Would you sacrifice colour in an OEC to maximise size?

[dk168]

Ooh interesting, did you go and see some irl? I’m also considering lower clarity after seeing what can be sourced and achieved. The O-P I was looking at was from I&R, they always seem to have some goodies.

Nooo, I am in UK and they are in US I believe.

DK

 

[Agnasia]

Nooo, I am in UK and they are in US I believe.

DK

Me too, just wondered if knew of somewhere to visit over here? I’m going to try Hancocks when I can get in to town but would be good to see as many as possible!

 

[dk168]

Me too, just wondered if knew of somewhere to visit over here? I’m going to try Hancocks when I can get in to town but would be good to see as many as possible!

IMHO, any cuts other than MRBs are rare in UK except for shops that specialise in dealing with high end second hand jewellery such as the ones in Burlington Arcade.

A few of them did not survive Covid unfortunately.

I have only seen one OEC in person, and that belonged to @mochiko42 when we met up in Hong Kong in 2015.

Good luck in finding them in UK!

DK

 

[Agnasia]

IMHO, any cuts other than MRBs are rare in UK except for shops that specialise in dealing with high end second hand jewellery such as the ones in Burlington Arcade.

A few of them did not survive Covid unfortunately.

I have only seen one OEC in person, and that belonged to @mochiko42 when we met up in Hong Kong in 2015.

Good luck in finding them in UK!

DK

Thank you! Good luck on your hunt too!

 

[Agnasia]

I’ve just had the loveliest time in London, thank you so much to @lulu_ma for suggesting Hancocks, I was able to try on the two rings you linked! I felt a little intimidated before going in, you have to ring a buzzer to be let in and I had to choose rings to try from their window, but they couldn’t have been more warm and welcoming. I really enjoyed chatting about diamonds with them.

Everything I tried was beautiful, workmanship is amazing, as is the quality of their diamonds. I took loads of photos and videos, so I hope you enjoy!

The only downside (other than price!) was that because all the settings were lovely and low, they didn’t work so well with my wedding band so that is something I need to consider.

On with the gorgeousness!

First pick - three stone bezel with pears in 18ct gold, centre is 1.77ct F SI2, loved the facet pattern on this!

Three Stone Bezel 1.77ct

This is "Three Stone Bezel 1.77ct" by Agnes Dewhirst on Vimeo, the home for high quality videos and the people who love them.

vimeo.com

Next was the 1.73ct N VS2 solitaire, I was fine with the colour, very soft and lemony I would say but looked beautiful and seems to sit well against my wedding band even though I can see the tint.

1.73ct N Solitaire

This is "1.73ct N Solitaire" by Agnes Dewhirst on Vimeo, the home for high quality videos and the people who love them.

vimeo.com

This is the same setting as the first three stone but in platinum with rose cuts and a smaller centre, this time 1.01ct F VS2. I think this style probably works best with my wedding band although would need to size up my wedding band so they can stack (although it’s very warm and humid today so my finger will be swollen).



Now this surprised me, I’m not a fan of yellow gold but really liked the brushed effect in 18ct and also liked the pear! I loved how simple and easy the setting is, but it does not work with my wedding band. Stats are 1.48ct I VS2.

1.48ct Pear Solitaire

This is "1.48ct Pear Solitaire" by Agnes Dewhirst on Vimeo, the home for high quality videos and the people who love them.

vimeo.com

I tried a halo and wasn’t so keen on it close up, but from a distance (they have a full length mirror to look at) I have to say I was seduced by the bling!! It’s not such a practical setting though and the hep means it’s sits far away from my band. Too gappy. Centre is 1.28ct G VS2. Definitely can see why halos have been described as push up bras for diamonds!!



Not for me but I could definitely appreciate this almost moval 1.70ct D IF!!



Holy moly it’s the 2.87ct L VVS1! Just gorgeous! I could see the colour much more I feel than the N, but probably due to the size! So beautiful.

