Which shape with which shape?

[Tacori E-ring]

Do you know what shape sapphire yet? I personally don''t really like the flower ring but you know your girlfriend the best. I think something more simple such as a sapphire with diamond sapphires would be more timeless and such a beautiful look! I think you should pick your center stone first and then figure out what shape sidestones looks the best with it. I saw an EC sapphire last night and it was so pretty BTW.

 

[onlyforher]

--Shape: Oval (The price is better than the circular shape), from the Natural Sapphire Co.
--Where: I''m not sure yet. That ring from Selkie does look awsome. I should most likely talk to some local jewlers and see if they have any 2-stone settings with two diamonds for reasonable prices, and if they''d be willing to set the sapphire for me.

Alastor, that''s fine if you feel the need to support DeBeer. To each his (or her) own. We won''t argue with you on that.

I''ve looked at so many rings lately I''m getting confused. Why is there so many options?. I think a day''s brake should help. %-|

Thanks for the input everyone!
-OnlyForHer

 

[Tacori E-ring]

With an oval I would get diamond pears or maybe baguettes. Half moons might look good too.

 

[Larissa]

Yes, a day''s brake probably will help

Just consider what she''s like and the type of activities she does.

Heavy camping, hiking, rock climbing = maybe a very solid bezel set
Classic with simple tastes = maybe a simple, classic three stone
Artsy with unique tastes = maybe a flower like you posted
Trendy and "with it" = maybe the very popular halo style

I''m sure you''ll know what to get when you think about it. Good luck...and keep us updated, I adore sapphires!

 

[onlyforher]

Update: I talked with a local jewler, and couldn't believe how pushy he was on sales. He told me how rare natural NON heat-treated sapphires were (I already knew that), how he's been in business for 30 years, and hinted that the Natural Sapphire Co. is lieing to me. I've seen some posts from people that have done business with the Natural Sapphire Co. and seem very satisfied. Did you guys have an independant verification done on the sapphires before you bought them? Did you just take Natural Sapphire's word?

He (Local jewler) also won't do Pallidium, and only works in Yellow Gold, White Gold, or Platinum.
But he does have a much larger selection of settings via cataloge.

I just can't get over it. The first sapphire he showed me had a huge 'cloud' inclusion in the center of it that blocked a lot of light/refraction. I looked at it and pointed it out to him. He then took it and looked at it real close as if for the first time and said "oh, so it does, well you know some people like them like that". I brought in a printed version of the 'certificate' from Naturual Sapphire Co. on B819 (The sapphire I'm interested in), and he barely read it. It's like he didn't care. He also told me he'll charge a premium of I buy the sapphire elsewhere (such as from Natural Sapphire Co.) and have it set by him. When I asked him how much more he'd charge, he avoided the question and went on to say how rare untreated sapphires were. He can sell me an "eye-clean" non-treated sapphire of 1.2ct for $1800. That's $500 more, and no garentee of clarity besides 'eye-clean'. Three of my good friends have used him and reported good success. Though I don't think any of those three friends looked at pricescope or did online reasearch at all.

I even suggusted he get in touch with 'The Natural Sapphire Co.' and perhaps he could buy from them as well. He completely changed topics when I said that. I'm not mad, just dissopointed in the selfishness, and unwillingness to look at uncommon options.

So, what do you guys think? Should I go with an E-ring? Or should I swallow my knowledge and go the local jewler way? Or get the E-sapphire and have it set locally?

One more question: Does anyone have a good reference site for ring settings? The local jewler had 3 or 4 large cataloge's to choose from, but most online places don't have that much choice. I'm aiming for an oval center with one 1/4 diamond on each side or a set of three much smaller diamonds on each side, with a sort of 'swirl' pattern. Hard to explain, but easy to spot in photos.

Thanks,
-OnlyForher

 

[Dee*Jay]

Date: 9/19/2006 2:15:18 PM
Author: onlyforher

**********

I just can't get over it. The first sapphire he showed me had a huge 'cloud' inclusion in the center of it that blocked a lot of light/refraction. I looked at it and pointed it out to him. He then took it and looked at it real close as if for the first time and said 'oh, so it does, well you know some people like them like that'.

**********

So, what do you guys think? Should I go with an E-ring? Or should I swallow my knowledge and go the local jewler way? Or get the E-sapphire and have it set locally?


