Cartier Destinée Solitaire Vs Tiffany Soleste® Cushion

[darrvao777]

Cartier Destinée Solitaire Vs Tiffany Soleste® Cushion (Yellow Diamond)

Hi guys, would love to get your advice on a decision I’ve been having trouble making. Trying to surprise my girlfriend with an engagement ring and I’ve narrowed it down to these two but just cannot seem to pull the trigger on one over the other.

Would appreciate it if anyone could give me some insight that could tip me one way over the other (short of actually showing the rings to my GF and asking her)

Couple of items about us:

Ring size = 5.25

Budget = 20 – 60K

I think she would like the style of both rings. I had a chance to chat with her friends and it seems like she would favor a ring with a thinner band, with diamonds, and pave (I think that’s what it’s called?) diamonds surrounding a central stone

Really appreciate any advice you can give us, thanks!!

 

[Niel]

So it has to be a brand name? Is that what matters to her?

 

[darrvao777]

So it has to be a brand name? Is that what matters to her?

Not particularly, I don't know enough about rings so I figured I would go with a brand name.

I've heard great things about shopping online or going through local jewelers but figured it would be "safer" for a newbie to go the brand name route. Would you recommend otherwise?

 

[Niel]

So it has to be a brand name? Is that what matters to her?

Not particularly, I don't know enough about rings so I figured I would go with a brand name.

I've heard great things about shopping online or going through local jewelers but figured it would be "safer" for a newbie to go the brand name route. Would you recommend otherwise?

Yes absolutely I would recommend going outside the "brand name" jewelry stores. Most people here would. You're not alone. You may be a newb at this, but people here are not. They won't let you go astray

There are a few reasons. One, "brand" doesn't guarantee the absolute top cut. Cut is what makes a diamond sparkle, so when you're dropping as much as you are, I assume you want to get the best. Also, they charge you a premium for the diamond, which isn't necessary. You buy the best diamond you can, and you pay fair market value- then set it in an amazing setting. The alternative is you walk into a store and they say 'heres a nice cut, color and clarity already in a setting- there you go" And they can charge you more because thats came from there brand, and thats that.

long story short, you get more for your money.


So let me ask you this. Your budget is SUPER broad. What do you want to spend, or more importantly, how much do you feel comfortable spending??


Also the two rings you showed have different shapes, do you think she would like a cushion more? A round more? Or other shapes like an emerald or an oval?

The settings you posted are pretty common, and there are a lot of well known high end hand forged designers on here who can provide a top notch setting, so don't worry so much about that. First things first, what shape? White price? How big do you want to go?

 

[Gypsy]

Does SHE want those styles? Did SHE pick them?

Please post pics of what she likes. And yes, you can get as good if not better quality through several vendors online, and we'd be happy to help you with that process.

But let's start at the beginning. What style does she love?

 

[Niel]

Does SHE want those styles? Did SHE pick them?

Please post pics of what she likes. And yes, you can get as good if not better quality through several vendors online, and we'd be happy to help you with that process.

But let's start at the beginning. What style does she love?

I had a chance to chat with her friends and it seems like she would favor a ring with a thinner band, with diamonds, and pave (I think that’s what it’s called?) diamonds surrounding a central stone

Sounds to me like a micro pave halo like the ones mentioned would be a safe bet.
I think at this point its just a matter of what shape she likes best (i hope its asscher just because of the killer 3.25 ct one i found on JA)

But seriously it sound like the normal pave halo standard would be perfect.

 

[darrvao777]

So it has to be a brand name? Is that what matters to her?

Not particularly, I don't know enough about rings so I figured I would go with a brand name.

I've heard great things about shopping online or going through local jewelers but figured it would be "safer" for a newbie to go the brand name route. Would you recommend otherwise?

So let me ask you this. Your budget is SUPER broad. What do you want to spend, or more importantly, how much do you feel comfortable spending??

Also the two rings you showed have different shapes, do you think she would like a cushion more? A round more? Or other shapes like an emerald or an oval?

The settings you posted are pretty common, and there are a lot of well known high end hand forged designers on here who can provide a top notch setting, so don't worry so much about that. First things first, what shape? White price? How big do you want to go?

That's roughly 1 - 3 months salary for me and from reading online, the recommendation seemed to be spend ~ 1 - 3 months worth. I would prefer to keep it closer to 30K if possible.

