Help Me Choose and Buying from O/S (in Australia)

[hawaiianorangetree]

Hi Schmick!

I just purchased a pair of diamond studs from BGD and I couldn't be happier. There are like little disco balls on my ears.

I would highly reccommend using BGD for your engagement ring. I would purchase the ring to have shipped here rather than buying a stone to be set in AU as you can avoid the 5% duty through the AUSFTA so you will only need to pay the 10% GST and a customs clearance fee. Don't worry too much about that stuff though as BGD are experts with the paperwork that is needed for this.

I would also make the payment with ozforex as previously suggested. Very simple to use and the rates offered are usually a few cents higher than what the banks give you.

I haven't looked at the stone that you have linked but if it is a BGD signature H&A I don't need to, it will be beautiful.

You should probably get a wriggle on though! I'm not sure how long a ring takes to make (my earrings we set in a couple of days of the diamonds being ready) but I would probably give yourself AT LEAST 2 weeks from making the transfer to allow for the actual transfer (both times mine took 5 business days to clear because i had to paypal the money to ozforex (2-3 business days) and then the money had to be sent from ozforex to BGD (another 2-3 days) shipping was 5 days for my earrings also and just in case something does go wrong with the customs clearance you want to make sure that you have a few days to spare before the 17th so I would be making your mind up by the end of NOv if it were me!

Don't stress out about buying from OS, It really is quite easy and you will be in good hands either with BGD or GOG.

If you have any other questions for us Aussies don't hesitate to ask!

 

[hawaiianorangetree]

I just had a look at the BGD inventory and I think the stone you picked out looks good. High colour and clarity but not overkill for the price compared to what else was there for around the same size. Nice!

 

[heliotrope]

hey there schmick

I also have experience with BGD and am in Melb

I selected two stones myself from their inventory and then contacted them to have them set as bezel studs

I paid though TT (or a wire as they call it in the USA) myself online through my bank (but most of the aussies here seem to prefer ozforex)

the entire process took 6 days from payment to being in my hot little hands

I would recommend them to anyone based on my experience

(yes Fedex tried to deliver my package when I asked them to hold it at the depo - and yes customs charged me duty which had to be claimed back - but I don't see those points being BGDs error and everything was cleared up pretty quickly with a few calls - it still all took 6 days!! a ring might need a little more time though...)

good luck and congrats on this exciting time in your lives - just make sure we all see lots of pics of the finished product

 

[helen9]

I recently purchased a ring from James Allen. I ordered it on the 16th and received it on the 26th, because the stonehad to be set obviously. I think it was much easier to purchase and have it set by the same company: less people to deal with and no need to worry about insurance in case of damage. They were a pleasure to deal with.
You only need to pay 10% GST, no 5% duty. Just make sure you tell the vendor and they will attach the relevant paperwork. I also phones fedex as soon as I had the tracking number and again when it arrived in Australia so they put comments on the system. There is a really helpful thread about this... Can't renumber what it was called... Maybe 'customs and fta?'

 

[Supers]

Yep, I can also recommend BGD as they made my setting, and sent it to GOG to set the AVC. Workmanship on the band is fantastic.
They are now in the process of making my matching wedding band and a sapphire and diamond bezel band (just because I can!).
The staff at BGD are lovely, and very helpful, so can walk you through the whole customs paperwork.

The stone you've picked out looks great.
It's a pity you couldn't visit Holloway as their diamonds are much better than what you would find at the local jeweler, but Holloway is expensive compared to what you could get online.

 

[stone-cold11]

2 questions on the stones your gf looked at.

Which lab graded these stones and what are the cut proportions? Both combine can influence one's perception of color.

 

[schmick]

2 questions on the stones your gf looked at.

Which lab graded these stones and what are the cut proportions? Both combine can influence one's perception of color.

Hi Stone-cold,

Thanks for the reply. This is where the experience was let down, whilst the Jewellers we visited were reputable, both only spoke about Carat and Colour. None mentioned the quality of the cut nor did they mention whom graded the stones. I did mention to one that I was interested in H&A and they said the more specific we could be about what diamond we wanted the better they could assist us. Although, finding a stone of such properties would take time.

I suspect though, both would have used at least certified GIA diamonds.