Thanks,

-OnlyForher

"... some people like them like that" That's one of the craziest things I've ever heard! Great--then whoever *those people* are can buy the poor quality cloudy sapphires from him!

As for swallowing your knowledge and going with this guy. Honey, YOU already know the answer to that -- NO! Take the knowledge you've gained and buy the best stone you can. And as far as getting it set, surely this isn't the only guy in town?

Seriously, he sounds like a real jerk and I hope that you decided on a different route than dealing with him.

(Sorry to be so on-my-soapbox but I'm really offended that you were treated like this!

)

 

[onlyforher]

I'm leaning that direction too. The only good things about his business are a) it's recommended by friends (That didn't know much), and b) has a good selection of settings.

"A good lawyer dosen't ask questions that he/she dosen't already know the answer to". I'm not a lawyer, but this is an online forum for online customers, so kinda expect some support/encouragement in that direction.

What's the best way to get my idea of a ring to a jewler? Does anyone know of huge online ring cataloge's that are easy to navigate and well organized? (for ideas)

Thanks!
-OnlyForHer

 

[Dee*Jay]

Have you been on Pearlman's site to look for settings? www.pearlmansjewelers.com

www.solomonbrothers.com also has a big selection to look at

You said though that the style you mean is easily recognizeable--do you happen to have a picture and we can try to give you some other alternatives too?

(LOL about the "a good lawyer doesn't ask questions... " comment.

)

 

[JulieN]

try Stuller and Ingwer

 

[Selkie]

Date: 9/19/2006 2:15:18 PM
Author: onlyforher
Update: I talked with a local jewler, and couldn''t believe how pushy he was on sales. He told me how rare natural NON heat-treated sapphires were (I already knew that), how he''s been in business for 30 years, and hinted that the Natural Sapphire Co. is lieing to me. I''ve seen some posts from people that have done business with the Natural Sapphire Co. and seem very satisfied. Did you guys have an independant verification done on the sapphires before you bought them? Did you just take Natural Sapphire''s word?

I even suggusted he get in touch with ''The Natural Sapphire Co.'' and perhaps he could buy from them as well. He completely changed topics when I said that. I''m not mad, just dissopointed in the selfishness, and unwillingness to look at uncommon options.


-OnlyForher

Thanks for the compliment on my ring. We found the sapphire at Natural Sapphire Company, and it was verified by an independent appraiser to appear untreated, from visual inspection with a microscope. There is a premium on the rarity of untreated stones, and this is definitely reflected in NSC''s prices. Actually, the appraiser valued the stone at less than we actually paid for it due to some color saturation issues. However, I am very happy with it in my ring. NSC has an inspection period policy, so you would have time to have a stone appraised before completing the purchase.

The jeweler who set the ring is in Maine, and luckily was willing to set stones they did not sell. I think that will definitely vary among jewelers, and they may charge extra for it. It''s always worth asking. Are you somewhere that you can get quotes from several jewelers? Definitely ask to see a Stuller settings catalogue, it''s a very common source for most jewelers.

When you approach the jewelers, if you buy the stone online, you could try saying you have an heirloom stone that you''re considering resetting. This might avoid the whole salesmanship aspect of them trying to dissuade you from purchasing outside. Good luck!

 

[Mokey]

I have not bought anything from The Natural Sapphire Company, but plan to in the future. I have emailed back and forth with Steven there and he is wonderful and answers all of the questions and queries I have had in a very timely manner. I don''t know if you know this but they do have rings there, and could possibly do something for you so you can avoid the local jeweler. I know it is frustrating, but hang in there, in the end your girls face will be worth it! Mokey

 

[Aurelia]

Onlyforher:

I just purchased a sapphire eternity band from The Natural Sapphire Company -- here''s a picture... It looks crazy, bold blue, and it really is that vibrant and beautiful!

I dealt with Steven Bliss and I can say that I trusted him 100%.
-showed me as many things as I wanted without any pressure
-thoroughly explained treatments used to enhance sapphires (though what I chose was un-treated)
-answered a million questions by email and phone -- always cheerfully and thoroughly
-worked very patiently with me regarding my schedule and time frame
-never made me feel pressured to buy anything - ever
-made the resizing an easy, hassle-free process

My independent appraisal confirmed carat weight, clarity, etc... It was appraised at about 120% of the price I paid...
and again, I LOVE my ring!! It''s beautiful!!! Couldn''t be happier : )

Aurelia

 

[onlyforher]

YVW Selkie, it is a beautiful ring! I think I'll visit several jewlers around town and see if any others would be willing to re-set an 'heirloom stone' for a good price.