I think she would like a cushion more but I'll probably have to check with her friends to get a definite answer.

Thanks again, I really appreciate everyone's help!!

 

[darrvao777]

Does SHE want those styles? Did SHE pick them?

Please post pics of what she likes. And yes, you can get as good if not better quality through several vendors online, and we'd be happy to help you with that process.

But let's start at the beginning. What style does she love?

Nope, those were the ones I selected based on what her friends told me. I was told she likes a thin band preferably with diamonds, a central stone with surrounding pave diamonds, and a cushion cut.

(I apologize if what I wrote above makes no sense, I'm really new to this!!)

 

[Niel]

So it has to be a brand name? Is that what matters to her?

Not particularly, I don't know enough about rings so I figured I would go with a brand name.

I've heard great things about shopping online or going through local jewelers but figured it would be "safer" for a newbie to go the brand name route. Would you recommend otherwise?

So let me ask you this. Your budget is SUPER broad. What do you want to spend, or more importantly, how much do you feel comfortable spending??

Also the two rings you showed have different shapes, do you think she would like a cushion more? A round more? Or other shapes like an emerald or an oval?

The settings you posted are pretty common, and there are a lot of well known high end hand forged designers on here who can provide a top notch setting, so don't worry so much about that. First things first, what shape? White price? How big do you want to go?

That's roughly 1 - 3 months salary for me and from reading online, the recommendation seemed to be spend ~ 1 - 3 months worth. I would prefer to keep it closer to 30K if possible.

I think she would like a cushion more but I'll probably have to check with her friends to get a definite answer.

Thanks again, I really appreciate everyone's help!!

Ok. Don't feel like you need to pay anything. Pay what you feel comfortable paying. 30k is a whole lot, that can get you something amazing. What center stone carat weight could you get at that price from cartier or tiffany?

 

[canuk-gal]

HI:

Are you near to either Cartier or Tiffany to see how these rings/styles appear IRL? Moreover, if you are looking for a colored diamond, I would recommend you truly "see" the color you would prefer.

cheers--Sharon

 

[Niel]

hers a nice cushion

http://www.victorcanera.com/diamonds/0c1dph

and some examples of the halos he does.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mUpQrY55-8M&list=UUjKUkZZv7JZaLvAAGWUQBaw

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EC0SXXhsc4U&list=UUjKUkZZv7JZaLvAAGWUQBaw

 

[darrvao777]

Ok. Don't feel like you need to pay anything. Pay what you feel comfortable paying. 30k is a whole lot, that can get you something amazing. What center stone carat weight could you get at that price from cartier or tiffany?

I believe it would be tough to get something around 1.5K at the 30K pricepoint, probably 1.4 or less it looks like

 

[darrvao777]

HI:

Are you near to either Cartier or Tiffany to see how these rings/styles appear IRL? Moreover, if you are looking for a colored diamond, I would recommend you truly "see" the color you would prefer.

cheers--Sharon

Just got back from both stores today, my personal gut feeling tells me the Cartier looked a little plainer (but perhaps gives it more of a "classic" appeal) whereas the Tiffany Soleste Yellow Diamond really seemed to sparkle (and the yellow isn't as intense as the website photos). That being said, not sure how well that boldness holds up over time. Might be great as a youngun, might be looking for the tastefully restrained classic style as I mature

 

[canuk-gal]

HI:

Are you near to either Cartier or Tiffany to see how these rings/styles appear IRL? Moreover, if you are looking for a colored diamond, I would recommend you truly "see" the color you would prefer.

cheers--Sharon

Just got back from both stores today, my personal gut feeling tells me the Cartier looked a little plainer (but perhaps gives it more of a "classic" appeal) whereas the Tiffany Soleste Yellow Diamond really seemed to sparkle (and the yellow isn't as intense as the website photos). That being said, not sure how well that boldness holds up over time. Might be great as a youngun, might be looking for the tastefully restrained classic style as I mature

HI:

So you have the benefit of youth--good eyesight? I don't know what you mean in terms of "boldness", but the color of the diamonds don't fade....just our perception, and taste, and visual acuity.

What were the spec's on the colored diamonds you looked at? Did you have the opportunity to compare various fancy yellow (grade) side by side?

cheers--Sharon

 

[Gypsy]

I think it sounds like she wants a harry winston style halo. Not a soliste style. We can help you with that.

