Want to make my GF happy - diamond and setting questions.

[Deucer]

Hi all,

I'm going to ask my GF of 3 years to marry me. She's lovely and I want to get her something that will make her happy without completely breaking the budget. I'm trying to keep the whole deal under $10,000, since I just bought a condo in San Francisco. I don't have as much cash on hand right now as I usually do.

I've done some research and my sister in law has done some poking around as well. Per my SIL he really likes this setting:

http://www.tacori.com/engagement/rings/2565rd9.html

I also directly confirmed that she likes split shank rings with pave diamonds (wandering around Tiffany on a recon mission).

I've seen the setting above in person and I like it a lot too, but it's a hefty setting and gets lost in anything below 1.2 carats. It looks best with a stone around 1.5, but I think that's out of my price range. I know Tacori scales the setting for the stone, but there's a lot going on with this one and a smaller stone just doesn't work. Kind of a catch 22.

Looking for a round brilliant stone. EDIT: I'm both color and clarity sensitive. Looking for an eye clean stone, I and above.

So...

Got any stone suggestions? Alternate setting suggestions that might also work, but allow me to put more $ into the stone?

One more note - I really like the look and idea of strongly blue flourescent stones... I don't know if I should just abandon this idea.

Thanks for the help.

 

[Niel]

Re: Want to make my GF happy - diamond and setting questions

If she likes split shank there is this option
http://www.briangavindiamonds.com/engagement-rings/pave-and-side-stones/split-shank-truth-18k-white-gold-5665w18

http://www.briangavindiamonds.com/diamonds/diamond-details/1.150-i-vs2-round-diamond-ags-bl-104062571011
http://www.briangavindiamonds.com/diamonds/diamond-details/1.115-i-vs1-round-diamond-ags-bl-104062571005
( still considered near colorless especially for a round! and the blue aspect will make it whiteer, and theres are picked to have no ill flour effects)

ETA i didnt see that you like flour do not abandon it, I love flour (as you can see) and i think its a great idea!

 

[ecf8503]

Re: Want to make my GF happy - diamond and setting questions

http://www.goodoldgold.com/diamond/9690/

http://www.goodoldgold.com/diamond/10141/

Good Old Gold also is a Tacori dealer

 

[Niel]

Re: Want to make my GF happy - diamond and setting questions

here is another option. now i wouldnt recommend ever diamond from Ritani, but those "reserve ideals" have vids and scintillation reports and so forth
http://www.ritani.com/diamonds/round-diamond-1-26-Carat-I-color-GIA-certified/D-T1WF0N
http://www.ritani.com/engagement-rings/double-french-set-diamond--v--band-engagement-ring-in-18kt-white-gold/4560

 

[Deucer]

Re: Want to make my GF happy - diamond and setting questions

Thanks!!! I did not know GoG was a Tacori dealer! That should make things a bit easier, they seem to be well respected around here. I requested a quote on one of the stones above in that setting.

I love the Bryan Gavin Blue line, but it's just a bit outside my price range... I really don't want to go lower than 1.2...

 

[Deucer]

Re: Want to make my GF happy - diamond and setting questions

here is another option. now i wouldnt recommend ever diamond from Ritani, but those "reserve ideals" have vids and scintillation reports and so forth
http://www.ritani.com/diamonds/round-diamond-1-26-Carat-I-color-GIA-certified/D-T1WF0N
http://www.ritani.com/engagement-rings/double-french-set-diamond--v--band-engagement-ring-in-18kt-white-gold/4560

Thanks for the suggestions. She really likes the "ribbony" split shank rings like the one above rather than the straighter split shank rings. That stone looks like exactly what I'm looking for though...

 

[diamondseeker2006]

Re: Want to make my GF happy - diamond and setting questions

Whew, you are in a tough situation. I don't think anyone does as good a job with that setting as Tacori. There are some by Gabriel and CO that are similar, but I know I'd rather have the Tacori.

http://www.gabrielny.com/engaged/style/ER6273W44JJ

http://www.gabrielny.com/engaged/style/ER7544W44JJ

Beverley K carries styles similar to Tacori, although none are really like that particular ring.

http://www.beverleyk.com/semi-mounts/8wr1229-a-8-0rd-d-d-m.html

http://www.beverleyk.com/semi-mounts/r1184-a.html

The halo will increase the size appearance of the center stone.

