AGS000 / 0.72ctw / D / SI2 / 18k Gold Shank / Platinum Head

[BMart]

Sometime in the next few months I plan on proposing to my girlfriend. I have done a lot of research and reading about engagement rings and have met with a local jeweler a couple of times. The price that I have been quoted for the ring we designed seems a bit high to me, and I am trying to determine if I am being overcharged, and/or if there is any room for me to negotiate on the price.

The design I have decided upon will be an 18k yellow gold shank with a platinum head. The stones that will be mounted (currently) are an AGS000-triple ideal 0.40ct, D, SI2 center stone with two 0.16ct stones of same color and clarity (one on either side).

The current composition makes the ring 0.72ctw between the three stones. The price that is being asked is $4050 and that just seems very steep. I understand that I am getting the best (or close to the best) possible cut, and the best color, but I have found many comparable rings/stones for quite a bit less.

Are the stones too small, is the price too high, is there anything else I should be considering?

If the price is fair I can handle it - the stones truly seem to glow and sparkle in the dark, and I know brilliance is of utmost importance when it comes to a diamond. But since the market is so fluctuating and often extremely inflated, I would like to be able to get a fair price for the ring.

Thanks in advance for any advice or suggestions.

 

[Niel]

Re: AGS000 / 0.72ctw / D / SI2 / 18k Gold Shank / Platinum H

Does your stone have to be a d in color? This seems steep and the best way to alleviate some of the price is to nake some concession (minimal really) in color. So she wants a 3 stone in yellow gold?

Whats the total budget?

 

[Roxy]

Re: AGS000 / 0.72ctw / D / SI2 / 18k Gold Shank / Platinum H

Does your stone have to be a d in color? This seems steep and the best way to alleviate some of the price is to nake some concession (minimal really) in color. So she wants a 3 stone in yellow gold?

Whats the total budget?

Nielseel makes a great point. If you would be okay coming down in color to 'F' (which is a very small concession & is still in the "colorless" category), you'll be able to lower the price quite a bit.

 

[BMart]

Re: AGS000 / 0.72ctw / D / SI2 / 18k Gold Shank / Platinum H

It does not have to be D in color, but I could see a difference between the D and G (I looked at a number of stones) and the G (only difference being the color, and it was an SI1 rather than an SI2) would cost me $4150.

Yes, I am pretty sure I will be going with a three-stone in yellow gold, as she prefers gold to silver and we both like the three-stone design.

My budget is $4000, I am just trying to determine how to maximize all aspects within that budget, while making sure that the prices are what they should be and not largely inflated.

 

[Niel]

Re: AGS000 / 0.72ctw / D / SI2 / 18k Gold Shank / Platinum H

Sounds lovely. How do you feel about i's?

Also i love a three stone in yellow gold! What does she think about a center round with side pears

Heres a lovely one with about a .5ct
[URL='https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/so-proud-of-my-elegant-3-stone-e-ring.185109/']https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/so-proud-of-my-elegant-3-stone-e-ring.185109/[/URL]

With your budget they have

With the flour it will be perfectly bright!
http://www.briangavindiamonds.com/diamonds/diamond-details/0.582-g-vs2-round-diamond-ags-bl-104062031054
http://www.briangavindiamonds.com/engagement-rings/three-stone/grace-3-stone-pears-18k-yellow-gold-5557y18

 

[diamondseeker2006]

Re: AGS000 / 0.72ctw / D / SI2 / 18k Gold Shank / Platinum H

To tell you the truth, I would far rather have G SI1 than D SI2. You are combining the highest color and low clarity when you do D SI2.

I think you can do much better.

Look at some potential center stones:

http://www.jamesallen.com/#!/loose-diamonds/round-cut/0.40-carat-F-color-SI1-clarity-Excellent-cut-sku-182565

http://www.jamesallen.com/#!/loose-diamonds/round-cut/0.40-carat-F-color-SI1-clarity-Excellent-cut-sku-96282

So we are talking about around $1000 for a center stone. I would think that a three stone setting with yellow gold and platinum heads would be under $1000. James Allen probably can order that for you. A .30 F SI1 is about $500, so two .16's should add up to a total of less than that. So the ring you are planning with the current size stones should be around $2500. I am sorry that some jewelers are SO overpriced. I cannot tolerate being taken advantage of. Of course, that is why I ended up buying from jewelers I found here.

But anyway, what is your total budget? We can find you larger stones if the budget is $4000.

 

[BMart]

Re: AGS000 / 0.72ctw / D / SI2 / 18k Gold Shank / Platinum H

The $4000 I posted is what I plan for a total budget. I am aware that the ring will be pricier if I buy from a small, locally-owned business and I'm okay to take that hit (as long as it's moderately reasonable). I had originally thought that I could do the three-stone design for a 1.0 ctw and be right around that $4000 mark. If I can find a way to make this happen with my local jeweler that would be great.