2.87ct L OEC

This is "2.87ct L OEC" by Agnes Dewhirst on Vimeo, the home for high quality videos and the people who love them.

vimeo.com

Comparison of D oval and L OEC

D Oval vs L OEC

This is "D Oval vs L OEC" by Agnes Dewhirst on Vimeo, the home for high quality videos and the people who love them.

vimeo.com

4.90ct eternity anyone??! The delicate milgrain and engraving is just stunning.

 

[RetroQT]

I’ve just had the loveliest time in London, thank you so much to @lulu_ma for suggesting Hancocks, I was able to try on the two rings you linked! I felt a little intimidated before going in, you have to ring a buzzer to be let in and I had to choose rings to try from their window, but they couldn’t have been more warm and welcoming. I really enjoyed chatting about diamonds with them.

Everything I tried was beautiful, workmanship is amazing, as is the quality of their diamonds. I took loads of photos and videos, so I hope you enjoy!

The only downside (other than price!) was that because all the settings were lovely and low, they didn’t work so well with my wedding band so that is something I need to consider.

On with the gorgeousness!

First pick - three stone bezel with pears in 18ct gold, centre is 1.77ct F SI2, loved the facet pattern on this!

Three Stone Bezel 1.77ct

This is "Three Stone Bezel 1.77ct" by Agnes Dewhirst on Vimeo, the home for high quality videos and the people who love them.

vimeo.com

Next was the 1.73ct N VS2 solitaire, I was fine with the colour, very soft and lemony I would say but looked beautiful and seems to sit well against my wedding band even though I can see the tint.

1.73ct N Solitaire

This is "1.73ct N Solitaire" by Agnes Dewhirst on Vimeo, the home for high quality videos and the people who love them.

vimeo.com

This is the same setting as the first three stone but in platinum with rose cuts and a smaller centre, this time 1.01ct F VS2. I think this style probably works best with my wedding band although would need to size up my wedding band so they can stack (although it’s very warm and humid today so my finger will be swollen).



Now this surprised me, I’m not a fan of yellow gold but really liked the brushed effect in 18ct and also liked the pear! I loved how simple and easy the setting is, but it does not work with my wedding band. Stats are 1.48ct I VS2.

1.48ct Pear Solitaire

This is "1.48ct Pear Solitaire" by Agnes Dewhirst on Vimeo, the home for high quality videos and the people who love them.

vimeo.com

I tried a halo and wasn’t so keen on it close up, but from a distance (they have a full length mirror to look at) I have to say I was seduced by the bling!! It’s not such a practical setting though and the hep means it’s sits far away from my band. Too gappy. Centre is 1.28ct G VS2. Definitely can see why halos have been described as push up bras for diamonds!!



Not for me but I could definitely appreciate this almost moval 1.70ct D IF!!



Holy moly it’s the 2.87ct L VVS1! Just gorgeous! I could see the colour much more I feel than the N, but probably due to the size! So beautiful.

2.87ct L OEC

This is "2.87ct L OEC" by Agnes Dewhirst on Vimeo, the home for high quality videos and the people who love them.

vimeo.com

Comparison of D oval and L OEC

D Oval vs L OEC

This is "D Oval vs L OEC" by Agnes Dewhirst on Vimeo, the home for high quality videos and the people who love them.

vimeo.com

4.90ct eternity anyone??! The delicate milgrain and engraving is just stunning.

All so stunning! Did you have any takeaways from seeing such variety in person? Did it help you narrow down more of what you might be looking for?

 

[LLJsmom]

The more you see the more you will discover and learn about your own preferences. A well cut L may be more beautiful to you than a mushy I. But also try to figure out how long you will be “ok” with the lower color. I bought a stunning K, but over time (took about 4 years) I started not liking the tint. A gorgeous OEC will always grab you at first sight with its huge flashes. You fall hard fast (the hot guy/girl). But you need more time to get to know all aspects of the stone. In the perfect lighting, I had no complaints about my K. But it was in dimmer lighting that I wanted it to be brighter, grab my attention. And I didn’t love the tint I saw in darker light (which is how real life is.). How many of us walk around with a lighting system for our diamonds. I even changed the lightbulb to white light in my family room, and it still wasn’t bright enough. Then I switched back to an E MRB, cause I’m extreme. . But I would consider another OEC someday. But I know I need an I-J, and I may go for idea cut, but those are my issues. Whichever stone you choose try to see it in all lighting environments and if you have a chance to wear for a couple days around your house, then take that opportunity to be picky. Good luck!