I mention Gabriel and Bev K due to the fact that Good Old Gold carries both of these as well as Tacori. They are a great diamond vendor as well. They can call in some diamonds if they don't have what you want in stock.

 

[Niel]

Re: Want to make my GF happy - diamond and setting questions

http://www.whiteflash.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut-loose-diamond-2805427.htm

This is a real nice stone, they dont really have a swirly setting, though

oh and how abou this bev k
http://www.elizabetajewelry.com/products/beverley-k-diamond-engagement-ring-semi-mount-center-stone-not-included-number-4037-slash-65

 

[Deucer]

Re: Want to make my GF happy - diamond and setting questions

Whew, you are in a tough situation. I don't think anyone does as good a job with that setting as Tacori. There are some by Gabriel and CO that are similar, but I know I'd rather have the Tacori.

http://www.gabrielny.com/engaged/style/ER6273W44JJ

http://www.gabrielny.com/engaged/style/ER7544W44JJ

Beverley K carries styles similar to Tacori, although none are really like that particular ring.

http://www.beverleyk.com/semi-mounts/8wr1229-a-8-0rd-d-d-m.html

http://www.beverleyk.com/semi-mounts/r1184-a.html

The halo will increase the size appearance of the center stone.

I mention Gabriel and Bev K due to the fact that Good Old Gold carries both of these as well as Tacori. They are a great diamond vendor as well. They can call in some diamonds if they don't have what you want in stock.

Yea, I saw the setting online and thought, what the heck is that? It looks amazing in real life.

I really don't want to go with a halo. I just can't stand them.

 

[CharmyPoo]

Re: Want to make my GF happy - diamond and setting questions

Looking at the shape of this setting .. I am wondering if it can fit a round? Might be worth while to ask Tacori if a round can fit in this setting and what size it can accommodate.

They are taking offers .. so may be able to go a lot lower... save money for the stone?
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Tacori-Split-Shank-Diamond-Engagement-Ring-set-in-Platinum-/271107819609?pt=Wedding_Sets&hash=item3f1f490859

Also, overstock sells Tacori although not your style right now
http://www.overstock.com/Jewelry-Watches/Wedding-Rings/Tacori,/brand,/2361/cat.html

 

[CharmyPoo]

Re: Want to make my GF happy - diamond and setting questions

If it were me, I would seriously considering this one. I know it is a bit over budget but message them and see if you can negotiate a deal - most of the ebayers are open to negotiation. Or see if they would be willing to just sell you the setting although I think the diamond is not a bad one as well.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Tacori-Platinum-Engagement-Ring-w-1-86ct-K-VS2-GIA-/261104320137?pt=Gemstone_Rings&hash=item3ccb07be89

Or try talking to this seller to see if they will sell you the setting alone. I have dealt with them before and seem good. I am pretty sure a round can fit into this setting.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Platinum-TACORI-Princess-Cut-Diamond-Vintage-Inspired-Engagement-Ring-/251115103383?pt=Diamond_Solitaire_Rings&hash=item3a77a06497

This seller claims they sell Tacori for 25% below retail. Doesn't hurt to ask them for pricing while you are price shopping with other vendors.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/2565-Tacori-Diamond-18k-White-Gold-Engagement-Ring-/261136868946?pt=Fashion_Jewelry&hash=item3cccf86652

 

[Deucer]

Re: Want to make my GF happy - diamond and setting questions

If it were me, I would seriously considering this one. I know it is a bit over budget but message them and see if you can negotiate a deal - most of the ebayers are open to negotiation. Or see if they would be willing to just sell you the setting although I think the diamond is not a bad one as well.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Tacori-Platinum-Engagement-Ring-w-1-86ct-K-VS2-GIA-/261104320137?pt=Gemstone_Rings&hash=item3ccb07be89

Or try talking to this seller to see if they will sell you the setting alone. I have dealt with them before and seem good. I am pretty sure a round can fit into this setting.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Platinum-TACORI-Princess-Cut-Diamond-Vintage-Inspired-Engagement-Ring-/251115103383?pt=Diamond_Solitaire_Rings&hash=item3a77a06497

This seller claims they sell Tacori for 25% below retail. Doesn't hurt to ask them for pricing while you are price shopping with other vendors.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/2565-Tacori-Diamond-18k-White-Gold-Engagement-Ring-/261136868946?pt=Fashion_Jewelry&hash=item3cccf86652

Thanks for the suggestions. The issue with buying a Tacori setting alone is that they are custom made to fit a specific stone. I spoke with a Tacori rep in person at an event, and looked at the setting for a stone in 1 carat, 1.5 carats, 2 carats. They are very different.

