shape
carat
color
clarity

I am in LOVE with an August Vintage Round (AVR)!!!!!!!!!!

Re: I am in LOVE with an August Vintage Round (AVR)!!!!!!!!!

Rosebloom|1349833930|3282555 said:
I've been following your quest (aka living vicariously!). For what it's worth (zip, zilch, nada!), I vote for getting the biggest AVR you can swing in J color and set it in the gorgeous VC setting. I've been doing a good deal of reading older threads to learn more about the "wonderful world of sparkles" and I have probably seen dozens of posts from you over the years raving about that VC setting! I think it would look stunning with a big stone. And I think in an antique style setting like that a little warmth is completely beautiful and natural. I also love your classic Tiffany style Vatche but it seems to me that it looks its best with a near colorless stone.

I'm positive that whatever you select will be perfection! You have such beautiful taste!

You are too sweet! I really appreciate that! I have loved that setting for a long time and was leaning towards it until I considered the lower color and thought maybe the sides might need a little cover. So I am still uncertain about that part! But I do love the setting! Thanks so much, Rosebloom!
 
Re: I am in LOVE with an August Vintage Round (AVR)!!!!!!!!!

Refresh my memory: Which VC setting again?
 
Re: I am in LOVE with an August Vintage Round (AVR)!!!!!!!!!

backwardsandinheels|1349884471|3282765 said:
Refresh my memory: Which VC setting again?

Well I am a little confused myself since I am considering Van Craeynest and Victor Canera!!! The Van Crayenest was the 484. I have a setting thread somewhere that showed it and my current Vatche setting, but I have ruled out the Vatche completely. The VanC would work better if I go for a smaller, whiter stone. If I go for a lower color larger stone, I would probably get Victor to make an antique style setting that would partially cover the sides. The VanC setting has a 4 prong head with open sides, and I don't think I can deal with that if I can see tint. I want the VanC setting, but it may not be for this diamond (which is currently imaginary since I don't have one picked out yet!).
 
Re: I am in LOVE with an August Vintage Round (AVR)!!!!!!!!!

diamondseeker2006|1349829405|3282507 said:
Dougsgirl|1349828885|3282500 said:
diamondseeker2006|1349828207|3282485 said:
MissGotRocks|1349823576|3282439 said:
We've lived a lot of life DS - surely we deserve to please ourselves with a few things! Others opinions are important in some areas - how we treat other people, how we conduct ourselves - that sort of thing. Having a beautiful (large if you will) diamond that you and hubby worked and paid for to enjoy is not one of those things IMO to worry about in terms of others opinions. They will always have opinions regardless of what you do. Just smile and tell them how much you've enjoyed having it - it's my standard line and folks just can't come up with a bad word against it!

If you want it and can do it, get it! No one in their final days ever says they wish they would have saved more of their money, taken fewer vacations, or had less treats. Right??

I definitely have not deprived myself of jewelry the last couple of years, that is for sure! I really do agree, though! My husband absolutely would be fine with me having any diamond I wanted. He would buy a larger one that I would, in fact. My thought process was that I could have two diamond rings if they stay under 2 cts. each, but if I go over 2 cts., I can only justify one in my own mind. But even if I opt for Jon to cut me a higher color, more expensive AVR, I do think it is important to get ONE great ring, just as you have said before. I really do not need two e-rings. My recent experiments of sending for the AVR and AVC's confirmed that I love both, but I want the round for an e-ring and I can get a cushion later if I am able.

Oh Sister...
Do you have this option?? Could you really "commission" one to be cut for you?? I would say... to heck with having 2 rings, get the AVR stunner of your dreams!!! :love:
Of course, we all know that for ME, the blingier the better! And not everyone feels the same way. How is this possible??? :confused:

Yes, that is an option if he doesn't have the right stone. I do need to try to stay just under 2 carats and that would be the interesting part because the recut of an existing stone would mean he'd have to buy a stone larger than 2 carats to cut below 2 carats and that may or may not make financial sense. Apparently the color of rough cannot be predicted with 100% accuracy because the stones he was expecting were estimated to be H-J color and they all graded J! I do need to buy a diamond as if it is the only one I'll have, but I'll always have the AVC in the back of my mind! :bigsmile: (I can either make a three stone ring with the rb I have now or I can sell it and get an AVC. But one project at a time!)

Disclaimer: I will probably stick at least one foot in my mouth again! OK, I'll just do it now! I have been thinking about your situation. I am like you in that I can only work on one important project at a time; I have to put my full energy in it to try to avoid mistakes. On my most recent diamond hunt, I looked a three different colors of the same shape of diamond. The one I chose had the most fire and personality, but it was not the highest color. That being said, it was cut so perfectly (mine) that it was nearly impossible to tell any difference (colorwise) when the diamonds were lined up. It also performed better when it was taken out of direct light. The point I am "attempting" to make is that one of the J's may be a better overall diamond than the one you thought you wanted. I have a gut feeling that you may not have been 100% on board deep down with the other diamond anyway . . . should I insert the other foot now?

