| Author | Message | ||
| chris cummings (Entelechy)
Junior Member Username: Entelechy Post Number: 123 Registered: 5-2001 |
Hi All, sorry I've been offline for the last few weeks (we're setting up offices to film a movie in Alabama and we finally got internet access assembled late Friday. Thanks again for all the great advice; Doug, that's an excellent idea, Robert - you gave me a laugh as we stopped into a store so I could get an idea of what her tastes were leaning towards and you're absolutely right! Bad TT - thanks for your offer. I haven't had much time to research it yet, but in the coming months I might see if I can take you up on your offer. I know her favorite cut is the "radiant". Thanks again everyone! ~C | ||
| Bad_tt (Bad_tt)
New member Username: Bad_tt Post Number: 9 Registered: 8-2002 |
I've actually had many ladies come in with their engagement ring and want to know quality,approximate cost etc.I do my best to cover for the guys. Sometimes they might be cheap, other times just taken advantage of,and other times just indifferent to details.It shouldn't be but sometimes the ladies feel "more loved" if they feel you suffered financially to put that ring on their finger? | ||
| Edward Gault (Irfgt)
Intermediate Member Username: Irfgt Post Number: 1949 Registered: 2-2001 |
I would be very suspect of a woman that carries around a Jewelers Glass and is not a Jeweler.IMHO | ||
| Robert Davis (H2oquick)
Junior Member Username: H2oquick Post Number: 183 Registered: 8-2001 |
Ed knows where I am coming from... unfortunately mine knew clarity and quality, she even carried a jewelers glass in her purse. I actually purchased her stone through estate and had it remounted. Its amazing how much can be saved through someone elses failed relationship...... | ||
| Edward Gault (Irfgt)
Intermediate Member Username: Irfgt Post Number: 1948 Registered: 2-2001 |
Size matters more than anything. Have you ever heard someone say, Did you see the Clarity of that stone? Hell no! They say, Did you see the size of that rock on her finger. | ||
| Robert Davis (H2oquick)
Junior Member Username: H2oquick Post Number: 182 Registered: 8-2001 |
Chris....take it from me do not let her pick it out......I did and she has 2.5 carats on that finger(once they have seen a bigger stone there is no turning back) . Then of course there is the wedding set-up afterwards....which means a large setting, because a big stone don't look good in a small setting....but hey, she is happy....And remember your ring should cost you at least 50% of your annual income or something like that anyways....good luck | ||
| Doug Meredith (Doug308)
Junior Member Username: Doug308 Post Number: 197 Registered: 2-2001 |
Chris Buy the stone to use as a proposal. Then go with her to a jeweler to design a ring around it. All women have a vision of "their" ring. This way they get exactly what they like. They will be the one wearing it for (hopefully) the rest of their life and this way you know they will like it. Plus, she will have the excitement of the proposal, the designing, and then the anticipation during the wait until it is ready. You will have 3 guaranteed exciting evenings as opposed to 1  | ||
| Bad_tt (Bad_tt)
New member Username: Bad_tt Post Number: 8 Registered: 8-2002 |
I'm a Graduate Gemologist (GIA). Best advice buy a CERTIFIED diamond graded by GIA or EGL in the alternative. .Then and only then you can compare quality vs price!! If you find one fax me the cert I'll evaluate it for you and tell you what wholesale is.In the alternative I can find you a certified diamond at cost plus 10% | ||
| Erich Walz (Deleteall)
Junior Member Username: Deleteall Post Number: 128 Registered: 12-2001 |
Here's some collective knowledge, don't buy a diamond. The actual value of diamonds is roughly that of a charcoal briquet. Diamonds are only priced the way they are because the Debeers control the world market and restrict supply (ask any marketing major). There are currently so many diamonds in storage that if mining stopped today there'd still be enough to satisfy the world's demand for the next 110 years. No, I'm not making this up. | ||
| Nika (Racernika)
Member Username: Racernika Post Number: 696 Registered: 12-2001 |