This suggestion looks great:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Tacori-Platinum-Engagement-Ring-w-1-86ct-K-VS2-GIA-/261104320137?pt=Gemstone_Rings&hash=item3ccb07be89

I"ll send them a message! Thanks!

 

[Niel]

Re: Want to make my GF happy - diamond and setting questions

I dont think that Gabriel and co is a bad idea. Very budget friendly if you wont go under 1.2 ct
http://www.goodoldgold.com/diamond/10140/
http://www.gabrielny.com/engaged/style/ER6273W44JJ

 

[Enerchi]

Re: Want to make my GF happy - diamond and setting questions

I really like Charmypoo's ebay link:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Tacori-Platinum-Engagement-Ring-w-1-86ct-K-VS2-GIA-/261104320137?pt=Gemstone_Rings&hash=item3ccb07be89

But also a good idea to speak with the folks at GOG on Monday. Another PS vendor who is awesome with a budget is IDJ - if you send Luann/Yekutiel the link to the Tacori, they may have something similar. (I don't think they carry Tacori...???)

 

[Deucer]

Re: Want to make my GF happy - diamond and setting questions

I really like Charmypoo's ebay link:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Tacori-Platinum-Engagement-Ring-w-1-86ct-K-VS2-GIA-/261104320137?pt=Gemstone_Rings&hash=item3ccb07be89

But also a good idea to speak with the folks at GOG on Monday. Another PS vendor who is awesome with a budget is IDJ - if you send Luann/Yekutiel the link to the Tacori, they may have something similar. (I don't think they carry Tacori...???)

I'll give them a call to the ebay link on Monday. They are overstating the setting value a bit and maybe I can negotiate down. What really worries me is the "K" on that diamond. Based on looking at stones in a shop, I was really looking for something "I" or higher. Looks nice in the picture though and the size is great.

I'll also call GOG, I already have an email in to them.

Thanks for the help!

 

[Gypsy]

Re: Want to make my GF happy - diamond and setting questions

Here's the closest setting I can find. http://www.sylviecollection.com/detail/round-brilliant-engagement-ring_743.html I have a sylvie dealer near me and the quality is lovely.

I personally try this one every time I go in there (split shank). http://www.since1910.com/engagement/sylvie/sylvie-split-shank-diamond-engagement-ring-sy098-ps4131.aspx

http://www.beverleyk.com/semi-mounts/8wr1233-a-8-0rd-d-d-m.html This is my favorite split shank under 3000 though.

If you like either one, 1910 carries the line.

If eyeclean this one has merit: http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-SI2-Excellent-Cut-Round-Diamond-1543014.asp Leaves you with a great amount of room for the setting. PUT ON HOLD IMMEDIATELY.

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-SI2-Excellent-Cut-Round-Diamond-1496965.asp This one may work too, if eyeclean.

 

[Deucer]

Re: Want to make my GF happy - diamond and setting questions

Here's the closest setting I can find. http://www.sylviecollection.com/detail/round-brilliant-engagement-ring_743.html I have a sylvie dealer near me and the quality is lovely.

I personally try this one every time I go in there (split shank). http://www.since1910.com/engagement/sylvie/sylvie-split-shank-diamond-engagement-ring-sy098-ps4131.aspx

http://www.beverleyk.com/semi-mounts/8wr1233-a-8-0rd-d-d-m.html This is my favorite split shank under 3000 though.

If you like either one, 1910 carries the line.

If eyeclean this one has merit: http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-SI2-Excellent-Cut-Round-Diamond-1543014.asp Leaves you with a great amount of room for the setting. PUT ON HOLD IMMEDIATELY.

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-SI2-Excellent-Cut-Round-Diamond-1496965.asp This one may work too, if eyeclean.

I'll call James Allen on that one tomorrow. It's on hold!

 

[Deucer]

Re: Want to make my GF happy - diamond and setting questions

Doing more research...