I am not sure how much shipping charges are, and I hate wasting money only to end up with nothing. Does Jon think one of the new diamonds is a clear standout? Would he make a video for you with the I (assuming its there on hold) and the very best J's? I feel better when I find/validate that there was a good reason for being hesitant about something. . . . know what I mean? I wonder if the J is clearly better? I want you to be at peace inside, and not doubt yourself. I don't have a third foot . . .I'll get a roll of paper towels now!
:oops:

I am a bit chicken about having something custom cut, unless I would not be obligated to purchase it. I think you are spot on in that it would be foolish for the cutter to not try to save as much carat weight as possible when recutting. It would be hard to predict if it a diamond would be under 2 carats when recut. What do I know! :roll:
 
Re: I am in LOVE with an August Vintage Round (AVR)!!!!!!!!!

diamondseeker2006|1349886447|3282778 said:
backwardsandinheels|1349884471|3282765 said:
Refresh my memory: Which VC setting again?

Well I am a little confused myself since I am considering Van Craeynest and Victor Canera!!! The Van Crayenest was the 484. I have a setting thread somewhere that showed it and my current Vatche setting, but I have ruled out the Vatche completely. The VanC would work better if I go for a smaller, whiter stone. If I go for a lower color larger stone, I would probably get Victor to make an antique style setting that would partially cover the sides. The VanC setting has a 4 prong head with open sides, and I don't think I can deal with that if I can see tint. I want the VanC setting, but it may not be for this diamond (which is currently imaginary since I don't have one picked out yet!).


I really like the Victor Canera setting! :wink2:
 
Re: I am in LOVE with an August Vintage Round (AVR)!!!!!!!!!

Your setting thoughts sound reasonable. You just have to wait for your stone. Take your time picking out your diamond, it'll come. I am a diamond camel. I can go a long ways waiting, though it's not my favorite thing!
 
Re: I am in LOVE with an August Vintage Round (AVR)!!!!!!!!!

ClassyRocks|1349888159|3282790 said:
diamondseeker2006|1349886447|3282778 said:
backwardsandinheels|1349884471|3282765 said:
Refresh my memory: Which VC setting again?

Well I am a little confused myself since I am considering Van Craeynest and Victor Canera!!! The Van Crayenest was the 484. I have a setting thread somewhere that showed it and my current Vatche setting, but I have ruled out the Vatche completely. The VanC would work better if I go for a smaller, whiter stone. If I go for a lower color larger stone, I would probably get Victor to make an antique style setting that would partially cover the sides. The VanC setting has a 4 prong head with open sides, and I don't think I can deal with that if I can see tint. I want the VanC setting, but it may not be for this diamond (which is currently imaginary since I don't have one picked out yet!).


I really like the Victor Canera setting! :wink2:

Victor has some great ideas, and it will be interesting to see what you, Wintotty, and I end up with! But at this moment, you are the only one with a diamond in hand! I am planning to look at one or two stones hopefully on Friday!
 
Re: I am in LOVE with an August Vintage Round (AVR)!!!!!!!!!

backwardsandinheels|1349892132|3282836 said:
Your setting thoughts sound reasonable. You just have to wait for your stone. Take your time picking out your diamond, it'll come. I am a diamond camel. I can go a long ways waiting, though it's not my favorite thing!

I feel like I have waited for a long time, but I was just impatient and bought another rb in the meantime! But I do want to wait for a stone that I am sure of, so I will try to be a diamond camel! :lol:
 
Re: I am in LOVE with an August Vintage Round (AVR)!!!!!!!!!

backwardsandinheels|1349884471|3282765 said:
Refresh my memory: Which VC setting again?

I should know better than to use abbreviations in this case! I was referring to Van Craeynest. But I would love to see what Victor could come up with - I'm sure it would be perfection!
 
Re: I am in LOVE with an August Vintage Round (AVR)!!!!!!!!!

Because this is in the planning stages and nothing has been purchased yet, I have to say that every time I hear you talk about having a setting made to cover up the sides a bit it makes me go 'ouch'. I understand trying to maximize size vs dollars etc. but it keeps making me think that you really wouldn't be crazy about an I or a J. I know that these stones can face up whiter and the tint would maybe be more visible from the sides. It's just that spending that kind of money and already feeling like out of the box you have to cover up the sides and the tint that maybe it's not be the way to go. Perhaps a smaller size then with a better color would make you happier? I don't know - just random thoughts. I think for all the angst you've been through I would want you to have a stone that you loved for the whole of it - not just the face up position. Would covering the sides a bit make it mind clean to you or would you always have reservations about it?
 
