Aquamarine engagement ring on a budget. Any suggestions?

[chrono]

Yes, he ships to all over the world and is well known on PS for his innovative and unique cut designs. I would verify if you still have to pay customs since you are considered in the same EU but I know you still have to pay VAT. Many here have purchased from OsirisGems. To me, most of his stones is about the cut with less focus on trade desired colours.

 

[vito89]

I can testify that we don't pay customs within the EU but we pay VAT. Vat is usually calculated from the seller so, in this case it is 19% because he lives in Germany. In Italy vat is 21% but I'm pretty sure they wouldn't make me pay the 2% difference, and even if they did, it would be just a few euros.

 

[vito89]

I got in touch with Uli at osirisgems and he has got two untreated roughs:

- one a bit more bluish for the Tudor's Kaleidoskop cut (http://www.osirisgems.com/images/TanUmb5.11_1.JPG)

- one with a bit more green for the Rands Cut Corner Rectangle ( http://www.osirisgems.com/images/VolodarskBeryll16.67_2.JPG )

He says that the difference between the two are: more smaller sparkles with the “Rands CCR” and more big facets accents in the “TK”. Now, as I don't know the technical words (and english is not my mother-tongue unfortunately), could you please tell me the differences in an easier way? What are bigger facet accents?

I think I'll go for the Rands CCR but I'll first ask for more pictures from a different prospective because I can't understand if it is a sort of rectangular cut, also because he described it more as an "oblated round".

Do you think that the Rands CCR is much different from a rectangular radiant cut or an octagon cut?

 

[chrono]

I would opt for the Rands cut because of the outline and also a busier design will help offset the aquamarine's low RI (more sparkly and less obvious tilt window).

 

[Lula]

I got in touch with Uli at osirisgems and he has got two untreated roughs:

- one a bit more bluish for the Tudor's Kaleidoskop cut (http://www.osirisgems.com/images/TanUmb5.11_1.JPG)

- one with a bit more green for the Rands Cut Corner Rectangle ( http://www.osirisgems.com/images/VolodarskBeryll16.67_2.JPG )

He says that the difference between the two are: more smaller sparkles with the “Rands CCR” and more big facets accents in the “TK”. Now, as I don't know the technical words (and english is not my mother-tongue unfortunately), could you please tell me the differences in an easier way? What are bigger facet accents?

I think I'll go for the Rands CCR but I'll first ask for more pictures from a different prospective because I can't understand if it is a sort of rectangular cut, also because he described it more as an "oblated round".

Do you think that the Rands CCR is much different from a rectangular radiant cut or an octagon cut?

Another vote for the Rands CCR. I own a square-cut aquamarine (cut by Peter Torraca) that has "smaller facet accents" on the table, and the result is less windowing (a good thing) and more play of light when the stone moves (a good thing). I believe a good cut is essential in an aquamarine. You've found an expert cutter in Uli.

 

[vito89]

I got in touch with Uli at osirisgems and he has got two untreated roughs:

- one a bit more bluish for the Tudor's Kaleidoskop cut (http://www.osirisgems.com/images/TanUmb5.11_1.JPG)

- one with a bit more green for the Rands Cut Corner Rectangle ( http://www.osirisgems.com/images/VolodarskBeryll16.67_2.JPG )

He says that the difference between the two are: more smaller sparkles with the “Rands CCR” and more big facets accents in the “TK”. Now, as I don't know the technical words (and english is not my mother-tongue unfortunately), could you please tell me the differences in an easier way? What are bigger facet accents?

I think I'll go for the Rands CCR but I'll first ask for more pictures from a different prospective because I can't understand if it is a sort of rectangular cut, also because he described it more as an "oblated round".

Do you think that the Rands CCR is much different from a rectangular radiant cut or an octagon cut?

Another vote for the Rands CCR. I own a square-cut aquamarine (cut by Peter Torraca) that has "smaller facet accents" on the table, and the result is less windowing (a good thing) and more play of light when the stone moves (a good thing). I believe a good cut is essential in an aquamarine. You've found an expert cutter in Uli.

Could you please show me a picture of your aquamarine? Even if it is a different cut, it is just to see what a good cut from an expert can do to an aquamarine? Also, have you got a treated or untreated aquamarine?

Thanks a lot.


EDIT: Another question. Do you know any goldsmiths I can speak to in order to create a simple solitaire ring once I get the gemstone (if you knew someone in the UK, so that I could meet them in person, it would be better )

Also, should I go for white or yellow gold in order to make the stone's colour stand out?

 

[Lula]

Hi, vito,
My aqua is unheated. I like more green in aquamarines and the color of my aqua is definitely blue-green, not blue, or greenish-blue. Here is what Peter said about the cut of my stone:

"Design-wise, this aqua is completely custom. My original thought was to make it an asscher, but once I got it to the machine, I found I couldn't cut the corners off. I improvised from there."