Can anyone comment on Tacori as a company and their warranty? I'm concerned that if I buy from ebay or elsewhere online Tacori will refuse to service or warrant their product... anyone have any experience with this?

 

[pandabee]

Re: Want to make my GF happy - diamond and setting questions

Doing more research...

Can anyone comment on Tacori as a company and their warranty? I'm concerned that if I buy from ebay or elsewhere online Tacori will refuse to service or warrant their product... anyone have any experience with this?

Do you have a local store that is an authorized retailer? You can take it to them and ask them to take a look at it, they should be familiar with it to identify whether it's legitimate or not. No need to tell them the details but just say you got it secondhand. If it needs sized or repaired they should be able to send it to Tacori on your behalf.

 

[farmer gal]

Re: Want to make my GF happy - diamond and setting questions

This is just a thought, but have you ever considered putting your budget towards the stone and upgrading the setting later?

Diamond:
http://www.briangavindiamonds.com/diamonds/diamond-details/1.532-j-si1-round-diamond-ags-bl-104062571042#!prettyPhoto[gallery2]/0/

You would have to call for pricescope discount. I would place it on hold if you have an interest.


Setting:
http://www.briangavindiamonds.com/engagement-rings/solitaire/ashleigh-14k-white-gold-5853w14

 

[farmer gal]

Re: Want to make my GF happy - diamond and setting questions

Oops! I now see you wanted I and above

 

[Niel]

Re: Want to make my GF happy - diamond and setting questions

This is just a thought, but have you ever considered putting your budget towards the stone and upgrading the setting later?

Diamond:
http://www.briangavindiamonds.com/diamonds/diamond-details/1.532-j-si1-round-diamond-ags-bl-104062571042#!prettyPhoto[gallery2]/0/

You would have to call for pricescope discount. I would place it on hold if you have an interest.


Setting:
http://www.briangavindiamonds.com/engagement-rings/solitaire/ashleigh-14k-white-gold-5853w14

I know this stone is aj, but i still dont hate the idea

 

[Deucer]

Re: Want to make my GF happy - diamond and setting questions

This is just a thought, but have you ever considered putting your budget towards the stone and upgrading the setting later?

Diamond:
http://www.briangavindiamonds.com/diamonds/diamond-details/1.532-j-si1-round-diamond-ags-bl-104062571042#!prettyPhoto[gallery2]/0/

You would have to call for pricescope discount. I would place it on hold if you have an interest.


Setting:
http://www.briangavindiamonds.com/engagement-rings/solitaire/ashleigh-14k-white-gold-5853w14

I know this stone is aj, but i still dont hate the idea

My bias against "J" stones is from seeing a few in store against a white background and reading around. It looks like I'm going to have to be a bit flexible somewhere. That looks like a nice stone.

 

[Gypsy]

Re: Want to make my GF happy - diamond and setting questions

Doing more research...

Can anyone comment on Tacori as a company and their warranty? I'm concerned that if I buy from ebay or elsewhere online Tacori will refuse to service or warrant their product... anyone have any experience with this?

If you buy from an authorized retailer, they will honor their warranty. I think it says so on their site. If you buy from ebay, from a private seller, no warranty. If you buy through ebay from a retailer, then there is a warranty.

 

[Deucer]

Re: Want to make my GF happy - diamond and setting questions

Seriously considering this stone:

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-SI2-Excellent-Cut-Round-Diamond-1524122.asp

HCA 2.0 per the cert measurements.

May not be eye clean, I'm going to call JA and talk to them about it tomorrow...

Thoughts?

 

[starrylight]

Re: Want to make my GF happy - diamond and setting questions

I wanted to remention this setting that Nielseel posted above as I think it is even better than the original while keeping the style very similar.

http://www.elizabetajewelry.com/products/beverley-k-diamond-engagement-ring-semi-mount-center-stone-not-included-number-4037-slash-65

 

[Deucer]

Re: Want to make my GF happy - diamond and setting questions

Thanks for all the replies everyone. I've decided to get a simple setting for the proposal and pick out the setting with my then (hopefully) fiance! I'll definitely show her the suggestions in this thread.

Since what I"m looking at has changed a bit, I made another thread here: [URL='https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/2nd-post-stone-opinions.183454/#post-3337787#p3337787']https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/2nd-post-stone-opinions.183454/#post-3337787#p3337787[/URL]