Halo or no Halo... thought I had it all figured out

[dudeinlove]

Hey All,

So I thought I had it all figured out. I was targeting a 1.5 I or better, Ideal cut, Round Brilliant from WhiteFlash in the Petite Cathedral setting....

The GF just texted me, she's out of town ring shopping with her friends for fun. She sent me a picture of halo that she likes. Trouble is I think putting 1.5 in halo is too large, at least for area/social circle. Or is it?

Do I get a 1ish and a nice halo or a 1.5 on tiny band that just pops.

I think that she would really appreciate a larger stone on a small elegant ring but I can't say much (she doesn't know I am shopping). I would have zero issues if she wanted to switch it all though it would be nice to get it right....

Ahhh what to to do

Any input would be appreciated.

 

[Niel]

Get her what she wants and what you can afford. Some halos are larger than others. It won't look garish with a quality halo

 

[04diamond<3]

Well, I think you should get the larger stone especially if you think that's the size she wants. The stone is always more expensive. So I would suggest putting it in a temp setting, let her live with it for a while and then if she still feels she wants a halo, put it in a halo. Plus, that way she can pick out the exact halo she wants. Cant go wrong!

 

[Niel]

It doesn't sound like a question of price but a question of styling
I really think if she loves halos go halo. What pic did she send? And whats your budget

You might be able to get a tiny halo that will satisfy you and her

 

[facetgirl]

If she sent a picture with a halo, I'd halo it. I don't think it would be too much at all. Another idea is to use a different stone for the halo (ruby or sapphire for example).

 

[dudeinlove]

It only becomes a question of price if I am too halo a 1.5. I can halo a 1-1.2 and it'd actually be less expensive. I don't think I'd want to halo a 1.5 (that thing would be GIANT).

I guess the reason I am hesitating is cause she is not seriously shopping and I feel that if we went and looked carefully she would lean towards the non-halo but I don't want to ask her because I want it all to be big a giant surprise. She is just out drinking martinis, looking at jewerly and having fun with her girlfriends.

Here is the pic she sent (it is very nice).

 

[Niel]

If she sent a picture with a halo, I'd halo it. I don't think it would be too much at all. Another idea is to use a different stone for the halo (ruby or sapphire for example).

Right! Or a plain shank halo. So its less flashy.

What type of stone were you getting? Round?

 

[dudeinlove]

This is the setting I was leaning toward. Very similar, dainty band (1.8mm) with diamonds on setting. No Halo.

 

[dudeinlove]

What type of stone were you getting? Round?

Learning toward round. I like that I have a much better chance of getting a quality stone. That it's brighter, less delicate, etc. And with a 4 prong you get a cushion look

 

[04diamond<3]

It only becomes a question of price if I am too halo a 1.5. I can halo a 1-1.2 and it'd actually be less expensive. I don't think I'd want to halo a 1.5 (that thing would be GIANT).

I guess the reason I am hesitating is cause she is not seriously shopping and I feel that if we went and looked carefully she would lean towards the non-halo but I don't want to ask her because I want it all to be big a giant surprise. She is just out drinking martinis, looking at jewerly and having fun with her girlfriends.

Here is the pic she sent (it is very nice).

I would still get that center stone, and if she hates the size then return it within the allotted return policy time frame. Believe me, as a girl, I would rather be surprised with a bigger stone, and most of the female population would agree. It's not a dead end either way. There are ways to do everything. I'm sticking to what I initially said. Plus, I think in the end you'd be happier you got the bigger stone. A 1.5ct with a well done halo won't look gaudy! and no, it won't be "GIANT". See what she thinks after you propose.

The setting you chose is beautiful. I'd put the ring together, and propose and I'm sure she'll love it. If not, you can always change it. But if she's heart broken because she wanted a larger stone, that will be a lot more expensive to change.

 

[dudeinlove]

I would still get that center stone, and if she hates the size then return it within the allotted return policy time frame. Believe me, as a girl, I would rather be surprised with a bigger stone, and most of the female population would agree. It's not a dead end either way. There are ways to do everything. I'm sticking to what I initially said. Plus, I think in the end you'd be happier you got the bigger stone. A 1.5ct with a well done halo won't look gaudy! and no, it won't be "GIANT". See what she thinks after you propose.

So get the 1.5 PLUS the Halo or what do you think if I get her the 1.5 with the Petite Cathedral Pave and if she decides for the halo and ship it back WF and get it Halo'd?

