Seeking Advice on Choosing a Graff Engagement Ring

[mishmish33]

Hi everyone, I’m hoping to get some advice from this knowledgeable community. I’ve decided that I want a branded ring, and I’m leaning towards a Graff.

The range I’m considering is between 1.6 and 2.3 carats, with prices from $40K USD to $80K. At the higher end, $80K would be for the better colors, like G, but I’ve also come across options like a 2.3-carat I color for $57K or a 2.2-carat G color for $80K.

I’m struggling with whether it’s worth paying a premium for color. When I tried to compare different colors in the store, I honestly couldn't see much of a difference. I’m questioning whether I should pay for something I don’t personally notice or if it significantly affects the value and overall quality.

To help with context, I’ve attached photos of two rings I tried on: one slightly above 1.5 carats and the other around 2 carats. This should give an idea of how different sizes look on me. I like the setting with the pear shaped stones on the sides, like on the smaller stone. The larger stone on the photo is set with baguettes, but can be reset in any setting.

How should I think about balancing size, color, and budget? Does color make a big difference in value or long-term satisfaction if I can’t perceive the difference now? I’d love to hear your insights and experiences.

Thank you
so much!

 

[freddyboston]

Are those prices US $ Dollars ??

 

[TruLuv858]

Hi everyone, I’m hoping to get some advice from this knowledgeable community. I’ve decided that I want a branded ring, and I’m leaning towards a Graff.

The range I’m considering is between 1.6 and 2.3 carats, with prices from $40K to $80K. At the higher end, $80K would be for the better colors, like G, but I’ve also come across options like a 2.3-carat I color for $57K or a 2.2-carat G color for $80K.

I’m struggling with whether it’s worth paying a premium for color. When I tried to compare different colors in the store, I honestly couldn't see much of a difference. I’m questioning whether I should pay for something I don’t personally notice or if it significantly affects the value and overall quality.

To help with context, I’ve attached photos of two rings I tried on: one slightly above 1.5 carats and the other around 2 carats. This should give an idea of how different sizes look on me. I like the setting with the pear shaped stones on the sides, like on the smaller stone. The larger stone on the photo is set with baguettes, but can be reset in any setting.

How should I think about balancing size, color, and budget? Does color make a big difference in value or long-term satisfaction if I can’t perceive the difference now? I’d love to hear your insights and experiences.

Thank you
so much!

I ADORE Graff... but may does it need to be a Graff piece specifically? Have you taken a peek at Whiteflash ACA's? I say this because with your budget you can get a high performing Diamond, at much less, or even a much larger diamond with incredible performance- and so many of the folks here can help you! If I were in the market for a Round diamond, with that budget, Whiteflash would be my immediate go to!

 

[MissGotRocks]

I love some name brand jewelry but I would not pay Graff’s prices for a diamond. In a super ideal cut diamond, you can get a larger, better color/clarity for a much better price. Here is an example of a Whiteflash A Cut Above super ideal cut diamond. Check out the videos and the wire price.

Diamond | 2.53 ct G VVS2 A CUT ABOVE® Hearts and Arrows Super Ideal Round Cut Loose Diamond GIA Certified | 4678021

This Whiteflash A CUT ABOVE® super ideal cut hearts and arrows 2.53 carat G color VVS2 clarity loose diamond is graded by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). | 4678021

www.whiteflash.com

I have this exact size diamond, G, VS1, in a three stone ring - finger size 5.25.

 

[mishmish33]

Are those prices US $ Dollars ??

Yes! I edited the post to add that info, thanks.

 

[newtojewels]

Why do you want a branded ring? What is it about a Graff ring that appeals to you?

Most people here will suggest that you get a super high quality diamond from a high-end independent jeweler rather than from a designer brand. You could put the money saved into a bigger/whiter diamond or into pieces that look more uniquely Graff. Several members have an engagement ring from an independent jeweler and then a designer wedding band, for example. There's no quality reason to get a Graff engagement ring versus one from a top-notch independent jeweler, but there may be some other reason having one appeals to you that means a non-Graff ring won't hit the mark.

 

[newtojewels]

In that price range, I think you should consider Victor Canera in LA. Not that there's anything wrong with Whiteflash stones or settings because ACAs are stunning, but Victor Canera hand forges his jewelry which feels very special and high end. Steven Kirsch is another hand-forging jeweler who would set a Whiteflash ACA, but there's an advantage to working all with one jeweler all else being equal

Here's a video of a three-stone ring being hand-forged by a different jeweler, Bobby White. His aethetic is chunkier so don't pay attention to that, just pay attention to the manufacturing prodecure:

Here are two three-stone rings with pears:

Victor Canera

www.victorcanera.com

Victor Canera

www.victorcanera.com

And a 2.22 carat F/VS1: https://www.victorcanera.com/diamonds/GIA6472277538/2.22ct-F-VS1-hearts-arrows-round-natural-diamond



I think that's likely to be under $50k.