Edward!!! How so very mean you are!!!! (Nika wipes away tear) I take care of my OWN shoe habit......have my favorite dealer..er...um... I mean SHOE STORE Oooooooooooooo those Ferrari Todd loafers (glazed eyes) Are those Prada sandals on SALE! (THUD) (sound of Nika hitting floor) | ||
| Jack (Gilles27)
Member Username: Gilles27 Post Number: 577 Registered: 3-2002 |
Nika, I gotta chime in here. First, the beer would obviously be in a cooler to avoid any sort of "beer-fetching" impasse. Second, who's buying all these shoes? Careful how you answer... | ||
| Bruno (Originalsinner)
Member Username: Originalsinner Post Number: 536 Registered: 5-2002 |
DONT | ||
| Edward Gault (Irfgt)
Intermediate Member Username: Irfgt Post Number: 1937 Registered: 2-2001 |
If you want one that doesn't think the Ferrari shoes are clown shoes then you have really narrowed the field. Better back off on that one, the clock is ticking. | ||
| Nika (Racernika)
Member Username: Racernika Post Number: 695 Registered: 12-2001 |
dude...he'll also have to have these qualities: 1) Can torque wheels 2) Double clutches from 1st to 3rd when cold 3) Have a 50 piece socket set 4) keep his mouth shut and bring ME a beer during F1 races 5) knows the difference between torque and horsepower 6) will never drive a Aztek 7) doesn't care how many shoes I own...and does think those FILA Ferrari shoes are clown shoes (Or at least doesn't say anything to my face) I can go on but it'd bore you... 146 more points to go | ||
| Jim E (Jimpo1)
Member Username: Jimpo1 Post Number: 747 Registered: 7-2001 |
They guy that proposes to Nika should have a small hose clamp made out of gold for her to wear. | ||
| Nika (Racernika)
Member Username: Racernika Post Number: 694 Registered: 12-2001 |
LOL.......I knew someone would ask! They are not engagement rings. They are just solitaire diamond rings...which at times have been mistaken for an engagement ring....which is both good and bad thing at times. Never worn on my left hand......wish more peopel could tell left from right | ||
| Dave (Maranelloman)
Member Username: Maranelloman Post Number: 384 Registered: 1-2002 |
Nika, why do you still have 2 engagement rings??? | ||
| Najib Amanullah (Najib)
Junior Member Username: Najib Post Number: 188 Registered: 4-2001 |
If you are really serious about marrying her, then she should come first. A car is just a car - even a Ferrari. A good woman usually is for life. If she is right for you, she will be totally supportive and do her utmost to try and help you get the Ferrari. I know mine did and she was every bit as excited as I was when it arrived. I dont count the multiples of earnings. She is a full-time housewife so I guess its infinity. But from the time you are married, all major decisions should be joint decisions. As for the macho stuff, being sensitive to her wishes as well, will make you much more of a man in her eyes. Most women will remember the day they were proposed to and married like it was yesterday. Most men would not even remember what they said or where. Get her the best ring now and yourself the best car later. | ||
| David White (Dwhite)
Junior Member Username: Dwhite Post Number: 63 Registered: 7-2002 |
Nika, are your diamonds canary colored? | ||
| TomD (Tifosi)
Intermediate Member Username: Tifosi Post Number: 1301 Registered: 9-2001 |
nika Dandolions over Red Roses - you really do like the color yellow. | ||
| Nika (Racernika)
Member Username: Racernika Post Number: 693 Registered: 12-2001 |
good point Jim - it really isn't the ring. I have a princess cut solitaire worth $25,000 and one worth $3000 - same size........really unless you look close under certain light - it's all the same. I think I'd wear that hose clamp if it had the right meaning. Remember this guys: Anyone can pick up the phone and order a dozen red roses (YUCK) But the guy who puts the effort into finding out her favorites - or picking a bunch of dandelions is the real deal....EFFORT means so much. And guys...if the girl doesn't see this...and wants the roses instead (for show) ...show her the door | ||
| Jim E (Jimpo1)
Member Username: Jimpo1 Post Number: 741 Registered: 7-2001 |