Re: I am in LOVE with an August Vintage Round (AVR)!!!!!!!!!

The heart wants what it wants. I was bothere by my 1.67ct because of how much it cost, and that more than the size made my uncomfortable. I thought I could get a smaller stone and be happy. I was wrong. I pined for a bigger diamond the whole year I went between selling my 1.67 and finding my 1.89. And when I slipped this bigger rock on my finger again, with its halo to boot. Well, it felt mighty nice. Something has not been "right" about your set, and I don't know what it is DS -- you need a fancier setting, you want a different cut style or shape -- but consider whether you actually would like a larger stone.
 
Re: I am in LOVE with an August Vintage Round (AVR)!!!!!!!!!

MissGotRocks|1349898453|3282877 said:
Because this is in the planning stages and nothing has been purchased yet, I have to say that every time I hear you talk about having a setting made to cover up the sides a bit it makes me go 'ouch'. I understand trying to maximize size vs dollars etc. but it keeps making me think that you really wouldn't be crazy about an I or a J. I know that these stones can face up whiter and the tint would maybe be more visible from the sides. It's just that spending that kind of money and already feeling like out of the box you have to cover up the sides and the tint that maybe it's not be the way to go. Perhaps a smaller size then with a better color would make you happier? I don't know - just random thoughts. I think for all the angst you've been through I would want you to have a stone that you loved for the whole of it - not just the face up position. Would covering the sides a bit make it mind clean to you or would you always have reservations about it?

I do agree with this.

For what its worth, though, I do think there is an inexplicable aspect of diamond appreciation that is illogical. Maybe its love, I don't know. But like Classy said, she picked a diamond that spoke to her from a suite of candidates, and it was not necessarily the one she would have picked from the paper. Our diamonds are big expensive things and so should be considered logically and analytically. But they are also symbols -- of different things for different people -- and so as symbols it seems there is an element of emotion involved in choosing. In my particular experience, for what its worth, when I opened the box with my ring I danced a little jig on the street and have had an ongoing love affair since then. I knew literally *nothing* about my diamond. Not how big it was, not color, or clarity. All I knew was that it was phenomenally well cut and beautiful -- and I trusted my judgement of that because I have trained my palate :rodent: When I bought it the vendor said "G color", and I learned later it was more like a K color. Maybe it was good for me that I did not know the color when I got it? I don't look for tint. I am 100% pleased with my diamond and its color. My point: The mind is a treacherous and devious thing. DS: I think you should see a 2ct plus AVR in J color ;)) See if you fall in love. The cost of shipping is about the same as a couple dinners out, and it would be WAY more fun.
 
Re: I am in LOVE with an August Vintage Round (AVR)!!!!!!!!!

diamondseeker2006|1349892210|3282837 said:
ClassyRocks|1349888159|3282790 said:
diamondseeker2006|1349886447|3282778 said:
backwardsandinheels|1349884471|3282765 said:
Refresh my memory: Which VC setting again?

Well I am a little confused myself since I am considering Van Craeynest and Victor Canera!!! The Van Crayenest was the 484. I have a setting thread somewhere that showed it and my current Vatche setting, but I have ruled out the Vatche completely. The VanC would work better if I go for a smaller, whiter stone. If I go for a lower color larger stone, I would probably get Victor to make an antique style setting that would partially cover the sides. The VanC setting has a 4 prong head with open sides, and I don't think I can deal with that if I can see tint. I want the VanC setting, but it may not be for this diamond (which is currently imaginary since I don't have one picked out yet!).


I really like the Victor Canera setting! :wink2:

Victor has some great ideas, and it will be interesting to see what you, Wintotty, and I end up with! But at this moment, you are the only one with a diamond in hand! I am planning to look at one or two stones hopefully on Friday!

Oh, how I love Fridays! Can't wait to hear about your goodies!
 
Re: I am in LOVE with an August Vintage Round (AVR)!!!!!!!!!

Dreamer_D|1349905757|3282944 said:
MissGotRocks|1349898453|3282877 said:
Because this is in the planning stages and nothing has been purchased yet, I have to say that every time I hear you talk about having a setting made to cover up the sides a bit it makes me go 'ouch'. I understand trying to maximize size vs dollars etc. but it keeps making me think that you really wouldn't be crazy about an I or a J. I know that these stones can face up whiter and the tint would maybe be more visible from the sides. It's just that spending that kind of money and already feeling like out of the box you have to cover up the sides and the tint that maybe it's not be the way to go. Perhaps a smaller size then with a better color would make you happier? I don't know - just random thoughts. I think for all the angst you've been through I would want you to have a stone that you loved for the whole of it - not just the face up position. Would covering the sides a bit make it mind clean to you or would you always have reservations about it?

