Three stone lab rings?

[Engrgrl1]

Good evening!

Let me introduce myself--I have a big birthday up this year in April, and it's time to upgrade with some bling . I was so fortunate to find this site, and I have read through so many tutorials and threads to try and educate myself on diamonds. Let me start by thanking all the numerous long term members who tirelessly answer questions and help us newbies.

This seems like a journey, and here is where I am at so far:

The first decision I had to make was lab or earth mined. Before I knew much about lab diamonds, I was eyeing an earth mined Costco 3 ct three diamond ring (1.5 ct center stone, .75 side stones). Then, I discovered lab diamonds and this site. I have an earth mined engagement ring , etc., so I did a little soul searching, and in the end, if I can get the same look and "performance" out of a lab diamond that I can out of an earth mined diamond for a significant cost savings, I am good with it. Also, with two kids in college at the same time, and the fact I can get much more diamond for my money, it seems like a no brainer! Lab diamonds it is!

Once I decided on Lab stone(s), I figured I needed to decide on the cut. The truth is, I really like several cuts--cushions and radiants are my first choices, then rounds. And I want this to be sparkly--oh hell, I've waited a long time for this, blinding would be fine with me--I'd be fine if I could signal airplanes with it . It seems that from what I have read on this site, round brilliants have the most "sparkle", cut is the most important thing, and dialing in a better cut diamond is a little more clearer with a round brilliant than another cut (unless of course you find a cushion, for lack of more technical terms, cut like a cushion). So I have decided to work with round brilliants.

Which brings me to where I am now--since this will likely be a right hand ring, whether I attempt to put together three rounds (which seems like quite an ordeal to do--what sizes, what ratios, etc.), or do I go with one nice "stunner" in a nice setting as a right hand ring?

Just a few other things to throw out:
--my existing earth mined ring is a 1 ct vvs D. I personally cannot see color until frankly it is the color of ginger ale. But what we found when looking for engagement rings 27 years ago is that my husband can see color. I mean like so much so that one diamond place we went to thought he was pulling their leg that he could see it, so they put fifteen Ds, Es, and Fs on the table and challenged my husband to sort them. Without hesitation he pulled out the D's, separated the E's and then the Fs. They told my soon to be husband he was in the wrong business . So out of respect for him, I would like to stay in the true D or E range.

---I haven't had my finger measured in a long while, that's up next, but I would guess, based on my engagement ring being a 4 3/4, that I am currently around a 5-5 1/2

---I don't have a set budget yet, but I think somewhere between 8-10k, but that is "negotiable".

---if I go single stone, I would like to get something substantial. Not necessarily all the way to Ring Pop size, but my motto is "go big or go home"--so I would love some suggestions on size. We live in an area that will not have diamonds of this size to try, so I'm going to need to crowdsource this

So to make a long story short, has anyone put together a three stone lab diamond ring? How did you do it, and would you mind sharing pics? I'm a little concerned that it may be too complicated to try and pull together; and frankly, I think if I found the right setting, a single stone (maybe with side stones?) would work too.

Last question: I haven't figured out how the buying the diamond versus making the ring works. I see the sites that folks buy diamonds from (loose grown diamond, ritani, etc). These however, don't seem to be where they get their settings. For settings, I have seen several names thrown out here: Alex Park, Caysie, David somebody? that often make settings for Pricescope members. I have also seen that places like Grown Brilliance, etc. are not the place to get settings; and places like Leon Mege are very expensive (and he really doesn't say nice things about Pricescope on his website so I wouldn't use him anyway). Any tips on how to go about doing this and your favorite designers in platinum would also be appreciated--again, I won't have a local jeweler to use.

Whew!! Sorry to overwhelm you with details and questions!! I appreciate your time and guidance!





Now, I am trying to decide whether to

 

[0515vision]

Hi @Engrgrl1! Welcome and how exciting for you! We'll be throwing lots of information your way, but I wondered if you'd checked out the threads on PS concerning JannPaul. With your budget, you'd be able to get one of their super ideal cuts. Their craftsmanship is top notch, as well.

Do you know what cut you want?

With your budget, you could get branded stones (Jann Paul, Brian Gavin, Whiteflash) or just go the route of best-bang-for-buck stones (Ritani, Loose Grown Diamond, Adiamor, etc). And you could also get a custom cut from the likes of @Rhino at Distinctive Gem or Southwest Cutters.

As far as matching stones, I'm sure the experts will be able to select some. They match studs all the time. Thing is, we'd need a starting point in terms of size. I would also suggest getting an accurate ring size. Recently, a PSer ended up with a ring that had a span larger than the diameter of her ring. Some people liked the end result, but she's having it redone. When you say "go big or go home," you have to realize you're on PS!
https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/the-two-week-club.241629/page-82#post-5301165

You're a ways away from setting, but check out David Klass's IG posts to get a sense of his work. Check out Sako and Victor Canera.