 

[Gypsy]

Okay so here are the steps to take:
First find out if she prefers a cushion center or a round one. Or other shape (she could prefer emerald cuts with halos!)
Second, find out if she wants an all white ring, or if a canary diamond would make her happy as well.

What metro area you located near? We may know jewelers near you that would be good for you to visit.

I personally think that if you are spending approximately 30-35k on a ring then you absolutely should hit the 2 carat mark on the center stone.
SO I'm going to post some options for your (very generous) budget:

Possible diamonds:
Rounds:
http://www.briangavindiamonds.com/diamonds/diamond-details/2.146-h-si1-round-diamond-ags-104063703004
http://www.whiteflash.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut-loose-diamond-3114549.htm

Cushions:
Modern:
http://www.engagementringsdirect.com/2.06-carat-h-vs1-x-factor-cushion-cut-diamond-gid-178094.html
http://www.engagementringsdirect.com/2.11-carat-e-vs1-x-factor-cushion-cut-diamond-gid-170516.html
Antique:
http://www.goodoldgold.com/diamond/12212/


Settings (you would order in platinum):

Round:
http://www.victorcanera.com/jewelry/engagement-rings/the-emilya-with-flush-fitting-stems
http://www.stevenkirsch.com/engagement/halo/r0154.html
http://www.stevenkirsch.com/engagement/halo/r0112.html

Cushion:
http://www.victorcanera.com/jewelry/engagement-rings/the-emilya-with-outward-stems
http://www.victorcanera.com/jewelry/engagement-rings/the-emilya-with-cathedral-shank
http://www.stevenkirsch.com/engagement/halo/r0109.html

The settings above will all cost around 5k for a 2 carat center.

 

[RandG]

Congratulations on your adventure! You have an incredible budget and one that should afford you something spectacular!

To answer your original question, I prefer the Tiffany Soleste of your two options, but with a colorless diamond and not a fancy. You would also get more for your money at Tiffany, over Cartier. A couple things, should you decide to go the Tiffany route. 1. You will pay a premium for a signed piece. 2. A Tiffany mounting is highly coveted and copied. There is something to be said for buying from a company founded nearly 200 years ago. Tiffany will be here to stand behind their product and that's worth something. 3. When it comes to their engagement rings, Tiffany is extremely strict with respect to cut and grading. 4. Tiffany is slated to have a price increase in September so if you plan to buy, buy sooner than later.

Compared to Harry Winston, VCA or Cartier, Tiffany is more reasonable. I just helped someone buy a Tiffany engagement ring, playing with a variety of stones and I have pricing on 2-3ct (G-I) stones. We went through a lot, calling in stones from all over the country over a 2 week period. He just selected an I VS2 2ct round (8.04X8.07) and the price was inclusive of the mounting. The color was indistinguishable from both a G or H. Before buying, we ran comparable stones through Blue Nile and Brilliant Earth. He paid a premium, but once you added a comparable custom mounting, not nearly as much as you would expect.

I'm sure you can get comparable cheaper stones through a variety of trusted vendors who advertise on this forum. If it were me, I'd still prefer a Tiffany engagement ring. However, I would probably try to source it first on the secondary market through a reputable re-seller, who can also provide all the relevant certifications and Tiffany paperwork. In this scenario, you would realize great savings and it would make the purchase comparable to an unsigned piece. For about $200 you can re-register the piece in your own name. I did encourage my buyer to go this route, but he preferred buying from the store, and establishing a relationship with a SA who could help with other purchases in the future.

Just as there is no shame in buying a whole litany of other branded items, there is no shame in buying a high-end signed engagement ring, at retail or otherwise. If that Tiffany extra magic will make your love swoon just a little more, I wouldn't hesitate, particularly if you can afford it and it gives you joy too. You know your girl best.

No matter what you decide, I'm sure you will receive an array of advice and assistance here so you're in the right place! Good luck!

 

[diamondseeker2006]

Here is mom2boys Good Old Gold August Vintage cushion set in a Steven Kirsch halo:

https://www.pricescope.com/blog/jewel-week-jaw-dropping-5-carat-august-vintage-cushion-diamond-ring

The other top ringmaker for this style is Victor Canera. He also sells antique cushions and is just outstanding. Niel posted some beautiful links!