Chris, if she's going abroad with you and you're not even married, is she paying her own way? If so, thats a good sign. A friend of mine bought 2 rings, a very simple gold one that he proposed to her with, and a large rock. The night he proposed he gave her the simple ring and she said yes. She was thrilled. After he decided that the marriage was what was important to her, he gave her the real ring. His philosophy was it wasn't about the ring. | ||
| chris cummings (Entelechy)
Junior Member Username: Entelechy Post Number: 122 Registered: 5-2001 |
Again, thanks for all the great advice and opinions. A number of you have brought up the potential pressure a Ferrari can put on a relationship. I definitely know she's the one for me, however, Greg and others make a good point. My father is a psychologist who has spent decades couciling couples in relationships. He always stressed that you can't be "single" and "together" at the same time; it's one or the other. I feel he's prepared me well and in talking with her, we both feel a long engagement would be wise, but as Greg mentioned, I do have some concern about those little things that come up all the time. I'm trying to save for both the ring, and later a Ferrari, and she keeps wanting to take trips and travel all over. I love spending time with her abroad, and she finds great deals, but every time I see another $1-2K flying out of my pocket, it makes me wonder just how far away the Ferrari is. Of course, she's most important to me and always will be, but I sure hope she knows just how serious my passion to own and drive an F car is. She seems to when we talk about it and I guess at some point you just have to trust in that to be true. By the way, I'm initially interested in platinum for the ring as she hates gold, but are their other nice "non-gold" rings made (white gold?, etc.) Again, thanks for all the advice and concerns. ~Chris | ||
| Bill Steele (Glassman)
Junior Member Username: Glassman Post Number: 90 Registered: 4-2002 |
For God sakes buy her a ring. If you don't want her don't marry her. I bought my wife a great big diamond ring, and a couple of years later she bought me my second Ferrari. | ||
| Martin (Miami348ts)
Advanced Member Username: Miami348ts Post Number: 2796 Registered: 5-2001 |
Save the money for the engavement ring at all and make up your mind to either marry her or to keep her as a girlfriend. Engagement is a fancy word for Lay-Away! Either you know she is the right one or you don't if you don't then you may want to keep that money for "la bella machina" | ||
| Bill Burke (Il_inglese)
New member Username: Il_inglese Post Number: 1 Registered: 9-2002 |
My first job home from college was at Harry Winston in NYC. Firstly, dont believe the hype. Secondly, consider a colored stone (i.e. ruby). Third thing: dont invest in a "white" stone and put in a yellow gold setting. Under the light the yellow will "bleed" into the stone and you will never tell how nice it really is. Lastly, and most important, not all the "four Cs" are created equal. (No matter how dearly you pay for them.) You can tell the difference between a "E" stone and an "H" stone with the naked eye. You cant tell between a "flawless" and a "VS2". Dont buy into something you cant see. | ||
| Ricky Nardis (Rickyn_f355)
New member Username: Rickyn_f355 Post Number: 31 Registered: 8-2002 |
John, the car, for sure! | ||
| Jim Schad (Jim_schad)
Junior Member Username: Jim_schad Post Number: 180 Registered: 7-2002 |
I would never marry someone that makes me sell my toys. Selling them because you can't afford them is one thing, but simply because they are expensive????no way. My wife spends money to look and feel good (not $100K), and I dont complain. She has known from day 1 that a ferrari is in the future and she is starting to like them as well. The other day I pointed out a 550 Maranello I liked and she said "I like the Testarossa better". Good for me as they cost $100K less! | ||
| Dave (Maranelloman)
Member Username: Maranelloman Post Number: 380 Registered: 1-2002 |