Congrats on your upcoming birthday, and get ready for your diamond journey!

 

[Engrgrl1]

Hi @Engrgrl1! Welcome and how exciting for you! We'll be throwing lots of information your way, but I wondered if you'd checked out the threads on PS concerning JannPaul. With your budget, you'd be able to get one of their super ideal cuts. Their craftsmanship is top notch, as well.

Do you know what cut you want?

With your budget, you could get branded stones (Jann Paul, Brian Gavin, Whiteflash) or just go the route of best-bang-for-buck stones (Ritani, Loose Grown Diamond, Adiamor, etc). And you could also get a custom cut from the likes of @Rhino at Distinctive Gem or Southwest Cutters.

As far as matching stones, I'm sure the experts will be able to select some. They match studs all the time. Thing is, we'd need a starting point in terms of size. I would also suggest getting an accurate ring size. Recently, a PSer ended up with a ring that had a span larger than the diameter of her ring. Some people liked the end result, but she's having it redone. When you say "go big or go home," you have to realize you're on PS!
https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/the-two-week-club.241629/page-82#post-5301165

You're a ways away from setting, but check out David Klass's IG posts to get a sense of his work. Check out Sako and Victor Canera.

Congrats on your upcoming birthday, and get ready for your diamond journey!

Thank you so much for your reply!

I was going to go with round, because what I can glean from everything I have read here, that cut has the better "performance" for being "sparkly", etc. Also, it seems like it is less difficult to discern a better cut diamond by studying the dimensions given (depth, angles, etc.). I understand you still need to see it, but it appears that there are standard ranges that lend to being a well cut round diamond that don't seem to exist for other cuts.

I did see that thread with the reset of the beautiful center stone into a three stone setting with bezel edges--and the original poster was not happy because it spanned beyond her finger. That would be exactly what I would be afraid of. I would love a large center stone, but then getting the side stones sized correctly so the ratio looks right, and then making sure it didn't span beyond the width of my finger were what made me pause to proceed with this type of ring.

For a single stone ring (with perhaps some side stones or a pave band), I am wondering what size I could pull off, and it not look "fake". I first thought 5 ct, but I think that would be too big, perhaps I could pull off something in the 4 ct range? . I followed a thread by Tonks on her journey and she talked about "finger coverage". I would be interested in what folks thought about that?

Again, thank you for your replies. I will look into the "branded diamonds"; but again, as long as it is cut well and performs well, I am happy to (with help) pick one off the larger sellers websites.

David Klass--that's the other person I have seen a lot of. Thank you for that. My question is do you have to purchase the stone from the person doing the setting? Didn't know how that worked.

Again, thank you for your time!

 

[0515vision]

David Klass definitely sets outside stones.

By 4 or 5ct, are you talking about a solitaire, a center stone in a 3-stone ring, or total carat at in a 3-stone ring?

It’s going to help us if you decide what you want to explore first - a 4-5ct solitaire or an unknown tcw 3-stone.

And definitely go get an accurate finger size. That will determine the diameter of the ring and give you an idea of how much spread your finger can take.

 

[0515vision]

And have you seen this thread on Rocky Talky? Some examples of CADs for a 3-stone.
https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/help-design-my-3-stone-w-mrb.262245/

 

[Engrgrl1]

Thank you gain for your reply!

Since this will be a right hand ring, I didn't want to go with just a solitaire on a thin band. I could do a solitaire if I perhaps had a thicker band, pave split shank, or had some small side stones.

I was contemplating a single stone ring for the 4-5 ct comment. I have read about "shrinkage", and my sister always said to get them big and you will grow into it . I think my budget can handle a 5 ct,, just not sure my finger can.

But since I won't likely do this again for a few years (and the more I read the more I see that these are "famous last words" for a PriceScoper), I didn't want to have any size regrets--either too big or too small.

If I went with a three stone ring, I am thinking a large center stone and two smaller stones on either side. Just not sure I can figure out the ratios while having a nice large center stone (basically, how big can I go without looking obnoxious or being too big for my finger). I saw one way back on David Klass's Instagram (dated 2022) that had a rather large center stone and a significantly smaller stone sitting a little bit lower and tucked in on either side--- that looked intriguing. But then there is the issue of trying to select and match 3 stones instead of one. That may be above my ability.

I think the best way to handle this is to explore what ratio and size I can do in a three ring, and if that isn't "blingy" enough because my smaller fingers just can't handle it, then go with one big "stunner" with a decorative band. Does that seem like a good approach?

Ritani will send you a free ring sizing kit. I just ordered it. I will double check the size by visiting a jeweler, but this should let me dial it in a little closer.