 

[Agnasia]

All so stunning! Did you have any takeaways from seeing such variety in person? Did it help you narrow down more of what you might be looking for?

So hard as it was all so beautiful! I still really like a three stone bezel, I think I’m open to pears too but may need to think about the setting to go with my band.

I love the size of 1.7ct but know that’s not an option budget wise, even though that’s not been nailed down yet! I’m open to lower colours L/M/N but I saw these prong set rather than bezel set and I don’t if that would impact the colour.

 

[Agnasia]

The more you see the more you will discover and learn about your own preferences. A well cut L may be more beautiful to you than a mushy I. But also try to figure out how long you will be “ok” with the lower color. I bought a stunning K, but over time (took about 4 years) I started not liking the tint. A gorgeous OEC will always grab you at first sight with its huge flashes. You fall hard fast (the hot guy/girl). But you need more time to get to know all aspects of the stone. In the perfect lighting, I had no complaints about my K. But it was in dimmer lighting that I wanted it to be brighter, grab my attention. And I didn’t love the tint I saw in darker light (which is how real life is.). How many of us walk around with a lighting system for our diamonds. I even changed the lightbulb to white light in my family room, and it still wasn’t bright enough. Then I switched back to an E MRB, cause I’m extreme. . But I would consider another OEC someday. But I know I need an I-J, and I may go for idea cut, but those are my issues. Whichever stone you choose try to see it in all lighting environments and if you have a chance to wear for a couple days around your house, then take that opportunity to be picky. Good luck!

Thank you, I really appreciate the input. You’re right, they grab you right away and the lighting makes them look incredible, but as you say that’s not real life. I currently have an I and have had no issues with that at all, it still looks white to me. It’s hard as there are so few on these lower colours in the UK to actually test out.

 

[Agnasia]

I also went to Tiffany’s as it was right around the corner! I looked at stacking bands, in case this all gets a bit much for hubby and he wants to start with something smaller first.

Again really lovely service.

Soleste is easy and could go with other rings too



Embrace is higher set so look visibly wider than my wedding band which I’m not keen on



Loved the Jazz with rounds but they told me it’s been discontinued They only have a size 5 and other stores are out of stock in my size



Two from the True range I liked ~

Narrow band



Also the band ring

 

[lulu_ma]

@Agnasia thanks for ALL the eye candy! I'm so glad that Hancocks had a good selection for you to look at-so many pretties! Looks like you had loads of colors and shapes to look at.

 

[Agnasia]

@Agnasia thanks for ALL the eye candy! I'm so glad that Hancocks had a good selection for you to look at-so many pretties! Looks like you had loads of colors and shapes to look at.

It was an absolute joy and they were so knowledgeable too, best experience so far by a long way!

 

[Cerulean]

I’ve just had the loveliest time in London, thank you so much to @lulu_ma for suggesting Hancocks, I was able to try on the two rings you linked! I felt a little intimidated before going in, you have to ring a buzzer to be let in and I had to choose rings to try from their window, but they couldn’t have been more warm and welcoming. I really enjoyed chatting about diamonds with them.

Everything I tried was beautiful, workmanship is amazing, as is the quality of their diamonds. I took loads of photos and videos, so I hope you enjoy!

The only downside (other than price!) was that because all the settings were lovely and low, they didn’t work so well with my wedding band so that is something I need to consider.

On with the gorgeousness!

First pick - three stone bezel with pears in 18ct gold, centre is 1.77ct F SI2, loved the facet pattern on this!

Three Stone Bezel 1.77ct

This is "Three Stone Bezel 1.77ct" by Agnes Dewhirst on Vimeo, the home for high quality videos and the people who love them.

vimeo.com

Next was the 1.73ct N VS2 solitaire, I was fine with the colour, very soft and lemony I would say but looked beautiful and seems to sit well against my wedding band even though I can see the tint.

