I- Yeah, I just need help

[LLJsmom]

On one end, everyone is giving you great advice and suggestions. Your job is to SAVE SAVE SAVE until it is time to purchase the ring. If you have been lurking on PS for a while now, which would mean you've been seeing what people are buying, know that beautiful diamonds, small or big, does not come cheap relative. Given that you said you know a lot more than your friends and your sincere wish to get something that your girlfriend wants, and that you both would want this to be THE ONE AND FOREVER RJNG, which is commendable, I am shocked at your budget. So my advice is to save up a LOT more, and get her the ring you "say" that you want to get. A larger budget along with the help of all these resourceful PSers will give you a fighting chance. And you sound like a smart guy. You must know that a newbie is taking a huge risk to even consider buying off eBay. Don't look for the cheapest way out. I'm sorry if this offends but it seems like you are. Look for the smartest way. I wish you all the best.

 

[metooplease]

I can offer no suggestions (I am new and learning) but I wanted to say that the people here are the best. And I love how sentimental you are about the ring....Mine is a horrible cut in a plain setting (and tiny) but I have had it for 35 years and would not trade it for anything. Your budget is also a wise one.
The lovely people here will find something for you for sure. You will love it. And it will sparkle so much that it will look bigger than it is.
P.S. I love the settings on the James Allen website....Let the good people here work a miracle for you. I have seen it happen.
Good luck to you.

 

[ihy138]

With your budget (which is fine, by the way, as long as you're comfortable with it), I would definitely recommend going actual vintage or pre-owned. I have a friend who loves vintage and vintage styled rings, but her now fiance had to get her something new from Kay Jewelers. She doesn't love her ring, and I just think that they could have done so much better if they got something vintage. Do you know how your intended would feel about a pre-owned piece? Some folks feel iffy about it, but it's my preference for a lot of reasons. It just may take you bit longer, but with some patience I'm sure you'd find something perfect. PS you are really sweet!!

 

[hayzing]

On one end, everyone is giving you great advice and suggestions. Your job is to SAVE SAVE SAVE until it is time to purchase the ring. If you have been lurking on PS for a while now, which would mean you've been seeing what people are buying, know that beautiful diamonds, small or big, does not come cheap relative. Given that you said you know a lot more than your friends and your sincere wish to get something that your girlfriend wants, and that you both would want this to be THE ONE AND FOREVER RJNG, which is commendable, I am shocked at your budget. So my advice is to save up a LOT more, and get her the ring you "say" that you want to get. A larger budget along with the help of all these resourceful PSers will give you a fighting chance. And you sound like a smart guy. You must know that a newbie is taking a huge risk to even consider buying off eBay. Don't look for the cheapest way out. I'm sorry if this offends but it seems like you are. Look for the smartest way. I wish you all the best.

I'm not looking for the cheapest way out. If I was, I would have went to Zales like my best friend and gotten a 450 dollar clearance ring lol. I'm not offended, but I'm a little shocked that 2,000 dollars is a really terrible budget...

I've seen loads of people get great diamond rings for less.

My significant other would probably die if she knew I spent 2,000 dollars on a ring, which I'm planning on doing. She's not a flashy sort of person; all she wants is something genuine and pretty to look at. Like I said, she'd want something more around the .5 carat range. And I've seen new rings with good colors and clarity in that carat range for quite a bit less than that.

It isn't that I can't come up with more money. It's that I really don't want to invest that much money into a ring, when I know the wedding is going to be really expensive and I'm already in so much debt with student loans. She's a very frugal person; and in some ways, I am too.But I'd buy her a 50,000 dollar ring if I figured that's what she wanted. But it isn't.

I'm just trying to get the BEST for the least.. and go about it the smartest way, without overspending..
Which is why I've been looking at things for a while, and am taking the buying process a little slower than I had intended. I just want to be able to pay the ring off quickly. And all of our money is pretty much together, already. It's been almost impossible to save at all without her noticing.

I can offer no suggestions (I am new and learning) but I wanted to say that the people here are the best. And I love how sentimental you are about the ring....Mine is a horrible cut in a plain setting (and tiny) but I have had it for 35 years and would not trade it for anything. Your budget is also a wise one.
The lovely people here will find something for you for sure. You will love it. And it will sparkle so much that it will look bigger than it is.
P.S. I love the settings on the James Allen website....Let the good people here work a miracle for you. I have seen it happen.
Good luck to you.