I do agree with this.

For what its worth, though, I do think there is an inexplicable aspect of diamond appreciation that is illogical. Maybe its love, I don't know. But like Classy said, she picked a diamond that spoke to her from a suite of candidates, and it was not necessarily the one she would have picked from the paper. Our diamonds are big expensive things and so should be considered logically and analytically. But they are also symbols -- of different things for different people -- and so as symbols it seems there is an element of emotion involved in choosing. In my particular experience, for what its worth, when I opened the box with my ring I danced a little jig on the street and have had an ongoing love affair since then. I knew literally *nothing* about my diamond. Not how big it was, not color, or clarity. All I knew was that it was phenomenally well cut and beautiful -- and I trusted my judgement of that because I have trained my palate :rodent: When I bought it the vendor said "G color", and I learned later it was more like a K color. Maybe it was good for me that I did not know the color when I got it? I don't look for tint. I am 100% pleased with my diamond and its color. My point: The mind is a treacherous and devious thing. DS: I think you should see a 2ct plus AVR in J color ;)) See if you fall in love. The cost of shipping is about the same as a couple dinners out, and it would be WAY more fun.

I agree with this as well. I think this is the downside of buying online. We have a set of specs and color and clarity in mind. We then expect the stone to look like what our mind tells us it should. Your experience, Dreamer, was to open a box and find a stone that spoke to you from a sparkle perspective first - and this should probably be our main criteria for buying a stone. The specs and color/clarity come next and by then, those things don't matter as much as the love of the stone.

It's just troubling to me somehow to think about buying an expensive stone and feel like it has to be disguised from the side so the tint won't show. I understand the reasoning behind it but it tells me that the color is really not OK to her eyes. It might not be to mine either - certainly not a bad reflection on her. I think if I truly felt that way I'd have to reconsider my main considerations of a new stone. Either go up in price for a better color or down in size to accomodate a better color at a better price point. I think I'd rather consider a small halo to accentuate a smaller stone rather than to cover the sides of a lower color stone with a mounting.

Just something to think about. I know that DS gives these matters lots of time and thought and I know she will sift through her options carefully. When I'm trying to make a decision, I like for people to point out all possible scenarios BEFORE I commit to something - not after!
 
Re: I am in LOVE with an August Vintage Round (AVR)!!!!!!!!!

diamondseeker2006|1349820486|3282403 said:
MGR...He doesn't get them in very often. I didn't ask because I know it will be a long time. He wants me to see the 1.9 J. The one thing that it has that the 1.8 I didn't is a smaller table which I think I would prefer. Looking at the stones at least helps me develop preferences, so I may look at that one.

Derbygal...thank you!

Classy...Oh, I think you are SO right! It does become more desirable when I can't have it! :lol: I wasn't 100% sure, so maybe that is for the best. The complicated thing about this situation is that I know of no other source for these diamonds. If it was a regular round, I could find another one at countless places. But hear you on not compromising. I have made mistakes like that before, too.

DS, have you seen this newly cut OEC stone? http://www.engagementringsdirect.com/2.03-carat-i-vs1-european-brilliant-round-cut-diamond-gid-100024.html

It doesn't have the really small table you're looking for, but the cut is beautiful, and the clarity is VS1.
 
Re: I am in LOVE with an August Vintage Round (AVR)!!!!!!!!!

Kim N|1349910469|3282972 said:
diamondseeker2006|1349820486|3282403 said:
MGR...He doesn't get them in very often. I didn't ask because I know it will be a long time. He wants me to see the 1.9 J. The one thing that it has that the 1.8 I didn't is a smaller table which I think I would prefer. Looking at the stones at least helps me develop preferences, so I may look at that one.

Derbygal...thank you!

Classy...Oh, I think you are SO right! It does become more desirable when I can't have it! :lol: I wasn't 100% sure, so maybe that is for the best. The complicated thing about this situation is that I know of no other source for these diamonds. If it was a regular round, I could find another one at countless places. But hear you on not compromising. I have made mistakes like that before, too.

DS, have you seen this newly cut OEC stone? http://www.engagementringsdirect.com/2.03-carat-i-vs1-european-brilliant-round-cut-diamond-gid-100024.html

It doesn't have the really small table you're looking for, but the cut is beautiful, and the clarity is VS1.

that looks gorgeous! :love:
 
Re: I am in LOVE with an August Vintage Round (AVR)!!!!!!!!!