 

[schmick]

Hi guys,

Thank you all for your replies and such positive feedback about BGD.

I have in fact already received a response to my e-mal from BGD. Was very impressed with the prompt response and them also advising that they are able to arrange all the paperwork for customs!

They will be able to meet my deadline and they are in the process of requesting the additional info on the diamond for me.

Just another questions guys, do H&A diamonds always tend to look more beautiful than say a regular AGS 0/GIA Ex non H&A?

Any more feedback on the diamond in regards to its proportions?

 

[stone-cold11]

Just another questions guys, do H&A diamonds always tend to look more beautiful than say a regular AGS 0/GIA Ex non H&A?

Not necessary, depends on why the stone is not a H&A.

 

[schmick]

Just another questions guys, do H&A diamonds always tend to look more beautiful than say a regular AGS 0/GIA Ex non H&A?

Not necessary, depends on why the stone is not a H&A.

Hi Stone-Cold,

Thanks for the reply. The reason I ask is because there is a diamond here locally that fits criteria, though is not H&A per se.

On a numbers front and on the basis I'm wanting the best, most brilliant, whitest diamond I can get, which would be better and would there be considerably noticeable difference between the two?

http://www.briangavindiamonds.com/diamond/diamond-detail/?product_id=AGS-104047811053

or

http://www.jogiadiamonds.com.au/diamonds/diamonditem.php?code=SS1320

Additionally, what aspects of a diamond determine whether that diamond will 'appear' bigger than what it really is? Are either of the above good candidates for this?

Cheers for all the feedback...

 

[stone-cold11]

Thanks for the reply. The reason I ask is because there is a diamond here locally that fits criteria, though is not H&A per se.

On a numbers front and on the basis I'm wanting the best, most brilliant, whitest diamond I can get, which would be better and would there be considerably noticeable difference between the two?

http://www.briangavindiamonds.com/diamond/diamond-detail/?product_id=AGS-104047811053

or

http://www.jogiadiamonds.com.au/diamonds/diamonditem.php?code=SS1320

Additionally, what aspects of a diamond determine whether that diamond will 'appear' bigger than what it really is? Are either of the above good candidates for this?

Cheers for all the feedback...

If you want the biggest you can get, you can easily drop the clarity to SI1 as pointed out before, VS1 and above, you need a loupe to see it or you are Superman.

Appear bigger, we need edge to edge brightness and both these stones will exhibit that. The BGD probably will exhibit crispier patterning than the Jogia stone, need images of BGD to verify if it is a H&A.

 

[schmick]

Hi guys,

What I meant when I said 'Biggest', meaning that I read somewhere that the depth % of the diamond can affect whether it looks bigger or smaller relative to it's actualy size. Is that correct?

I'm still awaiting the additional information on the diamond from BGD. Hopefully will have this tomorrow and will post when I receive.

I'm not sure whether I am being paranoid or overanalysing now but should I be worried about the feather inclusion? I just started reading up on these and the one noted on this diamond is very close to the diamonds edge.

Refer: http://www.agslab.com/pdf_sync_reports/104047811053-PLDQR.PDF

 

[Nelly4]

Hi Schmick
I can also vouch for BGD's service and I live in Ballarat. I purchased some H&A signature cut diamonds for earrings and the whole process has been very smooth. I didn't have much of an idea about what I wanted but Jamie was great and the price was amazing compared to other diamond studs I have seen here in jewellry shops.
Just remember that you will get a call from Fedex when the diamond gets to Customs to pay 15% (gst & duty) but when you actually recieve the diamond you can claim the 5% duty back. There is a thread on here about which forms to fill in and also how to fill them in.

My earrings should hopefully be arriving today so I can't wait to see what they look like (they will actually be bigger than my engagement ring total carat weight!!) I now want to upgrade my ring but that will have to wait

 

[schmick]

Hi Guys,

Almost there... The ASET and Idealscope images are up on the BGD website, however, still awaiting on the Hearts. I think it would be safe to assume that Optical Symmentry will be excellent as per all the other BGD 'Signature' Series diamonds.

What I would like some feedback now that more information is available is on the diamonds 'Optical Performance'. I want this rock to sizzle and dazzle!

