Engagement ring upgrade nightmare

[tyty333]

Do note that most vendors do not have an upgrade policy on stones that are not super ideal rounds. You'll need
to check the upgrade policy of each individual vendor. So in this case you may want to go with your final size
initially and not plan on trading up. Just FYI.

James Allen and Blue Nile tradeup programs are...spend 2X the cost of the stone you're trading in. Details listed below.

Lifetime Upgrade - The James Allen Guarantee

Any loose diamond purchased from James Allen can be exchanged at 100% credit for any replacement diamond of at least two times or greater value. Conditions apply.

www.jamesallen.com

Diamond Upgrade Program Information | Blue Nile

Blue Nile offers a lifetime diamond upgrade program on all GIA and AGSL certified diamonds purchased from us. Call us for more information on upgrading your diamond.

www.bluenile.com

Not sure what Distinctive Gems trade up policy is. You'll need to ask.

 

[Mreader]

Welcome to PriceScope! I also want to extend my sympathies for your loss. That has to be so difficult.

Try not to feel bitter about overpaying for something a really long time ago. Almost every person on this forum has probably done this with a jewelry piece before we started educating ourselves.

also if your husband is OK with a 3 carat I would say go for it!!!! especially if you prefer a cushion or equivalent because those look smaller than a 3 carat round.

 

[elizat]

I think a trip to try on is good.

Cushions have different flavors. Those are old cut style modern cushions above.

You also have modern cushions with a defined facet pattern or crushed ice style, both of which can be elongated.

Here is a nice example of a crushed ice cushion that is pretty, to me anyway.

SOLD....Loose Diamond: 1.51F/VS1 Cushion Diamond GIA Dazzling R3050

Loose Diamond: 1.51F/VS1 Cushion Diamond GIA Dazzling

www.diamondsbylauren.com

This is an example of a cushion that has a defined facet pattern. There are different styles though, and this one is closer to a cushion with a modern round brilliant look.

1.06-Carat Cushion Cut Diamond | Blue Nile

www.bluenile.com

This is another example of a faceting pattern that you will see in modern cut cushions that have a pattern, that are not crushed ice.

2.00-Carat Cushion Cut Diamond | Blue Nile

www.bluenile.com

I think your first step is figuring out what shape you like. If you are looking at a cushion, then you need to figure out what style of faceting you like.

For radiant cuts, I would take a look at Diamonds by Lauren. They have a lot of excellent pictures on their website to show you what different styles of radiant cuts can look like.

Radiant cuts are not terribly popular around here, but I think they are pretty when they are well done. David has a great eye for a radiant cut. If you decide that you would like a radiant cut, I would recommend reaching out to him and talking to him about your purchase and he can help you find something.

He also is good with cushions and other fancy colored stones.

An emerald cut is going to react completely different to a cushion or radiant. It is going to be larger flashes of light and the stone does not play the same way with the light.

But, I think a shopping trip to figure out what you actually like on yourself is your first order of business. The cuts that you are considering are very different.

 

[Nataleia91]

This sounds like a perfect match for Jon (Rhino) at Distinctive Gem!

1ct F VS2 August Vintage Cushion Brilliant 74184533

Diamond Details Measurements 5.72 - 6.19 x 3.82 Cut Grade Ideal Polish Ideal Symmetry Ideal Fluorescence Negligible Culet Large Report Click here to view this diamonds AGS Report. Table 0.502 Depth 0.668

www.distinctivegem.com

1.008ct F VS1 August Vintage Cushion Brilliant 74091017

Diamond Details Measurements 5.68 - 6.26 x 3.84 Cut Grade Ideal Polish Ideal Symmetry Ideal Fluorescence Negligible Culet Medium Report Click here to view this diamonds AGS Report. Table 0.461 Depth 0.676

www.distinctivegem.com

1.044ct D VVS2 August Vintage Cushion Brilliant 74387150

Diamond Details Measurements 5.77 - 6.26 x 3.9 Cut Grade Ideal Polish Ideal Symmetry Ideal Fluorescence Negligible Culet Slightly Large Report Click here to view this diamonds AGS Report. Table 0.478 Depth 0.675

www.distinctivegem.com

1.5ct I VS1 August Vintage Cushion Brilliant 74186422

Diamond Details Measurements 6.57 - 6.93 x 4.42 Cut Grade 0 Polish Ideal Symmetry Ideal Fluorescence Negligible Culet Large Report Click here to view this diamonds AGS Report. Table 0.499 Depth 0.673

www.distinctivegem.com

DG has a plethora of unique cuts, as well as a custom cut service and Jon offers a free diamond concierge service.

