Newbie, surprising GF, Please help me find the right setting

[coffeetown]

Re: Newbie, surprising GF, Please help me find the right set

As for center stones, these might be worth a look. I don't think B2C will provide ASET images, but WF, GOG, etc. will if they're able to get the same diamonds.

http://www.b2cjewels.com/dd-2072287-0.96-carat-Cushion-diamond-F-color-SI1-Clarity.aspx?cid=DiamPS
http://www.b2cjewels.com/dd-2072262-1.00-carat-Cushion-diamond-G-color-SI1-Clarity.aspx?cid=DiamPS
http://www.b2cjewels.com/dd-2072333-1.00-carat-Cushion-diamond-H-color-SI1-Clarity.aspx?cid=DiamPS
http://www.b2cjewels.com/dd-2072306-1.02-carat-Cushion-diamond-G-color-SI1-Clarity.aspx?cid=DiamPS

What do you think of these? some of them i found on the PS search section


What do you think of this from the same site that you showed me a setting from earlier: http://www.eternitydiamonds.com/diamond_detail.php?id=475272

or this

http://www.solomonbrothers.com/DiamondDetail.aspx?sku=IC441039&affiliate=9318613A-AD0C-4530-A456-0409DFEFB8DE

Should I totally stay away from EGL ? http://www.solomonbrothers.com/DiamondDetail.aspx?sku=IC441039&affiliate=9318613A-AD0C-4530-A456-0409DFEFB8DE

http://search.virtcert.com/cgi/u/1012/v.cgi?stock=11609551&_s=1012&_p=sdf348gd743&_c=&_fs=1&prestock=&_ln=ps

 

[anitabee]

Re: Newbie, surprising GF, Please help me find the right set

Okay so... here's my suggestion. Buy her a solitaire for now. Spend the bulk of your funds on the center stone. You do not want a cheap replica for this setting. Just get her a solitaire with a little pave in the band. Eternity Diamond's Gita setting is a good choice. It is affordable and gives her a little pave. Will be good to see how the pave handles her lifestyle.

Then hunt for settings together. Save up some money so that you can get a nice quality (so that it lasts) pave halo HW type ring, since that's what she says she wants.

And also discuss the fact that the setting she wants is utterly impractical for her lifestyle as a medical student, unless she plans on wearing it on a chain around her neck .

You buy the cushion at one place. Send the measurements of the cushion to the place where you are buying the setting from. They make the setting and send it to the diamond dealer, who sets it for you. Blue nile won't do this, so you'd have to do the exact opposite. Which is have the stone sent to the setting vendor.

+1

 

[Snow_Miser]

Re: Newbie, surprising GF, Please help me find the right set

As for center stones, these might be worth a look. I don't think B2C will provide ASET images, but WF, GOG, etc. will if they're able to get the same diamonds.

http://www.b2cjewels.com/dd-2072287-0.96-carat-Cushion-diamond-F-color-SI1-Clarity.aspx?cid=DiamPS
http://www.b2cjewels.com/dd-2072262-1.00-carat-Cushion-diamond-G-color-SI1-Clarity.aspx?cid=DiamPS
http://www.b2cjewels.com/dd-2072333-1.00-carat-Cushion-diamond-H-color-SI1-Clarity.aspx?cid=DiamPS
http://www.b2cjewels.com/dd-2072306-1.02-carat-Cushion-diamond-G-color-SI1-Clarity.aspx?cid=DiamPS

What do you think of these? some of them i found on the PS search section


What do you think of this from the same site that you showed me a setting from earlier: http://www.eternitydiamonds.com/diamond_detail.php?id=475272

or this

http://www.solomonbrothers.com/DiamondDetail.aspx?sku=IC441039&affiliate=9318613A-AD0C-4530-A456-0409DFEFB8DE

Should I totally stay away from EGL ? http://www.solomonbrothers.com/DiamondDetail.aspx?sku=IC441039&affiliate=9318613A-AD0C-4530-A456-0409DFEFB8DE

http://search.virtcert.com/cgi/u/1012/v.cgi?stock=11609551&_s=1012&_p=sdf348gd743&_c=&_fs=1&prestock=&_ln=ps

Coffeetown,

Something important to consider is the light return of the stone. As mentioned earlier, the most important aspect of a diamond is the cut of the stone. The cut is what determines the light return, a.k.a. the amount of sparkle the diamond has.

