Engagement Ring Help? in General Questions http://www.dslreports.com/forum/r21071203 en Wed, 11 Nov 2009 05:17:10 EDT Wed, 11 Nov 2009 05:17:10 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21087623 MsTerra : All I'm going to say to that is, I'd much rather have a less expensive ring and a nice honeymoon than the other way around. Staying home in Brooklyn is no honeymoon at all. I know - I got married while I was living in Brooklyn. We went to Vegas. Totally worth it. :D
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"Strive to change the world in such a way that there's no further need to be a dissident." Lawrence Ferlinghetti]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21087623 Wed, 10 Sep 2008 11:55:27 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21087103 Mickeyme :
said by MsTerra See Profile :

said by Littlem129 See Profile :

said by Mickeyme See Profile :

What are you going to do on a honeymoon that you can't do in your own BED?
:D
Nothing, but you won't get interrupted and the maid can do the cleaning.
Also, you can call down for room service when you get hungry and/or want some whipped cream....
I'd call for Chinese food delivery which no hotel can make good! And you don't want to know what I'd do with the chopsticks!
;) :D]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21087103 Wed, 10 Sep 2008 10:14:08 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21086997 jwersan :
said by MsTerra See Profile :

Also, you can call down for room service when you get hungry and/or want some whipped cream....
:o :o :o :o :o
--
RIAA/MPAA... Bite me!!!!
In constant search for intelligent life on Earth!]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21086997 Wed, 10 Sep 2008 09:50:44 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21086756 MsTerra :
said by Littlem129 See Profile :

said by Mickeyme See Profile :

What are you going to do on a honeymoon that you can't do in your own BED?
:D
Nothing, but you won't get interrupted and the maid can do the cleaning.
Also, you can call down for room service when you get hungry and/or want some whipped cream....
--
"Strive to change the world in such a way that there's no further need to be a dissident." Lawrence Ferlinghetti]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21086756 Wed, 10 Sep 2008 08:52:43 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21086267 Mickeyme : Like i would stop and open the door or answer a phone.
:uhh:]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21086267 Wed, 10 Sep 2008 02:56:16 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21086149 Littlem129 :
said by Mickeyme See Profile :

What are you going to do on a honeymoon that you can't do in your own BED?
:D
Nothing, but you won't get interrupted and the maid can do the cleaning. ]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21086149 Wed, 10 Sep 2008 01:59:05 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21085788 Owlbet :
said by MsTerra See Profile :

I'm sure a lot of "ladies" would "settle" for an emerald or a sapphire instead. :uhh:
Princess Diana created quite a stir in alternative engagement stones when she chose a "ready-made" ring of a sapphire center surrounded by diamonds upon accepting Prince Charle's marriage proposal. It's a gorgeous ring.

»images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=···26sa%3DN

The sapphire in that ring was more expensive than a diamond of the same size and quality.

I got a "created" marquise sapphire and diamond ring for my twentieth wedding anniversary. It's a gorgeous ring, too.
--
Team Discovery



]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21085788 Wed, 10 Sep 2008 00:02:53 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21080402 supergirl :
said by Matt See Profile :

Hello all,

It's about that time. After 31 years I think I'm going to finally settle down. I've spoken to my girlfriend about engagement rings and she only has two requirements:

1) Princess cut
2) Platinum band

I don't know what I should pay and I don't want to under or over pay. I'd like to start in the 1 carat range. Can anyone help me get a ballpark figure or direct me to a website that can help?

I have heard I'll get better service and a higher quality ring by going to a local, established jeweler (»www.schiffmans.com/) than by going to a chain. True?
At least 1 carat with a gold or platinum band. :D
--
Saving the world keeps me busy. However, I find Earth very primitive from my home planet of Krypton.
-Supergirl]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21080402 Tue, 09 Sep 2008 05:18:59 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21080235 VR Laura :
said by redhotnine See Profile :

I would suggest getting a one carat stone at Tiffany's rather than a 1.5 carat stone of the same cost at a wholesaler's store. That is the traditional wedding ring size and too large a diamond is ostentatious.
A traditional engagement ring is 1/2 carat, round, set Tiffany-STYLE, i.e. 6 prongs and high. You're confusing getting a ring set Tiffany-STYLE with a ring bought at Tiffany's.

Who here can afford a 1 carat diamond engagement ring bought at Tiffany's??? Are you for real?! :uhh:

Head on over to Tiffany's on Fifth Avenue in NYC and report back. And remember, if you have to ask how much it costs, you can't afford it. ;)
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»www.queenofcyberspace.com/usenet]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21080235 Tue, 09 Sep 2008 02:48:06 EDT Re: Loved Bluenile.... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21079156 ArgyleDSL : fyi - from bluenile

For a limited time, you can also save $100 on your diamond order of $500 or more*. Simply place your order before 3 PM ET on September 9 and enter DIAMOND38 in the Reference Code box at checkout.
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My heart is old, it holds my memories, my body burns a gemlike flame. Somewhere between the soul and soft machine, is where I find myself again]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21079156 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 22:12:57 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21079035 coxta :
said by thevorpal See Profile :

said by coxta See Profile :

Most diamonds are conflict free. DeBeers controls the prices. If you want to know what the current prices are, get a copy of the Rappaport Sheet.
I disagree. Those that are selling diamonds at the cartel rates are responsible for maintaining the system that allowed conflict/blood diamonds to exist in the first place.

It is their prerogative to do so, but it is also my choice to avoid them and convince others to do the same.
It's difficult to tell where diamonds originate. If you don't want to buy from De Beers, then fine, but you have to hunt around. Try Canada, Russia, India, and Brazil for diamonds.