I really like the 1.5 carat one. After trying on a few I know I want definitely at least 1.5 carat. Maybe 2. most likely not 3, it looks very big on me.
Everyone here is so nice and helpful.

 

[Nataleia91]

Do note that most vendors do not have an upgrade policy on stones that are not super ideal rounds. You'll need
to check the upgrade policy of each individual vendor. So in this case you may want to go with your final size
initially and not plan on trading up. Just FYI.

James Allen and Blue Nile tradeup programs are...spend 2X the cost of the stone you're trading in. Details listed below.

Lifetime Upgrade - The James Allen Guarantee

Any loose diamond purchased from James Allen can be exchanged at 100% credit for any replacement diamond of at least two times or greater value. Conditions apply.

www.jamesallen.com

Diamond Upgrade Program Information | Blue Nile

Blue Nile offers a lifetime diamond upgrade program on all GIA and AGSL certified diamonds purchased from us. Call us for more information on upgrading your diamond.

www.bluenile.com

Not sure what Distinctive Gems trade up policy is. You'll need to ask.

Oh, that’s good to know. After trying on some rings I think 2.5 is my maximum for my finger. They measured my left ring finger to directly 4.75 and my right one slightly over 5. 3 looked great on me but also very attention bringing. Hard decisions…
My husband suggested buying a moissanite in gold in 2.5 carat size to wear a few days to test how it would feel on a daily basis. We could gift it to my sister in law after that, she never got a proposal and was left by her partner after almost ten years for a woman ten years younger than her ( although she’s super beautiful and he also stole clients from her parents mining business) and we know she would not accept a diamond from us but maybe a moissanite. So that way I could try it and then make her happy.
You’re maybe right that I should pick my final size this time….
James Allen’s and blue Niles trading policy sounds very nice. The question is with a great quality 2.5 carat diamond ring if I’d ever want another that is double the cost of this one. Do people wear really big carat sizes like 4,5 and even more as a daily ring? In the expensive communities in Guatemala I’ve seen some ladies wear 5 carat but it’s more for events I think…

 

[Nataleia91]

I think a trip to try on is good.

Cushions have different flavors. Those are old cut style modern cushions above.

You also have modern cushions with a defined facet pattern or crushed ice style, both of which can be elongated.

Here is a nice example of a crushed ice cushion that is pretty, to me anyway.

SOLD....Loose Diamond: 1.51F/VS1 Cushion Diamond GIA Dazzling R3050

Loose Diamond: 1.51F/VS1 Cushion Diamond GIA Dazzling

www.diamondsbylauren.com

This is an example of a cushion that has a defined facet pattern. There are different styles though, and this one is closer to a cushion with a modern round brilliant look.

1.06-Carat Cushion Cut Diamond | Blue Nile

www.bluenile.com

This is another example of a faceting pattern that you will see in modern cut cushions that have a pattern, that are not crushed ice.

2.00-Carat Cushion Cut Diamond | Blue Nile

www.bluenile.com

I think your first step is figuring out what shape you like. If you are looking at a cushion, then you need to figure out what style of faceting you like.

For radiant cuts, I would take a look at Diamonds by Lauren. They have a lot of excellent pictures on their website to show you what different styles of radiant cuts can look like.

Radiant cuts are not terribly popular around here, but I think they are pretty when they are well done. David has a great eye for a radiant cut. If you decide that you would like a radiant cut, I would recommend reaching out to him and talking to him about your purchase and he can help you find something.

He also is good with cushions and other fancy colored stones.