 

[Niel]

Hmm ok. So the text she sent did it say she loved it or did she just want to send you a pic of a ring to remind you she wants a ring

 

[dudeinlove]

She also sent this one and said but with a large stone in the middle and then said JUST Kidding it's way to big.

 

[04diamond<3]

I would still get that center stone, and if she hates the size then return it within the allotted return policy time frame. Believe me, as a girl, I would rather be surprised with a bigger stone, and most of the female population would agree. It's not a dead end either way. There are ways to do everything. I'm sticking to what I initially said. Plus, I think in the end you'd be happier you got the bigger stone. A 1.5ct with a well done halo won't look gaudy! and no, it won't be "GIANT". See what she thinks after you propose.

So get the 1.5 PLUS the Halo or what do you think if I get her the 1.5 with the Petite Cathedral Pave and if she decides for the halo and ship it back WF and get it Halo'd?

Well, what's the budget left for the setting?

WF has this setting for only $400 more:
http://www.whiteflash.com/engagement-rings/diamond-settings/halo-prong-diamond-engagement-ring-521.htm

JA options This one is not large at all, infact another PSer just bought it and it looks beautiful and dainty. i'll look for the thread:
http://www.jamesallen.com/#!/Engagement-Rings/Halo/14k-White-Gold-Pave-Halo-and-Shank-Diamond-Engagement-Ring-Round-Center-item-6800

http://www.jamesallen.com/#!/Engagement-Rings/Halo/18k-White-Gold-Pave-Halo-and-Twisted-Shank-Solitaire-item-6871

 

[Niel]

What type of stone were you getting? Round?

Learning toward round. I like that I have a much better chance of getting a quality stone. That it's brighter, less delicate, etc. And with a 4 prong you get a cushion look

What were the other shapes she liked? we can find you a quality stone in any shape, and rounds are most expensive. Also, some others face up larger ( like an oval) so you could get the size you want and still afford both the setting and the halo.

And personally I am not one of those girls that think "large = happy"

its lovely yes, but I would have been sad had my FI came home with a solitaire stone .1 or .2 ct larger that wasnt what i asked for

 

[04diamond<3]

The last picture you posted does look gaudy, it's also made for about 6 round diamonds for the center. So yes, I'd be turned off to that too. Here's the thread. His ring is the last one that was posted, but it's beautiful and dainty and very budget friendly!:

[URL='https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/show-me-your-e-rings-under-5k.184135/page-4']https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/show-me-your-e-rings-under-5k.184135/page-4[/URL]

 

[dudeinlove]

What type of stone were you getting? Round?

Learning toward round. I like that I have a much better chance of getting a quality stone. That it's brighter, less delicate, etc. And with a 4 prong you get a cushion look

What were the other shapes she liked? we can find you a quality stone in any shape, and rounds are most expensive. Also, some others face up larger ( like an oval) so you could get the size you want and still afford both the setting and the halo.

And personally I am not one of those girls that think "large = happy"

its lovely yes, but I would have been sad had my FI came home with a solitaire stone .1 or .2 ct larger that wasnt what i asked for

Round or Princess. Leaning towards round but could be convinced to go princess if the right stone came along. Size/Bling factor is important which is why I think she likes a halos a bit. It's strange that it's important, she doesn't want me to build a house or buy a new car, shes modest in so many ways but a beautiful ring is important to her.

 

[dudeinlove]

What type of stone were you getting? Round?

Learning toward round. I like that I have a much better chance of getting a quality stone. That it's brighter, less delicate, etc. And with a 4 prong you get a cushion look

What were the other shapes she liked? we can find you a quality stone in any shape, and rounds are most expensive. Also, some others face up larger ( like an oval) so you could get the size you want and still afford both the setting and the halo.

And personally I am not one of those girls that think "large = happy"

its lovely yes, but I would have been sad had my FI came home with a solitaire stone .1 or .2 ct larger that wasnt what i asked for

Round or Princess. Leaning towards round but could be convinced to go princess if the right stone came along. Size/Bling factor is important which is why I think she likes a halos a bit. It's strange that it's important, she doesn't want me to build a house or buy a new car, shes modest in so many ways but a beautiful ring is important to her.

 

[JulieN]

Get a smaller center and halo it.