Aurelia: That band is strikingly appealing. That was neat that it was appriased for more than you paid for it.

I've switched tracks just a little and have added a 'twist' to my orignal design. Tell me of these have a timeless look, or not. Imagine a blue sapphire, and a white-gold ring. [Restarting voting proccess]

[edit] snip swirly designs [/edit]

(D)

(I think it looks good from a guys POV, but what does a girl think?)

[edit] snip swirly designs [/edit]

Are you guys seeing a common theme yet? The sapphire would be in the 7x5mm range, or in the $1300 range.

What do you guys think? Am I off my rocker? Do they look timeless or silly?

[edit] Ok, so the swirl pattern is 80,90's style. [/edit]

Thanks,
-OnlyForHer

 

[Aurelia]

onlyforher...

about the appraisal -- I think this is pretty typical to receive a slightly higher appraisal price than price you paid (correct me if I''m wrong...) The same thing happened with a purchase from WhiteFlash...

Have you checked out the ''Jewelery Suggestions'' on The Natural Sapphire company''s website? You go to your stone (B819 right?) and "View Details..." then look at the "Ring" section... these are all settings that could accomodate your stone.

Here''s one I think you talked about -- sapphire in the center, half-moon shaped diamonds on the side:

there are some more beautiful settings on there... just keep scrolling : )

goodluck!

Aurelia

 

[Munchkin]

In my opinion, bypass or swirly settings do not say "timeless" to me at all. People also typically love them or hate them. Personally, I think that would be too risky a way to go for an e-ring, especially if you want it handed down for generations.

I love oval sapphires. I especially love oval sapphires in a halo or paired with trillion diamonds. I think the pairingwith trills creates a beautiful, tapering line. I tried multiple times to paste a photo and was unsuccessful. I ran a google image search for oval sapphire diamond trillion, however, and lot of results popped up.

One more thing, when you wrote she said "surrounded by diamonds," my first thought was that she DOES want a halo setting. Perhaps you could clarify what she meant by that? I hear "surrounded" and think halo. Conversely, I hear "with diamonds" and think one on either side.

Good luck!

 

[Dee*Jay]

Only - the last batch of settings that you posted are a rather "specific" look. One that you might want to be sure she wants before you go that route. As for timeless (oh, I know I''m going to get in trouble here, but that''s not at all my intention), they actually scream ***1990*** (give or take 5 years in either direction) at me (with the possible exception of "D", which is so small on my screen that I''m not exactly sure what it totally looks like).

Can you maybe arrange for a little expedition to a few jewelry stores with your girl to get an idea of her preferences when it comes to settings?

 

[mrssalvo]

I agree that the stuller settings look a little "dated" to me, at least the one's you posted. you'd have to know she loved one b/f I'd go with it.


You could always go with an idea I had and have a sapphire set in this gorgeous antique setting from Pearlmans. also, Bill helped me find a beautiful tanzanite for a pendent so he can help you find a sapphire too.

link to ring

Item: 046EJ1 - A very pretty 1920's circa diamond semi mount made in 18kt white gold with .25ct of single cut diamonds. Needs a 6mm center stone and is a 5 1/2
Price: $600.00

 

[mrssalvo]

here''s another that would be pretty with a sapphire center, these are estate pieces and timeless IMO

link

Item: 048EJ1 - A 1950''s circa platinum engagement ring size 5 1/4. The ring is set with 4 single cut diamonds weighing .08ct. The ring needs a 3/4ct center diamond. Nice condition and buy.
Price: $450.00

 

[mrssalvo]

last one: here''s a tacori designer setting that has baguette sides which is very classic and pretty IMO, check out his closeout section, there are really some gorgeous settings for great prices in there.

link to ring

 

[onlyforher]

Well, it''s a good thing I''m posting here then! I don''t keep a close eye on the ring market to know wheat looks ten years out of style and what looks timeless. ;-(

Aurelia: I don''t see a picture with your post, did I miss it?

Munchkin: Risky, eh? ok. I''d rather be safe and timeless. (not in the "Your face could stop a clock" sort of way either)
I think oval with trillian looks good too, and it looks like NSC has some. I plan to spend more time with her this weekend, and perhaps take her by a jewlrey store. My gut feeling is that she''s not quite sure herself what she means by ''surrounded by diamonds''.