An emerald cut is going to react completely different to a cushion or radiant. It is going to be larger flashes of light and the stone does not play the same way with the light.

But, I think a shopping trip to figure out what you actually like on yourself is your first order of business. The cuts that you are considering are very different.

Sadly they really didn’t have the best quality stones at the Kay’s store. But there’s very special Zales right next to the Corporation my husband works for . It’s a bit weird because although we are in a small town there’s this big corporation and it made many wealthy people move there. The company paid luxury retailers to open shop in the Main Street because they needed to make people want to come to that town. So it’s like a small but fancy Lux shopping district. And that Zales has much more expensive and quality stones than the Zales at the mall. We also have a goldsmith that has very good reviews. So well go to that Zales in a few days. I want to see and try an emerald of great clarity, color and cut. I like elongated shapes I noticed. It seemed with the SI2 color H and cut not even mentioned stones that emeralds don’t sparkle much. So I want to try a great quality one.
I will take aloof at your recommendations, thank you

 

[elizat]

Sadly they really didn’t have the best quality stones at the Kay’s store. But there’s very special Zales right next to the Corporation my husband works for . It’s a bit weird because although we are in a small town there’s this big corporation and it made many wealthy people move there. The company paid luxury retailers to open shop in the Main Street because they needed to make people want to come to that town. So it’s like a small but fancy Lux shopping district. And that Zales has much more expensive and quality stones than the Zales at the mall. We also have a goldsmith that has very good reviews. So well go to that Zales in a few days. I want to see and try an emerald of great clarity, color and cut. I like elongated shapes I noticed. It seemed with the SI2 color H and cut not even mentioned stones that emeralds don’t sparkle much. So I want to try a great quality one.
I will take aloof at your recommendations, thank you

When you do your shopping trip, I would focus more just on what the shape looks like on your hand. I really wouldn't focus on the cut or the clarity, but what shape looks good and what size. Pay attention to the millimeter size of the stones, because in all likelihood, these are not going to be stones that are cut great. That way if you have figured out what looks good on you and what millimeter size you like it will help you when you shop online.

I would try to look for an independent jewelry store that has good reviews near you, because they should have more selection than a chain for try on.

Another idea is to order a couple of tester rings from Amazon or Berricle. You could order a cushion, a radiant, and an emerald cut in a two carat size, or 2.5, and see what looks best on you. That whole order should probably not cost more than $100, if you do sterling silver.

 

[Wink]

When you are looking at fancy cuts, you will definitely need the ability to return any diamond you order as you will not be able to tell from a grading report what the diamond actually looks like. As far as pricing, you will find crazy looking price variances from diamonds that you think are similar. When you see a well cut diamond next to a poorly cut diamond, this will become self explanatory.

This is more evident in fancies than in rounds, and it is plenty evident in rounds. The problem is that it is MUCH harder to find well cut fancies.

I wish you well on your search, and I think you have made a great start by coming to Pricescope.

Wink

 

[Nataleia91]

When you are looking at fancy cuts, you will definitely need the ability to return any diamond you order as you will not be able to tell from a grading report what the diamond actually looks like. As far as pricing, you will find crazy looking price variances from diamonds that you think are similar. When you see a well cut diamond next to a poorly cut diamond, this will become self explanatory.

This is more evident in fancies than in rounds, and it is plenty evident in rounds. The problem is that it is MUCH harder to find well cut fancies.

I wish you well on your search, and I think you have made a great start by coming to Pricescope.

Wink

This is all quite complicated. Maybe it’s worth a trip to New York City to see stones in real life.

 

[Nataleia91]

When you do your shopping trip, I would focus more just on what the shape looks like on your hand. I really wouldn't focus on the cut or the clarity, but what shape looks good and what size. Pay attention to the millimeter size of the stones, because in all likelihood, these are not going to be stones that are cut great. That way if you have figured out what looks good on you and what millimeter size you like it will help you when you shop online.

I would try to look for an independent jewelry store that has good reviews near you, because they should have more selection than a chain for try on.

