The Princess Cut vs. Cushion Cut Dilemma

[Valjean]

Hello and Happy Holidays to everyone! First time poster here but I have been following this forum for a couple months now.

So I have narrowed down my choice to a Princess Cut or a Cushion and I need some of your opinions, specially from the women. This ring will be a surprise for my girlfriend when I propose next year, so plainly asking her for what she prefers is out of the question. She did however mention by passing a while back that she prefers the princess cut over the round brilliant mainly because of its unique square shape. Now while shopping around and doing research, I found that cushion cuts offer a much better scintillation and a nicer sparkle than the princess cuts, both in person and the GOG videos out. These range includes cushettes, Square HAs and other varieties.

Now my dilemma is whether to stick with a princess cut or to take a risk and get her a cushion with a good square ratio of closer to 1.1? I can almost be sure that she has not heard of a cushion cut and I think that she would love it if she sees one, but it is really hard for me to figure that out without ruining the surprise. What do you think? I know that preference plays a lot but I just want to know your opinion which route I would take.

Specs:
Solitaire setting similar to Cartier 1895 in platinum
Ring size 3.75
Carat: 0.80-0.87
D-F, VS1-VS2
Ideal cut

Here is a comparison video from GOG.

http://vimeo.com/11539863

Thank you everyone!

 

[tyty333]

Personally, I would probably stick to what she asked for, or if I wanted to go out on a limb, go with the cushette which looks
similar but has more rounded corners.

We have seen some girls very sad over the fact they told their BF what they wanted and the BF ignored their wishes.
You're probably the only one who can determine how particular your GF is and if she would care if you got her something
different.

 

[jstarfireb]

I personally don't think a cushion/cushette/square H&A out-sparkles an ideal cut princess. It's just a different kind of sparkle. The princess and cushette both have many tiny sparkles, whereas the AVC and Square H&A have chunkier reflections. It sounds like you have a preference for the latter, and she prefers the former. If she wants a princess, I'd get her a princess, but get her a top-of-the-line AGS ideal, maybe a branded cut like Solasfera or ACA.

ETA: One of the things that drew me to the princess cut was the sharp angles of the corners. That's why cut-corner princesses and stones with rounded corners but a generally square shape didn't cut it for me. That was an important element for me, and it may also be for her.

 

[Valjean]

Thanks Ty. Yes the thing is, I'm probably much more pickier than she is. I know that she likes a princess cut but she may not know how great looking the cushettes are and I don't want her to miss out on it and regret later once she sees something like a Square HA. You are right though, what she wishes for is what I should get. Let's see what the other think. Thanks for your input!

 

[E B]

I personally don't think a cushion/cushette/square H&A out-sparkles an ideal cut princess. It's just a different kind of sparkle. The princess and cushette both have many tiny sparkles, whereas the AVC and Square H&A have chunkier reflections. It sounds like you have a preference for the latter, and she prefers the former. If she wants a princess, I'd get her a princess, but get her a top-of-the-line AGS ideal, maybe a branded cut like Solasfera or ACA.

Agreed.

http://www.goodoldgold.com/diamond/7847/

 

[tyty333]

Here is one of the latest threads on a future bride who felt ho-hum over her ring. Its actually very sad for both
her and her fiance .

But, like I said, you are probably the only one who can answer that question. Is there anyone else you can ask like her Mom
who would keep your secret? Or is there anyway that you could ask her more questions about why she likes the princess cut?
Does she like the sharp corners or is it the faceting pattern or is it the fact that its just not a round brilliant?

[URL='https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/sad-mixed-feelings-about-ring.153658/']https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/sad-mixed-feelings-about-ring.153658/[/URL]

Love that stone that EB posted. Its about $3600.

 

[Valjean]

Thanks for your input Jstar. Good point on the fact that she may prefer sharp corners vs. a round one. This is what I need to figure out. I do know for a fact that she likes things that sparkle a little better, and yes picking a top of the line princess will fill that. Picking a princess would be a "safer" choice.

 

[Valjean]

That looks like a good Solasfera. I'm going to inquire how much those goes for. Thanks!

 

[Valjean]

Wow I just read over that post. That is indeed pretty sad, and its very relevant to what I'm going through and her story is what I want to avoid. I do know for sure that my GF is not as picky as her, but to each his own. She didn't mention if she likes a princess because of the sharp corners, I think just because it is different from the traditional RB. Like I mentioned, I don't even think she has heard of a cushion cut. We have great communication but when it comes to this subject, I try not to pry too much because I want it to be a surprise so I am really hum about it. No unfortunately I cannot approach her Mom (language barrier), and I am not comfortable asking her friends. I may have to do more fishing!