I've attached a photo of my aqua taken in indirect light, outside on a sunny day. I am wearing a black shirt and standing in front of a beige car in my driveway (the stone is reflecting those colors). The cut of the stone is a clipped-corner square with a very art-deco-style facet pattern. It's about 7.5 x 7.5 millimeters, length x width.

 

[vito89]

Hi, vito,
My aqua is unheated. I like more green in aquamarines and the color of my aqua is definitely blue-green, not blue, or greenish-blue. Here is what Peter said about the cut of my stone:

"Design-wise, this aqua is completely custom. My original thought was to make it an asscher, but once I got it to the machine, I found I couldn't cut the corners off. I improvised from there."

I've attached a photo of my aqua taken in indirect light, outside on a sunny day. I am wearing a black shirt and standing in front of a beige car in my driveway (the stone is reflecting those colors). The cut of the stone is a clipped-corner square with a very art-deco-style facet pattern. It's about 7.5 x 7.5 millimeters, length x width.

I do like your ring! I think that the colour is beautiful and I hope that mine will turn out to be about the same as yours, colour wise. When I contacted Uli I used the following aquamarine as a reference:

http://www.osirisgems.com/images/BraAqu16.21_1

He said that the rough he is going to use for me has got a much better clarity and that it could be eyeclean in the end (fingers crossed).
He also added that, being smaller than that used as reference (16cts), the colour is going to be less saturated. The maximum size he can obtain from that rough for a Rands CCR is 8x10mm. Do you think I should go for 8x10mm or should I ask for a few mm less, like 6x8? I should probably go for 8x10mm if I want the colour to show up better, right? Is the difference between 6x8 and 8x10 that noticeable on a size 4 ring?

I know I ask too many questions but I am about to spend, what it is for me, a lot of money.

 

[Lula]

Thanks, vito. It's not set in a setting, by the way. That's a stone holder that jewelry stores provide so that customers can see what the gemstone will look like on a finger.

I would go with the largest size you can afford, and the deepest color rough that Uli has available. Yes, I believe you will be able to see the difference.

 

[vito89]

He has just sent me an email saying that the greenish rough is less clear than the bluish one, so he will use the second one.

This is what the rough looks like:

http://img543.imageshack.us/img543/2695/geyw.jpg

What do you think?

 

[vito89]

http://www.gemval.com/chart.php?type=20

I've just found this average retail values chart for aquamarine. Mine should be the one in the middle, what do you think of the prices and of my rough?

Thanks.

 

[JewelFreak]

Vito -- I can't comment on prices, since I've never bought an aqua, but I'd trust Ulli on the quality of the rough. It looks nice to me, not super saturated but that shows it's untreated aquamarine & I'm sure it will make a beautiful gem. I love love the Rands Cut Corner -- in fact, I've desired that heliodor for ages -- don't know what I'd do with it, which is the only reason I haven't grabbed it. Go for the bigger size.

It's always so lovely when a man puts so much work & time into finding just the right stone & setting for his bride. If I were she, I'd realize that you are the real gem in this relationship!

--- Laurie

 

[vito89]

Vito -- I can't comment on prices, since I've never bought an aqua, but I'd trust Ulli on the quality of the rough. It looks nice to me, not super saturated but that shows it's untreated aquamarine & I'm sure it will make a beautiful gem. I love love the Rands Cut Corner -- in fact, I've desired that heliodor for ages -- don't know what I'd do with it, which is the only reason I haven't grabbed it. Go for the bigger size.

It's always so lovely when a man puts so much work & time into finding just the right stone & setting for his bride. If I were she, I'd realize that you are the real gem in this relationship!

--- Laurie

Thank you for your kind words, however I can assure you that she is the real gem and I am just a faint reflection of her beauty. The reason why I am putting so much effort into this research is because she specifically asked for a cheap zirconia ring, because she has always said that she wants to marry me and not the ring. Unfortunately (or fortunately) for her, I am attracted to shiny things like a magpie and I decided to buy both the zirconia ring (as a substitute while we wait for the aquamarine ring to be custom made) and the aquamarine which is her favourite gemstone.

Let's get back to the aquamarine now. The Rands CCR is a beautiful cut indeed. I trust Uli and I know he has already proven to be an experienced lapidary. I was just asking for your opinion because this is the first time I buy a gemstone and the more sides I hear the better I feel.

 

[Lula]

I think the rough is a beautiful color. As far as setting companies in the EU -- Uli may have some suggestions for you. Please come back with photos after you get the stone!

 

[chrono]

Lula,
Lovely aqua. Is it not set yet?

Vito,
It is light but that cut should amp up the colour a bit. I'm sure your local jewellers have some simple stock settings available. I would wait for the end result before deciding metal colour. At this point, I think it'll look nicer in yellow than white.

 

[vito89]

I've decided to think about the setting once I get the aquamarine, otherwise I risk to overuse my brain!