It can be especially hard choosing a cushion cut diamond that has good light return, because there are such a variety of cushions.

I am linking a thread that has a lot of helpful information on cushion cuts. It includes the variety of cuts you will see in different cushions, as well as videos showcasing different cushions. I highly encourage you to look at it. https://www.pricescope.com/forum/ro...-great-cushion-guideline-thread-t147633.html/

Also, it is extremely helpful to have a ASET image of a cushion. This image will help you determine the light return of a stone. I am by no means an expert, and primarily lurk on this sight, but I have gleaned a lot from others' posts. In an ASET image, green shows light leakage, where the stone will not reflect light. This is bad. The red areas of an ASET show areas of light return, which is desirable.

Cushion Diamond with light leakage: http://www.goodoldgold.com/diamond/5696//
Cushion Diamond with good light return: http://www.goodoldgold.com/diamond/6372//
Another Cushion with good light return: http://www.goodoldgold.com/diamond/6257//

Overall, what I am trying to say is, before you buy a cushion, please request an ASET image from whichever vendor you decide to purchase. The ASET image is invaluable when choosing a cushion. Also, post the ASET image here, and we will be able to help you evaluate it.

SM

 

[paperumbrella]

Re: Newbie, surprising GF, Please help me find the right set

I don't know if you read what I mentioned above, she will in fact be going into a surgical specialty and is not planning on wearing it everyday, she'll have her band and take even that on and off. she knows that and she wants that. When we first began to look at rings, she fell in love with this one. We went to Harry Winston "just to look" and she tried it on and since that time she's looked at many more but she keeps going back to that and says it fits her personality and I can just tell the way her face lights up that she loves it. We're actually lucky, because at Harry Winston she was able to try on the exact same ring in a 1.0, a 1.33, and a 1.5 she said that the 1.5 is just too large for her taste and that while a 1.33 is very appealing the price would be such a big jump. She said the 1.0 -1.20 is the perfect size because the Halo also adds a lot to it. Mind you, she started out wanting something small at .75 ct

So yeah, here we are.

HW replica it is, then! Now the decision is whether she would prefer a larger diamond in a less "accurate" replica, perhaps like the Lauren from Eternity Diamonds, as mentioned above, or a smaller diamond in a setting that is closer to HW, but likely more expensive. Either option will be lovely, but it is a personal decision.

 

[coffeetown]

Re: Newbie, surprising GF, Please help me find the right set

Once again thank you all for all of the great advice, I have taken it and am learning more.

here are the specs of one diamond that fits in our budget, it's an SI2 but still, let me know what you all think

GIA Certified
Price: $3188
Bank wire price: $3124.24

Carat weight: 1.10
Cut: Excellent
Color: F
Clarity: SI2

Price per carat: $2899
Depth %: 67.0
Table %: 58
Symmetry: V. Good
Polish: Excellent
Girdle: Slightly Thick to Thick
Culet: None
Fluorescence: Faint
Measurements: 6.11x5.76x3.90

 

[vintagelover229]

Re: Newbie, surprising GF, Please help me find the right set

Hi Coffee!

What a beautiful setting that you and your gf have decided is perfect for you. However, I don't think you are taking the advice that the other posters have been telling you about.

For a cushion cut diamond (ANY cushion cut diamond) can not be bought on numbers alone. That being said, the price you have listed for that stone seems to low for something of similar color/clarity (slightly higher clarity) is almost twice that price at GOG. So, idk why, but it doesn't "seem" right to me. Could be a great stone though, but you really do need an ASET image to determine if it is or not.

http://www.goodoldgold.com/diamond/3662/

You see, cushions come in many different flavors. The term "cushion" is a very lose term described to a cut of stone, but it can have many different appearances. Some beautiful, while others not so much. I would contact a cushion vendor and tell them your budget, expectations, etc. and see where you can go from there.

Keep in mind, many vendors have life time upgrade policies, (not saying you'll use it, but it's nice to have), some have buy back policies (heaven forbid but you never know if you'll need to sell in the future, not saying it won't work, but perhaps you need money in the future, etc).