Here's my $0.02: Find a good diamond broker & persuade him/her to sell directly to you. Times are a little slow for them right now, and that should not be a problem. I did this in 1990 (when times were also a little slow, and I was also watching my pennies a lot), and got a phenomenal emerald-cut stone at probably 40% of retail (60% off)--and the guy still made a profit; there is HUGE mark-up in that business. I had it appraised by someone in a different city, who confirmed what retail price would be. And, my fiance/now wife was ASTOUNDED!!! Now, as for the rock vs. the Ferrari: it's a lot easier to buy a car than to find & settle down with a soul mate. My first Ferrari had to wait until July 2000, after we had been married nearly 10 years. Think about that. Priorities, my man, priorities. Best wishes! | ||
| John Delvac (Johndelvac)
Junior Member Username: Johndelvac Post Number: 78 Registered: 11-2001 |
Ricky - It's easy for you to talk. You did get the toys first. Once you are married you are a team with team decisions. Everything that's her's is her's and everything that's your's is her's. It will all be her's real soon. And if she works too, you will have even more problems as she may perceive herself as paying for your toys. You better get prepared for that now. If she wants you to sell your cars, you will either sell, or get divorced. Which is more imortant to you? | ||
| TomD (Tifosi)
Intermediate Member Username: Tifosi Post Number: 1284 Registered: 9-2001 |
good advice Mitch, even without a friend just go to diff stores and window shop | ||
| Mitch Alsup (Mitch_alsup)
Junior Member Username: Mitch_alsup Post Number: 143 Registered: 4-2002 |
We Tifosi understand the emotions our Ferraris bring, and the cost structures involved in buying and owning them. We should do the same with Diamonds. When I was looking (8 years ago) I had a friend who owned a jewelry store. I went over there every day for 5 weeks looking at 15-20 different stones, keeping 3 in the loop. By doing this day after day after day, the amazement factor comes back into control, and you get a sense of what the seasoned jewler already has--perspective. You also get to look over a vast number of stones, and have time to consider the 4c's, you wallet, and your requirements; without any haste--just like when you bought your Ferrari. Go slow, enjoy the event, and learn. I can't possibly see how getting this kind of learning process compressed into 1 day or 1 week would do anyone any good {Except just to get it out of the way and done}. | ||
| Ricky Nardis (Rickyn_f355)
New member Username: Rickyn_f355 Post Number: 29 Registered: 8-2002 |
ahhhh, so that's what the problem is!!! :-) | ||
| Nika (Racernika)
Member Username: Racernika Post Number: 692 Registered: 12-2001 |
and Ricky....you may think you wear the "pants" in the relationship but if you ever plan to get into hers....you better change that attitude! LOL | ||
| Nika (Racernika)
Member Username: Racernika Post Number: 691 Registered: 12-2001 |
piston ring? Actually I did get a hose clamp in a Cartier box once and a big stuffed Grinch was wearing a ring. It wasn't an engagement ring but it was really cool. I know if I received a big rock I would constantly gaze down at it and think......."You know how many sets of racing tires I could get with this?......." | ||
| Jim Conforti (Lndshrk)
New member Username: Lndshrk Post Number: 6 Registered: 8-2002 |
A little more advice, Most people don't know I used to work with a Jeweler for a few seasons, mainly for fun and education. Always view the stones over pure white paper, under bright light, and learn to use a set of jewelers forceps. If you are looking at a stone with a loupe, pick a rhythmic pattern where you sweep the entire stone at one "depth" and then change your depth and resweep. Repeat until you have looked THRU the entire stone, and then turn it over and repeat. Do this WITHOUT the honey if possible. Remember that the "markup" from real COST to MSRP is on the order of 200-300%. Next, note that the price per carat of a stone will be significantly higher if it is "just larger" of some emotional point versus "just smaller". full, half, third, and quarter carat numbers are what I mean. Example.. a 1.01ct stone is much more per ct. than a .97ct stone. Use this to your advantage! I'm a bit more liberal in my recommedation on "clarity".. a VS stone will be "flawless" to the naked eye if graded correctly. VVS is certainly better. IF stones are not IMHO for rings, they are investments or for special jewelry. On "color" get the whitest stone you can afford. E or F color usually. And never forget that the ring is an expression of love, and not an expression of wealth. Jim PS: For the platinum setting person, remember that Platinum is an INCREDIBLY hard to work with metal and that the quality of the work is most important as while it's hard to make a BAD gold casting, it's very easy to make a bad Plat. one. | ||