1.73ct N Solitaire

This is "1.73ct N Solitaire" by Agnes Dewhirst on Vimeo, the home for high quality videos and the people who love them.

vimeo.com

This is the same setting as the first three stone but in platinum with rose cuts and a smaller centre, this time 1.01ct F VS2. I think this style probably works best with my wedding band although would need to size up my wedding band so they can stack (although it’s very warm and humid today so my finger will be swollen).



Now this surprised me, I’m not a fan of yellow gold but really liked the brushed effect in 18ct and also liked the pear! I loved how simple and easy the setting is, but it does not work with my wedding band. Stats are 1.48ct I VS2.

1.48ct Pear Solitaire

This is "1.48ct Pear Solitaire" by Agnes Dewhirst on Vimeo, the home for high quality videos and the people who love them.

vimeo.com

I tried a halo and wasn’t so keen on it close up, but from a distance (they have a full length mirror to look at) I have to say I was seduced by the bling!! It’s not such a practical setting though and the hep means it’s sits far away from my band. Too gappy. Centre is 1.28ct G VS2. Definitely can see why halos have been described as push up bras for diamonds!!



Not for me but I could definitely appreciate this almost moval 1.70ct D IF!!



Holy moly it’s the 2.87ct L VVS1! Just gorgeous! I could see the colour much more I feel than the N, but probably due to the size! So beautiful.

2.87ct L OEC

This is "2.87ct L OEC" by Agnes Dewhirst on Vimeo, the home for high quality videos and the people who love them.

vimeo.com

Comparison of D oval and L OEC

D Oval vs L OEC

This is "D Oval vs L OEC" by Agnes Dewhirst on Vimeo, the home for high quality videos and the people who love them.

vimeo.com

4.90ct eternity anyone??! The delicate milgrain and engraving is just stunning.

Well this looks like you had a fabulous time! It’s so fun seeing so many different flavors in one go. I’ve coveted that 1.77 F OEC with the antique pears since the moment I saw it. It’s an outstanding ring, just criminally expensive! Boooo

So glad you had such a lovely experience! Which were your favorites, now that you’ve had a chance to reflect?

 

[Agnasia]

Well this looks like you had a fabulous time! It’s so fun seeing so many different flavors in one go. I’ve coveted that 1.77 F OEC with the antique pears since the moment I saw it. It’s an outstanding ring, just criminally expensive! Boooo

So glad you had such a lovely experience! Which were your favorites, now that you’ve had a chance to reflect?

Ooh good question! Definitely the 1.77 three stone, insane cut on the centre stone. In person I really loved the pear, but looking back on the photos and video now I’m less sure. The 2.87ct purely for fantasy!

I’ve just looked up the prices on their website and while I was expecting it to be less, the rose cut three stone is actually quite reasonable (well in comparison to the others). It kind of looked like water in real life, more sparkly than I expected but it doesn’t look great in photos. It converts to $5310, not sure if that’s a good price or not, as the centre is smaller.

Rose Cut Three Stone

This is "Rose Cut Three Stone" by Agnes Dewhirst on Vimeo, the home for high quality videos and the people who love them.

vimeo.com

 

[RetroQT]

Rose Cut Three Stone

This is "Rose Cut Three Stone" by Agnes Dewhirst on Vimeo, the home for high quality videos and the people who love them.

vimeo.com

This one was my favorite.

 

[Agnasia]

This one was my favorite.

Ooh interesting, thank you!

 

[Cerulean]

Ooh good question! Definitely the 1.77 three stone, insane cut on the centre stone. In person I really loved the pear, but looking back on the photos and video now I’m less sure. The 2.87ct purely for fantasy!

I’ve just looked up the prices on their website and while I was expecting it to be less, the rose cut three stone is actually quite reasonable (well in comparison to the others). It kind of looked like water in real life, more sparkly than I expected but it doesn’t look great in photos. It converts to $5310, not sure if that’s a good price or not, as the centre is smaller.

