Starting the E-Ring Search!

[gisellem]

I''ve read so much on this amazing forum, I feel like I''m almost a diamond professional. All of the advice and information is outstanding and I can''t wait to use this resource thorughout my journey to create the e-ring of my dreams. Here''s what I''m after - a summary of the ENTIRE process from start to finish of creating a custom e-ring (one of the things I do know is that I want a unique setting). I know the basics of what is involved, but I''d like to know the best order to make decisions, and what to look out for along the way.

I know it''s a tall order, but you guys are brilliant diamond ring experts who would like nothing more than to help a newbie!

 

[pyramid]

Welcome gisellem

Here is a link found in the FAQ section about custom work which would be useful

https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/ppt-slides-for-a-custom-wedding-band.54948/

 

[angeline]

Hi gisellem and welcome!

Tall order indeed! Here''s a short version...

Read the tutorials here on PS, also on goodoldgold.com.
Go try some rings on! what you think you like and what you find you like IRl are often different.
Decide what shape you like. Round, square, oval, etc... see previous step to decide what you like.
Once you know what shape you want, come here to find the best vendors to go to for that shape.

Browse the PS price tool to find examples of stones you like (esp. if they''re round, you can use the ''Search by cut'' tool)
Post stones here for comments and help choosing.

Browse like crazy for styles of settings you like. Again, members can point you to some good resources once you at least narrow down whether you want modern, antique, classic, 3-stone, halo, pave, plain etc...

I think it would be good to get through at least the preliminary steps and then come back and ask for more specific help.

HTH! and good luck!

a

 

[gisellem]

Thanks a lot guys, this is a good start.

Just to fill you in, in case you''re interested... I know I want a rectangular diamond. I started off thinking I would only look at emerald cuts, but now I''m extremely smitten over the radiant cut, and may even be willing to go for a cushion cut if it speaks to me. I''ll keep you posted!

 

[angeline]

Sounds wonderful! I love rectangular stones even though I ended up with a round for the sparkle factor.

Did you see Boston Jeff''s recent cushion? Stunning. There''s lots of rings to look through in the ''Show me the Ring'' thread too.

Good luck, looking forward to following your progress.

a

 

[gisellem]

So I''ve learned from everyone on this forum that picking a fancy shaped diamond requires you to see some in person to get a better idea of cut, etc. I think I''ve decided on a radiant for sure... I just love the cracked ice look and rectangular shape! I''m thinking H color or maybe G (I prefer warmer tone to icy) and VS2 or SI1 clarity as long as I can''t see anything scary in the diamond. I went to a few places last week and saw some loose radiants in person. I saw a rectangular H VS2 1.51ct, and it looked a little too big on my hand (I don''t want anything that will dominate or get in the way); I liked the 1.2 to 1.4ct range best.

My other interest is a colored diamond... very light pinkish brown to be set in rose gold. This is proving to be a very difficult search for my budget, but it''s still a possibility on the table.

As far as settings, I fell in love with the Daniel K yellow radiant ring that USCFan is a proud owner of. I adore the slight taper towards the center stone, the sleek lines, and pave that only goes halfway around the band.

I''m working with two jewelers to see what they find for me: Traditional Jewelers (Mariel) in Newport Beach and Darren McClung in Palo Alto. I haven''t eliminated the online option, but it''d be nice to have a jeweler I can actually see and visit in person if there is a concern.

I walked into Darren''s store and was absolutely blown away by his pieces. His taste in jewelry is right in-line with mine! If you live in the Bay Area I would highly recommend a trip to Stanford shopping center to see his store. Darren has a setting similar to the Daniel K, but the center stone sits much lower (which I am a huge fan of!) and basket is slightly different. I am so excited to hear back from them and find out what they''ve discovered. Now WE just have to start saving money!!!

 

[angeline]

That''s very exciting gisellem! I live in the Bay area and I have seen Darren mentioned online but never been there. I must go take a looky.

I''m no help at all on the radiant front but I''m sure there are plently here who are. I love the crushed ice radiant look too, especially in a yellow

. It makes the stones look really deep I think, like pools of, well, crushed ice!

Good luck and let us know what you find.

a

 

[Iceman]

gisellem,


You are now more educated then most people working at a jewelry store in he mall Scarry huh!

This is a great place to learn and then take the tools and go shoping with confidence in what your purchasing.

Have fun and enjoy.