| John L. Jordan Jr. (Up2nogd)
New member Username: Up2nogd Post Number: 44 Registered: 8-2002 |
Chris, Don't sweat it! When I got married I had to sell off a few of my "Toys" -- 82 Custom Vette (oh those were the days) 80mph Ski Boat, etc., etc. etc -- About two years ago I told my wife I was thinking of purchasing a Ferrari - she agreed and told me that of course she would have to balance the checkbook (her idea of balancing - whatever you spend - I spend - its balanced!!). Anyhow last month I bought my Ferrari - she was actually excited - and as of now she has "not" (that I know of) balanced the checkbook! -- Just a moment ago she came downstairs and we were chatting about some of the changes in the new Models - "She actually agreed that if all goes well with this one that we should look at possibly upgrading" My point - in the beginning things will be different, you "will" have to ask permission (I don't care what anybody is telling you) It is a simple thing called RESPECT!! Your home life will be much happier and she will enjoy all of the things that you enjoy i.e. your Ferrari -- even if she doesn't understand them! My 2 cents! Johnny | ||
| Greg Owens (Owens84qv)
Member Username: Owens84qv Post Number: 520 Registered: 10-2001 |
Chris, As a person who just recently got married (April), don't overlook the "buy the Ferrari now" comments. My wife knows that I am one of the most passionate Tifosi alive, but once you get married, there are always "other things we need to buy"...new furniture, remodeling, decorative stuff, baby?, and the list goes on and on and on. I bought mine 6 months before I got married and I'm glad I did. I'm sure my wife would've approved, but in the face of all the other post-marriage expenses, it makes it much tougher. Good luck. | ||
| Horsefly (Arlie)
Junior Member Username: Arlie Post Number: 210 Registered: 5-2002 |
Hey Nika, wouldn't a nice "piston" ring be right for you? Not just any piston ring, but one from an early V12? Or maybe a nice Arkansas diamond because the only place in North America that REAL diamonds can be found naturally is in Murfreesboro, Arkansas, about 110 miles from here. You can even dig your own. You pay a few bucks and dig all day long and keep anything you find. Can you carry a shovel in that yellow 308? | ||
| Nika (Racernika)
Member Username: Racernika Post Number: 690 Registered: 12-2001 |
Good luck Chris - let us know how it goes!! If EVER I decide to get married - I would just do a drive thru of course........and yes - it'd be a yellow Ferrari!! Just not sure if I or he would be driving !!! | ||
| chris cummings (Entelechy)
Junior Member Username: Entelechy Post Number: 121 Registered: 5-2001 |
Thanks Everyone for all the terrific advice and some good laughs - you didn't disappoint! I'll definitely spend the time researching, and thanks for the links. John, thanks for the input - I hear what you're saying, but feel confident she understands my passion; she's been listening to me wax poetic about Ferrari's for over a year and still hasn't run for the hills. By the way, love what I could see of your F car - maybe I could buy yours in the future when you step up? Nika, thanks for the woman's point-of-view. I come from a long line of romantics and have something very special/memorable planned. Fred - thanks for the info and offer of help. I'm not in Florida, but neaby in Alabama working on location on a film. Might be worth a trip to take you up on your offer if I feel I'm not making progress elsewhere. To everyone else - you're the best! This is why I love this site and check in every chance I get. I've even had the pleasure of meeting some of you at FCA/LA. Thanks again! ~Chris | ||
| Ricky Nardis (Rickyn_f355)
New member Username: Rickyn_f355 Post Number: 27 Registered: 8-2002 |