Thank you so much. I feel like this ring is a symbol of a whole lot between the two of us. We've been through everything together in the last few years. So I really want it to be something she wears forever. It's like a small little rope bracelet I got at an arcade when I was with my dad back when I was a little boy. We each got one. I still have that thing. And he still has his. Memories and sentiment mean the world to me; and they do to her too. And I really am seeing some really great options that the people here are giving me. I'd never really paid much attention to the James Allen website before today, and I really like some of the things I'm seeing.

With your budget (which is fine, by the way, as long as you're comfortable with it), I would definitely recommend going actual vintage or pre-owned. I have a friend who loves vintage and vintage styled rings, but her now fiance had to get her something new from Kay Jewelers. She doesn't love her ring, and I just think that they could have done so much better if they got something vintage. Do you know how your intended would feel about a pre-owned piece? Some folks feel iffy about it, but it's my preference for a lot of reasons. It just may take you bit longer, but with some patience I'm sure you'd find something perfect. PS you are really sweet!!

Lol, thank you! And yes; she likes a lot of vintage -- and has no problem at all with preowned. She just wants it to be pretty to look at and genuine. Nothing else really matters to her.

 

[metooplease]

I have zero idea how to post a link...

The stone was recommended to another person (who did not purchase) by a seasoned PSer. So it's 690116 on the James Allen website. I have zero idea, but maybe someone else here could advise.
The setting I love is sku 17488w14 (also JA)

The total is 1760

Not for nothing, but it maybe gives you an idea.

 

[MollyMalone]

Here are the links to the James Allen pages for the stone and setting metooplease has offered
http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/0.63-carat-j-color-vs2-clarity-excellent-cut-sku-690116
http://www.jamesallen.com/engagement-rings/vintage/14k-white-gold-engraved-solitaire-engagement-ring-item-53077

I think the setting is pretty, with a vintage-y feel; I do wonder, however, about a J color diamond, especially if you two have not looked at stones together & you don't know if a J diamond would be OK with her

 

[asscher_girl]

Here's a few ideas, a little over budget but pretty close on the first couple. Good luck in your search, you've come to a great place!

http://www.ebay.com/itm/ORANGE-BLOSSOM-0-68ct-OLD-EUROPEAN-DIAMOND-EGL-PLATINUM-ART-DECO-ENGAGEMENT-RING-/231770331425?hash=item35f6969921:g:UKUAAOSw8-tWXU1S

Not sure if she's really a Tiffany gal but it's such a pretty ring:
http://www.66mint.com/product/tiffany-co-legacy-cushion-cut-diamond-platinum-ring/

this one is gorgeous!
http://www.jewelsbygrace.com/rings/vintage-antique/44ct-old-european-cut-diamond-van-craeynest-solitaire#.Vm-itoT_50A

Love this one too!
http://www.jewelsbygrace.com/rings/vintage-antique/62ct-vintage-step-style-old-european-cut-diamond-ring#.Vm-i5IT_50A

This is a complete set, very pretty too
http://www.jewelsbygrace.com/rings/vintage-antique/88tcw-vintage-old-european-cut-diamond-wedding-set#.Vm-jMIT_50A

 

[lilysweet]

One thing to keep in mind if your gf wants to wear the ring to work, the crevices in the ornate settings collect gunk (especially from powdered gloves, I have work friends that complain). I saw this listing and it looks like they will entertain offers http://diamondbistro.com/category/216/Natural-Diamond-Center/listings/43353/61-Tiffany-Diamond-Solitaire-Laser-Inscribed.html.. A lovely classic! There is also this ring from old world diamonds http://www.oldworlddiamonds.com/jewelry-detail.php?id=166&maxpage=3&sort=price that is nice but again not as ornate. Just food for thought in your price range. I wish you the best of luck with your quest! Keep us posted.

 

[Gypsy]

I really like this stone:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/231747618734?_trksid=p2060353.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT And I would contact the seller and ask them if they will negotiate their price. See if you can get 80 or so bucks off.