 

[Engrgrl1]

And have you seen this thread on Rocky Talky? Some examples of CADs for a 3-stone.
https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/help-design-my-3-stone-w-mrb.262245/

Thanks! I'll take a look!

 

[momofive]

Hi. Congratulations and I just thought I'd chime in as i made a 3 stone ring this year. This was for our 40th anniversary and I wear it on my left hand. I always seem to lean towards rectangle/square/octagon cuts but I've wanted an Emerald Cut (EC) for years so that was what I went with. I found the fancy cuts difficult to evaluate from an online vendor, even with the help of the great folks here so I decided to go with Jann Paul. He is a premium vendor but the prices are still way below EG diamonds. I am exceedingly happy with my ring. I had proportions all figured out, but they actually grew the center diamond for me and I had the option to go larger while it was growing (or they would have stopped the growing), but, hey, bigger is usually better, so I switched up the side stones as well. I love wearing my ring and can't stop looking at it. The flashes are different than a radiant or RB cut but I think they are stunning and classic. I will post a photo here.

I also have had 2 RH rings made by David Klass. They came out beautiful and he was very easy to work with. I thought his prices were fair. I will also post photos of those here.

BTW, no matter how I try, I can't catch the fire from my diamond on camera. But, trust me, it's a sparkle bomb! Also, the pink/red you see is my phone color.

 

[momofive]

Also, the jeweler you decide to use to make your ring can make you a wax mold so you can see how it will look on your finger - size wize. The actual stones look much better than the wax mold. You can also purchase an inexpensive CZ 3 stone with the size stones you think you want and it will give you a better representation of finger coverage. Also, remember, ctw isn't the same as the dimension of the stone. It includes depth, so make sure you look at the dimensions when deciding which you want to pair up. The diamonds give a bigger feel. Here are my stats for the 3 stone. Center stone: 3.880ct. E VVS2, Side stones: 1.034 E VVS2 and 1.030 F VS1.

 

[Engrgrl1]

Hi. Congratulations and I just thought I'd chime in as i made a 3 stone ring this year. This was for our 40th anniversary and I wear it on my left hand. I always seem to lean towards rectangle/square/octagon cuts but I've wanted an Emerald Cut (EC) for years so that was what I went with. I found the fancy cuts difficult to evaluate from an online vendor, even with the help of the great folks here so I decided to go with Jann Paul. He is a premium vendor but the prices are still way below EG diamonds. I am exceedingly happy with my ring. I had proportions all figured out, but they actually grew the center diamond for me and I had the option to go larger while it was growing (or they would have stopped the growing), but, hey, bigger is usually better, so I switched up the side stones as well. I love wearing my ring and can't stop looking at it. The flashes are different than a radiant or RB cut but I think they are stunning and classic. I will post a photo here.

I also have had 2 RH rings made by David Klass. They came out beautiful and he was very easy to work with. I thought his prices were fair. I will also post photos of those here.

BTW, no matter how I try, I can't catch the fire from my diamond on camera. But, trust me, it's a sparkle bomb! Also, the pink/red you see is my phone color.

Now that's what I call a stunner!! That's what I'm talking about! Your three ring is absolutely beautiful!! And the others are wonderful also!! Can I ask the size of the center stone and side stone? Did Jann Paul do the setting also?

 

[Engrgrl1]

Now that's what I call a stunner!! That's what I'm talking about! Your three ring is absolutely beautiful!! And the others are wonderful also!! Can I ask the size of the center stone and side stone? Did Jann Paul do the setting also?

Oops, didn't read far enough for the specs! Can I ask what size is your finger? I learned on PS that size of finger really makes a difference (I never knew that).

 

[tyty333]

Since you are talking about going so big I would recommend getting a "cheap" ring in a 4 carat or so and wearing it around a
while. The last thing you want to do is create a ring that you dont wear because you feel like its too big for your lifestyle. (it has
happened, unfortunately)

Have you considered making a 3 stone engagement ring using your current ering diamond (the 1 carat) as one of the side stones?
Just an option.

Amazon.com

Amazon.com

Also, dont worry about matching up rounds...they are the "easy" ones and you'll have help. Fancy cuts (cushions) are harder to match
up but not impossible if you get the same faceting pattern and ratios.

Edit...also you can use diamdb.com to get stone size comparisons. You can print out a 3 or 4 carat wtih a .75 carat size, cut
the .75 out and tape it next to the 3 or 4 carat to see what you think of the look.

You might also check out this thread to see some different ratio 3 stones...

What are the perfect proportions for a three-stone ring?