Another idea is to order a couple of tester rings from Amazon or Berricle. You could order a cushion, a radiant, and an emerald cut in a two carat size, or 2.5, and see what looks best on you. That whole order should probably not cost more than $100, if you do sterling silver.

I noticed that around two carat radiant and emeralds really suit me. And I bet in good quality they will only be even more beautiful.
It seems 2.5 carat is the most I can see myself wearing daily but yes, I will ge5 some test rings and try it out.

 

[oncrutchesrightnow]

See, already you are narrowing it down.

Agree, check the mm size, not the carat. Also you will see what ratio you like, skinny or fat.

A 2.5 ct emerald would look mighty impressive, especially in high clarity.

 

[Nataleia91]

See, already you are narrowing it down.

Agree, check the mm size, not the carat. Also you will see what ratio you like, skinny or fat.

A 2.5 ct emerald would look mighty impressive, especially in high clarity.

Thank you, I’ll check mm. Yes, 2.5 is plenty. I’m only 29 and my husband needs room for later bigger surprises, lol.
Im so excited. I know now that I want emerald or radiant.
We’re going to independent jewelers today to check out more options. It’s strange that the chain stores don’t even have much at 2 carat and nothing over it. Everything seemed to be a lower color and clarity.

 

[Lookinagain]

Thank you, I’ll check mm. Yes, 2.5 is plenty. I’m only 29 and my husband needs room for later bigger surprises, lol.
Im so excited. I know now that I want emerald or radiant.
We’re going to independent jewelers today to check out more options. It’s strange that the chain stores don’t even have much at 2 carat and nothing over it. Everything seemed to be a lower color and clarity.

please come back here before you buy anything, anywhere, and let the folks help you find an incredible diamond.

 

[mrs-b]

Welcome, @Nataleia91!

You've been through a LOT - so a beautiful ring is definitely in order! First up, let's have some fun with this! This is a purely indulgent purchase, it's something beautiful, it's a chance to say "Well, look at ME!" - and in coming here there is NO CHANCE you can get this wrong. You have a whole bunch of experienced jewelry buyers standing at your back to make sure you don't out a foot wrong!

Re your orginal ring, do you want to sell it, or maybe use it as a pendant? Stones of less-than-stellar quality make wonderful bezel set necklaces, and it might be nice to keep this one for a project like that.

As for your solitaire - I'm assuming...round? How does G color and VS clarity sound to you? And DEFINITELY certified! You're incredibly lucky with your 4.75 finger sizing! I think something in the 2 - 2.5ct range would be perfect and - on your tiny fingers - would definitely catch the eye!

I love buying through WhiteFlash - as many of the members here do. They're based in Texas and it's possible to visit their store if you're in the vicinity. But if not, they have an excellent online presence, which is how most of us here buy.

Can you give us a sense of your budget? What seems too low to you? What seems too high? If I said - $50,000, would you flinch? If I said $20,000 - does that sound about right...or is it 'small potatoes'?

Without knowing your budget - and just taking a punt, here - I like this from WhiteFlash:

Diamond | 2.616 ct F VS2 A CUT ABOVE® Hearts and Arrows Super Ideal Round Cut Loose Diamond AGS Certified | 4392272

This Whiteflash A CUT ABOVE® super ideal cut hearts and arrows 2.616 carat F color VS2 clarity loose diamond is graded by the American Gem Society (AGS) Laboratories. | 4392272

www.whiteflash.com

Ideal specs, colorless, eye clean, BIG.

Your thoughts?

And remember, this is going to be FUN!

ETA And I've just seen that you want either an EC or a radiant - so scratch my suggestion - except for keeping it G or above, and VS or better.

To get an EC or a radiant, you really need to work with a diamond expert; particularly, someone experienced in fancy cuts. For that I'd suggest Jonathan Weingarten of Distinctive Gems. He knows what there is to know about diamonds, and would not steer you wrong.

 

[Nataleia91]

Welcome, @Nataleia91!

You've been through a LOT - so a beautiful ring is definitely in order! First up, let's have some fun with this! This is a purely indulgent purchase, it's something beautiful, it's a chance to say "Well, look at ME!" - and in coming here there is NO CHANCE you can get this wrong. You have a whole bunch of experienced jewelry buyers standing at your back to make sure you don't out a foot wrong!