Wow Miss Gotrocks, "sparkle first" perspective. That's a great way to get back to basic, pure diamond love :praise:
 
Re: I am in LOVE with an August Vintage Round (AVR)!!!!!!!!!

I would certainly look into ERD as another source.

MGR: the tint issue is real, no doubt. I have my stone set so I cannot see the profile, and I don't think I would like it as much if I could see the side view unfettered. The setting is so lovely I don't mind, not to mention the fact that antique stones are unusual in the near colorless range. So I accept it. I also choose not to wear my solitaire with a diamond band so the tint is not highlighted.
 
Re: I am in LOVE with an August Vintage Round (AVR)!!!!!!!!!

MissGotRocks|1349898453|3282877 said:
Because this is in the planning stages and nothing has been purchased yet, I have to say that every time I hear you talk about having a setting made to cover up the sides a bit it makes me go 'ouch'. I understand trying to maximize size vs dollars etc. but it keeps making me think that you really wouldn't be crazy about an I or a J. I know that these stones can face up whiter and the tint would maybe be more visible from the sides. It's just that spending that kind of money and already feeling like out of the box you have to cover up the sides and the tint that maybe it's not be the way to go. Perhaps a smaller size then with a better color would make you happier? I don't know - just random thoughts. I think for all the angst you've been through I would want you to have a stone that you loved for the whole of it - not just the face up position. Would covering the sides a bit make it mind clean to you or would you always have reservations about it?

I was out tonight and I have a few posts to catch up on! I'll have to take one at a time!

Yes, the reasoning is that the tint is pretty much only visible from the sides. Other than the VanC, many antique settings DO cover the sides partially..such as Dreamers. And a beautiful gallery is a plus! I won't be happy with a stone the same size I have now, because I want the facet pattern to be really visible, so the 7.8mm stone I sent for originally seemed like a good size because it is larger than what I have now but it didn't carry the price increase of a 2 ct. One of the J stones I want to look at is 1.9 cts and just under 7.8mm. That is not the best spread, but it isn't any worse than most old OEC's. Money will be a factor because if Jon bought an H VS stone to recut for me, it would have to be over 2 cts to cut down to a 1.8-1.9. And that would be pretty costly. So I am realistically thinking the H might not be possible unless I went smaller, and I really don't want to do that. I did find with my last downsize, even though small, I sort of regretted the size change (not the diamond because I love everything else about it). But I promise I won't buy a stone that I am uncomfortable with. I think it will help me to see a couple more to really nail down the features I can't compromise on. I told Jon I didn't think I could consider J, but he encouraged me to at least look to be sure. And I think of Dreamer who has had whiter stones like I have and how she loves her J-K antique stone, so it gives me some hope!
 
Re: I am in LOVE with an August Vintage Round (AVR)!!!!!!!!!

Dreamer_D|1349905342|3282940 said:
The heart wants what it wants. I was bothere by my 1.67ct because of how much it cost, and that more than the size made my uncomfortable. I thought I could get a smaller stone and be happy. I was wrong. I pined for a bigger diamond the whole year I went between selling my 1.67 and finding my 1.89. And when I slipped this bigger rock on my finger again, with its halo to boot. Well, it felt mighty nice. Something has not been "right" about your set, and I don't know what it is DS -- you need a fancier setting, you want a different cut style or shape -- but consider whether you actually would like a larger stone.

It is definitely the different cut that has the pull on the heartstrings. I did just tell MGR that I sort of regretted my small downsize in rb's, so I know I want to at least be at 7.6mm which was the size of my original H&A stone. However, I loved the 1.8 I VVS which was 7.8mm, so now I don't think I want to go under that! I wouldn't care so much about the setting because I like everything about my Vatche setting, but I have bought into the "total package" concept and want the setting to compliment the diamond...see Mike Robinson quote below!
 
Re: I am in LOVE with an August Vintage Round (AVR)!!!!!!!!!

Dreamer_D|1349905757|3282944 said:
MissGotRocks|1349898453|3282877 said:
Because this is in the planning stages and nothing has been purchased yet, I have to say that every time I hear you talk about having a setting made to cover up the sides a bit it makes me go 'ouch'. I understand trying to maximize size vs dollars etc. but it keeps making me think that you really wouldn't be crazy about an I or a J. I know that these stones can face up whiter and the tint would maybe be more visible from the sides. It's just that spending that kind of money and already feeling like out of the box you have to cover up the sides and the tint that maybe it's not be the way to go. Perhaps a smaller size then with a better color would make you happier? I don't know - just random thoughts. I think for all the angst you've been through I would want you to have a stone that you loved for the whole of it - not just the face up position. Would covering the sides a bit make it mind clean to you or would you always have reservations about it?