And you can re-sell the setting for a couple hundred on Diamond Bistro as long as the jeweler you use takes a LOT of care removing the stone to save the setting, since it is platinum.

Then set the stone it in this setting: https://www.etsy.com/listing/161179813/14k-white-gold-engraved-vintage-antique?ref=shop_home_active_8

Overall, you are at around 1100.

 

[Aerix]

I think it's smart to stick to a budget and not get in debt. With that said, your budget is good and there are plenty of options on eBay. As the others have said, but from a seller who has a good return policy.

I found this ring on eBay. It's GIA certified, looks to be a private seller, but they have a 14 day return policy: http://m.ebay.com/itm/401040352191

 

[lovedogs]

First of all, I want to echo that you seem like a great guy and no matter what you get I'm sure your intended is going to love it. Also, I think you are smart to try to keep things in a reasonable budget--there's nothing wrong with that, especially if you both are on the same page about it (which it sounds like you are). I don't know if you've looked at the Lang's website, but they have some gorgeous vintage rings that are in your budget. I posted three that I particularly like below.

Also, I agree with other posters that if you do want to buy new rather than pre-loved, James Allen is a great choice.

http://www.langantiques.com/engagement/all-engagement-rings/40-carat-vintage-diamond-engagement-ring-6.html
http://www.langantiques.com/engagement/all-engagement-rings/33-carat-diamond-art-deco-engagement-ring.html
http://www.langantiques.com/engagement/all-engagement-rings/35-carat-vintage-diamond-engagement-ring-4.html

EDIT: here's another beautiful one--slightly over budget, but good if she wants something more classic that could be worn under gloves. http://www.langantiques.com/engagement/all-engagement-rings/35-carat-diamond-and-platinum-engagement-ring.html

and now I'm just having too much fun looking for you. Last link I promise!

I'd ask about the color/clarity, but it has a big presence because of the halo, which is great when the center diamond is slightly smaller http://www.66mint.com/product/round-brilliant-cut-diamond-halo-ring/#prettyPhoto

 

[farrahlyn]

Xiriah, this ring is GORGEOUS, what a find!

I think it's smart to stick to a budget and not get in debt. With that said, your budget is good and there are plenty of options on eBay. As the others have said, but from a seller who has a good return policy.

I found this ring on eBay. It's GIA certified, looks to be a private seller, but they have a 14 day return policy: http://m.ebay.com/itm/401040352191

lovedogs, you posted some really great rings, that halo is just scrumptious! I purused the langantiques site myself and wow, they have some beautiful rings. I'm particularly loving this one http://www.langantiques.com/engagem...rings/35-carat-old-european-diamond-ring.html

and to the OP, your budget is perfectly fine, please don't feel pressured to go over your budget. As you can see, there are plenty of options out there that are beautiful within your range!

 

[asscher_girl]

I found a few more:

This diamond is gorgeous and .75 ct! You could probably get them to come down to $2K
http://www.rubylane.com/item/318190-1892/Antique-Platinum-75-Transitional-Diamond-Art

Gorgeous set -
http://www.rubylane.com/item/1454688-8291/Platinum-1-19ct-Round-Cut-Diamond

 

[marymm]

Not sure if you have any wiggle room on your budget, but another option could be to buy the diamond and the setting, in two separate purchases, through WhiteFlash. WhiteFlash carries Tacori and Verragio among other designers.

And, they also have this terrific "90-Day Flex Plan" where, for purchases $1,500 and above, you could pay 20% down and then make 3 separate payments over the next 3 months.
http://www.whiteflash.com/about-diamonds/faq/does-whiteflash-offer-financing-1027.htm

So, you could find a beautiful half-carat diamond and buy that via the WF Flex Plan. Once the diamond is paid in full, decide which WF setting best suits your GF's style and your budget, though it would have to be at least $1,500 to purchase via WF Flex Plan. And, there'd be no additional setting fee since WF would have the diamond on hand once your setting purchase was complete.

Since this ring will be a forever ring for you and your GF, maybe consider upping your budget to $3,000-$3,250 but utilizing the WF Flex Plan so the ring purchase is split into two separate transaction over 6 months total.

Or, buy the diamond this way, and find a setting elsewhere.