If you want to get the best bang for your buck, I'd check out Jewels by erica grace. They can make the HW setting and source a cushin that will make your heart sing in your price range I'm sure.

With out ASET images we are unable to help you. Many posters here have pointed you in the right direction, and have told you to avoid ebay. Cushions are tricky little buggers to get nice ones of, and you really should rely on someone who knows what to look for, and who can help you determine which kind of cushion YOU like the best. There are MANY videos comparing the colors/clarity/types of cushions to help you make an educated decision based on your own eyes.


Here are examples of some of JBEG work. Keep in mind some of these are CADS and look more bulky because of that and the real thing is much more delicate.
http://www.jewelsbyericagrace.com/jbeg_signature_settings__custom_design

Do a search for them and you'll see their custom work and their reviews. They have been PS members for a long time too.

Good luck!

 

[coffeetown]

Re: Newbie, surprising GF, Please help me find the right set

Hi Coffee!

What a beautiful setting that you and your gf have decided is perfect for you. However, I don't think you are taking the advice that the other posters have been telling you about.

For a cushion cut diamond (ANY cushion cut diamond) can not be bought on numbers alone. That being said, the price you have listed for that stone seems to low for something of similar color/clarity (slightly higher clarity) is almost twice that price at GOG. So, idk why, but it doesn't "seem" right to me. Could be a great stone though, but you really do need an ASET image to determine if it is or not.

http://www.goodoldgold.com/diamond/3662/

You see, cushions come in many different flavors. The term "cushion" is a very lose term described to a cut of stone, but it can have many different appearances. Some beautiful, while others not so much. I would contact a cushion vendor and tell them your budget, expectations, etc. and see where you can go from there.

Keep in mind, many vendors have life time upgrade policies, (not saying you'll use it, but it's nice to have), some have buy back policies (heaven forbid but you never know if you'll need to sell in the future, not saying it won't work, but perhaps you need money in the future, etc).


If you want to get the best bang for your buck, I'd check out Jewels by erica grace. They can make the HW setting and source a cushin that will make your heart sing in your price range I'm sure.

With out ASET images we are unable to help you. Many posters here have pointed you in the right direction, and have told you to avoid ebay. Cushions are tricky little buggers to get nice ones of, and you really should rely on someone who knows what to look for, and who can help you determine which kind of cushion YOU like the best. There are MANY videos comparing the colors/clarity/types of cushions to help you make an educated decision based on your own eyes.


Here are examples of some of JBEG work. Keep in mind some of these are CADS and look more bulky because of that and the real thing is much more delicate.
http://www.jewelsbyericagrace.com/jbeg_signature_settings__custom_design

Do a search for them and you'll see their custom work and their reviews. They have been PS members for a long time too.

Good luck!

I totally understand, the info of the diamond I recently posted is not off of Ebay, it's via the site that another poster on here provided for the setting. The one w/ the HW replica for under $1,000. If they do not list an ASET image, should I email and request one ? or would they have it listed if they had available?

 

[Snow_Miser]

Re: Newbie, surprising GF, Please help me find the right set

If an ASET image is not listed, you can e-mail or call the vendor and request one. Not all vendors are able to provide ASET images, and not all vendors are skilled at taking ASET images.

Also, if you are seriously considering a diamond after receiving the ASET, I would put the diamond on hold before posting the image. You would hate for someone else to snatch it up. Unfortunately, that really happens.

I am very interested to see the ASET of the diamond you are considering. Keep us posted.

SM

 

[jbawwou]

Re: Newbie, surprising GF, Please help me find the right set

I would pick a great cut and bump down the color. This will give you an idea with the aset.

http://www.briangavindiamonds.com/diamond/diamond-detail/?product_id=AGS-1040400870007

 

[tyty333]

Re: Newbie, surprising GF, Please help me find the right set

I just wanted to say ditto to what vintagelover said...you can not pick a cushion cut from the numbers...you have to
have pictures. There is no telling what you are getting if you order one from the numbers and throw an SI2 on top
of that...you'd be really lucky to get anything of beauty.

I have looked at some stones on James allen that fit into your budget with a $1300 setting (someone posted a nice
HW replica for $12something).