 

[slg47]

perhaps you could take her to a store so you can get some input (and her ring size?) otherwise if she likes a princess cut then I think a Solasfera, ACA, Infinity, BGD signature, or GOG signature is a great option.

 

[jstarfireb]

You're welcome, and that Solasfera would be an excellent choice. I haven't seen a Solasfera princess in person, but I hear they're fantastic.

This one is a wee bit lighter in the carat department, but almost the same face-up size as the 0.79, and more square. It's a G, but I couldn't find any D-F on this site.
http://www.briangavindiamonds.com/diamond/diamond-detail/?product_id=AGS-104047236025

This one is also a G and is lighter on carat weight but has larger face-up dimensions than the Solasfera and BGD stones, plus it's the least expensive of the bunch:
http://www.whiteflash.com/loose-diamonds/princess-cut-loose-diamond-2405183.htm

And here's another G within your carat range:
http://www.whiteflash.com/loose-diamonds/princess-cut-loose-diamond-2559250.htm

And this one is 0.87ct, F color, but SI1 clarity. Many SI1s are clean to the naked eye, so if the symbolism of clarity as purity isn't important to you, consider it...
http://goodoldgold.com/diamond/7757/

FWIW, a G color stone will still look icy white when set and especially not right next to a D-F. Most people wouldn't be able to tell the difference between a D and a G, except maybe with the stones face-down on a white background, which is of course not a typical viewing environment. And see above about SI1 clarity. Just trying to open up your options, since ideal princesses are hard to find in any size/color/clarity range!

 

[marymm]

I think some of the others have alluded to this but the princess cut is unique for more reasons than just its square corners... when your GF made her comment to you that she prefers princesses because of their unique square shape she may have been referring to more than just its outline shape. To my eyes and I think to many people, the princess cut has a "look" completely different from a RB or a cushion variety, and it disperses light differently as well. I realize you and your GF didn't have an exhaustive discussion of all the diamond cuts available, but I would encourage you not to consider the princess cut a "safe" choice but instead as the best choice for your intended since she has told you explicitly she favors it. If scintillation is an important element of the ER for you as the giver, perhaps the setting could be chosen with that in mind. Good luck with your quest!

 

[tyty333]

That looks like a good Solasfera. I'm going to inquire how much those goes for. Thanks!

Its $3600...You can hit the reserve button and it will show you the price (you actually have to hit a later checkout button to
actually reserve it).

 

[shihtzulover]

Honestly, I would go with the princess cut - just to be safe, because that's what she specifically mentioned that she really likes. I personally really love princess cuts, and I would have been devastated if I had gotten anything else. She may not be as picky, and she might not realize that other shapes do exist, but it just seems like a safer bet to go with the princess. Also, like has already been said, princesses have a different type of sparkle than the rounds and the cushions - and I love that sparkle the most. She might feel the same way.

I would also make sure to buy from a place that has a good return policy, just in case she wants something different.

Good luck, and congratulations on your upcoming engagement!

 

[Valjean]

perhaps you could take her to a store so you can get some input (and her ring size?) otherwise if she likes a princess cut then I think a Solasfera, ACA, Infinity, BGD signature, or GOG signature is a great option.

Thanks! But I think that would really affect the suprise factor. If I take her to a shop, she will definitely figure it out! I know from grapevine discussions that her ring size is 3.5. I will be getting it in 3.75 just to make sure and make room for minor finger swelling that may occur.

 

[Valjean]

You're welcome, and that Solasfera would be an excellent choice. I haven't seen a Solasfera princess in person, but I hear they're fantastic.

This one is a wee bit lighter in the carat department, but almost the same face-up size as the 0.79, and more square. It's a G, but I couldn't find any D-F on this site.
http://www.briangavindiamonds.com/diamond/diamond-detail/?product_id=AGS-104047236025

This one is also a G and is lighter on carat weight but has larger face-up dimensions than the Solasfera and BGD stones, plus it's the least expensive of the bunch:
http://www.whiteflash.com/loose-diamonds/princess-cut-loose-diamond-2405183.htm

And here's another G within your carat range:
http://www.whiteflash.com/loose-diamonds/princess-cut-loose-diamond-2559250.htm

And this one is 0.87ct, F color, but SI1 clarity. Many SI1s are clean to the naked eye, so if the symbolism of clarity as purity isn't important to you, consider it...
http://goodoldgold.com/diamond/7757/

FWIW, a G color stone will still look icy white when set and especially not right next to a D-F. Most people wouldn't be able to tell the difference between a D and a G, except maybe with the stones face-down on a white background, which is of course not a typical viewing environment. And see above about SI1 clarity. Just trying to open up your options, since ideal princesses are hard to find in any size/color/clarity range!