I have a friend that's a broker and those are the places he visits to buy diamonds.
--
I've never been drunk, but often I've been overserved.
]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21079035 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 21:53:50 EDT Re: Look at estate jewelry too http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21078764 keason : It is far less expensive, and available through a variety of specialized brokers. You can get modern and older (e.g. old mine cut) if you are willing to compromise on the shape. You can always change the setting later.

I would definitely go well above 1 carat if you can afford it - especially if you live in a major urban area (rural areas have lower expectations, in general) The 2-3 month salary is Debeers marketing, they say the same with different numbers of months (1,2) in other counties. Only spend what you are comfortable with. Like almost everything else, women's expectations have been rising and she will be comparing her stone with her girlfriend's and others. A happy wife is essential to your happiness, so don't skimp on things that are important to her. Slight flaws are mostly invisible anyway, and most people don't look at diamonds with a loupe.

Stay away from mall type retail merchants as they have the highest markups of any of the channels.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21078764 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 21:14:28 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21078135 Mickeyme : Honeymoon? talk about a waste of money!
What are you going to do on a honeymoon that you can't do in your own BED?
:D]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21078135 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 19:17:39 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21078012 53059959 : buy her a lab diamond, and spend the money you saved on the honeymoon.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21078012 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 18:53:12 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21077953 Mickeyme : No I am not a in the diamond business, if I was no one would buy one from me so no matter what I am not!
:)]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21077953 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 18:39:17 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21077824 jwersan :
said by coxta See Profile :

Find a diamond broker and make sure you get a diamond with a certificate. You can buy a ring and get the diamond set in it. If you buy from a store, you're paying their overhead and their profit. Educate yourself about diamonds first. There are lots places on the web.
Best advice so far..
Buy the diamond loose and have it set.
DON'T buy any that have been "laser etched" as that destroys any potential value later on.
Get your "girlfriend" to rethink the ring, a yellow gold ring with either a white gold setting or a platinum setting will look much better than an all "silver" looking ring. NEVER get a yellow gold setting as it will make the diamond look yellow too. (Yellow gold goes with more jewelry than white gold does)
Stay BELOW one caret, you will get a better price per that way.
Also, as has been mentioned, get the best quality diamond you can afford that looks good in relation to the size of your "girlfriend's" hand, nothing look as bad as a too large stone on a small hand...

Congrats! :D
--
RIAA/MPAA... Bite me!!!!
In constant search for intelligent life on Earth!]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21077824 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 18:07:31 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21077802 Combat Chuck :
said by Mickeyme See Profile :

Giving your soon to be wife a cheap stone is no way to start off.
Spending way to much, possibly going into debt, to pay for a very uninteresting stone that only costs so much because the price has been artificially inflated by a cartel isn't a good way to start either.

It's funny that we have diamond cartel astroturf here.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21077802 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 18:01:47 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21077801 anon :
said by Mickeyme See Profile :

Sad how so many people are uptight over spending some money on a diamond.
Yes. For strange, entirely unfathomable reasons, some people insist on getting the best value they can for their money when they choose to part with their money.

If that makes them "uptight," then you'd better put me down as "uptight" as well.

said by Mickeyme See Profile :

It is a lifetime investment of happiness you pray will last,
I would maintain that marriage is an "investment [in] happiness." A diamond ring could be said to be a symbol of that "investment." I don't think it's a particularly good idea to confuse the two.

While I wish it could be said that "the more money you spend on a ring, the more solid your marriage will be" is a good hard-and-fast rule to go by, I've never heard of any evidence to support such a claim.

said by Mickeyme See Profile :

you people act like if you buy a diamond today and next year it still hasn't increased in valve you lost out.
There go all those uptight people again, with their petty concerns about the possibility of flushing their money down the toilet. Can't they lighten up? :uhh:

said by Mickeyme See Profile :

The valve on anything is only what someone else is willing to pay for it.
Truer words were never spoken. And perhaps that could explain why the resale value of most rings typically does not even come close to the retail price paid for them. I believe the typical figure given for resale value is anywhere from thirty to forty percent of the original retail price. I'm not talking about "appraisals" or anything like that, I'm talking about the typical amount of cold cash in hand you are likely to realize should you decide (or need) to sell a ring.

When you attempt to resell a ring, you're selling a "used" item of which a glut already exists: there is no current shortage of diamonds or diamond rings and the available supply expands every year.

That being the case, if buying a diamond ring strikes you as a sound "investment strategy," well, it's your money.

Incidentally, "Mickey," you were asked if you had any connection to the diamond business. And you never answered, did you?

But based on your apparent antipathy toward people who "are uptight over spending some money on a diamond," I'm leaning toward an answer of "yes" myself (just sayin'). Thank God for all these other people who seem to believe that when you buy a diamond, you shouldn't spend any more money than you have to, same as anything else you buy (What a concept!).

At any rate, I salute the OP for his willingness to ask questions in an effort to get the best value for his money: well done, sir! Keeping close watch over your dough (or being "uptight," if you like) is one of the best ways to assure a bright future for you and your sweetie-pie.

[Gives "thumbs up" sign]]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21077801 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 18:01:31 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21077567 Mizzat : This was the original one that was too big (she thought she was a size 6, but ended up being a 3.75). The new one looks very similar. I believe this center diamond was a 1.25 carat. Crappy pic as it was a zoom in of a full shot.

Edit: the clarity G and an SI1, the new one was about 1.4, F, VVS1 for less, GIA certified and reapparaised.
--
-M

Ring
]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21077567 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 17:13:59 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21077542 horsemouth : Good luck It is a big step and hard work. But worth it IMHO. This is what I gave my girl about 2 years ago. {she was big on the conflict free thing]
»www.amidonjewelers.com/Default.a···ageID=99
Also a good plug for Canada]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21077542 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 17:10:27 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21077505 jtudor : Since I see you are in North Carolina, I might suggest Diamonds Direct in Charlotte.