I don't like princesses in halos

 

[dudeinlove]

I would still get that center stone, and if she hates the size then return it within the allotted return policy time frame. Believe me, as a girl, I would rather be surprised with a bigger stone, and most of the female population would agree. It's not a dead end either way. There are ways to do everything. I'm sticking to what I initially said. Plus, I think in the end you'd be happier you got the bigger stone. A 1.5ct with a well done halo won't look gaudy! and no, it won't be "GIANT". See what she thinks after you propose.

So get the 1.5 PLUS the Halo or what do you think if I get her the 1.5 with the Petite Cathedral Pave and if she decides for the halo and ship it back WF and get it Halo'd?

Well, what's the budget left for the setting?

WF has this setting for only $400 more:
http://www.whiteflash.com/engagement-rings/diamond-settings/halo-prong-diamond-engagement-ring-521.htm

JA options This one is not large at all, infact another PSer just bought it and it looks beautiful and dainty. i'll look for the thread:
http://www.jamesallen.com/#!/Engagement-Rings/Halo/14k-White-Gold-Pave-Halo-and-Shank-Diamond-Engagement-Ring-Round-Center-item-6800

http://www.jamesallen.com/#!/Engagement-Rings/Halo/18k-White-Gold-Pave-Halo-and-Twisted-Shank-Solitaire-item-6871

No budget in mind, I guess 1800. I mean 4K or something is out of question but I won't miss out on the right ring for a few hundred.

 

[Niel]

What type of stone were you getting? Round?

Learning toward round. I like that I have a much better chance of getting a quality stone. That it's brighter, less delicate, etc. And with a 4 prong you get a cushion look

What were the other shapes she liked? we can find you a quality stone in any shape, and rounds are most expensive. Also, some others face up larger ( like an oval) so you could get the size you want and still afford both the setting and the halo.

And personally I am not one of those girls that think "large = happy"

its lovely yes, but I would have been sad had my FI came home with a solitaire stone .1 or .2 ct larger that wasnt what i asked for

Round or Princess. Leaning towards round but could be convinced to go princess if the right stone came along. Size/Bling factor is important which is why I think she likes a halos a bit. It's strange that it's important, she doesn't want me to build a house or buy a new car, shes modest in so many ways but a beautiful ring is important to her.

well we are all guilty of that

What was the entire budge, stone and all, I didnt see it anywhere.

 

[dudeinlove]

Get a smaller center and halo it.

I don't like princesses in halos

Why? Cause of the one text? Cause you prefer them? Cause it's cheaper?

 

[dudeinlove]

What type of stone were you getting? Round?

Learning toward round. I like that I have a much better chance of getting a quality stone. That it's brighter, less delicate, etc. And with a 4 prong you get a cushion look

What were the other shapes she liked? we can find you a quality stone in any shape, and rounds are most expensive. Also, some others face up larger ( like an oval) so you could get the size you want and still afford both the setting and the halo.

And personally I am not one of those girls that think "large = happy"

its lovely yes, but I would have been sad had my FI came home with a solitaire stone .1 or .2 ct larger that wasnt what i asked for

Round or Princess. Leaning towards round but could be convinced to go princess if the right stone came along. Size/Bling factor is important which is why I think she likes a halos a bit. It's strange that it's important, she doesn't want me to build a house or buy a new car, shes modest in so many ways but a beautiful ring is important to her.

well we are all guilty of that

What was the entire budge, stone and all, I didnt see it anywhere.

I am thinking 15K if I go non halo. 16K if I go halo. Doesn't mean I have to spend that, maybe I decide to halo a 1.1 and it come in at 13 or 14. If I don't halo I want to be in the 1.5 Carat ball park so I'll spend to spend 15K to get a BEAUTY stone

 

[dudeinlove]

YOU guys are AWESOME. It's great to talk through this... I've learned so much as well. So excited.

 

[04diamond<3]

I would still get that center stone, and if she hates the size then return it within the allotted return policy time frame. Believe me, as a girl, I would rather be surprised with a bigger stone, and most of the female population would agree. It's not a dead end either way. There are ways to do everything. I'm sticking to what I initially said. Plus, I think in the end you'd be happier you got the bigger stone. A 1.5ct with a well done halo won't look gaudy! and no, it won't be "GIANT". See what she thinks after you propose.

So get the 1.5 PLUS the Halo or what do you think if I get her the 1.5 with the Petite Cathedral Pave and if she decides for the halo and ship it back WF and get it Halo'd?