 

[hayzing]

Holy cow, everyone has given me excellent options. Let me look through these, and I'll prob comment again


But before I came back and saw that a lot more suggestions were given, I'd been debating these things the most:


http://www.ebay.com/itm/381440480156?_trksid=p2060353.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT
and then buying a diamond from ID (Or taking someone else's suggestion earlier and buying a ring, selling the setting and having the diamond put in)


http://www.ebay.com/itm/191697783382?_trksid=p2060353.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT
This was suggested here

http://www.ebay.com/itm/401040352191?_trksid=p2060353.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT
This was also suggested here. I'm just a TAD nervous about the J color.

And some James Allen rings are a definite possibility. Brand new at a great price.


http://www.jamesallen.com/engagement-rings/pave/14k-white-gold-thin-french-cut-pave-set-diamond-engagement-ring-item-7092

http://www.jamesallen.com/engagement-rings/side-stones/vintage-round-diamond-and-marquise-sapphire-engagement-ring-item-49490

http://www.jamesallen.com/engagement-rings/solitaire/14k-white-gold-etched-profile-solitaire-item-9201

And there are a few Tacori rings that I'm contemplating bidding on or making offers.

One has a .52 diamond -- and he has a buy it now price of 2200.... But I can almost get a new one for that (depending on what model and diamond I choose) if I use Genesis (btw, anyone use Genesis? I know of a few people that had bad experiences once upon a time...) or WF


And then there's this:

Does anyone think this is a good deal?

http://www.ebay.com/itm/65-CTTW-GABRIEL-COMPANY-14KT-WHITE-GOLD-HALO-ENGAGEMENT-RING-ER9510W44JJ-NR-/111812585755?nma=true&si=enPZ0%252F1a7ClJduGNegkvBRCc9bA%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc&_trksid=p2047675.l2557

It's a touch smaller than what I was wanting, but with the halo, it may add some bulk. And I've seen this ring before and thought it was beautiful.


I'm going to look at some more of your suggestions when I get finished with my work for the day.

Again, thank you all so very much for all your help thus far. I'd like for you guys to sort of journey through this with me lol

 

[everstone]

I don't agree with the people who say to go vintage or to buy from eBay. I agree with the person who said to not find the cheapest way out, however.

The problem with PriceScope(rs) is that they're all about showing you the best priced rings/diamonds. Seldom do they seem to care about how the other person (your future fiance/wife) will feel when she sees the ring and tells her friends about it. When she asks "How did you pick this ring?" you won't want to say "Some guy on PriceScope showed me the link..." Unromantic.

Remove yourself from the persuasion of the experts here and put yourself in her shoes. Would she actually want a second hand ring? Would she actually want to know that you bought from eBay? How do you know who wore it before her? A ring has a lot of meaning and if you simply choose any old ring from eBay that fits your budget, she might hate it. I read PriceScope a lot, but I also read Weddingbee forums and girls secretly talk about how much their engagement ring bothers them. For me it's funny, but you might end up being a topic of conversation there if you're not careful. I have a fiancé who is a real girly-girl. I love her but I know she would absolutely not want a ring from eBay. Even buying online was difficult to convince her. I suppose if your girl was more of a hipster then eBay, vintage style, pawn-shop-type ring would suffice.

Buy her a new ring and new diamond, from the same place (I don't suggest buying settings and diamonds separately). Get the largest stone for the best cut you think you can afford. Stick to H or G color. Don't get J. You're already worried about J from your above post and believe me, you won't be able to get it out of your head if you're already thinking about it now. Stick to GIA or AGS.

You can easily get a great, shiny, brand-new ring for around $2000. You want to be proud of your purchase. Don't settle.

 

[hayzing]

I don't agree with the people who say to go vintage or to buy from eBay. I agree with the person who said to not find the cheapest way out, however.

You have to put yourself in her shoes. Would she actually want a second hand ring? Would she actually want to know that you bought from eBay? How do you know who wore it before her? A ring has a lot of meaning and if you simply choose any old ring from eBay that fits your budget, she might hate it. I read PriceScope a lot, but I also read Weddingbee forums and girls secretly talk about how much their engagement ring bothers them. For me it's funny, but you might end up being a topic of conversation there if you're not careful. I have a fiancé who is a real girly-girl. I love her but I know she would absolutely not want a ring from eBay. Even buying online was difficult to convince her. I suppose if your girl was more of a hipster then eBay, vintage style, pawn-shop-type ring would suffice.