Thank you! I do like

http://goodoldgold.com/diamond/7757/
http://www.whiteflash.com/loose-diamonds/princess-cut-loose-diamond-2405183.htm

Thanks for clarifying the typical viewing environment between a G and D. This will definitely open up my options! What are you thoughts on WF and GOG? Any preference between the two? One thing I like about GOG is their videos, both have great customer service, but favors more on policies specially since I'm from Canada.

Cheers.

 

[Valjean]

tyty, shitzulover, marymm, and EB, thanks all for the input. You are right, Princess it is. Sometimes the first choice is the best choice. Have to trust on instincts. I will post again later on my final top 3. What do you think so far on my setting selection (1895 type setting)? She doesn't like anything too ostentatious and did mention once that she wants a solitaire setting.

Thanks again and enjoy your Christmas!

 

[jstarfireb]

You're welcome, and that Solasfera would be an excellent choice. I haven't seen a Solasfera princess in person, but I hear they're fantastic.

This one is a wee bit lighter in the carat department, but almost the same face-up size as the 0.79, and more square. It's a G, but I couldn't find any D-F on this site.
http://www.briangavindiamonds.com/diamond/diamond-detail/?product_id=AGS-104047236025

This one is also a G and is lighter on carat weight but has larger face-up dimensions than the Solasfera and BGD stones, plus it's the least expensive of the bunch:
http://www.whiteflash.com/loose-diamonds/princess-cut-loose-diamond-2405183.htm

And here's another G within your carat range:
http://www.whiteflash.com/loose-diamonds/princess-cut-loose-diamond-2559250.htm

And this one is 0.87ct, F color, but SI1 clarity. Many SI1s are clean to the naked eye, so if the symbolism of clarity as purity isn't important to you, consider it...
http://goodoldgold.com/diamond/7757/

FWIW, a G color stone will still look icy white when set and especially not right next to a D-F. Most people wouldn't be able to tell the difference between a D and a G, except maybe with the stones face-down on a white background, which is of course not a typical viewing environment. And see above about SI1 clarity. Just trying to open up your options, since ideal princesses are hard to find in any size/color/clarity range!

Thank you! I do like

http://goodoldgold.com/diamond/7757/
http://www.whiteflash.com/loose-diamonds/princess-cut-loose-diamond-2405183.htm

Thanks for clarifying the typical viewing environment between a G and D. This will definitely open up my options! What are you thoughts on WF and GOG? Any preference between the two? One thing I like about GOG is their videos, both have great customer service, but favors more on policies specially since I'm from Canada.

Cheers.

Based on the ASETs, I have a slight preference for the GOG stone, the 0.87 F/SI1. Stick with GOG if you like them...ask Jon to send you a video comparing the non-branded ideal and the Solasfera.

ETA: I should mention that I think the BGD stone is my favorite of the whole bunch. But like I said, it's pretty convenient just to stick with one vendor, especially if buying from outside the US.

 

[E B]

tyty, shitzulover, marymm, and EB, thanks all for the input. You are right, Princess it is. Sometimes the first choice is the best choice. Have to trust on instincts. I will post again later on my final top 3. What do you think so far on my setting selection (1895 type setting)? She doesn't like anything too ostentatious and did mention once that she wants a solitaire setting.

Thanks again and enjoy your Christmas!

I think it's an excellent choice!

 

[sonnyjane]

perhaps you could take her to a store so you can get some input (and her ring size?) otherwise if she likes a princess cut then I think a Solasfera, ACA, Infinity, BGD signature, or GOG signature is a great option.

Thanks! But I think that would really affect the suprise factor. If I take her to a shop, she will definitely figure it out! I know from grapevine discussions that her ring size is 3.5. I will be getting it in 3.75 just to make sure and make room for minor finger swelling that may occur.

It's fine to want to keep it a complete surprise, but only if your desire to totally surprise her is GREATER than your desire to make her completely happy with the choice. You said you read the other thread about the disappointed fiance because the ring wasn't what she had wanted and hoped to avoid the same thing happening in your situation. Is the joy YOU get out of surprising her with the proposal greater than HER joy will be with having a ring that is 100% what she wants? Only you know your future bride-to-be well enough to determine that, just make sure you're not making a selfish choice for your reasons that might compromise her satisfaction with what you pick. I was very, very involved in picking out my ring, all the way down to the exact selection of the diamond. Not being surprised has not been an issue, but I am VERY glad that I was so involved in picking something I love so much. Just something to consider.