Also, I'm am not terribly against the pear side stones, but I think I am leaning more towards the round. I know that is also somewhere to reduce costs, but do like the round stones a bit more.

 

[BMart]

Re: AGS000 / 0.72ctw / D / SI2 / 18k Gold Shank / Platinum H

I don't feel great about "I's." If I hadn't seen one next to a "D" my opinion may be different, but side-by-side on a white screen it's an easy choice.

 

[marymm]

Re: AGS000 / 0.72ctw / D / SI2 / 18k Gold Shank / Platinum H

Just for comparison, for $4,329 (wire price) you could get a 1.14ctw 18kt yellow gold / platinum three-stone ring from Brian Gavin Diamond with E-SI1 AGSO Triple Ideal diamonds, the center stone at 0.517ct and the side-stones at 0.31ct each

http://www.briangavindiamonds.com/engagement-rings/classic-three-stone-18k-yellow-gold-5377y18
http://www.briangavindiamonds.com/D...ls/0.517-E-SI1-round-Diamond-AGS-104045953033
http://www.briangavindiamonds.com/d.../0.310-E-SI1-Round-Diamond-AGS-C-104062160049
http://www.briangavindiamonds.com/d.../0.314-E-SI1-Round-Diamond-AGS-C-104062428121

The significant bump-up in clarity and carat weight for me would make the BGD option the clear winner... only you can decide if you prefer to go with a local jeweler and with SI2 clarity for an engagement ring.

 

[Niel]

Re: AGS000 / 0.72ctw / D / SI2 / 18k Gold Shank / Platinum H

Seems like shopping online will get you the most for your money. Also just consider its still A local store, just in someone else's neighborhood

and rounds are nice too, vut your right pears will be cheaper and have more finger coverage

just something to consider

 

[marymm]

Re: AGS000 / 0.72ctw / D / SI2 / 18k Gold Shank / Platinum H

Okay, for comparison I also looked real quick at WhiteFlash, and there for $4,034 (wire price) you could get their 18kt yellow gold / platinum 3-Stone Trellis ring with 0.50ctw ACA side-stones, and a 0.503ct D-VS2 Premium Select center stone (AGSO Ideal Light Performance and Symmetry, but Excellent on Polish) - for a total carat weight of 1.03ctw and significantly higher clarity.

http://www.whiteflash.com/engagemen...tone-trellis-diamond-engagement-ring-1429.htm
http://www.whiteflash.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut-loose-diamond-2632512.htm

 

[diamondseeker2006]

Re: AGS000 / 0.72ctw / D / SI2 / 18k Gold Shank / Platinum H

Okay, for comparison I also looked real quick at WhiteFlash, and there for $4,034 (wire price) you could get their 18kt yellow gold / platinum 3-Stone Trellis ring with 0.50ctw ACA side-stones, and a 0.503ct D-VS2 Premium Select center stone (AGSO Ideal Light Performance and Symmetry, but Excellent on Polish) - for a total carat weight of 1.03ctw and significantly higher clarity.

http://www.whiteflash.com/engagemen...tone-trellis-diamond-engagement-ring-1429.htm
http://www.whiteflash.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut-loose-diamond-2632512.htm

Oh my goodness!!! Easy choice here! Love this option! D VS2 compared to D SI2 is a world of difference not to mention the increase in diamond size!

Oh, and I vastly prefer rounds as side stones with this size center stone.

 

[Niel]

Re: AGS000 / 0.72ctw / D / SI2 / 18k Gold Shank / Platinum H

Okay, for comparison I also looked real quick at WhiteFlash, and there for $4,034 (wire price) you could get their 18kt yellow gold / platinum 3-Stone Trellis ring with 0.50ctw ACA side-stones, and a 0.503ct D-VS2 Premium Select center stone (AGSO Ideal Light Performance and Symmetry, but Excellent on Polish) - for a total carat weight of 1.03ctw and significantly higher clarity.

http://www.whiteflash.com/engagemen...tone-trellis-diamond-engagement-ring-1429.htm
http://www.whiteflash.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut-loose-diamond-2632512.htm

Oh my goodness!!! Easy choice here! Love this option! D VS2 compared to D SI2 is a world of difference not to mention the increase in diamond size!

Oh, and I vastly prefer rounds as side stones with this size center stone.

I wouldnt put a d next to g side stones, and i prefer pears. Really up to the op

 

[Niel]

Re: AGS000 / 0.72ctw / D / SI2 / 18k Gold Shank / Platinum H

id probably pick this f
http://www.whiteflash.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut-loose-diamond-2794525.htm
http://www.whiteflash.com/engagement-rings/three-stone/3-stone-diamond-engagement-ring-542.htm

 

[BMart]

Re: AGS000 / 0.72ctw / D / SI2 / 18k Gold Shank / Platinum H

Wow, thanks everyone. I was hoping that this would make things easier, but in turn I now have a lot more to think about (not necessarily a bad thing).