Edit: If you're comfortable with an I color, here's a 3.568 carat I/VS2 for $63k, so the whole ring would still be well under $80k:

Victor Canera

www.victorcanera.com

 

[mishmish33]

I looked at various options, including independent jewelers and Whiteflash. I definitely agree that I could get a bigger and higher quality stone if I went non branded route. However, I found that I clearly see the differences between non branded settings and Graff's, for example. To me the setting is as important as the stone. Additionally, I love the Graff brand and I will enjoy my ring more knowing it's from Graff. I realize that most people don't place any value on the brand name when it comes to engagement rings, but I illogically do
With that in mind, how would you navigate the size/ color/ price decision making process?

 

[newtojewels]

I looked at various options, including independent jewelers and Whiteflash. I definitely agree that I could get a bigger and higher quality stone if I went non branded route. However, I found that I clearly see the differences between non branded settings and Graff's, for example. To me the setting is as important as the stone. Additionally, I love the Graff brand and I will enjoy my ring more knowing it's from Graff.

Out of curiosity, did you look at jewelers like Victor Canera, Steven Kirsch, Leon Mege, and Maytal Hannah?

And in case it's helpful to you, here's a Graff three stone on TheRealReal ($40k for a 3 carat J: https://www.therealreal.com/product...-72ctw-diamond-promise-three-stone-ring-nzo4w)

 

[mishmish33]

Out of curiosity, did you look at jewelers like Victor Canera, Steven Kirsch, Leon Mege, and Maytal Hannah?

And in case it's helpful to you, here's a Graff three stone on TheRealReal ($40k for a 3 carat J: https://www.therealreal.com/product...-72ctw-diamond-promise-three-stone-ring-nzo4w)

Yes, I considered these jewelers as well!

I saw this ring on RR and am thinking about it. It's a great price for 3 ct! But what makes me hesitant, it's J color. I have seen anything below H in store and below I on their website. I also am not certain 3 ct will look good on me, I'm not going for the max bling and want the ring to look appropriate for my fingers size. I need to go and try on 3 ct. when I have a chance. Do you think J is too "bad" or OK for a color for 3 CT Graff stone ?

 

[MissGotRocks]

I looked at various options, including independent jewelers and Whiteflash. I definitely agree that I could get a bigger and higher quality stone if I went non branded route. However, I found that I clearly see the differences between non branded settings and Graff's, for example. To me the setting is as important as the stone. Additionally, I love the Graff brand and I will enjoy my ring more knowing it's from Graff. I realize that most people don't place any value on the brand name when it comes to engagement rings, but I illogically do
With that in mind, how would you navigate the size/ color/ price decision making process?

in a diamond ring, the diamond is the most expensive part and therefore should have the most value. You can buy any diamond and have a beautiful custom setting made for it. Settings can be changed through the years. I would prefer to have the bulk of the money in the best cut that I could find. Cut is king but that doesn’t seem to matter to you. Just buy what your eye likes and your pocketbook can afford.

 

[dk168]

Personally, if I were in the market for a MRB, I would not pay the premium for a branded piece, even if it is pre-owned.

I would rather spend the money on getting the best diamond that I could afford, and I would not hesitate to buy from the likes of White Flash.

Each to their own at the end of the day.

Some would only consider and buy D/IF and got to be brand new, whereas I would accept H/I even a J and SI as long as it is eye-clean.

Some would only buy branded high-end fashion, accessory and jewellery, whereas I don't follow fashion trends, ever.

Buy whatever makes your heart sing, and pay less attention to what others might think.

Good luck in your search.

DK

 

[canuk-gal]

HI:

While I love Graff, no way I'd pay those prices--even @ full retail, Tiffany's rings are less costly!!

Estate.