Rose Cut Three Stone

This is "Rose Cut Three Stone" by Agnes Dewhirst on Vimeo, the home for high quality videos and the people who love them.

vimeo.com

I’ve never owned a rose cut (although I’d love to), so I’ll preface with that. I think they are very different from OECs and keep in mind, you’re seeing it in PERFECT store lighting and I’ve read on the forum that rose cuts get dirty very easily and shimmer more than sparkle. I feel like you may be disappointed with the performance compared to an OEC over time, if I’m being honest. My impression is that you’re tempted by the price and similarity to the ring you really love, less so in love with the stone.

With all that being said, I do think it’s a beautiful ring. Just ask yourself if it’s what you truly want!

 

[Agnasia]

I’ve never owned a rose cut (although I’d love to), so I’ll preface with that. I think they are very different from OECs and keep in mind, you’re seeing it in PERFECT store lighting and I’ve read on the forum that rose cuts get dirty very easily and shimmer more than sparkle. I feel like you may be disappointed with the performance compared to an OEC over time, if I’m being honest. My impression is that you’re tempted by the price and similarity to the ring you really love, less so in love with the stone.

With all that being said, I do think it’s a beautiful ring. Just ask yourself if it’s what you truly want!

Yes all really good points to consider. I could definitely tell it was a different cut and totally understand the shimmer description, it looked like moving water to me. I have no idea if that will disappoint over time. And yes if I’m honest I am tempted by the fact this seems an obtainable way to get the ring I love, although I did pick it as a fave from the window and it is beautiful and unique which I value.

But I also think I need to be realistic about whether I can truly get close to a ring I absolutely love in terms of quality, for a price that hubby would be comfortable with, as well as how many compromises I need to make. I need to think about colour and whether that could end up disappointing me over time too, as much I seem to be ok with the lower colours in premium lighting. It’s obviously not the main factor (cut has been), but I also need to acknowledge the two three stone rings I have loved have been pretty white.

 

[AL12]

Yes all really good points to consider. I could definitely tell it was a different cut and totally understand the shimmer description, it looked like moving water to me. I have no idea if that will disappoint over time. And yes if I’m honest I am tempted by the fact this seems an obtainable way to get the ring I love, although I did pick it as a fave from the window and it is beautiful and unique which I value.

But I also think I need to be realistic about whether I can truly get close to a ring I absolutely love in terms of quality, for a price that hubby would be comfortable with, as well as how many compromises I need to make. I need to think about colour and whether that could end up disappointing me over time too, as much I seem to be ok with the lower colours in premium lighting. It’s obviously not the main factor (cut has been), but I also need to acknowledge the two three stone rings I have loved have been pretty white.

Yayyy for all the eye candy!! I could write a long post but I 100% echo @LLJsmom about really really being okay with the tint for these old cuts. I know you’ve seen my “turmoil” in the other thread. The first thoughts that came to mind with your pictures was “gorgeous!!” Followed by “I hope she was able to see the rings in a variety of lightings!”. Also love her statement about them being the hot guy/girl out the gate… oh man experienced this as well. If you ever have a chance to go back, I would ask if you can walk around with it…or see what their return policy is so you can utilize it? You really may love warm colors, I know lots of PS-ers do but it’s good to be sure before you commit.

Also agree with @Cerulean about rose cuts. They are more affordable for a reason and you may (or may not!) regret having it as your main LHR. I adore rose cuts too and they are definitely on my wish list but as they tend to be more affordable I have it more as a “for fun” tier on my wish list. Something about liking old cuts must draw us to rose cuts too huh? But from your photo I couldn’t even clearly tell it was a rose cut, so pretty!

Also @lulu_ma is so good at gently but firmly having us go look at these stones irl. A+ for her effort!

 

[Agnasia]

Yayyy for all the eye candy!! I could write a long post but I 100% echo @LLJsmom about really really being okay with the tint for these old cuts. I know you’ve seen my “turmoil” in the other thread. The first thoughts that came to mind with your pictures was “gorgeous!!” Followed by “I hope she was able to see the rings in a variety of lightings!”. Also love her statement about them being the hot guy/girl out the gate… oh man experienced this as well. If you ever have a chance to go back, I would ask if you can walk around with it…or see what their return policy is so you can utilize it? You really may love warm colors, I know lots of PS-ers do but it’s good to be sure before you commit.