I do agree with this.

For what its worth, though, I do think there is an inexplicable aspect of diamond appreciation that is illogical. Maybe its love, I don't know. But like Classy said, she picked a diamond that spoke to her from a suite of candidates, and it was not necessarily the one she would have picked from the paper. Our diamonds are big expensive things and so should be considered logically and analytically. But they are also symbols -- of different things for different people -- and so as symbols it seems there is an element of emotion involved in choosing. In my particular experience, for what its worth, when I opened the box with my ring I danced a little jig on the street and have had an ongoing love affair since then. I knew literally *nothing* about my diamond. Not how big it was, not color, or clarity. All I knew was that it was phenomenally well cut and beautiful -- and I trusted my judgement of that because I have trained my palate :rodent: When I bought it the vendor said "G color", and I learned later it was more like a K color. Maybe it was good for me that I did not know the color when I got it? I don't look for tint. I am 100% pleased with my diamond and its color. My point: The mind is a treacherous and devious thing. DS: I think you should see a 2ct plus AVR in J color ;)) See if you fall in love. The cost of shipping is about the same as a couple dinners out, and it would be WAY more fun.

I truly understand that feeling of love/delight in seeing your ring for the first time! And yours is a great example of a stone that is well cut and faces up white but has the beautiful setting which doesn't totally expose the sides.

I am leaning towards looking at a stone over 2 cts just to be sure of my size limitations. I feel like I maybe can have a larger stone in this cut without being self-conscious. But there's no way to know without seeing one. And I agree, diamond visits that last a whole weekend are better than a dinner out!!! :lol:
 
Re: I am in LOVE with an August Vintage Round (AVR)!!!!!!!!!

MissGotRocks|1349909445|3282963 said:
I agree with this as well. I think this is the downside of buying online. We have a set of specs and color and clarity in mind. We then expect the stone to look like what our mind tells us it should. Your experience, Dreamer, was to open a box and find a stone that spoke to you from a sparkle perspective first - and this should probably be our main criteria for buying a stone. The specs and color/clarity come next and by then, those things don't matter as much as the love of the stone.

It's just troubling to me somehow to think about buying an expensive stone and feel like it has to be disguised from the side so the tint won't show. I understand the reasoning behind it but it tells me that the color is really not OK to her eyes. It might not be to mine either - certainly not a bad reflection on her. I think if I truly felt that way I'd have to reconsider my main considerations of a new stone. Either go up in price for a better color or down in size to accomodate a better color at a better price point. I think I'd rather consider a small halo to accentuate a smaller stone rather than to cover the sides of a lower color stone with a mounting.

Just something to think about. I know that DS gives these matters lots of time and thought and I know she will sift through her options carefully. When I'm trying to make a decision, I like for people to point out all possible scenarios BEFORE I commit to something - not after!

I truly appreciate every single word you and the others here have said! I agree with it all and just cannot know how I'll feel until I see the stones. I can't spend that much without loving the stone, and I certainly do not want to trade again especially if I have a setting made. So I have to be sure, and I know that feeling of doubt if it is there!
 
Re: I am in LOVE with an August Vintage Round (AVR)!!!!!!!!!

Kim N|1349910469|3282972 said:
DS, have you seen this newly cut OEC stone? http://www.engagementringsdirect.com/2.03-carat-i-vs1-european-brilliant-round-cut-diamond-gid-100024.html

It doesn't have the really small table you're looking for, but the cut is beautiful, and the clarity is VS1.

Nooooo, I had NO idea ERD was accessing newly cut OEC's. This certainly is an interesting development. Thank you for making me aware of it. :confused:
 
Re: I am in LOVE with an August Vintage Round (AVR)!!!!!!!!!

Dreamer, I need some cut advice. Can you please email me?
 
Re: I am in LOVE with an August Vintage Round (AVR)!!!!!!!!!

diamondseeker2006|1349921309|3283066 said:
MissGotRocks|1349898453|3282877 said:
Because this is in the planning stages and nothing has been purchased yet, I have to say that every time I hear you talk about having a setting made to cover up the sides a bit it makes me go 'ouch'. I understand trying to maximize size vs dollars etc. but it keeps making me think that you really wouldn't be crazy about an I or a J. I know that these stones can face up whiter and the tint would maybe be more visible from the sides. It's just that spending that kind of money and already feeling like out of the box you have to cover up the sides and the tint that maybe it's not be the way to go. Perhaps a smaller size then with a better color would make you happier? I don't know - just random thoughts. I think for all the angst you've been through I would want you to have a stone that you loved for the whole of it - not just the face up position. Would covering the sides a bit make it mind clean to you or would you always have reservations about it?

I was out tonight and I have a few posts to catch up on! I'll have to take one at a time!