You can get a 2+ ct stone set in one of these settings for $30k. I am sorry but as much as I like brands such as Tiffany, I'd far rather have the workmanship of Victor or Steven and a 2+ ct stone over a 1.4ct Tiffany. I think Victor and Steven usually equal or exceed the quality of the major jewelry houses settings anyway. With your income level, I think you need to go 2+ cts, personally.

(If I were going for Tiffany, I definitely would not want a double halo Soleste for an engagement ring. I'd FAR rather have a larger center stone with one delicate diamond halo.)

 

[luvdajules]

Is Phoenix's stone still available? It's a 2.5+ ct H/Si2 eye clean Brian Gavin Signature for $28k, quite a deal and 8.8mm of diamond fun, vs. 8 mm (of a typical 2 ct.) No need to ever upgrade, lol. Hit it out of the park the first go around!

 

[Gypsy]

Halos are fragile already. A double halo is just plain impractical for every day wear.

 

[DC519]

I definitely agree going with a non-brand name UNLESS you know it's important to her to have a Tiffany or Carter ring. Also, I would personally suggest checking with her about antique cut cushions.
I will say my ring is a double halo just like the Tiffany Soleste and a pave eternity band and I don't find it impractical for everyday wear. I do take it off to sleep, shower, workout, clean etc. but I take that precaution with all of my jewelry. Unless she is super rough on her jewelry or with her hands, than I think you'll be fine.

 

[Niel]

hey i saw this and thought of you.

I believe he might even give a discount if you mention you were referred to him by pricescope. But even if not, right around 30k, over 2 ct center, E, cushion, hand made micro pave halo
http://www.diamondsbylauren.com/index.php/jewelry/colorless-diamond-212ct-e-si1-cushion-cut-gia-strong-blue-fluorescence-r5017

 

[PintoBean]

Does she have a pinterest? Maybe you could have her friends suggest that she put together a pinterest of e-ring styles she likes. diamond shapes, etc.

 

[arkieb1]

I hope that you consider a non Tiffany or Cartier ring. The stones in the links above as just as well if not better cuts (cut is what gives a diamond the fire and sparkle) and it means you can get a larger centre stone than a Tiffany or Cartier product. And honestly lets face it both she and her friends will notice a larger diamond.

I have two settings made by Victor Canera. I have walked into a Tiffany store with another member and we compared the halos and setting quality and his halos are by far nicer and a higher quality visually than the Tiffany ones. Both he and Steven Kirsch can make you something that will be a stunning heirloom ring.

 

[sunkissedx3]

My fiance recently proposed to me with a 1.8ct cushion in a Victor Canera Emilya halo. The diamond came from B2Cjewels.com. They had some of the best prices and the customer service was great.

Here is a great looking cushion from their site that's just over 2cts, it comes it way under your budget but has better specs and optics than some that cost more:
http://www.b2cjewels.com/dd-6177201-2.01-carat-Cushion-diamond-H-color-VVS2-clarity.aspx
If I didn't already have my ring, I'd get this stone!

Here's another one that looks really nice and would put you at just under your budget with the setting:
http://www.b2cjewels.com/dd-6233906-2.32-carat-Cushion-diamond-F-color-VS2-clarity.aspx

Here's my VC Emilya:

 

[sunkissedx3]

Found some more modern cushions with great optics:

http://www.b2cjewels.com/dd-5082466-2.00-carat-Cushion-diamond-F-color-VVS1-clarity.aspx
http://www.b2cjewels.com/dd-6230061-2.16-carat-Cushion-diamond-E-color-VS2-clarity.aspx
(these two are cut the same as ERD's x-factor cushion)

http://www.b2cjewels.com/dd-6233904-2.01-carat-Cushion-diamond-E-color-IF-clarity.aspx

http://www.b2cjewels.com/dd-6237189-2.06-carat-Cushion-diamond-H-color-VS1-clarity.aspx

http://www.b2cjewels.com/dd-6213470-2.26-carat-Cushion-diamond-G-color-VS2-clarity.aspx

Hope that helps, good luck!

 

[WillyDiamond]

Hey OP,
Just saw this thread. The Cartier Destinee is a beautiful piece, if you are considering that, have you seen the the Tiffany Embrace, which is comparable to the Destinee? As other posters have said people like VC, SK or even ERD can do a great job for you at a big savings cost and you can get great quality from them. But if she needs the name, then I understand. Best of luck.