She's set on the cushion cut so I have no choice. I've found that despite various grades, cushions are very unique so it's hard to say just on paper. The 2 ct stones I've been looking have varied on price from $23k - 20k, although Whiteflash wanted $4k for a simple Pave band- which I thought was ridiculous. PM me if you want to pass along any personal details, thanks!
I loved the experience talking to Mr. Shaftel. He was able to actually show me the stones and the various differences in color & light. However, although price was good, the polish/symmetry grade on the stone shown was 1 and 2 levels lower than what Whiteflash recommended. (Very Good/Good vs Excellent/Excellent). Not sure how much difference this makes? The gap in price is substantial.
The savings for those slight differences are worth it. As long as you can't see any of the flaws, the difference between very good/good is not worth the price. Go with what you think looks best, and I'll bet you end up using Shaftel. Again this coming from someone who bought a 2 ct cushion cut as well...
It's very hard to compare cushion cuts, and as you've noticed the price difference can be substantial. I went with what looked the best and what also was the best value. Shaftel was able to show me 4 or 5 different stones, which made my decision easier.
Use an onion ring. Preferably still hot from the fryer. If she looks confused or kicks up a fuss, say "hey, at least I'm original!"
This!! After looking around last year I ended up getting a ring from Jonathan's. I actually went there because of this thread and people here vouching for them. Super happy with what I got. The owners son actually helped me and I told him I got refered by this thread, he is also a huge Rockets fan. He was straight forward with me and didnt pressure me with buying anything. At Robbins Bro they almost closed me out with a plain ring and even got a manager come over and drop the price so I can walk out with the ring, im so glad I didnt buy it there. Got a better looking ring and nicer from Jonathan's.
Thanks, I'm checking out Jonathan's today and will probably stop by Shaftel again since they're in the same building. Leaning more towards something that's eye-clean, brilliant than a more expensive stone with higher specs. Learning a lot during this process and will happily pass along any info to my fellow Clutchfans.
Many thanks to mrdave543 and others on here for their advice. I finally have my ring and wanted to share below. It's a 2 carat cushion cut on a pave band. Spoiler Spoiler Spoiler If anyone needs help choosing a cushion diamond, I'll be happy to help
Thanks, there are a lot of factors to consider with cushion diamonds. After finding the right faceting plot, it's best to see the choices in person before deciding. They are so unique- it's not like a round where you can reasonably guess how it may perform based on the specs alone.
Thanks, I shopped first at all the local places (Shaftel, Jonathan's) and then did all my research online. It's a MUST for anyone looking for an engagement ring to check out the forums at pricescope.com and learn more about the type of diamond they plan on buying. They should register as free member too since many of the large online vendors offer a Pricescope discount. After identifying the precise diamond that I wanted, I had it sourced to Brian Gavin Diamonds for viewing. They are a well-known online vendor who happens to be based out of Houston. Whiteflash is also very good as well and I recommend diamond seekers to check out both. I loved seeing it person & had it set with a Brian Gavin setting. Lastly, after receiving the finished ring, I took it into Tiffany's to compare to their similar 2 carat ring -- it was brilliant and confirms I received an exceptional ring at a MUCH more reasonable price. Anyone looking for a cushion diamond should also consider GoodOldGold.com. Never buy from anyone who does not have a solid return policy.
Damn that's a nice looking ring. It's very similar to the one we designed. Ours was finally completed two weeks ago. I went with a 2 ct radiant cut on a Tacori style band. Pictures don't do it justice! (I'm sure it's the same way with yours.) It definitely came out better than anticipated. Spoiler Spoiler
I need to buy an engagement ring. I'm looking for a 2.5 carat emerald cut ring that essentially looks like the link below: https://www.bluenile.com/build-your...715&offerId=60613&ringSize=5.5&track=Detlink2 My budget is $30-$40k. Am I better off buying something from James Allen or Blue Nile or is there a local jeweler that can get me the same price, if not better?
