some more newbie questions about princess cut

[JDiamond69]

Sorry, I have a lot of questions.

Scenario again for an engagement ring: 1)Budget @ $6000 2)Princess cut 3)@ 1carat 4)white gold band

I see that on whiteflash.com they have "a cut above" which I take is the best cut per AGS. I also see alot of GIA graded as signature ideal. Is the AGS graded cut based on stricter specs?

When I purchase the ring, I do understand to have an independent appraisal done on the diamond. Should that be done before the diamond is set in the ring? What is the most common route to have this done? I would like to have the diamond set at the same time.

The last question that I have for now is the setting on the ring. Can I specify the prong lengths? My girl has smaller hands.

Thanks for the help.

JD

 

[path914]

1) Budget is fine for a 1ct princess, you should have no problem finding a nice one and white gold band for that price.

2)"A Cut Above" is a branded cut, meaning that they are standard round brilliants that have all been judged by that company to be cut to their version of ideal, if that makes sense (same as Hearts of Fire or Hearts and Arrows). They should be similar to AGS Ideal or GIA Excellent cut grades. Currently, AGS "0" or Ideal is slightly stricter than GIA Excellent cut, although you should be fine with either.

3) I believe that WF sends an independant appraisal for their diamonds IIRC, if you go through them. As long as you have a GIA or AGS certification to go along with your ring, you should not need to get it appraised before setting the stone.

4) Prong length will vary based on the setting. For example some 6 prong tiffany style rings have tall prongs that give you a range of setting options, but other basket styles sometimes only have one height that the stone can be set.

Hope that helps a little...


Paul, G.J.G
www.dercodiamonds.com

 

[JDiamond69]

Thanks for the reply. I am going to start my search. Anyone have any ideas on where to start?

 

[Lorelei]

Paul has given you good advice! I am no expert on Princess cuts, but possibly you could begin your search by looking at WF ACA Princess Cuts, if you want a branded cut and pedigree that are cut to exacting standards. Also you could contact vendors such as Jon at Good Old Gold, explain what you are looking for and see what he suggests for you. Jim at James Allen is good too and also Wink at Winfields has some beautifully cut Princess Cuts which carry the coveted AGS0 cut grade for Princesses.

http://www.winkjones.com/specials/diamonds.php