Well, what's the budget left for the setting?

WF has this setting for only $400 more:
http://www.whiteflash.com/engagement-rings/diamond-settings/halo-prong-diamond-engagement-ring-521.htm

JA options This one is not large at all, infact another PSer just bought it and it looks beautiful and dainty. i'll look for the thread:
http://www.jamesallen.com/#!/Engagement-Rings/Halo/14k-White-Gold-Pave-Halo-and-Shank-Diamond-Engagement-Ring-Round-Center-item-6800

http://www.jamesallen.com/#!/Engagement-Rings/Halo/18k-White-Gold-Pave-Halo-and-Twisted-Shank-Solitaire-item-6871

No budget in mind, I guess 1800. I mean 4K or something is out of question but I won't miss out on the right ring for a few hundred.

More options:

http://www.jamesallen.com/#!/Engagement-Rings/James-Allen-exclusive/14k-White-Gold-0.29ctw-Halo-Pave-Set-Diamond-Engagement-Ring-item-318

This one's also very dainty:
http://www.whiteflash.com/engagement-rings/diamond-settings/gunievere-pave-diamond-engagement-ring-2099.htm

 

[Niel]

if you like this put it on hold

http://www.jamesallen.com/#!/loose-diamonds/Round-cut/1.73-carat-I-color-VS1-clarity-Excellent-cut-sku-44975

Its going to give you a better price if you have a wire PS discount
scores under a 2 and good clarity, and still considered near colorless. id pick this!

keep in mind i think she said she was just kidding about size so she didnt make you think she needed it lol. i dont think she would say boo

 

[04diamond<3]

if you like this put it on hold

http://www.jamesallen.com/#!/loose-diamonds/Round-cut/1.73-carat-I-color-VS1-clarity-Excellent-cut-sku-44975

Its going to give you a better price if you have a wire PS discount
scores under a 2 and good clarity, and still considered near colorless. id pick this!

This whole thread you've been talking about going the smaller option and you post a 1.73??? I'm confused. I'm all for it though!

Dudeinlove - I was under the impression that you had a stone picked out...if not, here's another option:
http://www.jamesallen.com/#!/loose-diamonds/Round-cut/1.60-carat-I-color-VS2-clarity-Excellent-cut-sku-149868

 

[Niel]

if you like this put it on hold

http://www.jamesallen.com/#!/loose-diamonds/Round-cut/1.73-carat-I-color-VS1-clarity-Excellent-cut-sku-44975

Its going to give you a better price if you have a wire PS discount
scores under a 2 and good clarity, and still considered near colorless. id pick this!

This whole thread you've been talking about going the smaller option and you post a 1.73??? I'm confused. I'm all for it though!

Dudeinlove - I was under the impression that you had a stone picked out...if not, here's another option:
http://www.jamesallen.com/#!/loose-diamonds/Round-cut/1.60-carat-I-color-VS2-clarity-Excellent-cut-sku-149868

no. I dont think he should get a smaller one. I think he should halo it. If he can afford a large stone with a halo that seems like the best. Ive just always thought you should get her the setting she wants, and if that sacrifices a little size then oh well. but i dont think he needs to sacrafice he can get both

 

[dudeinlove]

if you like this put it on hold

http://www.jamesallen.com/#!/loose-diamonds/Round-cut/1.73-carat-I-color-VS1-clarity-Excellent-cut-sku-44975

Its going to give you a better price if you have a wire PS discount
scores under a 2 and good clarity, and still considered near colorless. id pick this!

This whole thread you've been talking about going the smaller option and you post a 1.73??? I'm confused. I'm all for it though!

Dudeinlove - I was under the impression that you had a stone picked out...if not, here's another option:
http://www.jamesallen.com/#!/loose-diamonds/Round-cut/1.60-carat-I-color-VS2-clarity-Excellent-cut-sku-149868

Woah a 1.6 RB for 12ish NICE. Only problem is I am not ready to purchase until feb sometime (proposal not till march or april). I wanna buy that lol

 

[ame]

I say stick with your original stone size in the 1.5ish ct range, and a thin halo. I was going to say a cushion halo based on the first ring but I think a round halo since she sent the second. It will keep the round look. Maybe a plain shank and then the wedding band has diamonds to match the halo later. Going down to a 1.2 isn't a significant size decrease in millimeters and I think on her hand it will look great.