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What kind of budget do you think we'll need for this e-ring?

C

cushionlover0509

Rough_Rock
Joined
Jun 8, 2012
Messages
27
So I was hoping some of you might be able to help us figure out around how much the type of engagement ring I would like will cost us.

We are looking for:
A Cushion Cut Diamond (I really like the August Vintage Cushions)
With at least the following:
-1.3 carats (hopefully)
-I color
-SI1/2 - needs to be eye clean
-Excellent cut

Then, for a setting we want to get the HW inspired halo. It does not have to be handmade but I do want it to look like the HW - as close as we can get.

Soooo... any thoughts on what this dream ring might cost? I have been looking at diamonds, and for an AVC cushion with all of the criteria, it looks like it's going to be at least 6-7,000 maybe. What do you think we should budget for the setting? I've been doing my research and I know a lot of people on here use Steven, Victor and Leon, but is that all handmade? I feel like that would be super expensive.

Thanks for any help!
 
Re: What kind of budget do you think we'll need for this e-r

The exact price would be difficult to estimate as it also depends on other factors such as cut, vender, report labs, etc.
Why don't you try to input your measures into some vender's website and see what choices of diamonds the search engine will generate?

Whiteflash, Bluenile or James Allen, all have excellent collections.

Good luck!
 
Re: What kind of budget do you think we'll need for this e-r

I don't see any AVCs with those exact specs on Good Old Gold's site right now, but I'd suggest checking with Mark at Engagement Rings Direct about a HW style halo. I haven't used them personally, but I know there are many PSers who've used ERD for this exact setting and have been very pleased with the result. ERD also has a line of antique-style cushions that you may like, too.

And, I want to add that 'all handmade' doesn't necessarily mean better than CAD/cast pieces, it just depends what type of ring you are going for. Seeing example work is important.

Edited to add: probably also worth it to check directly with GOG about an AVC with those specs and also ask about setting options (they have lots that aren't on their site). I've contacted them before and they were really quick to reply and very friendly.
 
Re: What kind of budget do you think we'll need for this e-r

I'm sorry to say you are going to need about 15-16k for that ring.

4k for the setting. No matter CAD or handmade, that's an expensive setting if you want it to be the type of quality that will stand up to everyday wear.

AVCs cost about 12k at 1.3 carats and near colorless range (G-H-I-J) http://www.goodoldgold.com/diamond/8914/ at I SI you are still looking at more than 10k for the stone (but there isn't one available at GOG for those stats right now)

Alternatives would be working with a vendor that has lower prices on cushions of this style, like Perry Chen. And going for about a J SI. And then asking if Leon would do the Adriana setting of his for 4K or less. Or getting a CAD quote from Mark at Engagement Rings Direct for the setting, which might be the most affordable way to do it. Then Perry can just carrier (they are very close to each other in NYC) the diamond over to Mark for the setting.

I did find this stone: http://www.engagementringsdirect.com/1.50-carat-h-vs2-a-cut-beyond-cushion-cut-diamond-gid-89203.html It's 10,500. If you like it, call Mark for a quote on the setting-- to save money you will need to get a CAD setting for this. There is also this one at 8,500: http://www.engagementringsdirect.com/1.50-carat-i-vs2-a-cut-beyond-cushion-cut-diamond-gid-88422.html
 
Re: What kind of budget do you think we'll need for this e-r

Yep, $4000-5000 for the setting. You really need to decide on a budget and then see what diamonds will fit in that budget. I'd probably choose Victor to make the setting.
 
Re: What kind of budget do you think we'll need for this e-r

diamondseeker2006|1339711302|3216401 said:
Yep, $4000-5000 for the setting. You really need to decide on a budget and then see what diamonds will fit in that budget. I'd probably choose Victor to make the setting.
Click to expand...

Victor does a great job. If I was doing to do it, I'd use Steven again personally. His prices are lower than Victors and he did my halo and the quality is amazing. But you really can't go wrong with either. If you do handmade you are looking at the 4-5k range.
CAD should be around 3.5-4k.
 
Re: What kind of budget do you think we'll need for this e-r

I really can't add much, you've gotten really sound advice and direction from the other posters. I can say that hand forged is expensive but if your hope is that this ring will become and heirloom that you will hand down from generation to generation then it may be the best avenue to pursue. However, if you think that in 5 years or so you may want to upgrade to larger stone, then I would consider a stock setting of some type for now. I've had three diamonds in four years, and am embarking on my first custom hand forged piece and I've had to really think about whether or not I'll be happy with my current stone for many many years to come, otherwise I wouldn't be able to justify the expense of custom. It sounds like a beautiful ring and I look forward to hearing what you decide. =)
 
Re: What kind of budget do you think we'll need for this e-r

Is that fabulous preloved haloed cushion still for sale?
 
Re: What kind of budget do you think we'll need for this e-r

yeah, it's over on preloved and pearlmans - it's gotten a lot of attention recently it seems
 
Re: What kind of budget do you think we'll need for this e-r

Hello, sorry I had to post and run yesterday. Really appreciate all of the comments.