Also, should I be worried about the 'Feather'? It's really close to the 'Girdle Edge' (I think that's the correct terminology!).

Here is the raw numbers:

Carat: 0.731
Color: E
Clarity: VS1
Measurements: 5.78×5.79×3.57
Lab Cut Grade: Ideal
Light Performance: Ideal
Polish: Ideal
Symmetry: Ideal
Table %: 55.5
Depth %: 61.8
Crown %: 15.2
Crown Angle: 34.7
Star %: 52.0
Pav Angle: 40.8
Pavillion %: 43.0
Lower Girdle %: 78.0
Girdle Min-Max %: 1.6-3.8
Girdle: Thin to Medium Faceted
Culet: Pointed
Fluorescence: Negligible

ASET and Idealscope can be viewed here:

http://www.briangavindiamonds.com/diamond/diamond-detail/?product_id=AGS-104047811053

Pretty excited and sincere thanks to Denise at BGD for all the help thus far. Diamond will be set in 18ct Yellow Gold 'Tiffany Half Round'.

 

[stone-cold11]

Looks good so far. Are they going to upload the hearts image?

 

[schmick]

Looks good so far. Are they going to upload the hearts image?

Hi stone-cold,

I think it's on its way!

So a good choice you think that will dazzle the missus? LOL...

 

[vanilla87]

Love it

Great setting too, you really cant go wrong chosing a classic 6 prong tiffany stye. Will be good to see the hearts image when its uploaded.

I wouldnt be too worried about the feather, ina VS1 stone there is no way you will see it. If it realy bothers you ask BGD what they think, i highly doubt it will be a durability risk.

WELL DONE!!!

 

[vanilla87]

Looks good so far. Are they going to upload the hearts image?

Hi stone-cold,

I think it's on its way!

So a good choice you think that will dazzle the missus? LOL...

hahaha missus, such an Aussie thing to say

 

[schmick]

Looks good so far. Are they going to upload the hearts image?

Hearts imagine is up!

http://www.briangavindiamonds.com/diamond/diamond-detail/?product_id=AGS-104047811053

What do you guy think?

Any final feedback on that 'Feather' and also do you think the hearts and arrows pattern is strong enough (ie. not sloppy) to classify as a true H&A?

Would like to finalise order today if possible!

Soo excited...

 

[Mrs_Clarke]

Hi Schmick

My partner and I also agonised over our e ring purchase - and I eventually narrowed it down to BGD and Jogia (I live in Melbourne.)

I ended up going with Jogia and my ring is a few days away from being ready.

I found that the strength of the AUD made BGD VERY affordable, but duties and shipping etc ended up making them about on par with Jogia, without any of the shipment/ customs hassle. I guess personally I ended up being more comfortable with my ring being made in the country in case something was to go wrong.

Jogia have been really good so far - nothing is too much trouble and they handmake all their rings, and will custom design - so there are many more options than just the settings on their site. The have changed band width for me to better suit my finger and my E colour 1.36 was competitively priced.

All the best - I am sure you will end up with something beautiful

 

[schmick]

Hi Mrs Clarke,

Thanks for the feedback. I too was considering Jogia! Glad to hear you are having a great experience with them.

The decision to go with BGD was mainly due to my hangup on wanting a true H&A diamond and because of the such great feedback Pricescope members provided!

So today, I placed my order for the 0.731 E VS1 I mentioned above! Going to be set in 18ct Yellow Gold Classic Tiffany Half Round!

I'm soo exited and I can't wait to see the final ring!

I'm going to be a nervous little chappy for the next couple of weeks whilst I await the arrival of this beautiful gem! Like you mentioned I could have bought locally to save this additional stress but I think it'll be worth the wait...

The final pricing as you also mentioned is basically on par with Jogia, whom I found to be the most price competitive locally.

Hope I haven't made a blunder with my choice and thanks to Denise at BGD and to all the Pricescope members whom helped me with my decision!

 

[vanilla87]

Congratulations schmick!! Any ideas how your gonna propose?? Please post lots of pics for us when it arrives

 

[schmick]

Congratulations schmick!! Any ideas how your gonna propose?? Please post lots of pics for us when it arrives

Hi Vanilla,

Thanks! I'm very excited if you can't already tell!