The trillians are kinda close to the orignal pear shape, and NSC has some good ones, so I''ll place my votes on them ''till I hear if she likes the halo better.

Thanks for thwarting me off the ''swirl'' look. So many choices, choices, choices.

-OnlyForHer

 

[diane5006]

I agree the the swirly one look a bit dated...go with the more 'timeless' designs such as the one with the baguette sides that mrssalvo posted...or the one with the half moon sides...one of my favorites (although I prefer it wiht a cushion shape center)



another sapphire lover

 

[reader]

Avoid the swirly shapes with colored stones, they scream "Walmart".
Sorry buddy, but surrounded does sound like she would like a halo. There is a nice empty Ritani setting on Ebay for under 2000, and a sapphire and diamond 3 stone halo for about 4000. I have a Ritani halo, it is not clunky, and is very durable so far.
Another reason to avoid swirly rings is finding a wedding band that will sit flush with the ring. Gaps can be uncomfortable and can look slapdash.

 

[Larissa]

You may want to think about wedding bands as well. With some of those swirly ring, a band wouldn''t sit well. Will that be important to her? If so, go for something a bit higher set.

I personally think that the rings you pictued look a bit 1980-1990s, but this is all about her taste. Would she like it?

 

[Larissa]

Holy cow!! I just looked at some of the stones from the natural sapphire company and they are beautiful. I picked my favorite with ring (just for fun, I''m not the market) and it came out to $1,828. I can dream, right?!

This setting:

 

[Larissa]

This stone:

 

[reader]

Larissa, wow! That''s under 2 grand? It looks like it would be more expensive than that.

 

[Dee*Jay]

Date: 9/20/2006 2:10:14 AM
Author: onlyforher
Well, it's a good thing I'm posting here then! I don't keep a close eye on the ring market to know wheat looks ten years out of style and what looks timeless. ;-(

-OnlyForHer

Only - I hope I didn't offend you with my comment. It was meant tongue-in-cheek but sometimes that doesn't come across so well on internet.

I like the settings that Mrs. S. posted a lot, especially the Tacori with baguettes, and the one Larissa shows with the halo design is really lovely.

 

[dtnyc]

I think that a sapphire with diamond sides in white gold or platinum would make a lovely engagement ring- I just wanted to bring a few things to your attention. Sapphires are hard- but not as hard as diamonds. They are a 9 on the Mohs scale and diamonds are 10, but the scale is not proportionate:
The Mohs Scale of Hardness
Mohs scale measures the hardness of minerals. Basically, the 10 point scale gauges the "scratchability" of stones and minerals. It is by no means a balanced scale -- the difference in hardness between 9 (ruby) and 10 (diamond) is greater than the difference between 1 (talc) and 9.
A high Mohs rating does not always mean that a gemstone is also tough. The emerald, for example, has a Mohs rating of 7.5-8.0, yet its crystal structure makes it more brittle and prone to cracking and chipping than members of the quartz family that have lower Mohs ratings. Precious metals -- gold, platinum, silver -- have a Mohs rating of about 4, which means that they can be scratched by many gemstones. Care should always be taken to store your jewelry separately.

I would be worried about an oval stone chipping if it wasn''t bezel or halo set- or set east-west. I know that emeralds are more prone to chipping than sapphires, but I was thinking about how my mom had her e-ring reset and made her oval emerald earrings into side stones. They are SO chipped now- she is a school teacher, but doesn''t really engage in any tough or outdoor activities. They chipped rather badly now, just as a result of everyday wear- it''s sad.
Dee*Jay''s ring is gorgeous and I love the fat oval look, but if you are going w/ an oval because of greater size for the $ I would definitely wrap that baby in a halo or bezel setting because if it chips and you have to have it re-cut or polished you are going to lose that additional size. Basically I would worry about the ends of the oval being exposed and hanging over the shank of the ring unprotected and prone to chipping.

Also I know that palladium is slowly gaining in popularity, but it''s still not being widely adopted. I would either just go w/ WG or invest a little more in the ring and get platinum. What if down the road she needs to have the ring sized and you can''t find a jeweler who works with palladium?

 

[diane5006]

Oh I never should have looked the the natural sapphire co website...too many nice stone

Here are a few of my faves

 

[diane5006]

Another...I like the cushiony shape...ooooh with half moon or tapered baguette sides