I can't believe that it would cost so much for the setting! Well, I guess I can believe it, but it just stinks! lol

What exactly is a CAD? I never imagined that my ring would be handcast/handmade; I always just thought I would go tot he jewelry store, pick one out and leave. Now I see it's much, much different so I am doing as much research as possible. My boyfriend doesn't like to research anything! Kinda wish he was more interested, but not much I can do about that. I tend to over-research every possible little thing so this can get tricky!

Are AVCs generally more expensive than other cushions? I like that he said they are cut for optimal light performance! And I love their huge facets.

Do Steven and Victor do only handmade rings? I see that they come highly recommended but that's a lot for the setting!

I don't think I'm going to want to upgrade; usually, I just wait until I have enough money to really get what I want. But in this case, it's the boyfriend's money and 15k is never gonna happen lol. I'll have to think some more about this. Thanks for your help everyone!
 
Re: What kind of budget do you think we'll need for this e-r

Whiteflash, a PS vendor, has really good custom prices. They would probably only cost you 2.5 - 3k for the setting. You don't need to go with hand-forged or platinum, if you want to save a bit of money. If you buy the cushion from GOG or ERD, I would also use them for the setting though. You might get a bit of a discount and there won't be a setting fee.
 
Re: What kind of budget do you think we'll need for this e-r

Does GOG do a HW inspired setting? I wonder if anyone on here has one
 
Re: What kind of budget do you think we'll need for this e-r

sarahandaustin|1339775985|3216952 said:
Does GOG do a HW inspired setting? I wonder if anyone on here has one
Click to expand...

Yes, it's called their "Perfect Halo." They don't list the price though as far as I can see? You'd have to e-mail them for a quote.

Also, if you don't need an exact HW inspired setting, you could also check out Beverley K or Gabriel and Co. halos. They are very popular and really affordable.
 
Re: What kind of budget do you think we'll need for this e-r

sarahandaustin|1339774617|3216934 said:
What exactly is a CAD? I never imagined that my ring would be handcast/handmade; I always just thought I would go tot he jewelry store, pick one out and leave. Now I see it's much, much different so I am doing as much research as possible. My boyfriend doesn't like to research anything! Kinda wish he was more interested, but not much I can do about that. I tend to over-research every possible little thing so this can get tricky!
Click to expand...

CAD = Computer Aided Design. I think Brian Gavin Diamonds has a good blurb that describes it: http://www.briangavindiamonds.com/custom-design/customized-jewelry/

I think that AVCs are more expensive than actual antique cushions, not sure about Perry or ERDs prices.
 
 
Re: What kind of budget do you think we'll need for this e-r

What is your budget? We will be able to help you a little better.

You should be looking at Good Old Gold or Engagement Rings Direct if you want a chunky cushion. And they have plenty of settings to choose from. I don't think you really need to go the custom route. ERD has HW inspired settings and they sell antique cushion cuts.

Don't worry about your guy not being too interested. This way, you get to pick what you want. As long as he is happy to swipe his card, then you're all good!! This will be fun for you.
 
Re: What kind of budget do you think we'll need for this e-r

I would recommend Eternity Diamonds for a halo setting. I got my setting from them about a year ago and they were great to work with (and quite affordable for custom). They will also set your diamond even if you didn't buy it from them. Just a thought! The quality has held up quite nicely. I believe they are a PS vendor.
 
Re: What kind of budget do you think we'll need for this e-r

For the type of setting you are after I would recommend doing your research and getting a well made setting. It would be awful if the pave work wasn't up to par and you were constantly loosing stones and having to have it repaired. You know the old adage......'you get what you pay for'. That having been said, there are deals to be had. Just consider more than price as a determining factor. Good luck!
 
Re: What kind of budget do you think we'll need for this e-r

Alright, thanks again for your responses. I'm definitely learning a lot here!

So, I talked to my boyfriend and he finally set a budget of $8,500. So something's gotta give here.

However, I told him that I would rather wait longer and get the "dream" ring, rather than upgrade later on. But I'm not sure if he said $8500 is all he will spend on a ring - not sure if he means ever, or right now. He's one of the guys who thinks it's ridiculous to spend a lot on the ring. And I'm one of the girls who spends a lot of time on this website and others, looking at rings. On the other hand though, he would always go for quality over anything else. That makes me think he would want the better setting from someone like Victor or Steven, but what do I know. This should be interesting lol.

I guess either way we will be waiting awhile to buy the ring. We want to pay for it in cash, so he has some more saving to do. Just not sure what I'm going to have to give up.
 
Re: What kind of budget do you think we'll need for this e-r

duplicate.
 
Re: What kind of budget do you think we'll need for this e-r

sarahandaustin|1339869515|3217754 said:
Alright, thanks again for your responses. I'm definitely learning a lot here!

So, I talked to my boyfriend and he finally set a budget of $8,500. So something's gotta give here.

