Some advice on selecting a diamond/ring

[jkberg3]

Hi all,

I'm just starting my search for the actual ring, and wanted to get some input since the forums have been great for background. I'm not in a rush (probably about 2 month away) but I've pretty much narrowed down the specs, and was looking for some advice.

I'm looking for a cushion cut, 1.45-1.6 ct stone, F-H in color. not a major concern on clarity since I've read cushions hide imperfections well and the setting is going to be a halo. For the stone i'm looking to stay around $5K.

I came across this stone http://www.uniondiamond.com/AE0579235&ptc=DSE and it looks pretty good on paper, but the EGL cert is a concern, as well as me not being able to see any real imperfections on the report. Also if this does turn out to be a great stone, do I need to purchase it asap, or will I be able to wait a bit?

For the setting, I know my gf liked http://www.cgonshor.com/main.php?page=collections&catID=&pID=804&startRow=0&search=7679. I'd like to stay under $2k for the setting, but am I being unrealistic in this? The setting should be white gold, micropave, with a halo. Ideally the gonshor one, but first i'm not sure if the cushion would work in that setting, and second if it's even in the price range. Finding settings online has been a bit of a headache since many don't have separate search options for micropave or show prices. Also, if i get the setting separately, about how much would setting the stone into the ring cost?

Thanks Again!
Jeff

 

[GoSounders]

An EGL SI3 at 1.5+ct will probably not be eye clean. At that price for that size, it's possible someone else will pick it up sight-unseen.

$2k is reasonable for a WG cushion halo setting with micro-pave. Gabriel & Co has a multitude of halo settings to choose from, and they have many retailers.

Any reason why you want to try a cushion diamond in an oval halo?

 

[BhavinJ]

I doubt EGL SI3 would be eye clean, check if the inclusions can be prongable?

Also check about the crushed ice effect and bow tie effect.

I am also guessing that this stone might have a prominent bow tie effect. Ask for some images from the vendor.

 

[diamondseeker2006]

Look only at GIA and AGS graded stones, and I would not consider SI3 under any circumstances because it probably has visible inclusions. For cushions stick with vendors that show pictures of the stones like Good Old Gold and James Allen, Engagement Rings Direct, etc. You cannot choose a cushion by numbers on paper. Some are beautiful and some are hideous depending on the cut. We can easily help you with a halo setting for a cushion once you identify a stone. I can't search right now, but people here can help you identify some well cut cushions.

 

[jkberg3]

Thanks for the replies.

Ring- I'll request some pictures, hopefully if it's not eye clean it can be prongable. I didn't notice any specific markings on the cert diagram, is that a sign the stone will be cloudy?

Setting- For the ring, i guess I didnt think about the round halo with the cushion, I know it will depends on the actual stone shape i get, but I'll have to check out Gabriel and others to see if there are better options

 

[SB621]

You GF wants a HW inspired halo. Read this thread and it will help you. For your budget I recommend doing a one stop shop (meaning have a vendor source your diamond and then set it). I would contact ERD. They do great CAST versions of this ring.

Guide to Making a HW Inspired halo: [URL='https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/cushion-101-my-experience-in-making-a-harry-winston-halo.183473/']https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/cushion-101-my-experience-in-making-a-harry-winston-halo.183473/[/URL]

 

[JulieN]

That is not a HW-style, the halo stones are bezeled. I have not seen anything like that, Gonshor settings tend to be unique enough that if your gf likes it, your best bet is to get the Gonshor.

5K does not get you 1.5 cts of anything nice.