Ready-made halo advice

[jkberg3]

I'm thinking of going with a round stone in a cushion halo for the ring, but have had a bit of a hard time finding a halo setting in my budget ($2k) that I like or would look good on my GF's fingers (pretty short and petite) so high catherdrals tend to look odd.

I'm not a huge fan of the round prongs that seem to be pretty common (like the pic below) because for me they just distract from the stone

Does anyone know of some pre-made rings with claw or other prong settings for the center stone and hopefully thin bands? I read CharmyPoo's terrific HW article, looked through a bunch of sites and the closest I've found is the ritani (http://www.ritani.com/engagement-rings/french-set-halo-diamond-band-engagement-ring-in-18kt-white-gold/4573). The head looks great, and i like the simplicity of the side view, but i'm worried the stone might sit too high up.

-Is my budget too small or specific for what I want (micropave/prongs/height)? I loved some of the custom work I've seen on PS but feel like it's way out of budget. Any idea what a CAD ring would cost?

 

[chrono]

Prong work or finish is done by the setter, so even if you purchase a stock halo setting, it is up to you to request that the bench make claw prongs, not rounded stub prongs for your stone. Cost of a CAD/cast ring will vary from place to place but most tend to start around $3K. I read that ID Jewellery is often able work within PSers' tight budget constraints so give them a call/email and you might be pleasantly surprised.

 

[msop04]

Hi jkberg3

Personally, I much prefer the Ritani to the ring posted -- also, Ritani makes quality settings, so you wouldn't have to worry about that at all. In my opinion, the ring wouldn't sit up too high.

If you like the setting you posted better, you could always just have them change the prongs out.

 

[SB621]

As already mentioned prongs are very easy to change. That should be the last thing you worry about.

I believe Gabriel and Co would have several settings in your budget that fit your requirements. Plus IDJ (who sells G&C) can set your diamond and claw the prongs. Plus they give a PS discount.
Ask for LuAnn- she has been lovely to work with and is great on email.
Hope that helps!

 

[jkberg3]

Thanks for the replies and advice! Everyone's knowledge is really making this process much easier