Buy her a new ring and new diamond, from the same place (I don't suggest buying settings and diamonds separately). Get the largest stone for the best cut you think you can afford. Stick to H or G color. Don't get J. You're already worried about J from your above post and believe me, you won't be able to get it out of your head if you're already thinking about it now. Stick to GIA or AGS.

You can easily get a great, shiny, brand-new ring for around $2000. You want to be proud of your purchase. Don't settle.

I've already discussed the possibility of buying pre-owned with her before. My girlfriend doesn't care.

She's not a hipster. She's just a practical (way more practical than I am) thinker, and knows that I can get more bang for my buck if I buy used. She also likes the look of antique and vintage rings. As well as some designer rings (which I cannot afford brand new, in stores). So she really would not mind. She doesn't care if I get used. She doesn't care if I get new. She just wants something pretty and genuine... and to be surprised.

If she doesn't like it, she will tell me. Trust me lol. And we will deal accordingly -- but I don't see that being an issue because I know her style well.

I'm not only looking at preowned jewelry as you can see from what others have suggested, and what I am currently debating on.

 

[everstone]

I don't agree with the people who say to go vintage or to buy from eBay. I agree with the person who said to not find the cheapest way out, however.

You have to put yourself in her shoes. Would she actually want a second hand ring? Would she actually want to know that you bought from eBay? How do you know who wore it before her? A ring has a lot of meaning and if you simply choose any old ring from eBay that fits your budget, she might hate it. I read PriceScope a lot, but I also read Weddingbee forums and girls secretly talk about how much their engagement ring bothers them. For me it's funny, but you might end up being a topic of conversation there if you're not careful. I have a fiancé who is a real girly-girl. I love her but I know she would absolutely not want a ring from eBay. Even buying online was difficult to convince her. I suppose if your girl was more of a hipster then eBay, vintage style, pawn-shop-type ring would suffice.

Buy her a new ring and new diamond, from the same place (I don't suggest buying settings and diamonds separately). Get the largest stone for the best cut you think you can afford. Stick to H or G color. Don't get J. You're already worried about J from your above post and believe me, you won't be able to get it out of your head if you're already thinking about it now. Stick to GIA or AGS.

You can easily get a great, shiny, brand-new ring for around $2000. You want to be proud of your purchase. Don't settle.

I've already discussed the possibility of buying pre-owned with her before. My girlfriend doesn't care.

She's not a hipster. She's just a practical (way more practical than I am) thinker, and knows that I can get more bang for my buck if I buy used. She also likes the look of antique and vintage rings. As well as some designer rings (which I cannot afford brand new, in stores). So she really would not mind. She doesn't care if I get used. She doesn't care if I get new. She just wants something pretty and genuine... and to be surprised.

If she doesn't like it, she will tell me. Trust me lol. And we will deal accordingly -- but I don't see that being an issue because I know her style well.

I'm not only looking at preowned jewelry as you can see from what others have suggested, and what I am currently debating on.

Oh well then by all means you can ignore what I said. Lol.

 

[telephone89]

Op - I give you props for standing by what you AND your girlfriend want. At the end of the day, we are just random people on the internet, but I don't think saying 'some dude on pricescope showed me this link' is any worse than 'the sales associate showed me this one'. Be it online or in a mall store. At least we (most of us at least) are trying to find you the best diamond that fits your wishlist. None of us are gaining anything in you buying this - a sales associate is!

And, FWIW, I'd choose a 'used' diamond ring over a new one if it meant a good increase in size. It's not like any diamonds are actually NEW - they are millions of years old! I have hope that you'll find the perfect one

 

[farrahlyn]

That Ebay oval and sapphire is beautiful. I know nada about ovals but the price seems pretty awesome for the color/clarity/size. That J diamond i'm pretty sure you'll at least see the color warmth from the side with that setting. The pics aren't the greatest, i might contact the seller for more pictures? The listing says its white gold but it looks like yellow or rose gold to me. anyone else? And of the JA settings, i adore the sapphire and diamond setting. It just screams vintage to me and i'm sure you could find a .5 ct diamond for it within your price range.