Also agree with @Cerulean about rose cuts. They are more affordable for a reason and you may (or may not!) regret having it as your main LHR. I adore rose cuts too and they are definitely on my wish list but as they tend to be more affordable I have it more as a “for fun” tier on my wish list. Something about liking old cuts must draw us to rose cuts too huh? But from your photo I couldn’t even clearly tell it was a rose cut, so pretty!

Also @lulu_ma is so good at gently but firmly having us go look at these stones irl. A+ for her effort!

Ha ha you’re welcome!! Yes I’ve seen your deliberations and seeing some more today has definitely shown me how you can be knocked by the sparkle, but totally agree a ring is for a life time (hopefully) rather than just a hot date! Seeing the tint for a few minutes rather than day in and day out is a different scenario, I get that. The shop is inside a covered parade of shops so there isn’t any natural light readily available unfortunately. There seems to be an upstairs, so they may have windows and I could potentially ask for a video if they are open to doing that. They have a 14 day return policy, so that is an option too.

I’ve always been interested in rose cuts but never had the chance to see any irl before, they feel different and unique, but I guess I need to think if I will still long for an old european cut.

It has definitely helped seeing more old cuts but also created confusion, as I loved all the rings I tried just in different ways!

 

[Cerulean]

Ha ha you’re welcome!! Yes I’ve seen your deliberations and seeing some more today has definitely shown me how you can be knocked by the sparkle, but totally agree a ring is for a life time (hopefully) rather than just a hot date! Seeing the tint for a few minutes rather than day in and day out is a different scenario, I get that. The shop is inside a covered parade of shops so there isn’t any natural light readily available unfortunately. There seems to be an upstairs, so they may have windows and I could potentially ask for a video if they are open to doing that. They have a 14 day return policy, so that is an option too.

I’ve always been interested in rose cuts but never had the chance to see any irl before, they feel different and unique, but I guess I need to think if I will still long for an old european cut.

It has definitely helped seeing more old cuts but also created confusion, as I loved all the rings I tried just in different ways!

They are all so beautiful IRL, that it’s easy to become intoxicated in the store. And of course everything looks flashy and fabulous in store lighting!

When I went to Lang, I almost impulsively bought a 2.38 M OEC that was GORGEOUS instead of continuing a hunt for my OMC, and a friend talked me off the ledge because a) it’s a flashy, gorgeous cut but not what I wanted in my heart of hearts b) I expressed concern about the size c) I still wanted a yellower stone

She was right to do so! And it sold that afternoon after I left…and I didn’t feel devastated!

Give it a few days/weeks. Something will pull at your heartstrings more than others.

 

[lulu_ma]

Yayyy for all the eye candy!! I could write a long post but I 100% echo @LLJsmom about really really being okay with the tint for these old cuts. I know you’ve seen my “turmoil” in the other thread. The first thoughts that came to mind with your pictures was “gorgeous!!” Followed by “I hope she was able to see the rings in a variety of lightings!”. Also love her statement about them being the hot guy/girl out the gate… oh man experienced this as well. If you ever have a chance to go back, I would ask if you can walk around with it…or see what their return policy is so you can utilize it? You really may love warm colors, I know lots of PS-ers do but it’s good to be sure before you commit.

Also agree with @Cerulean about rose cuts. They are more affordable for a reason and you may (or may not!) regret having it as your main LHR. I adore rose cuts too and they are definitely on my wish list but as they tend to be more affordable I have it more as a “for fun” tier on my wish list. Something about liking old cuts must draw us to rose cuts too huh? But from your photo I couldn’t even clearly tell it was a rose cut, so pretty!

Also @lulu_ma is so good at gently but firmly having us go look at these stones irl. A+ for her effort!

The Research is fun!

 

[AL12]

It has definitely helped seeing more old cuts but also created confusion, as I loved all the rings I tried just in different ways!

Welcome to the confused club

We will find our way somehow with the help of all the great PSers here

 

[Agnasia]

They are all so beautiful IRL, that it’s easy to become intoxicated in the store. And of course everything looks flashy and fabulous in store lighting!