Re your orginal ring, do you want to sell it, or maybe use it as a pendant? Stones of less-than-stellar quality make wonderful bezel set necklaces, and it might be nice to keep this one for a project like that.

As for your solitaire - I'm assuming...round? How does G color and VS clarity sound to you? And DEFINITELY certified! You're incredibly lucky with your 4.75 finger sizing! I think something in the 2 - 2.5ct range would be perfect and - on your tiny fingers - would definitely catch the eye!

I love buying through WhiteFlash - as many of the members here do. They're based in Texas and it's possible to visit their store if you're in the vicinity. But if not, they have an excellent online presence, which is how most of us here buy.

Can you give us a sense of your budget? What seems too low to you? What seems too high? If I said - $50,000, would you flinch? If I said $20,000 - does that sound about right...or is it 'small potatoes'?

Without knowing your budget - and just taking a punt, here - I like this from WhiteFlash:

Diamond | 2.616 ct F VS2 A CUT ABOVE® Hearts and Arrows Super Ideal Round Cut Loose Diamond AGS Certified | 4392272

This Whiteflash A CUT ABOVE® super ideal cut hearts and arrows 2.616 carat F color VS2 clarity loose diamond is graded by the American Gem Society (AGS) Laboratories. | 4392272

www.whiteflash.com

Ideal specs, colorless, eye clean, BIG.

Your thoughts?

And remember, this is going to be FUN!

ETA And I've just seen that you want either an EC or a radiant - so scratch my suggestion - except for keeping it G or above, and VS or better.

To get an EC or a radiant, you really need to work with a diamond expert; particularly, someone experienced in fancy cuts. For that I'd suggest Jonathan Weingarten of Distinctive Gems. He knows what there is to know about diamonds, and would not steer you wrong.

Thanks for your help. We thought about a one month salary or up to two month salary from just my husbands salary should be fine. We’re not sure what’s the norm. 10% of yearly salary sounds fine to me and that’s roughly 28 thousand. But a bit more is fine too. I manage our finances and I’ll manage buying this ring. So I’m a bit flexible.
in the chain store jewelry stores in our area I was truly shocked how low quality stones they had available. And how overpriced they are for what they are. Almost all complete rings had S2 or lower clarity and not great color. But I learned that a 2.5 carat is the most my finger can take for my taste. My husband actually preferred 1.5. But he’s a very minimalist taste man. He likes it sleek with great quality. But I don’t want smaller than 2 carat I think.
I really like emerald and radiant, that’s right. I’d also love an oval but my husband doesn’t really like that. I like the crashed ice look of some stones.
we have a Trip to New York soon so I hope I’ll be able to see some better stones in person. It should definitely be a good color and clarity, VS or above. I will do a yellow gold band so it doesn’t need to be the highest color grade but still a good one.
It seems truly like an adventure to do this lol.

 

[agingsparkle]

If you'll be in NY, you might see if you could schedule a trip to DBL; while they specialize in fancy colors they also have some high quality colorless stones -- this one might be interesting to see in person! http://www.diamondsbylauren.com/index.php/jewelry/204ct-g-vvs1-emerald-diamond-r9305

 

[Aerielle Max]

If you'll be in NY, you might see if you could schedule a trip to DBL; while they specialize in fancy colors they also have some high quality colorless stones -- this one might be interesting to see in person! http://www.diamondsbylauren.com/index.php/jewelry/204ct-g-vvs1-emerald-diamond-r9305

I benefited from the shared link. Thank you for sharing All designs are stunning and elegant to look at. So lovely!

 

[Nataleia91]

If you'll be in NY, you might see if you could schedule a trip to DBL; while they specialize in fancy colors they also have some high quality colorless stones -- this one might be interesting to see in person! http://www.diamondsbylauren.com/index.php/jewelry/204ct-g-vvs1-emerald-diamond-r9305

That’s a great idea. We will be there for an event at the 11th. I’ll check it out.
I think I already maybe found the one but better to be sure and look at all options.