Question about Timing the Search and Vendors

[bosoxbw]

Hi everybody,

I plan to purchase a ~2 ct. cushion [G/H VS2], and based on what I have read here about other's cushion searches I anticipate it may take awhile to find the right stone. I wanted to get a sense of how far in advance you think I should contact vendors about my search. How far ahead is too soon?

As of now I am deciding between Mark T. at Engagement Rings Direct and Good Old Gold. Mark seems to have quite a selection and an excellent reputation, but I also like Good Old Gold's philosophy on cushion optics in the video on their website (more chunky, broad facets than crushed ice/radiant looking stones), and their trade-up policy seems to be better. Specifically with respect to cushions (i.e., not square H&A, which I know would lead me to GOG), can anyone differentiate the two vendors?

Thanks so much in advance. I look forward to all of your input now and in the future.

EDIT: One other factor is that I might buy the stone from out-of-state. Any idea which vendor may be easier to work with remotely?

 

[JulieN]

If you watch Mark's interview, you'll see he doesn't like the radiant style as much, either.

It's too soon if you're not ready to buy in the next couple of weeks, IMO.

 

[Skippy123]

Here is a stellar review for Mark
https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/review-of-online-diamond-buying-experience-%E2%80%93-winfield%E2%80%99s-gog-wf-erd.43308/
and this when we they bought their cushion and LOVE IT!!!
https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/twins-a-cushion-for-me-and-a-cushion-for-mom.45066/

Hope that helps!!! Mark sounds wonderful to work with!!!

 

[icekid]

If I was looking for a cushion, I would have Mark searching, no doubt! I don''t like the radiant type either. Definitely check out Mark''s video.. it''s great for seeing what he looks for and what makes a great cushion.

 

[Adylon]

Definately look a couple months in advance and take your time since you have a very narrow goal in mind (2ct/G-H/VS2) for a fancy shape, and as you know not all cushions are the same. But don''t start looking until you''re ready to spend in case that dream stone pops up.... the worse thing is to find a stone you''ve been looking high and low for just to find out it''s been sold once you''re ready to buy.

 

[bosoxbw]

Thanks for your responses. I guess I will contact a vendor when I am ready to purchase within a few weeks.

Any opinions on who is better to work with from out-of-state (ERD or GOG)?

 

[Skippy123]

Read this and hopefully it will help you. She describes both experiences with GOG and ERD
https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/review-of-online-diamond-buying-experience-%E2%80%93-winfield%E2%80%99s-gog-wf-erd.43308/

 

[bosoxbw]

Thank you, SkippyGirl, for digging that thread up for me. Seems like both are very good, but it might be better checking in with ERD first.