Also worth mentioning, 3.5 is quite a small ring size (the average carried in most stores is a 6), so while I don't doubt your sources, you might want to just triple check that number before paying to have the setting sized.

 

[marymm]

Valjean, glad to hear you're going with a Princess, and I do like the setting you've posted above - it's an elegant take on a classic design. Just to throw a spanner in the works, have you seen this thread with D&T's gorgeous kite-set princess solitaire ring? It is my current fave - it's actually a ring size 4 so it's close to your GF's size tho I think the rock is over a carat. https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/kite-set-a-princess-sure-why-not.153166/ (And by the by, maybe you can ring-nap one of her favorite rings to get an accurate ring size? Although it's easy enough to size a solitaire setting if you decide to go with the 3.75)

 

[sonnyjane]

Hmm apparently there isn't an Edit feature...

Anyway, I re-read my post and think it came off more harshly than I intended. All I meant was that sometimes men try so hard to pull off a perfect surprise proposal that they neglect to ensure that what they are buying is indeed what their other half would enjoy. Asking her a shape preference or ring size isn't necessarily giving away the surprise. Sounds like you're on the right track, though! Good luck!

 

[Valjean]

Valjean, glad to hear you're going with a Princess, and I do like the setting you've posted above - it's an elegant take on a classic design. Just to throw a spanner in the works, have you seen this thread with D&T's gorgeous kite-set princess solitaire ring? It is my current fave - it's actually a ring size 4 so it's close to your GF's size tho I think the rock is over a carat. https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/kite-set-a-princess-sure-why-not.153166/ (And by the by, maybe you can ring-nap one of her favorite rings to get an accurate ring size? Although it's easy enough to size a solitaire setting if you decide to go with the 3.75)

That setting you linked looks beautiful. I'll definitely consider that as well. Thanks!

 

[Valjean]

Hmm apparently there isn't an Edit feature...

Anyway, I re-read my post and think it came off more harshly than I intended. All I meant was that sometimes men try so hard to pull off a perfect surprise proposal that they neglect to ensure that what they are buying is indeed what their other half would enjoy. Asking her a shape preference or ring size isn't necessarily giving away the surprise. Sounds like you're on the right track, though! Good luck!

No problem at all! It was your honest opinion and very much appreciated! My GF is a simple person and would love anything that I give her. Like I said, I think I am more into this than she is, but of course I would want her to have something she will truly enjoy. From my digging, she only mentioned "princess, solitaire, platinum (she has a reaction to gold)". She even mentioned once that she preferred something not too big. Yes she is definitely a 3.5, she is a fairly petite girl with small slender hands. I remember her saying that she had measured her finger with a girlfriend at a jewelry store before three times to make sure it is 3.5. That is why I am planning to go for a 3.75 just to make sure. I think 4 would be a bit too loose. I'm glad to say that I am usually fairly confident with my taste in things, and with all of the valuable help here on PS, I am certain to create the best ring for her she will truly love. Thanks again!

 

[tyty333]

Whiteflash, GOG and BGD are all excellent vendors. All the stones you have selected so far have 100%
upgrade capabilities (in case you/she wants to do that some day). Plus ,they all have excellent service. You might
check to see who has a setting like the one you like (which I also like...simple but classic). I'm sure they all have something
similar.

Sounds like you are well on your way!

 

[Matthewmon]

I proposed to my fiance on Oct. 15 with a solasfera princess and she loves it! under some lighting conditions it practically GLOWS! Can't go wrong with it imo. Good luck!

 

[tyty333]

I proposed to my fiance on Oct. 15 with a solasfera princess and she loves it! under some lighting conditions it practically GLOWS! Can't go wrong with it imo. Good luck!

Where are the pictures???

 

[Valjean]

Whiteflash, GOG and BGD are all excellent vendors. All the stones you have selected so far have 100%
upgrade capabilities (in case you/she wants to do that some day). Plus ,they all have excellent service. You might
check to see who has a setting like the one you like (which I also like...simple but classic). I'm sure they all have something
similar.

Sounds like you are well on your way!

I was planning on just ordering the rock online and having the setting done locally for servicing reasons (cleaning, resizing, setting issues that may arise, etc.). What do you think of this? I live in Canada and although GOG has awesome service, I am forced to do bank wire instead of CC which I prefer (mileage points, added security and insurance). GOG offers Solasfera but WF doesn't, although they said they can offer something similar. I wonder what other branded ones are like Solasfera?

 

[Valjean]

I proposed to my fiance on Oct. 15 with a solasfera princess and she loves it! under some lighting conditions it practically GLOWS! Can't go wrong with it imo. Good luck!

Congrats!!! we want to see pictures!