I guess I have to do some more shopping around. My only fear is ending up with a piece I am not pleased with because there is no chance to view it first-hand before purchase. Other than that aspect, it seems like I can boost the ctw another 40% or so and still stay within range of my budget.

I do agree however, I don't think that I would put a D center stone between two F/G side stones. Simply recalling the difference even I could distinguish between a D and G side-by-side.

 

[diamondseeker2006]

Re: AGS000 / 0.72ctw / D / SI2 / 18k Gold Shank / Platinum H

I LOVE the F stone and it is .62! Definitely this would be a better choice with the side stones!

http://www.whiteflash.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut-loose-diamond-2794525.htm

(When I said I preferred round sides I was just affirming his own choice of round sides. If he was looking for other shape sides, I would help him find those, too!)

The thing is, you don't have to worry about seeing this in advance as they are ideal cut stones. I have ordered a couple of pairs of studs and diamond hoop earrings from WF and you won't find better cut stones. And you have zero to worry about with color this high. And of course, they offer a return policy. But really, you will not come close to this locally. Most of us have been there at some point and found that no one will meet the price/quality of these vendors.

 

[Niel]

Re: AGS000 / 0.72ctw / D / SI2 / 18k Gold Shank / Platinum H

I LOVE the F stone and it is .62! Definitely this would be a better choice with the side stones!

http://www.whiteflash.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut-loose-diamond-2794525.htm

(When I said I preferred round sides I was just affirming his own choice of round sides. If he was looking for other shape sides, I would help him find those, too!)

The thing is, you don't have to worry about seeing this in advance as they are ideal cut stones. I have ordered a couple of pairs of studs and diamond hoop earrings from WF and you won't find better cut stones. And you have zero to worry about with color this high. And of course, they offer a return policy. But really, you will not come close to this locally. Most of us have been there at some point and found that no one will meet the price/quality of these vendors.

I know ds, i was just saying i like pears but i like things a bit more unique, you are probably right, unless she has tiny hands where that extra pear length will really make a difference, round is a great idea

I would have wf hold that stone, i cant see it lasting long (the f).... LIke ds said a well cut round Is easy to pick over the internet. They give you SO much info that you cant go wrong. Plus whiteflasg has a good return pol if for some rrason it doesnt blow yojr socks oFf. But i suspect it will. Its a fear of people starting ojt but really its the best way to streatch your budget.

Eta. Whiteflash give you 75$ off first purchase too

 

[diamondseeker2006]

Re: AGS000 / 0.72ctw / D / SI2 / 18k Gold Shank / Platinum H

(Nielseel...I do adore rounds with side pears,too! I just love them most with larger center stones!)

I do hope you might reserve that .62 F stone while thinking it over because recommended stones often get taken by lurkers. That is not a common size which is why I am saying it. There is a large price jump at .70, so it is a good size stone to choose.

 

[BMart]

Re: AGS000 / 0.72ctw / D / SI2 / 18k Gold Shank / Platinum H

I think I am going to pass on the F. Not so much because of the color, but I am a huge fan of the trellis setting and I think I'd be looking at upwards of $4500 easily for the right setting and proper side stone proportions if I were to choose that center stone. I have been able to get together something that I am hoping I can convince the jeweler to work with me on.

http://www.briangavindiamonds.com/engagement-rings/three-stone-trellis-18k-yellow-gold-5376y18
http://www.briangavindiamonds.com/diamonds/diamond-details/0.463-d-vs2-round-diamond-ags-c-104056653007
http://www.briangavindiamonds.com/diamonds/diamond-details/0.314-e-si1-round-diamond-ags-c-104062428121
http://www.briangavindiamonds.com/diamonds/diamond-details/0.313-e-si1-round-diamond-ags-c-104062033074

My only concern with that is that the center stone may be a little too small for the side stones (or visa versa), but I don't think it would be too bad.

 

[Niel]

Re: AGS000 / 0.72ctw / D / SI2 / 18k Gold Shank / Platinum H

My only concern is i believe that particular bgd 3 stone cant have the prings in plat and shank in gold

 

[Niel]

Re: AGS000 / 0.72ctw / D / SI2 / 18k Gold Shank / Platinum H

And here is a good graffic regarding size

 

[diamondseeker2006]

Re: AGS000 / 0.72ctw / D / SI2 / 18k Gold Shank / Platinum H

My only concern is i believe that particular bgd 3 stone cant have the prongs in plat and shank in gold

I agree and I would only buy one that has the heads for the stones in platinum. You don't want yellow prongs reflecting in the diamonds.