They claim to eliminate the middleman and have an impressive client list.

I have done no business with them, but they sound like they have a good idea that might be worth looking into. They have a store in SouthPark mall and their website is

»www.diamondsdirectsouthpark.com/
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Best of luck

"Do, or Do not, there is no try!" Yoda

]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21077505 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 17:03:51 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21077288 No_Strings : The investment remark was a disposable comment, more aimed at the poor performance of real estate of late.

My relationship is dependent on many pretty stones, not just one. I'm on a first-name basis with my jeweler, know how many kids he has, their hobbies and sports interests. ;)

It's my view, though, that those who value a couple of bucks or a big screen over traditions and symbols of commitment often rationalize that position.

None of this relates to the OP's questions, so I apologize for the topic drift.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21077288 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 16:19:58 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21077267 Mickeyme : Sad how so many people are uptight over spending some money on a diamond.
It is a lifetime investment of happiness you pray will last, you people act like if you buy a diamond today and next year it still hasn't increased in valve you lost out.
Money wise you may, but, making her happy is more important then a few thousand dollars. If money is more important then her why bother with her?
I am in no way knocking people that just don't have the money but I am the ones that do and refuse to part with it.
How much did you overpay for your car, TV, Stereo, Computer, etc thats all money you'll never recoup.
Might as well and go the middle east and live in a mud hut.
I have diamond rings I bought 20 - 25 years ago and could sell them on Ebay for triple of what I spent back then.
The valve on anything is only what someone else is willing to pay for it.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21077267 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 16:15:28 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21077153 anon : If you are ready for this step then it is no secret to 'the other'--pop the question then go look together,that way you and she can talk over how much it should cost and she may find something she really loves-and it may be even not be the most expensive .
My wife and I did this 39yrs ago, ended up going back and buying the 1st ring we saw(1 of the least expensive)-seemed like it was .47carat and about $175-but then I made $75 a week, point is we had a good time looking and made some memories.
Luck]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21077153 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 15:56:54 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21077068 thevorpal :
said by No_Strings See Profile :

said by Cabal See Profile :

No joke. Put the money towards a house.
Real estate has been a better investment in the last few years than diamonds or platinum? Or a relationship?
First, if your relationship is dependant on the purchase of a pretty stone at 2-3 months salary, I'd suggest you save the money, and find a better person.

Secondly, Diamonds are a poor investment. They are, at best, semi-precious stones sold in a market that artificially limits the free stones available in the market. Because of this, there is no real investment value in diamonds. You will find that anyone you attempt to sell a diamond to will only accept it at a value that vastly underperforms other traditional investments. If diamonds became a true investment commodity, then the price of diamonds would plummet due to the absolute glut of actual diamonds available.

Ask yourself, would you ever see your wedding ring as an investment to be sold because market conditions are favorable? Not very likely. Because of this, I would suggest that you divert your investment funds into more traditional sources.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21077068 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 15:44:55 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21077027 thevorpal :
said by coxta See Profile :

Most diamonds are conflict free. DeBeers controls the prices. If you want to know what the current prices are, get a copy of the Rappaport Sheet.
I disagree. Those that are selling diamonds at the cartel rates are responsible for maintaining the system that allowed conflict/blood diamonds to exist in the first place.

It is their perogative to do so, but it is also my choice to avoid them and convince others to do the same.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21077027 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 15:35:58 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21077012 thevorpal :
said by Mickeyme See Profile :

To bad about only 1 out of 1,000,000 ladies would settle for a stone other then a diamond.
After discussion and explanation of the situation, I got my wife a Moissanite stone. I would NOT purchase a diamond.

Pros:
Much lower cost
Less paranoia (fear of losing the stone is lessened)
It looks better than a diamond (better characteristics)

And now, I get to add one more due to your statement. I get to tell my wife I now have independant confirmation that she is indeed, 'One in a million'.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21077012 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 15:32:18 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21076924 xrobertcmx : I went through Blue Nile, worked out really well. Did the research locally and bought online, not something I normally would have tried, but the price was hundreds less, and American Express recommended them.
I've spent a lot there since then.
--
Retaking our country one election at a time.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21076924 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 15:13:44 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21076575 Mickeyme : When you are ready to go shopping check this website out for the going prices of platinum. Prices are per ounce!
»www.monex.com/]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21076575 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 14:01:32 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21076497 Matt :
said by Mizzat See Profile :

Go with what you can afford, I actually bought my fiance a ring with those same requirements (princess cut, platinum). I ended up with a very nice cut, color, and clarity on a platinum band from a wholesaler that I met through a friend at the Apparel Mart here in Atlanta (you must be invited in order to go into the building). I ended up getting a great deal. I originally bought the ring at Shane Co, but ended up getting a nicer, bigger diamond, WITH the wedding band that also has diamonds (about .5 carats) and paid less than Shane Co. I have a picture of the orignal ring I can show you and let you know the price if you'd like. I haven't taken a picture of the new ring but it looks very similar, as she loved the band and the guy custom made it for us. It appraiesd at about $5 grand more than I bought it for.
I'd definitely love to see. Shoot me a link.
--
Linux Haters Unite!]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21076497 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:45:43 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21076339 Mickeyme :
said by No_Strings See Profile :

Bad picture. The gun's obviously pointed in the wrong direction.
Hows this one?