Yes, the reasoning is that the tint is pretty much only visible from the sides. Other than the VanC, many antique settings DO cover the sides partially..such as Dreamers. And a beautiful gallery is a plus! I won't be happy with a stone the same size I have now, because I want the facet pattern to be really visible, so the 7.8mm stone I sent for originally seemed like a good size because it is larger than what I have now but it didn't carry the price increase of a 2 ct. One of the J stones I want to look at is 1.9 cts and just under 7.8mm. That is not the best spread, but it isn't any worse than most old OEC's. Money will be a factor because if Jon bought an H VS stone to recut for me, it would have to be over 2 cts to cut down to a 1.8-1.9. And that would be pretty costly. So I am realistically thinking the H might not be possible unless I went smaller, and I really don't want to do that. I did find with my last downsize, even though small, I sort of regretted the size change (not the diamond because I love everything else about it). But I promise I won't buy a stone that I am uncomfortable with. I think it will help me to see a couple more to really nail down the features I can't compromise on. I told Jon I didn't think I could consider J, but he encouraged me to at least look to be sure. And I think of Dreamer who has had whiter stones like I have and how she loves her J-K antique stone, so it gives me some hope!

I have been following your journey here and just wanted to chime in as a fellow color sensitive PSer. My MRB is a G which I upgraded to from an I MRB because I found the latter too tinted for my liking. I am now wearing a J color OEC (I color according to EGL) and do not have any problem whatsoever with the color. In fact, I don't even notice the color...ever. Yes, it's more tinted than my G and I can see that clearly in pics and in real life when I compare the two, but on its own, I don't notice it at all. My MRB has been sitting in my safety deposit box for months now because all I ever want to wear is my OEC. I really think you should see a J color AVR before making up your mind because you might be pleasantly surprised that what bothers you in an MRB won't bother you at all in an old cut.
 
Re: I am in LOVE with an August Vintage Round (AVR)!!!!!!!!!

Thank you so much for posting, Demelza! I have gone back to your thread with your ring and Dreamer's many times including today! I am certain I require higher color in a mrb than I would in an antique style stone. And even your new old setting partially covers the sides, so I think that is just typical of the time period. I am anxious to see a J and hopefully will be able to on Friday! Thanks again for your help!

Oh, and I am just going to put away my G stone when the J comes so I can evaluate it on it's own. It's not like it would be worn next to a G anyway!
 
Re: I am in LOVE with an August Vintage Round (AVR)!!!!!!!!!

Hey DS... I was thinking about you and your situation today...
I was at my son's football game, and it was bright and sunny when I showed up at about 5:00. But shortly after, the sun dropped. It was still light out, but no direct (sparkly) sunlight. It was like standing in the shade, or outside on a cloudy day.
I realized that this is the lighting in which I notice my diamond's J color the most. It definitely had a "vanilla" look to it in that environment. (Which is also a very non-sparkly environment). My stone isn't white all the time. It still doesn't bother me, because of the cut and the style of the ring... but I know that not everyone would be OK with it. It was noticeable.

So... when you get your AVR to "test drive", be sure to take it out in LOTS of lighting environments!!
I totally agree with MissGotRocks that you do NOT want to buy a diamond that you are already thinking about covering up!!!
Please... do not settle for less than what you truly want!

But for ME... What I've realized is that I "think" differently about this diamond than the MRBs that I see in the jewelry stores. I look at this one like it's a different species. I don't "expect" it to be a ice-white diamond, but more like an antique-style piece of art.

So just be sure to think about what you really want. If you want a really white diamond, then you may not be happy with a J. If you want an antique looking stone, than you may love it!

But please... check it in LOTS of places, be HONEST with yourself, and go with your gut!! There is no wrong answer. ;)
 
Re: I am in LOVE with an August Vintage Round (AVR)!!!!!!!!!

ClassyRocks|1349887769|3282787 said:
Disclaimer: I will probably stick at least one foot in my mouth again! OK, I'll just do it now! I have been thinking about your situation. I am like you in that I can only work on one important project at a time; I have to put my full energy in it to try to avoid mistakes. On my most recent diamond hunt, I looked a three different colors of the same shape of diamond. The one I chose had the most fire and personality, but it was not the highest color. That being said, it was cut so perfectly (mine) that it was nearly impossible to tell any difference (colorwise) when the diamonds were lined up. It also performed better when it was taken out of direct light. The point I am "attempting" to make is that one of the J's may be a better overall diamond than the one you thought you wanted. I have a gut feeling that you may not have been 100% on board deep down with the other diamond anyway . . . should I insert the other foot now?

