Thread: Another guy looking at engagement rings...

Hey guys...been lurking for awhile and decided to join up to ask a question. Yes, I've started looking into engagement rings. I saw that some of you guys have already been down this road and thought you might be able to help me out. I could definitely use some advice (other than not to do it!)

I already have an idea for the diamond (asscher, at least a carat) but need some advice on the ring itself. What kinda things should I even be considering when I'm picking it out? One thing I'm stuck on is whether to go with white gold or platinum. Is there a reason platinum is more expensive, or is it just a status thing? What'd you end up going with?

Thank you all in advance...and be gentle, it's my first time posting

P.S. Realized I could add a poll, so feel free to vote on that too.

Think a couple of reasons for going platinum vs. white gold. Platinum is more malliable while gold is more brittle. Important if the prongs holding the stone become damaged. Gold will more likely break (and thus lose the stone) whereas platinum will bend/deform with the stone becoming loose before it actually falls out.
White gold can more easily lose its 'luster' as it's coated with rhodium to give it shine. Platinum is a more 'pure' metal.

Oh, and platinum is just more baller
The jewelry experts will eventually chime in here.

GL.

Honestly Platinum is just for self satisfaction IMO. I just did White gold on my Fiance's and its nice and heavy.

If we were talking Rolexes then Plat> White gold.

I know exactly what you're going through, I designed a ring and put it together about 2 months ago.

Thanks for all the info. I've scoped some other forums, and all the info seemed pretty opinionated (I guess that's to be expected though). I'm all about making the most logical choice, though, especially if it's baller to boot.

@bonehead I take it you don't need to plate platinum, then, right?

@PIXXFLIX if you don't mind my asking, what was your deciding factor for going with WG?

If anyone else out there has any experiences with plat. or WG, please feel free to share. I'm thinking long term maintenance kinda stuff as well as anything else I should know about. Or just whatever lead you to your final decision. Thanks again!

Make sure your girl is not allergic to any of these. I know some show allergic reaction to wearing gold.

We went white gold with my wifes. To us it wasn't worth the added cost.

Originally Posted by RealGone

@bonehead I take it you don't need to plate platinum, then, right?

Correct

Plat can be polished again and again while loosing very little material because it is much harder. White gold will loose it's finish (rhodium plate) if polished and will need to be "re-plated" to look good again. Platinum is heavier and I prefer its feel/heft on the hand. Plat is harder to work with due to it's much higher melting temp than gold. Make sure you have a highly experienced jeweler to work with if creating a piece or modifying a piece.

Good call on the Asscher, my wife has a 1.25 and it gets comments all the time because they are so rarely seen.

Other tips:
I suggest buying the stone and setting separately to get exactly what you want and you will likely get a better price on the stone.

Buy your stone out of state from a jewelery broker and don't pay tax

Stick with GIA certification or other internationally recognized rating

Pay attention to polish and symmetry when choosing a stone. They play an important role in how a diamond looks (sparkle, flair) that catch the eye more than size or color.

Try these guys for some shopping. I used them in the past and had a great experience.

Diamond Jewelry, Engagement & Wedding Rings, Loose Diamonds, Necklace Pendants, Diamond Stud Earrings & Bracelets, Palladium Jewelry Atlanta Georgia

Let me know if I can be of some assistance in your quest for a ring.