Recommendations for purchasing a diamond pendant?

[johnxyz]

I would like to purchase a single diamond pendant online and seeking advice. I was thinking of a .25 to .33 ctw. Some questions:

Should I purchase the diamond seperately from the setting? In the end I''ll get a better quality necklace? Or is it not worth it for such a small pendant?

If I do puchase a stone separately do you favor a bezel or prong setting?

Should I save the money and select WG over Plat?

Should I just purchase the already-made pendants from someone like Dirt Cheap Diamonds (DCD)/James Allen?

What on-line diamond brokers & jewelers do prefer?

I realize I''m not talking about a million dollars here but appreciate your advice.

Thanks alot. John

 

[klavigne]

For that size I''d go with something preset. You can get a .33ct, G-H, VS rock in a platinum setting for $850 from Bluenile, just as a comparision. I''m sure Whiteflash or GOG will have similiar presets, or any of hte PS vendors. Buying a stone and then having it set is a pain in the a$$, especially for a stone of that size and value. Save yourselve the hassle and go with a preset.
As far as Bezel or prongs go..... What do you like?

 

[ladykemma]

try to get a pendant setting with a lot of mass, or they do this irritating "flipping" thing. i had rabbit ears first (flip), and now i have a more solid rock holder in 18k gold.

i have and enjoy 1/3 carat "signature cut" pendant from zales in 18k yellow gold.

 

[JulieN]

To save money, I'd probably go with one of the online vendors, use a stock setting if possible, and ask for an uncertified stone of their best cut. Bezel is nice and makes it look a little bigger, but prongs are nice, too. Depends on her style.

 

[in-situ]

Personally, if considering a 0.25 or 0.33 Ctw diamond pendant I''d go for a pre-set every time. LadyKemma does make a valid point re the "flipping" so do consider your setting carefully.

If US$ cost is a big consideration, a pre-set will without doubt help you to save. On that note, white gold is also significantly cheaper than platinum adding to the saving that you make by ordering a pre-set.