[att=1]
Give me real Diamonds sucker!
]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21076339 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:18:30 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21076323 Mizzat : Go with what you can afford, I actually bought my fiance a ring with those same requirements (princess cut, platinum). I ended up with a very nice cut, color, and clarity on a platinum band from a wholesaler that I met through a friend at the Apparel Mart here in Atlanta (you must be invited in order to go into the building). I ended up getting a great deal. I originally bought the ring at Shane Co, but ended up getting a nicer, bigger diamond, WITH the wedding band that also has diamonds (about .5 carats) and paid less than Shane Co. I have a picture of the orignal ring I can show you and let you know the price if you'd like. I haven't taken a picture of the new ring but it looks very similar, as she loved the band and the guy custom made it for us. It appraiesd at about $5 grand more than I bought it for.
--
-M]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21076323 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:16:04 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21076031 DMWCincy : Take your gf with you and both of you pick it out. Discuss a reasonable price range and stick to it. There are plenty of oppourtinities to go into debt as it is with a wedding.

I got lucky with my wife. We have been going to the jeweler for a while for various reasons and he let us know of a sales man that comes around once every 2-3 yrs with hand made rings. We came by to be met by a 80 yr old guy that still makes rings and got an unique looking wedding band. After buying the diamond I ended paying about $400 for it.

Another thing to think about is to buy a cheap gold band for daily use. Gold is not the most durable metal and if you have a band that has some detail to it there is a possibility of damage. My wife and I bought a cheap gold band that she wears most of the time. She then breaks out the nice ring as needed. ]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21076031 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 12:21:22 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21075959 No_Strings : Bad picture. The gun's obviously pointed in the wrong direction.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21075959 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 12:05:59 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21075952 Mickeyme : Buy me a real Diamond or else!

[att=1]
:o :D
]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21075952 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 12:04:29 EDT Loved Bluenile.... http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21075725 krazyboi :
said by ArgyleDSL See Profile :

Bluenile.com The site is very informative.
I bought my wife a diamond ring from Bluenile and it came out really good. I bought her one of the BN Signature diamonds and the diamond was very nice-I did alot of research and the signature ones matched alot of the criteria you end up looking for (C's). I got her a round diamond with one of their platinum bands and the ring was at my house in less than 3 days. The price was very competitive.

I haven't been on their site recently but I got my wife's before they went public-not to sure how their prices are now. I took specs&prices from their diamonds and went to retail stores and compared it. The markup at these retail outlets are insane! Good luck!]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21075725 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 11:23:25 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21075572 Matt : I've spoken to my GF several times about this and she only has two requirements, princess cut and not a gold band. She is not concerned about the size, but I'd like to get her something very nice with the money I have available. Honestly, she wouldn't care if it was the size of a pinhead.

That's one of the reasons I love her and want to marry her. :D

I would much rather go with a higher quality, smaller diamond, than a big rock that isn't good quality. I am only planning on doing this once, and I know when I strike it rich, I can get a new stone put in there if she wants. (I doubt she will.)

Thanks for all the suggestions folks. Please feel free to keep them coming. I am a serial researcher and I like to fully prepare before ANY major purchase. Especially when I am a neophyte in said area. :)
--
Linux Haters Unite!]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21075572 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 10:52:50 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21075498 seaquake : I took my wife and had her to pick it out. She's gonna be the one stuck with it for the rest of her life; I wanted her to have something she wanted.

I'm not big into the whole jewelry thing anyway so having her make the decision was the smartest thing for both of us :)]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21075498 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 10:36:57 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21075419 Boomerang86 : You could do what I did and find a jeweler which is an AGS (American Gemological Society) member. They are upheld to higher standards of business ethics.

I went to one, selected a Lazare ideal cut, laser inscribed diamond and chose the setting myself. It wasn't cheap, but it wasn't a ripoff either.
--
Don't pay ME back, pay it forward.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21075419 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 10:21:37 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21075409 Mickeyme : Now the thing is that the OP didn't ask how to get away cheap, he was asking about what the price range might be (which no one can really answer).
I am sure he doesn't want to pawn off a fake diamond on her, like some of you would/did.
:o]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21075409 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 10:19:58 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21075152 marigolds : A few tips:
Whatever you get, always go slightly above a fraction:
i.e. .34 carets, not .32; 1.01 carets, not 0.97; 0.76 not 0.74.
Why? So that when her friends ask her how big it is she can say "just over" instead of "just under". Sounds totally silly, and she will not care when you give it to her, but it will annoy her when talking to her friends. Anything in the .95 to .99 range is especially bad (hence why they are cheap), because that is "almost a caret".

Purchase a loose diamond from somewhere that gives you at least 30 days to return it, no questions asked. Then, take it to another diamond store and have them look at it. They will be able to tell you if there are any significant problems with the diamond (anything that could cause the diamond to chip later, like a surface breaking inclusion). If the diamond is not what you paid for, take it back.

The way I went about this was that I purchased the diamond from one store, and then purchased the setting from a high quality local merchant (in my wife's hometown even). The store where I was buying the setting took care of looking at the loose diamonds for me. They were a little pricey, but they did a great job helping me out and they do free lifetime maintenance on the ring. Free cleanings, resizings, etc. Even now living 5 hours away from the original store, whenever we go back home my wife drops in and gets her ring cleaned for free. She loves being able to do this.
--
ISCABBS - the oldest and largest BBS on the Internet
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Professional Geographer
Geographic Information Science researcher]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21075152 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 09:25:04 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21075102 redhotnine : matte, all great advice here. i know because i am in the same process. for myself, the financial ability is greater than my personal philosophy for purchases of this type. so,
i am following all this with interest.

costco vs. tiffany's? i am leaning towards costco, but the tiffany's argument makes sense as well.

»www.associatedcontent.com/articl···2&cat=41

"Few people, myself included can spot a tiny flaw which will knock thousands of dollars of the value of your diamond. First you need to be able to properly use a jeweler's loop or better yet a stereo microscope. A Flawless diamond is rare, but a Very Slightly (VS) flawed diamond with great cut and color is a dazzler. This is what you can expect at Tiffany's.