21155 Tiffany & Co. Round Diamond 2.58ct H VVS2 Engagement Ring

21155 Tiffany & Co. Round Diamond Engagement Ring 2.58ct H VVS2 Due to high-value, payment is accepted by Bank Wire only. Please contact for instructions. 18k yellow gold platinum ring weighs 5g Center diamond weighs 2.58ct Diamond laser inscription ''T&Co.W12280321'' (See 3rd pic) This diamond...

wabashjewelers.net

Whiteflash 14K White Gold AGS 4.02ct SI1 Round Diamond Engagement Ring

Whiteflash 14K White Gold AGS 4.02ct SI1 Round Diamond Engagement Ring Comes with a AGS certificate Diamond measurement 10.11mm x 10.14mm (depth 6.32mm) Diamond weighs 4.028ct Diamond J color SI1 clarity Shank measures 1.84mm wide at the bottom Ring size 5.75 (this ring is resizable) Ring is...

wabashjewelers.net

cheers--Sharon

 

[mishmish33]

HI:

Estate.

21155 Tiffany & Co. Round Diamond 2.58ct H VVS2 Engagement Ring

21155 Tiffany & Co. Round Diamond Engagement Ring 2.58ct H VVS2 Due to high-value, payment is accepted by Bank Wire only. Please contact for instructions. 18k yellow gold platinum ring weighs 5g Center diamond weighs 2.58ct Diamond laser inscription ''T&Co.W12280321'' (See 3rd pic) This diamond...

wabashjewelers.net

Whiteflash 14K White Gold AGS 4.02ct SI1 Round Diamond Engagement Ring

Whiteflash 14K White Gold AGS 4.02ct SI1 Round Diamond Engagement Ring Comes with a AGS certificate Diamond measurement 10.11mm x 10.14mm (depth 6.32mm) Diamond weighs 4.028ct Diamond J color SI1 clarity Shank measures 1.84mm wide at the bottom Ring size 5.75 (this ring is resizable) Ring is...

wabashjewelers.net

cheers--Sharon

How funny I was looking at this Tiffany ring yesterday! It's a great price. But I'm not fond of the brand and this setting for myself. Anyways thanks for taking the time to share!

 

[0-0-0]

IMO cut is more noticeable than size and color, so I would definitely recommend bringing an ASET/IS scope with you when you select your diamond. Rounds carried by the name brands can be cut as well as super ideals or as poorly as leaky borderline GIA Ex cuts.

I think size and color are more personal preference. Most will notice differences in size before color. Most will notice tints starting from GIA H/I color, more noticeable in diffused lighting especially in environments with warmer colors. I think most people also become more sensitive to differences in color over time. Some like the more clinical colorless D/E colors and some like the more creamy warmer H/I colors.

I wouldn’t count on name brand diamonds to retain much value over time unless they are proprietary cuts that are difficult to replicate.

 

[newtojewels]

Yes, I considered these jewelers as well!

I saw this ring on RR and am thinking about it. It's a great price for 3 ct! But what makes me hesitant, it's J color. I also am not certain 3 ct will look good on me, I'm not going for the max bling and want the ring to look appropriate for my fingers size. I need to go and try on 3 ct. when I have a chance. Do you think J is too "bad" or OK for a color for 3 CT Graff stone ?

We have different priorities so what I think doesn't really have bearing on what you would think! Rather than spending $80k on the Graff ring, I would 100% get that 2.22 F/VS1 from Victor Canera (let's call it $50k) and then get this wedding band for $3800:



And then something like these earrings for $21,300 :

https://www.graff.com/us-en/jewellery-collections/view-by-collection/wild-flower/wild-flower-double-diamond-earrings/RGE1737_RGE1737.html

and would still have a few thousand left over. But that doesn't sound like it suits your priorities!

 

[TXwidow]

instead of comparing carat weight, compare the dimension of the stone (diameter). You might be surprised at the slight difference between some stones (not enough to be really visible in 'real life').

 

[0515vision]

You came to a diamond forum so all our advice will be about getting the best performing diamond. A diamond needs to perform, and that comes from having a great cut.

J is ok to some and not as ok to others. It’s all about color sensitivity, and we can’t help you decide what color is best for your eye.

Long-term satisfaction isn’t something we can answer either. There are ppl who love their warm stones, and there are ppl who get an E and then have to change it for a D. Yes, colors cost more, but that extra cost doesn’t translate into personal value.

You ask if it’s worth paying extra for something you can’t see, and we’re asking you if it’s worth paying extra for an average cut stone for the sake of the brand. In your case, the brand holds value while to us it doesn’t.

And not to beat a dead horse, but cut quality affects color perception. A badly cut H will look far warmer than an ideal cut H.

Personally with that budget, I’d fly to Singapore and get a custom hand-forged Jann Paul ring with one of their proprietary cut diamonds.

Maybe if the $80k isn’t a big deal, just get the biggest whitest Graff. As we say here, you only feel the pinch once.

Good luck and let us know what you decide! And we love photos!!