I am not sure how much shipping charges are, and I hate wasting money only to end up with nothing. Does Jon think one of the new diamonds is a clear standout? Would he make a video for you with the I (assuming its there on hold) and the very best J's? I feel better when I find/validate that there was a good reason for being hesitant about something. . . . know what I mean? I wonder if the J is clearly better? I want you to be at peace inside, and not doubt yourself. I don't have a third foot . . .I'll get a roll of paper towels now!
:oops:

I am a bit chicken about having something custom cut, unless I would not be obligated to purchase it. I think you are spot on in that it would be foolish for the cutter to not try to save as much carat weight as possible when recutting. It would be hard to predict if it a diamond would be under 2 carats when recut. What do I know! :roll:

Classy, I somehow missed this last night! There were a lot of posts when I got home and I think I did not go back far enough! I am sorry!

Please don't apologize for giving helpful advice! Friends and family are supposed to be honest and give opinions when asked! Jon wants to send me one or two diamonds to see. I need to talk to him this morning to see which ones would be best. It is silly for me not to be open to at least looking. Either I love the diamond(s) or I find out the color or some other feature is not for me. Thank you for sharing your experience! You are exactly right that diamonds have to be seen and cannot be judged solely on paper!
 
Re: I am in LOVE with an August Vintage Round (AVR)!!!!!!!!!

Dougsgirl|1349939397|3283126 said:
Hey DS... I was thinking about you and your situation today...
I was at my son's football game, and it was bright and sunny when I showed up at about 5:00. But shortly after, the sun dropped. It was still light out, but no direct (sparkly) sunlight. It was like standing in the shade, or outside on a cloudy day.
I realized that this is the lighting in which I notice my diamond's J color the most. It definitely had a "vanilla" look to it in that environment. (Which is also a very non-sparkly environment). My stone isn't white all the time. It still doesn't bother me, because of the cut and the style of the ring... but I know that not everyone would be OK with it. It was noticeable.

So... when you get your AVR to "test drive", be sure to take it out in LOTS of lighting environments!!
I totally agree with MissGotRocks that you do NOT want to buy a diamond that you are already thinking about covering up!!!
Please... do not settle for less than what you truly want!

But for ME... What I've realized is that I "think" differently about this diamond than the MRBs that I see in the jewelry stores. I look at this one like it's a different species. I don't "expect" it to be a ice-white diamond, but more like an antique-style piece of art.

So just be sure to think about what you really want. If you want a really white diamond, then you may not be happy with a J. If you want an antique looking stone, than you may love it!

But please... check it in LOTS of places, be HONEST with yourself, and go with your gut!! There is no wrong answer. ;)

This is also great advice, dougsgirl! There was one place that the other AVR went dark, and it was in my kitchen spot lighting of all places! So I do need to be careful about seeing them in all lighting. I really do think the AVC's are pretty with a little color and that is the reason Wintotty is selling her D AVC. I am just not sure my color limits are as low with AVR's, though. But there is only one way to know and that is to see them! I'll report back after I see which stone or stones Jonathan thinks I should see. Thanks!
 
Re: I am in LOVE with an August Vintage Round (AVR)!!!!!!!!!

@Diamondseeker2006 - I just wanted to add my 2 cents here! I have G AVR and an L AVC.

In relation to the L AVC
I know what I'm about to say is going to be controversial here - but I am so glad I didn't see it before I bought it! Why? Because I'm probably 100% certain that if I had seen it unset, I probably would have been extremely critical, disappointed and wanting to return it. I now have a magnificent ring, that generally looks "white" - and for anyone to say otherwise would be very, very critical of them. It never looks yellow, heck, it doesn't even look tinted in real life. Photos do not do it justice! I do have to also say that my stone is not set with melee and wont be worn with any other rings - which might be a consideration for you. But all I'm trying to say is not to be too critical of the colour unset. It won't be that noticeable once set!

In relation to the G AVR
One day, I'd love a 2ct AVR or a genuine OEC so that I can really see and enjoy the faceting more - and if it meant going lower in colour to get the size I wanted, then I would do it! As it would be worn as an e-ring, I might consider putting it in a setting with a pretty basket to cover the profile, because other people are critical of colour in an e-ring, but having my L and seeing how subtle the colour really is, I doubt I'd even bother doing that.

On a side note - I have to say that I love to look at my AVR most on a rainy day. When I'm outside under my navy blue with white polka dots and roses umbrella - IT IS SOOOO BEAUTIFUL TO LOOK AT!!

EDIT: Oh, and put it in that VC setting you love! The setting "makes" the stone and "completes" the package! I had the same problem with my AVR not knowing which way to go, but I bit the bullet and bought the Tacori setting that I loved the most, and I'm so glad I did. I get giddy every time I look at it!
 
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