I went to Tiffany''s and tried on some rings. Fell completely in love with the three stone ring! Looked wonderful on my hand, loved the bling action and the finger coverage. So I am planning a three-stone re-set sometime in the next year, but for now I am trying to decide about the perfect size...

www.pricescope.com

 

[Engrgrl1]

Since you are talking about going so big I would recommend getting a "cheap" ring in a 4 carat or so and wearing it around a
while. The last thing you want to do is create a ring that you dont wear because you feel like its too big for your lifestyle. (it has
happened, unfortunately)

Have you considered making a 3 stone engagement ring using your current ering diamond (the 1 carat) as one of the side stones?
Just an option.

Amazon.com

Amazon.com

Also, dont worry about matching up rounds...they are the "easy" ones and you'll have help. Fancy cuts (cushions) are harder to match
up but not impossible if you get the same faceting pattern and ratios.

Edit...also you can use diamdb.com to get stone size comparisons. You can print out a 3 or 4 carat wtih a .75 carat size, cut
the .75 out and tape it next to the 3 or 4 carat to see what you think of the look.

You might also check out this thread to see some different ratio 3 stones...

What are the perfect proportions for a three-stone ring?

I went to Tiffany''s and tried on some rings. Fell completely in love with the three stone ring! Looked wonderful on my hand, loved the bling action and the finger coverage. So I am planning a three-stone re-set sometime in the next year, but for now I am trying to decide about the perfect size...

www.pricescope.com

Thank you so much!!! What a great idea to purchase a cz one on amazon--I never thought of that! You are correct, I want to make sure I can "carry off" the size--I am looking to go as large as I can without looking ridiculous. My long time friend from grade school has a few 3 ct rings (she married well ) and I have tried those on, so I know I can do at least 3 ct. But how much bigger....?

That's a good thought about the ER. However, I have "acquired" three approx 1 ct earth mined diamonds; and I have three girls--so I think I will keep it as it is right now.

I'm still mulling over a three stone ring versus 1 stone ring, as my original intention was to purchase the Costco 3 stone 3 ct total weight-representing my girls. But once I stumbled across lab diamonds and realized I could get the same look and bigger and better stones for less--I was sold! I thought a three stone ring would most likely be the best for a right hand ring. However, I think with the right setting a single large stone could work on my right hand too--oh the choices! I had also envisioned wearing this new ring on my right hand and wearing my original ER and wedding band on my left hand--although I'm not sure if that will look "off" since my original ring is 1ct center stone (with additional side stones), and then there will be this new "stunner" on my right hand.....oh, I can see how this can become addicting!!! So much to think about!

Thank you for the reference to the thread on sizes and the website!! That is very helpful!

Last question (for now)--I do like the look of pave', I spent a lot of time studying Leon Mege's website. But, I intend to wear this ring regularly--maybe even daily, and I am not delicate with things--so I'm a little afraid of losing stones. What are your thoughts on pave'--is it just this year's passing fad?, and who does good pave' work?

 

[0515vision]

Yay to your excitement! And yay for being able to rock a 3ct+!

I don't have firsthand knowledge of pave, but I was sitting in the LA diamond district when a lady complained that her pave was falling off her relatively new ring. The SR had to remind her that a pave ring is not the same as a wedding band. Even the force of holding an iron skillet steady can cause a pave stone to fall out. We're talking teeny tiny prongs.

 

[tyty333]

I do not think pave is a passing fad, however, like @0515vision mentioned you do have to baby it more than a setting
without pave. For me, I would never wear a pave ring around the house...would only put it on to go out and then would
be careful with it.

For single stones (larger) with pave I tend to like a split shank. Seems like it gives the stone more support (visually).

Edit...just saw you were asking about 3 sided pave...you would really need to baby that! The more pave the more you need
to baby, plus, think of a squared-off metal shank and now you're going to poke holes in three sides of the shank to add
pave. Any answers on the cost you were asking about with pave and without telling them you were looking at 3-sided pave,
would not be accurate.

I think you need to consider how much you want to wear the ring. Is it just for going out to dinner? Is it going to be an everyday ring?
What is your lifestyle like and how/how much do you plan on wearing this ring?

 

[emmy12]

Congratulations on the upcoming birthday, @Engrgrl1, and welcome to the forums.

The collective hive mind here on PS is very good at helping with designs if you have a vision but don't know what to look for in the details. If you go with a custom setting, please come back and share CAD designs for feedback if you'd like it! For a 3-stone one of the best ways to try and narrow down the look you like is to start scrolling through Pinterest and Google searches and start saving the ones that are most pleasing to your eye. Jewelery is very personal, so it's what appeals to you that matters most. Once you start looking at lots of similar designs you'll start being able to pick out features or proportions that you do like.... And just as importantly which features you immediately don't like!

From pictures of rings with proportions that you like, we can use those looks + your current ring size to approximately determine the size ranges for center stones and side stones that will get the look you want.

Do you have any pictures of your dream 3-stone or solitaire rings that you like you could share?