My GF and I basically got together at a rock concert. I wasn't actually going to go but she insisted that I come. 5 years later we're still together and having the time of our lives.

So in saying that, we're going to a rock concert just prior to us both going on Holidays. Her favourite band is playing so I'm going to go the less traditional route and ask her during the concert! Just like where it all started! Hehehe...

Will definitely post pics!

Thanks again for all your help!

 

[schmick]

Hmm, just had a thought... What do you guys think of engraving an Engagement Ring?

I'm thinking maybe putting a lyric from one of her favourite bands songs into the inside of the ring?

Couple of quotes I'm thinking about. Do any sound good for the occasion?

1. Forever Beating On
2. Your love has released my heart
2. I'd give my heart for you (Needs to be changed to 'I')
3. I'd give my everything (Needs to be changed to 'I')
4. Tonight we burn together
5. Gaze of an angel melting my skin
6. Twice as enchanting
7. Lost myself to you
8. I'm bound forever by this
9. Just to remind me of such a timeless beauty
10. Home is where the heart is

I like 1, 2, 4, 7, 9.

4 is the stand out, kind of rings true with music, us meeting, us being together forever, standing by each other, etc.

Maybe 8 for our wedding bands?

Anyways, just a thought... This ring hunt has brought out my romantic side again!

 

[vanilla87]

Ohhh very sweet! I'll be seeing Bon jovi in melb on the 11th but I can't think who else is playing in December! I like the idea of engraving something meaningful to you both on the ring, I'm sure whatever you decide will ge great

good luck!!

 

[Supers]

Hmm, just had a thought... What do you guys think of engraving an Engagement Ring?

I'm thinking maybe putting a lyric from one of her favourite bands songs into the inside of the ring?

Couple of quotes I'm thinking about. Do any sound good for the occasion?

1. Forever Beating On
2. Your love has released my heart
2. I'd give my heart for you (Needs to be changed to 'I')
3. I'd give my everything (Needs to be changed to 'I')
4. Tonight we burn together
5. Gaze of an angel melting my skin
6. Twice as enchanting
7. Lost myself to you
8. I'm bound forever by this
9. Just to remind me of such a timeless beauty
10. Home is where the heart is

I like 1, 2, 4, 7, 9.

4 is the stand out, kind of rings true with music, us meeting, us being together forever, standing by each other, etc.

Maybe 8 for our wedding bands?

Anyways, just a thought... This ring hunt has brought out my romantic side again!

I love this idea - appropriate for a concert proposal etc...
8 (I'm bound forever) for wedding bands. Your numbers are a bit messed up - is 4 "I give my everything" or "tonight we burn".
I prefer I give my everything myself!

 

[schmick]

Super,

Good pickup! My numbers were out of sync. =(

So.. Engagement Ring...

1. Forever beating on
2. I Give My Everything

Wedding Rings

1. I'm Bound Forever By This

I really liked Forever Beating On, but reading it now, might make me sound like a wife beater!

 

[hawaiianorangetree]

Hey Schmick!

I love the second choice for the E ring engraving.

I love how you are planning to propose at the concert too! That's awesome. It may be a long shot, but have you considered contacting who you are going to see in concert to tell them that they are your gf's favourite band and that you are going to propose at the concert? You may not hear anything from them, but then again you might.

I knew someone who had this happened to her and her BF had contacted the band via email to explain what he was doing, he proposed just before the concert and the band called them out and mentioned it to everyone and wished them all the best and dedicated a song to them as well.

You never know, you may get lucky.

 

[cachia85]

I like number 7, for me it's romantic ^_^

 

[schmick]

Hey Guys,

Well, my ring left BGD this evening and is finally on its way to me here in Australia... ETA 13th of December! WOO!

I've attached some pics!

Can't wait to see it here in person.

Big thanks to Denise at BGD whom has helped me from beginning to end and has managed to ensure my ring gets here before the 17th! Can't rave highly enough about the great customer service experience I've had with BGD over the past fortnight!

Unfortunately, didn't get any engraving because I wasn't able to fit all the words into the band due to ring size! Oh well, think I'll get the date engraved when we arrange our Wedding Bands.

Now just gotta hope she says 'YES!' Hahaha...