When I went to Lang, I almost impulsively bought a 2.38 M OEC that was GORGEOUS instead of continuing a hunt for my OMC, and a friend talked me off the ledge because a) it’s a flashy, gorgeous cut but not what I wanted in my heart of hearts b) I expressed concern about the size c) I still wanted a yellower stone

She was right to do so! And it sold that afternoon after I left…and I didn’t feel devastated!

Give it a few days/weeks. Something will pull at your heartstrings more than others.

Intoxicated is such a good word! I was drunk on bling!

Oh I can so see how that could happen given my experience today. I guess it helps to be super clear on what you want and remind yourself of that. What’s making it harder for me is that I’m still figuring it out so I want them all!!!

I know I should take time, but I get impatient! I’m sure my husband will slow me down!

The Research is fun!

It definitely is!

Welcome to the confused club

We will find our way somehow with the help of all the great PSers here

Thank you

 

[junebug17]

@Agnasia, thank you for all the pics - Beautiful eye candy! I"m glad you had a chance to see so many different styles. The pear is beautiful...such a pretty shape on the hand and nice finger coverage.

Love the 3 stones too. Very cool to see an F old cut. I'm glad you had a chance to check out halos, they do add finger coverage and sparkle.

And I have to say...that rose cut ring is really pretty! The center diamond has a higher crown (not sure rose cuts have crowns but hopefully you know what I mean!) than I've seen on other rose cuts, and I think that's giving it some extra sparkle. It looks beautiful with your wedding band.

These are just my random thoughts lol! PP's have made some good points, I know there's a lot to consider.

 

[Agnasia]

@Agnasia, thank you for all the pics - Beautiful eye candy! I"m glad you had a chance to see so many different styles. The pear is beautiful...such a pretty shape on the hand and nice finger coverage.

Love the 3 stones too. Very cool to see an F old cut. I'm glad you had a chance to check out halos, they do add finger coverage and sparkle.

And I have to say...that rose cut ring is really pretty! The center diamond has a higher crown (not sure rose cuts have crowns but hopefully you know what I mean!) than I've seen on other rose cuts, and I think that's giving it some extra sparkle. It looks beautiful with your wedding band.

These are just my random thoughts lol! PP's have made some good points, I know there's a lot to consider.

I’m glad you enjoyed it all! It was wonderful to try so many beautiful rings. I’m open to trying anything to figure out what I’m looking for.

Thank you for your thoughts, I welcome any and all input! The rose cut is really pretty and was so much more sparkly than I expected. Yes it has a high crown which I wasn’t expecting either.

Lots to think about!

 

[Agnasia]

So I’ve had more of a chat with hubby about styles and budget. He’s not so keen on blingy styles or anything too flashy so need to balance that for my desire for finger coverage! His preferred styles were the solitaires, the 1.73ct and the pear, as well as the three stone from grays antiques. He also liked the rose cut three stone. The 1.77ct three stone he found a bit too big and think the yellow gold was throwing him a bit.

I’m terms of budget he is saying around $6-7k, there may be some flexibility as he said not to go mad(!) so it’s a ballpark, but I wouldn’t want to push it unnecessarily.

I have seen a couple of diamonds that may have potential to I’m asking about them. I think I’m more drawn to three stones and I think the budget may suit it more? Getting a big enough solitaire may not be doable in the budget?

 

[AL12]

I think we are in very similar situations! My husband is shocked at the cost but at the same time I realize these blingy things are pricey so I get sticker shock with him…but since he knows I’m a research nut and cautious with finances he’s giving me a bit more free reign to determine the budget.

He also prefers solitaires and not too blingy but I think he’s learned over the years that I have a strong aesthetic preference and it doesn’t fare well when I am unhappy with the outcome of a certain look or design

Anyhow I would like to gently suggest design wise that you try and get what you want and what makes YOU happy. You will be the one staring at your hand and while he will probably just see it flash here and there. Mine will give his honest opinions on his preferences but say at the end of the day it’s my choice. Sometimes it drives me mad!!! But he’s probably just wisened up to exempt himself from getting in trouble in case things go south

Sorry if I misread or missed some posts but you want white gold and a three ring OEC right? I do not know how much she’s selling her ring but have you seen this ring? It may be over budget… but it may not??