 

[lovedogs]

Op - I give you props for standing by what you AND your girlfriend want. At the end of the day, we are just random people on the internet, but I don't think saying 'some dude on pricescope showed me this link' is any worse than 'the sales associate showed me this one'. Be it online or in a mall store. At least we (most of us at least) are trying to find you the best diamond that fits your wishlist. None of us are gaining anything in you buying this - a sales associate is!

And, FWIW, I'd choose a 'used' diamond ring over a new one if it meant a good increase in size. It's not like any diamonds are actually NEW - they are millions of years old! I have hope that you'll find the perfect one

+1 to this! Also, I'd like to point out that there are many women (myself included) who would be happy with a pre-owned ring! I actually like the idea of a vintage set, or something with a "history". I like to imagine all the adventures the ring had before I got it and I know I am not the only woman who feels this way. I think no matter what you choose it will be great, especially since you seem to know your girlfriend very well and are willing to stick with what you and she discussed. It bodes well for your future together

 

[everstone]

Op - I give you props for standing by what you AND your girlfriend want. At the end of the day, we are just random people on the internet, but I don't think saying 'some dude on pricescope showed me this link' is any worse than 'the sales associate showed me this one'. Be it online or in a mall store. At least we (most of us at least) are trying to find you the best diamond that fits your wishlist. None of us are gaining anything in you buying this - a sales associate is!

And, FWIW, I'd choose a 'used' diamond ring over a new one if it meant a good increase in size. It's not like any diamonds are actually NEW - they are millions of years old! I have hope that you'll find the perfect one

+1 to this! Also, I'd like to point out that there are many women (myself included) who would be happy with a pre-owned ring! I actually like the idea of a vintage set, or something with a "history". I like to imagine all the adventures the ring had before I got it and I know I am not the only woman who feels this way. I think no matter what you choose it will be great, especially since you seem to know your girlfriend very well and are willing to stick with what you and she discussed. It bodes well for your future together

The most important thing with your girlfriend is that you discussed it. That way she won't be disgusted. /rhyme

 

[MollyMalone]

* * * But before I came back and saw that a lot more suggestions were given, I'd been debating these things the most:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/381440480156?_trksid=p2060353.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT
and then buying a diamond from ID (Or taking someone else's suggestion earlier and buying a ring, selling the setting and having the diamond put in) * * *

That vendor has been on eBay for a number of years; he obviously makes a point of seeking out jewelers' showcase rings (thus, the CZ center stones) and discontinued settings & I think his eBay prices are very fair. Plus, his brick-and-mortar operation in Monroe, NY, Cyrus Jewelers, has a good reputation locally (I asked law enforcement personnel in Sullivan County about him). So, I think it would be a solid bet... but for the facts that you'd need someone to take care of the head so it correctly, securely fits a smaller stone & the ring size 6 of this display model is seemingly a bit large for her. As with many Verragios and Tacoris, the entire shank of this particular ring is embellished; there's no pave on the shank which is a plus when resizing, but there is no plain space at the bottom of this Parisian for easy resizing

(altho' sizing beads are certainly possible & actually a good idea, if she doesn't mind them as much as I do).
So before you commit to going this route, may I suggest that you (a) find an authorized Verragio or Tacori retailer who has, or can recommend, a good bench who can capably handle this kind of work, and (b) ask for a price quote so you have a better idea of the additional cost.

* * * And then there's this:
Does anyone think this is a good deal?
http://www.ebay.com/itm/65-CTTW-GABRIEL-COMPANY-14KT-WHITE-GOLD-HALO-ENGAGEMENT-RING-ER9510W44JJ-NR-/111812585755?nma=true&si=enPZ0%252F1a7ClJduGNegkvBRCc9bA%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc&_trksid=p2047675.l2557

It's a touch smaller than what I was wanting, but with the halo, it may add some bulk. And I've seen this ring before and thought it was beautiful.

I wouldn't consider it because it's a final sale; the vendor will not accept returns and issue refunds. I'm willing to roll the dice, and "eat" the cost, if need be, of an inexpensive eBay item, but otherwise, I want the option to return eBay purchases for a no-questions-asked refund. Especially when it comes to gems and non-costume jewelry.

