet another diamond. That's what I should keep telling myself, as I find that sometimes I am not disciplined enough!

Yes, selling is always harder than buying, esp so for diamonds. You are 100% right about that. I've found that consignment is the best route to go - you don't have to deal with all sort of enquiries and the cash-handling part is risky (you know abt my Metro?). Did you use the quotation service on PS? Selling directly to vendors is prob amongst the worst routes to go, you only get abt 50-60% of what you paid/ appraisal value, as you've found out.

Another thing to bear in mind is that diamond prices are still down at the moment. This is a good time to buy (and what's why I bought Holly), but if you have to sell not so good! Perhaps if you don't have to sell your cushion right now, maybe put it in the vault and sell when prices are up, which they're bound to (you only have to look at the chart over the last 10-20yrs, not that I am sure you'd have to wait that long). You know, right, that a few PS'ers have sold at a profit, as they bought quite a while ago (or at least that's what I seem to remember)? I may very well do this myself, as my package (containing Holly and other diamonds, loose) is stuck at Brinks NY. Some idiot there is giving me a hard time...loooong story...but I basically told him that i) all my goods originated from the US, ii) loose diamonds are exempt from US Customs duty and ii) Holly is returned for repair. But he's making me jump through hoops..and is still asking all kinds of stupid Q's ...I am getting really fed up and have told Brinks SG that if it doesn't get sorted out tonight, can they just send everything back to me! I can just hand carry them to NYC when I visit next summer.

That's too bad you didn't manage to take pics. Would've loved to see them. Well anyway, you and SO had a great time, that's what counts. DH and I really enjoyed Antwerp, not just because of the bling (well that was the highlight ), but also because of the whole place - we generally love Europe, the food & wine, the people, the scenery, architecture etc...

I'd love to go to NYC and other places, but most likely we'll combine NYC with our yearly visit to see DH's family. I am certainly going to make appt's to see Leon/ Perry, SK et...and see all the major jewellery stores. Hermes is for sure not to be missed! . As for the 6' models, well let's just say I am used to be the shortest/ or second shortest one, as DH's siblings and cousins are all very very tall and most of my friends are 5'6" and above. What can I say, all good things come in small packages - yeah, denial works for moi, he he!!

Nothing beats seeing the loose bling AS WELL AS choosing your own custom-design setting in person. I can't wait to see what you end up with. Is there any kind of time frame, clues as to what you'll get?! He he, I know I am being nosey and somewhat naughty , but am really excited for you!!

Well, that might be wishful thinking re Holly. Ya'know, you go through 5-6 years yearning and longing for the one thing and when you get it, you start thinking of something bigger. DSS is indeed an ugly beast. Don't get me wrong, I LOVE Holly but alas, I see big bling everywhere I go and not just on PS (the American Club is amongst the worst or is it the best, he he , incidentally the ones with the largest bling at the club are American Chinese ladies - I wonder why that is?!). Honestly, I shall have to see what our finances are gonna be like in a year or two or three.... I'd love to upgrade Holly to say a 6-7ct but I may have to go down in colour and/ or clarity, or alternatively I may just get an antique cushion or OEC from London; the latter would prob end up costing me way less than upgrading Holly. We shall see...

Phoenix,

I am so sorry to hear that your lovelies are stuck at Brinks! Shipping internationally is always a bit of a worry - but with Brinks hopefully it will all get sorted out soon! I read about your Metro, and it's such a shame that happened. Here's crossing my fingers that you hear back from Brinks with good news soon!

I don't need to sell the cushion, but since it's been sitting in the vault for a while, I thought I might as well try to sell it and use the money for investment purposes. We have talked about time frame and have a rough idea, but some of it depends on our career moves, so for now we are waiting till things are finalized. He knows I am a perfectionist and very picky when it comes to diamonds, so he's letting me make the decision on the diamond and the setting which is great!

I absolutely agree DSS is an ugly beast, but I get what you mean, and given that you are surrounded by women with lovely bling, it becomes even harder to resist! I wonder if the American Chinese ladies are mostly from Southern California? Since whenever I see large bling it's either in SoCal or NY.