Maven Lane Antiques LLC on Instagram: "Personal Engagement Ring! 2.44 total carat weight! No bad juju here! Hubby and I are about to celebrate our 10th wedding anniversary and would like to change up our rings. This Ring is truly Incredible! I hand

687 likes, 23 comments - maven.lane.antiques on August 20, 2022: "Personal Engagement Ring! 2.44 total carat weight! No bad juju here! Hubby and I are about to celebrate our 10th wedding anniversary and ...".

www.instagram.com

Have you considered OWD? He made a fantastic trilogy for @Daimond-Friend and was well within budget similar to yours.

And lastly have you considered lab/man made OECs? IMO lab OECs have been looking great! Lab OMCs are another story…

 

[AL12]

Collins Family Jewelers on Instagram: "$5,000-$10,000 diamond rings! You ask and we listen! Making sure we have something for everyone is so important to us. We custom make as much as we can and use recycled materials to keep our pricing STRONG Te

225 likes, 6 comments - collinsfamilyjewelers on August 11, 2022: "$5,000-$10,000 diamond rings! You ask and we listen! Making sure we have something for everyone is so important to us. We cu...".

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Top middle finger is over budget but they have a layaway plan + accept trade ins if you have anything to offer

Sorry not entirely sure what kind of setting you are envisioning but the only three stone OECs I know off hand are the type of settings that I like

 

[Agnasia]

I think we are in very similar situations! My husband is shocked at the cost but at the same time I realize these blingy things are pricey so I get sticker shock with him…but since he knows I’m a research nut and cautious with finances he’s giving me a bit more free reign to determine the budget.

He also prefers solitaires and not too blingy but I think he’s learned over the years that I have a strong aesthetic preference and it doesn’t fare well when I am unhappy with the outcome of a certain look or design

Anyhow I would like to gently suggest design wise that you try and get what you want and what makes YOU happy. You will be the one staring at your hand and while he will probably just see it flash here and there. Mine will give his honest opinions on his preferences but say at the end of the day it’s my choice. Sometimes it drives me mad!!! But he’s probably just wisened up to exempt himself from getting in trouble in case things go south

Sorry if I misread or missed some posts but you want white gold and a three ring OEC right? I do not know how much she’s selling her ring but have you seen this ring? It may be over budget… but it may not??

Maven Lane Antiques LLC on Instagram: "Personal Engagement Ring! 2.44 total carat weight! No bad juju here! Hubby and I are about to celebrate our 10th wedding anniversary and would like to change up our rings. This Ring is truly Incredible! I hand

687 likes, 23 comments - maven.lane.antiques on August 20, 2022: "Personal Engagement Ring! 2.44 total carat weight! No bad juju here! Hubby and I are about to celebrate our 10th wedding anniversary and ...".

www.instagram.com

Have you considered OWD? He made a fantastic trilogy for @Daimond-Friend and was well within budget similar to yours.

And lastly have you considered lab/man made OECs? IMO lab OECs have been looking great! Lab OMCs are another story…

Yes I think it’s been a real shock to him and it’s taken time for it to all sink in. He does trust me and knows I wouldn’t overspend.

Yes thank you, I will focus on what I like but I also want to make sure it’s not something he hates! There is a balance to be found. I still think I love the three stone OEC bezel from grays the most. I am keen on bezels as they are smoother and more practical (no prongs to get knocked or catching on things) and love the look. I would do the ring in platinum so I can wear it with my wedding band.

I have seen that ring thank you, it’s beautiful but not completely what I am looking for, plus I suspect it would be over budget. I hope someone gets it though as it’s lovely.

Yes I think OWD would be a good option as he has a big inventory. I’m also looking at I&R as they seem to have very keenly priced OECs but not sure if they would be able to create the setting I am after?

I did for a while consider lab, but I’m not sure they’re mind clean for me. Also I think it would mean going to DG which isn’t so much cheaper in the end.