I'm now thinking of adding two very small side stones to the aquamarine in order to complement it. I don't want to detract attention from it since I want it to be the main focal point. I was thinking about diamonds at first but Uli suggested natural zircons, since he seems to be a great fan, and also to keep the price low. However, as I'm being a bit unconventional with this ring, I'd like to stick to the unconventionality and use two white sapphires. White sapphires sometimes have that very slight hint of blue and icy white that I think will go very well with aquamarine.

I am a bit concerned about the final size of the ring though. The aquamarine will be about 10x8mm and adding two side stones will probably look too big for a size 4 ring. What do you think of:

10x8mm aquamarine Rands CCR +
2x 2mm white sapphires round passion cut

Are the sidestones too small? Should I make the aquamarine cut a mm or two smaller and put two slightly bigger sidestones? I'm confused now, but you are here to help, right?

 

[chrono]

Actually, white sapphires are more conventional than white zircons. I agree with Uli that white zircon will be very nice but I agree with you that the aquamarine is fairly large and side stones may be unnecessary. Regardless, I think you should wait to see the finished stone before deciding.

 

[JewelFreak]

I agree with Chrono. Once you see it in reality, you'll have a better idea of how to set it. Also agree that a size 4 ring might become too wide with side stones, but you can see one way or another when you have it in hand.

--- Laurie

 

[Lula]

Lula,
Lovely aqua. Is it not set yet? Thank you, Chrono. No, it's not yet set. I'm waiting for the price of gold to come down a bit more. Also,my chrysoberyl is first in line for a setting. Stay tuned...

Vito,
It is light but that cut should amp up the colour a bit. I'm sure your local jewellers have some simple stock settings available. I would wait for the end result before deciding metal colour. At this point, I think it'll look nicer in yellow than white.

Vito, I just saw your post about adding side stones. I think that the decision about whether or not to add side stones (and the decision about what color metal) will be much easier after you see the stone in person and can take it to a few jewelry stores with you. Jewelers -- at least here in the U.S. -- carry a selection of empty settings in stock in different sizes. This will help you visualize what the stone will look like set. Make sure that whomever you do choose to set the stone has experience setting aquamarines!

If you do choose to go with side stones, I'd stick with small diamonds or white zircons. They have a lot more sparkle than white sapphires. You could also have the aquamarine set in a plain setting and save up for a small diamond wedding band. I think white sparkly stones are the perfect complement to aquamarines. Don't stray into colored side stones, even if they are a pale blue -- you want the center stone to be the star.

 

[vito89]

Yes, you are right. I will wait for it to arrive and then I will decide. Thank you very much for your help.

Where can I find a "ring stone holder" ? I can't find it anywhere, not even on ebay. I just wanted to have an idea of the final result.

 

[chrono]

As much as you may want one of these ring holders, I actually advise against it. Unless used with a lot of caution and even then, gemstones can easily be chipped. I have chipped/abraided a spinel using it and know of at least one other experienced gem collector who has done the same.

 

[partgypsy]

Lula just wanted to post what a beuatiful aquamarine! Love the cut and the color of that one.

Vito it sounds like you are on the right track. Can't help you with setters in Britain. I also ditto small diamonds or zircons than sapphires, they both have more dispersion (color play) than sapphires which can kind of look "flat" and diamonds are harder which is what you want if they are side stones. I wouldn't make them any bigger than 2 mm personally if you do include them, as they are for accents to highlight main stone.

 

[pregcurious]

How is your stone coming along?

 

[vito89]

How is your stone coming along?

I'm still waiting for Uli to finish it. I'll post a picture as soon as he sends it to me.

 

[vito89]

http://img194.imageshack.us/img194/723/896r.jpg

This is the aquamarine. Uli describes it as: "sparkling near eyeclean (some internals are visible with magnification of 10x or higher) and weighs 2.37 cts. with a size of 9.2 x 6.8 x 6.7 mm".

What do you think? Is it too light? How much do you think it is worth?

 

[kiwiflea]

Really pretty, I think the cut is fantastic, a good size too. It does look like it will sparkle!

 

[Barrett]

Aquamarine. Any suggestions you ask? Talk to TL...she just adores aquamarines and would love to help you with that.

 

[Lula]

Really pretty, I think the cut is fantastic, a good size too. It does look like it will sparkle!

I agree with Felice -- the cut is amazing and I think you will get a nice play of light across the center of the stone. My aquamarine photographs like that in some lights. But in real life and in natural light, my stone is much brighter and the color is a true "aqua" shade. So don't make a decision based on the photos. I think you should wait to see it in person to make a final decision.

 

[Lula]

Lula just wanted to post what a beuatiful aquamarine! Love the cut and the color of that one. Thank you, part gypsy!

Vito it sounds like you are on the right track. Can't help you with setters in Britain. I also ditto small diamonds or zircons than sapphires, they both have more dispersion (color play) than sapphires which can kind of look "flat" and diamonds are harder which is what you want if they are side stones. I wouldn't make them any bigger than 2 mm personally if you do include them, as they are for accents to highlight main stone.

 

[vito89]

Thank you! Let's wait for TL as well then! What do you think a good price for it should be?