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Q&A: Choosing a Center Diamond for a Platinum Solitaire Setting Within a £3000 Budget

By Mike Fried,

Looking for a platinum (or maybe white gold) set engagement ring up to £3000. Solitaire style, not sure what the best options are for budget. Haven’t tried anything on so open to suggestions.

Can you also tell me what shape of diamond you’re looking for? Then I’ll be happy to send you my suggestion.

I haven’t tried any and think it will probably be a more traditional shape round, princess or maybe cushion but have not seen one to see if I would like it. I don’t think I want emerald cut and do not like heart, pear or marquise.

Would ideally like to go to a store to try if you have any you recommend? I am based in London area and had though Hatton Garden but so many I wouldn’t know where to start!

Thanks in advance for your help.

Generally speaking, you get better value online. The prices for rings in Hatton Garden are usually much higher. And also, it’s important to know what you’re looking for in terms of quality.

But I suggest visiting one of the stores there, looking at GIA certified stones and get an idea of what shape and style you like the most. Then I’ll be happy to help you with the search for the best stone. If you pick up to two shapes you like, I’ll be happy to send you my suggestions.

Many thanks I have looked on a few sites and the ones I like most are the princess cuts. I am very active so don’t want anything that would be set too high and would want it to be secure.

We went to try some at the weekend and preference is the traditional round stone in a lower setting as I am very active so don’t want anything set too high. I know the setting has a bearing on the light. I tried a few 0.9 carat styles which seemed to be a good size for me. If there are any recommendations you can make they would be greatly appreciated. The mark up for the ones I tried was much more than I expected when comparing on line, but there is so much choice.

Thank you for the additional information.

Have a look at this diamond:

Blue Nile LD10855574

It’s very well cut, eye-clean and going to look colorless.
https://www.diamonds.pro/education/color/

What do you think?

After looking at the weekend we decided we prefer the traditional round cut rather than princess cut do you have any recommendations for those at all and slightly smaller?

OK, how about this one:

Blue Nile LD10839303

Thanks! We will go ahead with the last one.

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What we love about them:
  • No questions asked returns within 30 days of shipment. Blue Nile will send you a paid shipping label to return the ring.
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  • Free prong tightening, repolishing, rhodium plating and cleaning every 6 months
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