Engagement rings... UPDATED ( I BOUGHT IT!)

[alkemyst]

Originally posted by: Descartes

Originally posted by: krunchykrome

Originally posted by: Descartes
I wouldn't buy online. I would find a local jeweler and ask to see their inventory. There are jewelers that operate out of office buildings rather than mall storefronts, and it's those that you should seek, imo. Many of them source their own diamonds and some might actually cut, polish, etc. them as well. There are a few like that in Atlanta. This will give you a better idea of size. I would do this with the setting if you can get it.

The difference between a 1.0ct and a 1.1ct is negligible, at best. Definitely go for the better cut if that's the only difference. Keep in mind that a 1.1ct might not necessarily even look larger than a 1.0ct; hell, even if the dimensions are the same, you still probably won't be able to tell. Diamonds have difference table ratio, length of the lower girdle, etc. that could make even a 1.25ct look the same size as a 1.0ct. The 4Cs aren't enough in this regard. This is why I'm suggesting you see the diamond in person first. <<<<<<

Anyway, that's what I learned in my relatively recent purchase. We decided on a 1.25ct round and we paid a premium for the cut. It makes a huge difference.

I'm curious why you would not recommend buying online?

Because the 4Cs aren't sufficient in determining what a diamond will look like, imo. The other dimensions that sites like BlueNile offer help, but that's only after you've seen them in person to know the difference it makes. It's hard to communicate the difference between a D and G color, an ideal cut and a fair one without actually seeing it, imo.

So, I'm not necessarily against buying online; rather, just buying online without really knowing what you're going to get.

When I have purchased I was allowed an inspection period. I bought a certified stone, but unless you have that confirmed you could be buying a crappy rock and a fancy piece of paper.

DiamondTalk.com is a great resource.