I would suggest getting a one carat stone at Tiffany's rather than a 1.5 carat stone of the same cost at a wholesaler's store. That is the traditional wedding ring size and too large a diamond is ostentatious. A super stone would be a one carat, F color, very slightly imperfect stone which is ideally cut and which says T&Co inside the band."

congratulations, whatever you choose i am sure will be perfect.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21075102 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 09:12:01 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21075088 NeoStylez : My girlfriend said she would settle for something that wasn't from a vending machine that i jokingly proposed to her with :p

:P]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21075088 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 09:08:52 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21075066 cowboyro : Wife's engagement ring was from an antiques store, paid some $200 on it (but was later appraised at $500). That's what I could afford at that time :( Made her the happiest woman on earth ;)
If she loves YOU, she won't care too much about the ring. YMMV.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21075066 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 09:04:41 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21074765 anon :
said by Mickeyme See Profile :

I'd never buy a fake diamond, real diamonds are made by nature not in a lab.
Try reselling the lab diamond as real.
:uhh:
»www.diamondnexuslabs.com/
Try reselling a real diamond sometime and tell me what kind of results you get.

Because you will, most likely, clear pennies on the dollar if you ever try to sell your ring back to a jeweler. Assuming they're even interested in buying it at all.

The demand for a product that has an artifical scarcity imposed on it in the first place is not high. The price you get for your ring should you ever try to sell it will be reflective of that.

Looking at the purchase of a diamond ring as a symbol of your love is fine: knock yourself out. But looking upon a diamond ring as an investment of some sort is a huge mistake.

Talk to someone who has ever needed to sell a ring to raise desperately-needed cash and they'll be able to tell you first-hand how little money they were offered compared to what they paid for the ring in the first place. Again, that doesn't mean you shouldn't buy one, it just means you should know the reason you're buying it for.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21074765 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 07:22:25 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21074759 anon :
said by Mickeyme See Profile :

said by beerbum See Profile :

»www.diamondnexuslabs.com/

for example one can get a 1+ ct heart cut diamond - gem only for under $200, or a 2ct round cut for $300..

and yes they are real diamond - man made.
Sorry, but even your link says they are NOT REAL

Diamond Nexus gems are so close to natural diamonds that most gemologists require scientific testing equipment to tell the difference.

Giving your soon to be wife a cheap stone is no way to start off.
You wouldn't happen to be engaged as a diamond broker or be connected with the industry in any way, would you? :uhh:]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21074759 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 07:19:28 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21074611 hrz : Would it not be easier to "go gay" and find a troop of homosexual men that would, with prior arrangement:

1. Fawn over "her" and the upcoming marriage.

2. Steer her to an "antique" ring, which by the way,

3. Can be found for a reasonable price at one of the fellows' male friends' shoppe?

NEVER take an "equity hit" if you don't need to.
[This advice has worked like a charm over and over, w/ astounding success and economy.]

Oh, there's always a Pawn Shoppe, similar economy.
[If you MUST have a ring, that is. I'd rather go w/o.]]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21074611 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 04:35:28 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21074546 Mickeyme :
said by beerbum See Profile :

»www.diamondnexuslabs.com/

for example one can get a 1+ ct heart cut diamond - gem only for under $200, or a 2ct round cut for $300..

and yes they are real diamond - man made.
Sorry, but even your link says they are NOT REAL

Diamond Nexus gems are so close to natural diamonds that most gemologists require scientific testing equipment to tell the difference.

Giving your soon to be wife a cheap stone is no way to start off.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21074546 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 03:32:09 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21074515 beerbum : »www.diamondnexuslabs.com/

for example one can get a 1+ ct heart cut diamond - gem only for under $200, or a 2ct round cut for $300..

and yes they are real diamond - man made.
--
!!!]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21074515 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 03:01:28 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21074380 hortnut : first congrats on the big step!

For my second wife, we went to store/boutique that engaged the services of local craftsman. Not only did they carry jewelry, but paintings, artwork, Statutes, dishes, rugs anything that can be made by hand. High End, yet reasonable.

We used the 5 C's and first chose the diamond then from there my future 2nd had a rough idea of what she wanted in the band, so she and the 'Artist' designed the band. Our total cost was around $3500, 10 years ago [make appropriate adjustments for increase in diamonds and the metal, in our case gold.] Can't recall the size, but think it was just under a carat.

We then took it to a Certified Diamond Dude or whatever they are called to get it appraised. He gave extra value for the band as it was one of a kind. It appraised just a bit over $10k. Which is what I insured it for.

3rd wife was very happy with a simple band and we invested what we did not spend on honeymooning in an exotic location.
--


Darn, its gettin that time to go to Wallymart to gits me picture taken agin.
]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21074380 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 01:27:17 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21074376 Littlem129 :
said by No_Strings See Profile :

said by CylonRed See Profile we found that anything above .25 carat looked huge on my wife's finger and really out of place.


Sounds like a Jedi mind trick to me. Congrats for pulling it off.
Congratulations MattE ! :)

It's not a mind trick, the smaller the finger the bigger the diamond is going to look. I have a size 4 finger and my husband picked out a 3/4 carat diamond. It was way too big for my small finger. Went with a 1/3 carat, looks good and isn't overpowering like the 3/4 carat.

When you guys buy diamonds keep in mind the size of the finger, it could save you some money. ;)]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21074376 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 01:24:52 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21074266 Its a Secret : I gave my ex wife a 12 carat Thai sapphire in platinum for an engagement ring. I didn't hear a word of discontent after she got off the floor...
--
"In the future, that which is not mandatory will be illegal"]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21074266 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 00:40:28 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21074152 hoyleysox : No offense and congratulations. Diamonds are a ripoff and do not have long term value. Diamonds are made of carbon - an extremely common element; TONS of diamonds are produced every year and their scarcity is imposed by a cartel. Rubies,emeralds, platinum and gold are scarce.