Hope you are having some fun with this!

 

[RetroTreeGal]

OP- I just wanted you to know that you have a silent cheering section watching this. You seem like a loving soon-to-be fiance!
More moral support: I was given a budget less than yours, and I picked a vintage ring for 1/3 of the budget that i get compliments on all the time. It can be done! You can do it! Rah rah rah!

 

[Mayk]

Lang just sent an email for 10% off and free shipping if you are looking at any of those suggestions.

 

[metooplease]

Add me to the cheering section...

I'm starting to really get emotionally invested in this thread

I think it's sweet to be on a small budget. It's very romantic. Plus you are open to options, which is definitely a good thing!

It's great, too that everyone is pointing out things that you (and definitely I) would not have considered on our own.

Does she like halos? I like them, but personally I feel a solitaire is a little safer if you are not sure...there is the possibility that a halo may become slightly dated in 20 years...she may not mind, but it's just a thought.

Good luck on your search.

(as I have said, I know nothing but do anyone that knows have any thoughts on this: GIA 7196803651?)

 

[glimmer]

Hello! You're very thoughtful for putting so much effort into picking out the perfect ring for your love. I'm no expert, but here's a diamond which I think looks like a good deal and would make a beautiful pairing with any of the settings you've linked above:

http://www.b2cjewels.com/dd-7438863-0.57-carat-Round-diamond-H-color-VS2-Clarity.aspx?sku=7438863

The proportions look good and it has a "hearts on fire" inscription. H should be a good color if your gf is a bit more color sensitive as well.

also, maybe you'd like to ask JA for more info about this diamond, and verify whether its eye clean, if you want to get everything at one place:

http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/0.53-carat-e-color-si1-clarity-excellent-cut-sku-619057

Best of luck to you!

 

[hayzing]

I didn't even THINK about the sizing on that Verragio! So thank you very much! I almost bought it.

I just won an eBay auction for a Tacori for 640 bucks (and earned over 50 bucks back in eBay bucks). The seller offers refunds. It comes with a CZ, so I'll have to get a stone still. And it's in a size 7, but the band is actually a lot less intricate in the back, so I don't think it'll be a huge deal to size it. At least I don't think so. Here it is:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/New-Tacori-Dantela-Diamond-18K-White-Gold-Semi-Mount-Engagement-Wedding-Ring-/201481387581?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&nma=true&si=enPZ0%252F1a7ClJduGNegkvBRCc9bA%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc


Tell me what you guys think. If you hate it, or think I made a bad deal....

I always feel nervous after spending a large chunk of money. Lol. But I know she'll think it's beautiful.

Does anyone know how much it costs to set stones? I probably should have asked that before I bid lol


Btw, thanks to everyone for your support. I'm still going to keep you all updated on what I choose to do with the diamond.

 

[swingirl]

I really like this stone:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/231747618734?_trksid=p2060353.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT And I would contact the seller and ask them if they will negotiate their price. See if you can get 80 or so bucks off.

And you can re-sell the setting for a couple hundred on Diamond Bistro as long as the jeweler you use takes a LOT of care removing the stone to save the setting, since it is platinum.

Then set the stone it in this setting: https://www.etsy.com/listing/161179813/14k-white-gold-engraved-vintage-antique?ref=shop_home_active_8

Overall, you are at around 1100.

This is really a very nice option!

 

[Lookinagain]

I SO disagree with you Everstone about the diamond at least. I don't even like the term "pre-owned" or "pre-loved" when it comes to diamonds. And especially don't like the term "used". Unless you're buying a man-made diamond aren't all natural diamonds "old"? Some of these terms makes it sound like they have some kind of shelf life. I'm not expert but I was always under the impression that a diamond will last a lot longer in time than I will. So what is a "new" diamond? I assume you mean one that was recently mined and cut but I just don't see why that is better than one that was mined and cut long ago. Calling a setting "new" is fine, but how can you call a natural diamond "new"? It makes it sound like a new one is better than an old one. They are diamonds by chemical composition. Old and new should be pretty much the same and not one should be better than the other unless judged by cut, clarity, etc.