 

[maryjane04]

I don't have anything new to add as everyone else has already mentioned. Can you buy TRR ring and test the waters, see if you can tell the difference with the brand and if a J is okay? If not return it and at least you'll know.

 

[lulu_ma]

Is your local Graff shop in a mall or a freestanding store?

If it is a freestanding store, take an I color and J color rings (in similar sizes because larger stones tend to hold more tint) next to window and assess the color in natural light. If the tint in the J bothers you, then repeat the same exercise with a H and I color rings, etc. If you are not that color sensitive, then buy the TRR 3 ct to assess at home. Returns are easy.

Either way do yourself a favor, buy an Ideal-Scope to assess the hearts and arrows at least. If you are going to pay a premium, you might as well get an excellent cut.

Beginner Ideal-Scope

www.datlas.com

 

[mishmish33]

Is your local Graff shop in a mall or a freestanding store?

If it is a freestanding store, take an I color and J color rings (in similar sizes because larger stones tend to hold more tint) next to window and assess the color in natural light. If the tint in the J bothers you, then repeat the same exercise with a H and I color rings, etc. If you are not that color sensitive, then buy the TRR 3 ct to assess at home. Returns are easy.

Either way do yourself a favor, buy an Ideal-Scope to assess the hearts and arrows at least. If you are going to pay a premium, you might as well get an excellent cut.

Beginner Ideal-Scope

www.datlas.com

Thank you, thanks a very helpful advice!

 

[Dandi]

As you would already know you can get premium diamonds for much less elsewhere...you've been offered great advice in this thread, but ultimately the heart wants what the heart wants, and it's clear yours set on a Graff diamond ring - which I think is actually pretty cool, as that is something I could never in my wildest dreams own myself!

I have I and J coloured ACA diamonds in my engagement ring, and to me they are super white. I would never have sunk extra $$ on higher colour, plus I'm not colour sensitive. And I could never, ever tell the difference between the two grades even though they're side by side.

I can't wait to see what you get!

 

[mishmish33]

As you would already know you can get premium diamonds for much less elsewhere...you've been offered great advice in this thread, but ultimately the heart wants what the heart wants, and it's clear yours set on a Graff diamond ring - which I think is actually pretty cool, as that is something I could never in my wildest dreams own myself!

I have I and J coloured ACA diamonds in my engagement ring, and to me they are super white. I would never have sunk extra $$ on higher colour, plus I'm not colour sensitive. And I could never, ever tell the difference between the two grades even though they're side by side!

I can't wait to see what you get!

Yes, I'm pretty set on Graff, though I might visit Harry Winston to explore all options. To me, an engagement ring is about the whole package—not just the diamond. I value the setting, brand equity, after-sales service, and overall experience. It's similar to other luxury goods like bags, shoes, clothes, or cars. You could use an excellent quality no-name bag or choose a Chanel, just as some people prefer a Mercedes or Porsche over a Honda, despite the latter being functional.

I realize my initial post might not have been clear—I wasn’t seeking advice on how to get the best or most affordable diamond. Instead, I was hoping to better understand the decision-making process within certain constraints. In my case, those constraints are the Graff brand, a 1.5–2 CT size (I'm 90% certain that anything above 2 CT would look too big on me), and a specific budget, with variables being size, color, and clarity. I’m hoping to learn from others how they made those decisions and whether they were happy with what they prioritized—or not. For example, I often hear about diamond shrinkage, so I’m curious if most people would prioritize size, etc.

Thank you for your response, and I'll definitely share the ring when the time comes!

 

[josieKat]

Many would prioritize size and go down on either color or especially clarity (since eye clean is eye clean and many don't want to pay for a higher clarity than is necessary).

That said, sometimes lower clarities aren't mind clean for folks, so you'll need to see how you feel about that. (I wanted my engagement diamond to be VS1 or higher, but my earrings are VS2 and I would have gone to SI1 if they were eyeclean with no carbon on the table).

I'm someone who read all about color being something you could definitely sacrifice especially in smaller diamonds and antique cut diamonds, so my first engagement ring diamond was a .76 ct I VS1. Within a year the tint started bothering me and I couldn't unsee it. My stone is now an F, although I would have been fine with a G (my type of stone doesn't have tons of options).

Since I imagine it isn't as easy to upgrade/swap diamonds at Graff, I'd probably make sure to be safe with my color choice. G is a pretty safe bet if you know you don't need icy white.

I'd definitely want to be able to compare stones at the store if at all possible in natural light, for sparkle as well as for color. Make sure not just to look from the top but also from the side - even with my first smaller stone it was the tint from the side that bothered me the most.