»www.theatlantic.com/doc/198202/diamond

you are welcome]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21074152 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 00:04:18 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21074104 SOLdesign : just remember, no diamond is "too big". ;) congrats!]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21074104 Sun, 07 Sep 2008 23:53:18 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21074060 MJimLay :
said by CylonRed See Profile :

said by MrFixitSC See Profile :

I once heard a spending guideline, probably from a sales person but figured I'd throw it out there, 3 months gross salary..
The diamond cartel owns that bit of crap - I please with everyone here - don't fall for this marketing garbage.

My wife's engagement ring and wedding band was less than $500 - she loved it and I liked it and when she lost it - it was not a major issue - we just got another like it for about the same price.
You Sir, have earned my respect, or at least your wife has anyway. I hate gold diggers. ]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21074060 Sun, 07 Sep 2008 23:42:25 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21073963 Mickeyme :
said by DracoFelis See Profile :

said by CylonRed See Profile :

And the funny thing is, it's mostly an American brain washing marketing tradition that wedding and engagement rings are diamonds. i.e. this isn't the tradition in many other parts of the world.
said by CylonRed See Profile :

My wife's engagement ring and wedding band was less than $500 - she loved it and I liked it
Same here. For the engagement band (worn just before the wedding) we just got some somewhat nice silver rings for something like $15/each on sale. After all, we were wearing them just for a few months (until we got married, and moved onto the wedding bands).

1) But we are not in a different part of the world.
2) Most people are not concerned with the price tag of a ring that you only (hopefully) buy once in a lifetime.
;)]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21073963 Sun, 07 Sep 2008 23:20:55 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21073886 DracoFelis :
said by CylonRed See Profile :

The diamond cartel owns that bit of crap - I please with everyone here - don't fall for this marketing garbage.
Too true. And the funny thing is, it's mostly an American brain washing marketing tradition that wedding and engagement rings are diamonds. i.e. this isn't the tradition in many other parts of the world.

said by CylonRed See Profile :

My wife's engagement ring and wedding band was less than $500 - she loved it and I liked it
Same here. For the engagement band (worn just before the wedding) we just got some somewhat nice silver rings for something like $15/each on sale. After all, we were wearing them just for a few months (until we got married, and moved onto the wedding bands).

For the actual wedding band (which she is still wearing BTW) I got her a lovely gold band with 5 emeralds offset with some smaller diamond stones (which she helped me pick out). Many people she has met rave about how lovely her "wedding ring" is, but it would surprise them to know that it actually cost us less than $300 (we were lucky and caught a 1/2 off sale at the jewelry counter at Sears).

BTW: Some jewelry stores will actually give you the sale price on special order rings, if you ask nicely, and are willing to prepay during the sale. For example, that's what happened with my wife's ring. We found the ring she wanted, but not in her size. But they were willing to sell us the ring at the sale price, and still custom order it in her size, as long as we were willing to prepay before the custom order was sent out.

The point is, there are many very nice rings out there at semi-reasonable prices (especially if you are willing to go to jewelry counters in more general stores, vs just going to the "jewelry only" type stores). And many women would be happy to get a nice (albeit not "traditional") wedding ring, from such a place. So the only reason a women "needs" a big diamond, is because she wants it (possibly as "proof" that her man is "serious"), or because she has been duped by the advertising of the diamond industry into thinking it's necessary. But a lot of women are more than happy to have other rings that look very nice.

BTW: I have a gold wedding band I got from Sears as well (for even less than we spent on my wife's ring). In my case, the stone is a lovely star-sapphire, that looks absolutely stunning when the light catches it.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21073886 Sun, 07 Sep 2008 23:02:31 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21073790 Shark_615 : I skipped the expensive stuff and went for the month we met (same concept as birth stone). it was cheaper, nicer and way more meaningful. To us of course may differ for you]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21073790 Sun, 07 Sep 2008 22:41:54 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21073491 CylonRed : No convincing needed actually - she looked at half carat and went - ugh... She does not wear a lot of jewelry to begin with though. :)]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21073491 Sun, 07 Sep 2008 21:48:09 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21073434 Mickeyme : Best thing to do is set aside a weekend so the BOTH of you can go out and look at rings and prices, so you'll both be happy in the end (or you'll see what she's really like :D ).
I don't know if they carry Heart Shaped diamonds where you are at, they are great looking I got my wife one and it was $1,250 for a 1 carat in 14k gold setting, but it was a H color and an SI in clarity, and it would definitely be something different as no one we ever ran across has one.
;)]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21073434 Sun, 07 Sep 2008 21:37:39 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21073246 No_Strings :
said by CylonRed See Profile we found that anything above .25 carat looked huge on my wife's finger and really out of place.


Sounds like a Jedi mind trick to me. Congrats for pulling it off.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21073246 Sun, 07 Sep 2008 21:07:43 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21073222 coxta : A durable alternative to platinum is rhodium plated gold. It holds up very well.
--
I've never been drunk, but often I've been overserved.
]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21073222 Sun, 07 Sep 2008 21:03:37 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21073062 nightdesigns : Don't buy it based on what you'd find on the certificate, buy based on what you like.

You can spend all this money on the best color and clarity, but if you can't tell the difference by your naked eye, there's no point in spending the extra cash. She's not going to like you more or less based on that, and she's not going to pull the certificate out for her friends.

I got my wife a 3 stone setting. It's only 1/2 carat, but looks like a bunch more. It didn't have the best or biggest stone, but it looks great, and that's all she cared about.

