I’m looking at buying a diamond engagement ring at the moment. I’m in the UK and have read your article suggesting I’d get better value for money shopping on line in the US. I’m probably being paranoid but how would you recommend I go about this, I’m worried about not getting what I’ve paid for with refunds becoming a problem. Can I trust the pictures on sites like James Allen etc.
Your advice is appreciated.
I’d recommend going with Blue Nile. They have an office in Dublin which would make things easier for you.
If you tell me what you’re looking for, I can take a look in their inventory and see what I can find.
I’ve looked at Blue Nile, was a bit apprehensive because of the generic images that they use. The James Allen site is far better for browsing.
I’d be looking for a round stone in a platinum setting, 0.7 carat up with the best color and clarity for about £3000…
They can send you actual photos so you can see if the diamond is eye-clean or not. But I understand.
One more question, in what style (solitaire, pave/side stones, halo) is the setting you want?
OK that’s good, I’d be looking at solitaire.
Thank you for the info. I found this diamond for you. What do you think?
It’s eye-clean. well cut and will look amazing in any solitaire setting you might choose. The medium fluorescence helps the J color look slightly whiter.
That’s nice, bit out of my price range, though. I’d like to get the ring and diamond within 3000 if possible…
The diamond I sent you is 2,929.20 GBP including the VAT.
I assume that doesn’t include the cost of the ring?
Now, the diamond is 2,864.40. If you decide to change the metal to white gold, you can get this setting and be on 3,039.6:
Blue Nile Classic Four Claw Solitaire Engagement Ring
I would recommend white gold over platinum. The reason is the huge disparity in upfront costs. As our article says, the WG has to be dipped every few years and the platinum needs to be polished as well because it scratches. So ultimately, platinum costs you more in the beginning and doesn’t end up saving you any money in the long run.
If there is a reason for PT, then go with this diamond:
(Just ask them for the photo of the stone.)
What we love about them:
- No questions asked returns within 30 days of shipment. James Allen will send you a paid shipping label to return the ring.
- Lifetime Warranty
- Free International Shipping
- Free prong tightening, repolishing, rhodium plating and cleaning every 6 months
- Provide insurance appraisals
- One free resizing within 60 days of purchase
- Free ring inscriptions
- Best-in-class high quality imagery of all diamonds in stock
- 24/7 Customer Service
- Best-in-class packaging
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.
- Lifetime Warranty
- Free Shipping
- Free prong tightening, repolishing, rhodium plating and cleaning every 6 months
- Provide insurance appraisal
- One free resizing within the first year of purchase
- High quality images of about half of their diamonds
- 24/7 Customer Service
- 100% credit towards future upgrades (must be at least double in value)
- Best in class fulfillment
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