However, I told him that I would rather wait longer and get the "dream" ring, rather than upgrade later on. But I'm not sure if he said $8500 is all he will spend on a ring - not sure if he means ever, or right now. He's one of the guys who thinks it's ridiculous to spend a lot on the ring. And I'm one of the girls who spends a lot of time on this website and others, looking at rings. On the other hand though, he would always go for quality over anything else. That makes me think he would want the better setting from someone like Victor or Steven, but what do I know. This should be interesting lol.

I guess either way we will be waiting awhile to buy the ring. We want to pay for it in cash, so he has some more saving to do. Just not sure what I'm going to have to give up.
Click to expand...

For $8500, you can still get a beautiful cushion in a Bev K or Gabriel and Co. halo! That is a nice budget. You might want to consider going down to J or even K color for an antique cushion. They have a beautiful vanilla-ish hue that suits the cut, and it'll save a lot of money.
 
Re: What kind of budget do you think we'll need for this e-r

$8500 is a large budget. It is just a shame that diamond prices are so high! I would put as much as possible in the diamond. I think if you got an AVC you could easily get a Gabriel and Co. setting that you'd love (GOG carries these). Many of the people here getting the very expensive custom rings have been married awhile and have upgraded diamonds or are just changing settings. So don't feel that pressure!

Here are some examples and you can look through the whole site, obviously..

http://www.gabrielny.com/engaged/styles?category=Engagement+Rings&style=Halo&collection=Contemporary

And here's a GOG video with a Gabriel halo setting (antique style):

http://www.goodoldgold.com/Settingvideos/Tacori_Settings/Gabriel_Settings/
 
Re: What kind of budget do you think we'll need for this e-r

I think you need to focus on a one carat stone. In a halo you will get a lot of hand presence without too much spread loss.

Personally I'd call Perry Chen. I'd tell Perry that you have a 8,500 budget OUT THE DOOR for a 1 OR LARGER carat antique cushion in Leon's Adriana setting. You want J or better in color and eyeclean and as big as possible (in spread not carat weight).

He'll find a cushion for you and will make you a video. And Leon's setting will knock your socks off. Perry can make your budget work for you.

If it were me, and that was my budget and what I wanted, that's what I'd do.
 
Re: What kind of budget do you think we'll need for this e-r

I would recommend speaking with a fine jewelry designer or two to get a sense of the cost. Handmade engagement rings can run up a pretty penny, but you might do well if you find the right people. Good luck!
 
Re: What kind of budget do you think we'll need for this e-r

Isn't VC also branching into antique cushions now? Since it's such a new operation they might put the whole thing together using a Signature or whatever they're going to be named for a lower price for the exposure... well, something to inquire into, perhaps.

Otherwise I'd ditto the Perry/LM rec. If you want to look into yellow/lower coloured stones I'd suggest DBL, they also do stones + handforged settings.
 
Re: What kind of budget do you think we'll need for this e-r

So I am giving this thread a bit of a bump and an update.

My boyfriend and I are planning a trip to NYC in December so we thought it was best to do some emailing and get some quotes. We want to see what the vendors thought about what we want vs the cost and to see if the numbers would work out. Hopefully then we can see some diamonds in person in December and make a decision from there. Does that sound like a good idea? What people normally do- id they can make it to the vendor?

So we contacted ERD and then Perry Chen. Then I did some more reading on here and apparently you're not supposed to contact both of them? Just one or the other? Not sure.

I am just worried about the setting because I know pave is difficult to do and is delicate. Just feel like I have to give in a lot of aspects of the diamond and I don't want to bug my boyfriend about the budget. Unfortunately I didn't know that cushions face up much smaller than rounds before I fell in love with the style. Now I am just hoping that I can get over 6mm for the stone. Size matters to me

Mark at ERD said he thought the numbers should work. Waiting to hear back from Perry.

Who knew looking for an engagement ring would be rather stressful at times
 
Re: What kind of budget do you think we'll need for this e-r

sarahandaustin|1346547916|3261085 said:
So I am giving this thread a bit of a bump and an update.

My boyfriend and I are planning a trip to NYC in December so we thought it was best to do some emailing and get some quotes. We want to see what the vendors thought about what we want vs the cost and to see if the numbers would work out. Hopefully then we can see some diamonds in person in December and make a decision from there. Does that sound like a good idea? What people normally do- id they can make it to the vendor?

So we contacted ERD and then Perry Chen. Then I did some more reading on here and apparently you're not supposed to contact both of them? Just one or the other? Not sure.

I am just worried about the setting because I know pave is difficult to do and is delicate. Just feel like I have to give in a lot of aspects of the diamond and I don't want to bug my boyfriend about the budget. Unfortunately I didn't know that cushions face up much smaller than rounds before I fell in love with the style. Now I am just hoping that I can get over 6mm for the stone. Size matters to me

Mark at ERD said he thought the numbers should work. Waiting to hear back from Perry.

Who knew looking for an engagement ring would be rather stressful at times
Click to expand...

I think it is normal to get quotes from multiple vendors to compare, not sure where you got the idea that it might not be kosher? Anyway, what about an old European cut in a cushion shaped halo? I prefer square stones so if I ever get the OEC upgrade I want, I hope to do a box style setting or one with fishtail prongs to square it off.
 
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