Stone for RB engagement ring- Getting overwhelmed

[chloecro]

Hi everyone.

I've posted a couple of times, and everyone's been so incredibly helpful.
I'm starting to get overwhelmed by my search for a RB engagement ring (or loose stone) for around 65K.

I want a great cut, lots of sparkle, and 2.5-3 ct. I'm trying to stay under SI1 clarity, because I'm told that inclusions can be much more obvious in a stone within that range. I'd prefer to see the stone in person beforehand, but I'm finding that a lot of places with the best policies (return, etc.) don't have that option.

My bf is just sort of waiting for me to choose what I love.... but now I'm losing sight of how to get the best stone for the $.

I'm pretty sure I want a plain solitaire setting, so the stone is really my focus at this point.

I would be grateful for your suggestions.

 

[chloecro]

These are a couple I've had my eye on.

 

[Emeraldcutlover]

Hi: I saw your question with regard to Perry (Leon Mege) and I wanted to tell you that I purchased my diamonds from him and I would highly recommend him. He was soooo patient and very informative and I think (most importantly) extremely honest. I really think you could not go wrong and the bonus is that you are right there with LM for the setting. However, I would suggest bringing photos in of what you would like your ring to look like or to be extremely detailed with the design - as there is not a cad, etc. Mine is beautiful, however, I regret not going with my initial gut.

 

[chloecro]

EmeraldCutLover,
Thanks for the tips and feedback.
Yeah, I really wish Leon did CADs. Is Perry at LM?

 

[slg47]

EmeraldCutLover,
Thanks for the tips and feedback.
Yeah, I really wish Leon did CADs. Is Perry at LM?

Leon's settings are supposed to be handmade-it is not uncommon for designers who make handmade settings to not use CADs.

My advice is to ask a few vendors about sourcing stones for you. Many vendors do not have stones in the larger sizes in stock (one that does is James Allen-they can provide additional images and gemologist review for up to three diamonds).

Personally, I would prefer a vendor who provided idealscope images (as far as I know, Perry does not). I don't think it makes sense for Perry to source you a round unless you are getting the setting from them.

 

[diamondseeker2006]

Those two stones from Good Old Gold are outstanding. So is there a problem with them?

I personally would not use LM for the setting. Too many negatives. There are better choices. What style of solitaire are you wanting?

 

[Emeraldcutlover]

Hi: Yes Perry is with Leon. He does not do ASETs etc. but you can get one done if you have any doubt . There actually is a firm that performs these right across from his office in the same building. Perry is a strong believer in your "eye". As you know, the diamond can be great on paper but not so in person and vise versa. It's a personal decision but I was comfortable going with stones that he suggested and then I looked at them myself to make the call. I know there have been people that have not had a good experience with LM but I can only speak for myself. He was nothing but extremely helpful and spent quite a bit of time with us and we never once felt rushed. He has a great eye and does beautiful work. I had initially suggested Perry as well, since you had asked about LM and I was saying how convenient it was to also have the stone right there to be set. His website also has a lot of examples of his work and craftsmanship. I was asking a question on a previous post and Gypsy had a great suggestion of having a CAD made and you could then bring to LM or whomever (for those of us crazy's that are extremely detailed and picky) lol. She thought one could be done in the range of $250.00. I also heard good things about SK and VC. I hope this help. Good Luck.

 

[Christina...]

I think the stones look amazing! I also don't think that I would use LM for a simple solitaire, there are too many fantastic solitaires out there that the added headache wouldn't be worth it to me.