That setting with a platinum band was around $2k. Keep in mind, platinum scratches pretty easily. I have a platinum band and have beat the crap out of it.
--
This Space for Rent...]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21073062 Sun, 07 Sep 2008 20:30:20 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21073009 CylonRed : Congrats btw - get a size she will like and looks good on her - we found that anything above .25 carat looked huge on my wife's finger and really out of place.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21073009 Sun, 07 Sep 2008 20:20:08 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21072963 No_Strings : CZ is not the same as manufactured diamonds.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21072963 Sun, 07 Sep 2008 20:10:34 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21072952 Cheese :
said by beerbum See Profile :

it's possible to come out with a better deal if you go for a man made diamond.. they are real diamond, just grown in a special lab under similar conditions that make natural diamonds..
It's called Cubic zirconia and no, it's not real. ]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21072952 Sun, 07 Sep 2008 20:08:23 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21072937 Astieroth : Don't do it! You held out for 31 years...you can survive the rest!

On a serious note, I would also like to pitch bluenile.com.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21072937 Sun, 07 Sep 2008 20:05:23 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21072865 Matt : Thanks for the congrats everyone. I really appreciate it.

I found a pretty cool website that lets you pick the ring, setting, and diamond. You basically build your own based on your criteria and they give you a price right there.

»www.adiamor.com/

I was able to get a rough price of $6k for a .9 carat, color F, IF clarity w/ a GIA grading report.

I spoke to my GF again and we may go with a .75 to .50 carat diamond. For the same quality stone, the price drops by over half. The ring itself (4-prong solitaire, platinum, minus the diamond) is about $600.

I really appreciate all the advice too. I feel a LOT more knowledgeable already.
--
Linux Haters Unite!]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21072865 Sun, 07 Sep 2008 19:51:24 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21072773 Willy : You're in for a real treat.

There are so many variables there is no way to compare one ring from another based on price only. This whole market is a joke and you have a target on your back unless you can get someone that you can trust to help you.

Above all, negotiate, negotiate, negotiate, any price you get. You should be willing to walk away because there really is a better deal out there.

You have to find someone you can trust to act as a middle man (person) and interpret this whole thing for you.

Oh yeah, congratulations. Really!]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21072773 Sun, 07 Sep 2008 19:31:03 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21072747 Matt :
said by Cabal See Profile :

No joke. Put the money towards a house.
I already own a house. :)
--
Linux Haters Unite!]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21072747 Sun, 07 Sep 2008 19:27:20 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21072733 No_Strings :
said by Cabal See Profile :

No joke. Put the money towards a house.
Real estate has been a better investment in the last few years than diamonds or platinum? Or a relationship?]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21072733 Sun, 07 Sep 2008 19:25:03 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21072698 Cabal :
said by CylonRed See Profile :

said by MrFixitSC See Profile :

I once heard a spending guideline, probably from a sales person but figured I'd throw it out there, 3 months gross salary..
The diamond cartel owns that bit of crap - I please with everyone here - don't fall for this marketing garbage.

My wife's engagement ring and wedding band was less than $500 - she loved it and I liked it and when she lost it - it was not a major issue - we just got another like it for about the same price.
No joke. Put the money towards a house.
--
Interested in open source engine management for your Subaru?]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21072698 Sun, 07 Sep 2008 19:18:49 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21072686 ArgyleDSL : Bluenile.com The site is very informative.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21072686 Sun, 07 Sep 2008 19:16:20 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21072641 FunnyBones : If your wife loves you enough the ring wont matter I got mine a gold band at first then a half carat but the way to do it depends on your wife. One way is take the ring with a helium balloon in a box with some ribbon and a note. Mine could only say one word yes yes yes :D I do miss her but you know life is what you make it.

You could try an auction www.Bidz.com

May or may not help you but good luck!
--
Are you part of the cattle?]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21072641 Sun, 07 Sep 2008 19:07:31 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21072623 coxta : Most diamonds are conflict free. DeBeers controls the prices. If you want to know what the current prices are, get a copy of the Rappaport Sheet.
--
I've never been drunk, but often I've been overserved.
]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21072623 Sun, 07 Sep 2008 19:05:02 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21072489 dvd536 :
said by coxta See Profile :

Find a diamond broker and make sure you get a diamond with a certificate. You can buy a ring and get the diamond set in it. If you buy from a store, you're paying their overhead and their profit. Educate yourself about diamonds first. There are lots places on the web.
Another thing: make sure the diamonds are "conflict free"
and dont get scammed on the fake lab created stones at the real in the earth price.
and last but not least: to a woman there is no such thing as overpaying if its going to be her ring.
--
When I gez aju zavateh na nalechoo more new yonooz tonigh molinigh - Ken Lee]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21072489 Sun, 07 Sep 2008 18:43:54 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21072380 CylonRed :
said by MrFixitSC See Profile :

I once heard a spending guideline, probably from a sales person but figured I'd throw it out there, 3 months gross salary..
The diamond cartel owns that bit of crap - I please with everyone here - don't fall for this marketing garbage.

My wife's engagement ring and wedding band was less than $500 - she loved it and I liked it and when she lost it - it was not a major issue - we just got another like it for about the same price.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21072380 Sun, 07 Sep 2008 18:23:27 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21072348 MsTerra :
said by Mickeyme See Profile :

To bad about only 1 out of 1,000,000 ladies would settle for a stone other then a diamond.
I'm sure a lot of "ladies" would "settle" for an emerald or a sapphire instead. :uhh:

Seriously, you guys always make a lot of assumptions and don't bother checking them out or talking to women you know to find out if they're true. Plenty of women would be happy with a ring that's not the usual boring diamond solitaire. I remember some years back it was somewhat popular to receive a ring that was one's birthstone set off with smaller diamonds. I had one like that made for myself for my 30th birthday, since I've never had an engagement ring, despite being married twice.