Here are a few you can take a look at...you can request up to 3 aset images to check on light return. Post the images.
(you probably want to get other peoples opinions before you request an aset). Or...your other best option IMO is to
contract a vendor like GOG or ERD and give them your specs and see what they can find for you.

I wouldnt say any of these look great but...trying to stay in your specs.

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/G-SI2-Ideal-Cut-Cushion-Diamond-1279941.asp
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/E-SI2-Ideal-Cut-Cushion-Diamond-1280077.asp
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/F-SI2-Ideal-Cut-Cushion-Diamond-1335014.asp
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Cushion-Diamond-1337108.asp
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/E-SI2-Ideal-Cut-Cushion-Diamond-1280944.asp
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/E-SI1-Premium-Cut-Cushion-Diamond-1337209.asp

http://goodoldgold.com/diamond/5698/

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-VS1-Premium-Cut-Cushion-Diamond-1327147.asp

 

[jbawwou]

Re: Newbie, surprising GF, Please help me find the right set

Just to let you know I got a K color cut cushion from JA. It was "ideal" cut and a bit over 1ct and we love it. Everyone except for one color sensitive person think its a bright white sparkly diamond. Just a bit of info.

 

[coffeetown]

Re: Newbie, surprising GF, Please help me find the right set

I just wanted to say ditto to what vintagelover said...you can not pick a cushion cut from the numbers...you have to
have pictures. There is no telling what you are getting if you order one from the numbers and throw an SI2 on top
of that...you'd be really lucky to get anything of beauty.

I have looked at some stones on James allen that fit into your budget with a $1300 setting (someone posted a nice
HW replica for $12something).

Here are a few you can take a look at...you can request up to 3 aset images to check on light return. Post the images.
(you probably want to get other peoples opinions before you request an aset). Or...your other best option IMO is to
contract a vendor like GOG or ERD and give them your specs and see what they can find for you.

I wouldnt say any of these look great but...trying to stay in your specs.

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/G-SI2-Ideal-Cut-Cushion-Diamond-1279941.asp
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/E-SI2-Ideal-Cut-Cushion-Diamond-1280077.asp
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/F-SI2-Ideal-Cut-Cushion-Diamond-1335014.asp
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Cushion-Diamond-1337108.asp
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/E-SI2-Ideal-Cut-Cushion-Diamond-1280944.asp
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/E-SI1-Premium-Cut-Cushion-Diamond-1337209.asp

http://goodoldgold.com/diamond/5698/

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-VS1-Premium-Cut-Cushion-Diamond-1327147.asp

Thank you so much for finding these for me, a few of these look VERY promising. I really like the HW replica for around $1,200 from the company who has the setting "since 1920". I actually ended up showing it to my GF last night and she said she loved it and it would be just right for her. The price is PERFECT too, but The only sticking thing is that on the site it mentions that in order to purchase that specific setting I must also purchase the diamond from them. I don't know anything about that retailer, do any of you? So I wouldn't be able to purchase the setting from them and purchase the diamond elsewhere.

What I do like about the company is that if I do purchase from them, they have upgrading/price match gurantees along with lifetime warranties on the settings, etc. etc. which are all great things.

Would you mind taking a look at that site and letting me know if any stones in my price range (staying under 4,500) stick out? I'm willing to compromise on the color and a small bit on the carat, I would just want to make sure everything else looks great and... I could go on and on but you folks know better

here's the link to the setting and site, if anyone else knows of a similar setting I can purchase for around the same price PLEASE let me know http://www.since1910.com/engagement-rings/pave-diamond-halo-setting-scs1295-set-2550.aspx

 

[MissGotRocks]

Re: Newbie, surprising GF, Please help me find the right set

I would pick a great cut and bump down the color. This will give you an idea with the aset.

http://www.briangavindiamonds.com/diamond/diamond-detail/?product_id=AGS-1040400870007

This is a stunning diamond! I would call Brian Gavin and show him a picture of what you want in terms of a setting and see what he can do. I have no idea what his price would be but again, the important thing is the stone. That setting is not something difficult to get from someone else. I would be more concerned with finding the right diamond at a vendor than I would be with finding the right setting and then trying to find a good stone.

Seriously, give him a call. I'm sure he would work with you to provide an exceptional ring!