 

[maryjane04]

Most of us have been through a few rings. Whether it be size or colour we've upgraded. And yes DSS (diamond shrinkage syndrome) is real. What you think is huge you'll quickly adjust to. Maybe buy some cheap cz rings to see how that size looks on you.

Our member Tonks has written a bit about her Upgrading journey and her research. You might find it useful. I really found it useful when I was upgrading.

 

[CircularBrilliant]

I love Graff, and totally understand why you are drawn to them. Have you actually started working with someone there? They have a different business structure than the other big jewelry houses, and actually do not hold to their sticker prices. You can make offers and they'll give pretty hefty discounts once they know you're serious. In my experience, they are actually far better priced than Tiffany, HW, etc, at least in the 3+ ct range. I like their step cuts and their hearts best out of what they offer (and their gorgeous fcds, of course). I hope you find a ring you love!

 

[Garry H (Cut Nut)]

Hi everyone, I’m hoping to get some advice from this knowledgeable community. I’ve decided that I want a branded ring, and I’m leaning towards a Graff.

The range I’m considering is between 1.6 and 2.3 carats, with prices from $40K USD to $80K. At the higher end, $80K would be for the better colors, like G, but I’ve also come across options like a 2.3-carat I color for $57K or a 2.2-carat G color for $80K.

I’m struggling with whether it’s worth paying a premium for color. When I tried to compare different colors in the store, I honestly couldn't see much of a difference. I’m questioning whether I should pay for something I don’t personally notice or if it significantly affects the value and overall quality.

To help with context, I’ve attached photos of two rings I tried on: one slightly above 1.5 carats and the other around 2 carats. This should give an idea of how different sizes look on me. I like the setting with the pear shaped stones on the sides, like on the smaller stone. The larger stone on the photo is set with baguettes, but can be reset in any setting.

How should I think about balancing size, color, and budget? Does color make a big difference in value or long-term satisfaction if I can’t perceive the difference now? I’d love to hear your insights and experiences.

Thank you
so much!

Firstly, I am not going to talk you out of Graff.
Your decision to go branded.
But I want to help get the best you can.
Re the color - from that image the lighting in the store sucks - you need some daylight to make that color call.
Or at least balanced lighting that makes your skin the color it is in daylight.

Next. Get the GIA reports and share the proportion numbers. You get a few free HCA runs for signing up. We on PS have found that top brands rarely have a strict cut standard. About half of Tiffany stones for e.g. fail on HCA with scores up to 4.

 

[mishmish33]

Many would prioritize size and go down on either color or especially clarity (since eye clean is eye clean and many don't want to pay for a higher clarity than is necessary).

That said, sometimes lower clarities aren't mind clean for folks, so you'll need to see how you feel about that. (I wanted my engagement diamond to be VS1 or higher, but my earrings are VS2 and I would have gone to SI1 if they were eyeclean with no carbon on the table).

I'm someone who read all about color being something you could definitely sacrifice especially in smaller diamonds and antique cut diamonds, so my first engagement ring diamond was a .76 ct I VS1. Within a year the tint started bothering me and I couldn't unsee it. My stone is now an F, although I would have been fine with a G (my type of stone doesn't have tons of options).

Since I imagine it isn't as easy to upgrade/swap diamonds at Graff, I'd probably make sure to be safe with my color choice. G is a pretty safe bet if you know you don't need icy white.

I'd definitely want to be able to compare stones at the store if at all possible in natural light, for sparkle as well as for color. Make sure not just to look from the top but also from the side - even with my first smaller stone it was the tint from the side that bothered me the most.

That's very helpful and exactly the kind of advice I was looking for, thank you!! I'll definitely prioritize comparing different colors during my next appointment. Unfortunately there are no upgrades at Graff. They can reset the stone into a necklace, earrings or create a different ring down the road, but will not accept the stone back.

 

[mishmish33]

Firstly, I am not going to talk you out of Graff.
Your decision to go branded.
But I want to help get the best you can.
Re the color - from that image the lighting in the store sucks - you need some daylight to make that color call.
Or at least balanced lighting that makes your skin the color it is in daylight.

Next. Get the GIA reports and share the proportion numbers. You get a few free HCA runs for signing up. We on PS have found that top brands rarely have a strict cut standard. About half of Tiffany stones for e.g. fail on HCA with scores up to 4.

Thank you very much for your advice! I'll request the reports and will share here. I agree regarding the lighting, I will try to go next to the windows during my next appointment.