Don't fall for the diamond cartel BS, especially that "two months' salary" malarkey. Go for a ring you can afford and that will be special to her for reasons other than sheer size.
--
"Strive to change the world in such a way that there's no further need to be a dissident." Lawrence Ferlinghetti]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21072348 Sun, 07 Sep 2008 18:18:30 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21072346 Just Rachel : A very big congratulations to you both!! :)

Guess I'm a "cheap date". On my second marriage and the most expensive ring I've had was around $500. :D The bling isn't what counts.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21072346 Sun, 07 Sep 2008 18:18:12 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21072324 Matt : 2-3 months gross salary? Ouch, luckily my GF said she'd be happy with something in the $5k range for now. I want to get her the nicest ring possible, but that's all I can afford for now. (Don't want to use credit. Have enough of that already, ha.)
--
Linux Haters Unite!]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21072324 Sun, 07 Sep 2008 18:14:28 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21072279 lilhurricane : Congrats :)]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21072279 Sun, 07 Sep 2008 18:04:55 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21072192 coxta : You might want to try an HTHP diamond. These are diamonds that start out less than perfect, but with very specialized permeate treatment of high temperature and high pressure, they convert to a very perfect diamond which is indistinguishable from a natural diamond of the same quality. They can run less than 30% or more of what you would normally pay for a purely natural diamond.

»www.sundancediamonds.com/


I've never been drunk, but often I've been overserved.
]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21072192 Sun, 07 Sep 2008 17:47:04 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21072145 Mickeyme :
said by beerbum See Profile :

it's possible to come out with a better deal if you go for a man made diamond.. they are real diamond, just grown in a special lab under similar conditions that make natural diamonds..

I'd never buy a fake diamond, real diamonds are made by nature not in a lab.
Try reselling the lab diamond as real.
:uhh:
»www.diamondnexuslabs.com/]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21072145 Sun, 07 Sep 2008 17:35:57 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21072076 MrFixitSC : I once heard a spending guideline, probably from a sales person but figured I'd throw it out there, 3 months gross salary..]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21072076 Sun, 07 Sep 2008 17:20:40 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21072064 beerbum : the old school rule of thumb in purchasing an engagement ring.. the diamond cost should equal two months salary - gross not net..

it's possible to come out with a better deal if you go for a man made diamond.. they are real diamond, just grown in a special lab under similar conditions that make natural diamonds..

a nice alternative if you are interested in getting a diamond that is not an over-priced DeBeers stone dug out of the ground by slaves..]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21072064 Sun, 07 Sep 2008 17:18:28 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21071808 Mickeyme : To bad about only 1 out of 1,000,000 ladies would settle for a stone other then a diamond.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21071808 Sun, 07 Sep 2008 16:14:28 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21071723 Combat Chuck :
said by Matt See Profile :

I have heard I'll get better service and a higher quality ring by going to a local, established jeweler (»www.schiffmans.com/) than by going to a chain. True?
I'm gonna say that's, for the most part, true however I imagine you're going to have less of a selection. However if you knew some of the practices of the larger chains you likely wouldn't shop there.

Diamonds are a ripoff, which is unfortunate being as it's almost a requirement to buy one when you get engaged; especially when (at least IMO) there are better looking stones that are much, much, much cheaper.
--
The world’s elusive, remember
where love's the leaf
faith, the river
what's born as flame dies in ember
see for yourself!]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21071723 Sun, 07 Sep 2008 15:57:17 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21071421 CtrlAltDel : Look at the 5 Cs:

Carat size
Cut
Clarity
Color
Certificate

Stay slightly under 1 carat to save a lot of money. Everyone wants a 1 or 2 carat ring, but if you stay under those exact numbers you will save.

Try to get a GIA certification. There are many smaller certs available but I believe that the GIA is the standard.

As far as the other Cs go, google will give you a guide to them.

Good luck! :)
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»www.obamacrimes.com/
»www.anobamanation.net/]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21071421 Sun, 07 Sep 2008 14:47:00 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21071391 Mickeyme : There is no real way to tell how much a ring like that will cost lately as Platinum prices are going crazy, right now it's headed down which should work in your favor right now.
As for the diamond also, you can't tell until you get to the store and see what they have, the clearer and whiter the diamond is the more it cost.
A 1 carat diamond can run from $750 to $25,000.00 or more.

This site may help in picking out a diamond
»www.diamondarticles.com/diamond-charts.php (scrool down the page for charts)

You notice there is NO A, B, C colored diamonds listed, thats because they are super rare and you will never in your lifetime be able to afford one. Anyone tell you they have one is a lair or a millionaire!
;) :D
Good Luck!

Buy your ring from someplace you know for a fact is trustworthy. I go to ZALES.
And stay away from YELLOW diamonds.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21071391 Sun, 07 Sep 2008 14:39:29 EDT Re: Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21071366 coxta : Find a diamond broker and make sure you get a diamond with a certificate. You can buy a ring and get the diamond set in it. If you buy from a store, you're paying their overhead and their profit. Educate yourself about diamonds first. There are lots places on the web.
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I've never been drunk, but often I've been overserved.
]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21071366 Sun, 07 Sep 2008 14:33:47 EDT Engagement Ring Help? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21071203 Matt : Hello all,

It's about that time. After 31 years I think I'm going to finally settle down. I've spoken to my girlfriend about engagement rings and she only has two requirements:

1) Princess cut
2) Platinum band

I don't know what I should pay and I don't want to under or over pay. I'd like to start in the 1 carat range. Can anyone help me get a ballpark figure or direct me to a website that can help?

I have heard I'll get better service and a higher quality ring by going to a local, established jeweler (»www.schiffmans.com/) than by going to a chain. True?
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Linux Haters Unite!]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,21071203 Sun, 07 Sep 2008 13:58:33 EDT