Hope nobody takes this the wrong way but if you have to get permission from your wife to spend the money you work dam hard for then something is wrong. I'm 26, getting married in 1 year and just got my F355, am keeping my M3 and my Jetta. I did get my fiance a big ring (over 3 kt and pretty close to flawless) but i would never worry about her or her family not approving. If she was the breadwinner maybe it would be different, but as long as I'm making 13 times what she makes, I wear the pants. | ||
| William H (Countachxx)
Intermediate Member Username: Countachxx Post Number: 1328 Registered: 2-2001 |
I proposed to my girlfriend that we should have a menage a trois, She accepted | ||
| Edward Gault (Irfgt)
Intermediate Member Username: Irfgt Post Number: 1920 Registered: 2-2001 |
Don't buy a gaudy ring? Yet we drive Ferraris. The big ring will pay off later. Size Matters. | ||
| Jethro Bodine (Rsbiomedical)
New member Username: Rsbiomedical Post Number: 16 Registered: 9-2001 |
IALMAO Fred!! | ||
| Fred (Iluv4res)
Junior Member Username: Iluv4res Post Number: 86 Registered: 8-2002 |
By the way...... Don't spend too much on the diamond or the F-car. Save some $$ for the Attorneys to draft a pre-nuptual agreement. It will save your F-car in the long run....... | ||
| Jethro Bodine (Rsbiomedical)
New member Username: Rsbiomedical Post Number: 15 Registered: 9-2001 |
I was proposed and got married in the same place, Anegada, British Virgin Islands needless to say we took the money and I started my company and it's a pretty good story so far. I must admit though make damn sure it's the real deal. I have seen many ugly scenarios. Good Luck and Get the Ferrari first. As for the ring buy it with whats left after your Ferrari. | ||
| Najib Amanullah (Najib)
Junior Member Username: Najib Post Number: 187 Registered: 4-2001 |
Buy a loose stone and have it set in front of yourself. When looking for imperfections, turn it on its face and look through the loop (eye-piece). Any imperfections will be reflected on the cuts and amplified. As already mentioned, put the stone in white a paper funnel and you will be able to see if it is white or yellow. Also beware fakes. A relatively new stone called Moissonite (not sure of the spelling) will register as a diamond on the diamond tester but you will need a special moissonite tester to tell its a fake. | ||
| Jim Schad (Jim_schad)
Junior Member Username: Jim_schad Post Number: 171 Registered: 7-2002 |
My wife's father spent about $40k on our wedding. We were not offered the money in exchange for the wedding, but if we had been I would have pushed hard to take it and reduce the wedding. Great experience, but what a waste of money in my opinion. | ||
| William H (Countachxx)
Intermediate Member Username: Countachxx Post Number: 1326 Registered: 2-2001 |
my advice, take the money & buy a nicer Ferrari | ||
| Paul (Pcelenta)
Junior Member Username: Pcelenta Post Number: 96 Registered: 7-2002 |
advice...2 years after engagement and 1 year after wedding... 1) buy the car first 2) buy the car first 3) to women size matters (of the stone that is) 4) GIA/IGA are two different rating systems..be careful. also,2 stones can have the same rating but look vastly different in natural light...these days many are cut for weight and give up sparkle 5) spend less than you intend..you'll feel better later and she'll never know 6) don't buy online...not a diamond...find a good diamond dealer go see him in person and pay cash...they like it better and you'll get a little bit better price (a little bit)...Remember this...there are no "deals" in quality diamonds...they trade in a very organized fashion 6)unless her parents are paying..don't spend a ton on the wedding...we had a great time at ours ;paid for it ourselves and it killed me to write the checks...convince her to put the money towards a house. I love my wife..and she's a car nut too...but in my opinion women just don't get it (at least here in New York City) they want this cinderella wedding thing but don't realize that it is the biggest waste/most money you will spend on 4 hours...now a year after being married my wife concedes that we would have been better off putting the $ towards a house...oh well! | ||
| Todd Chen (Tec)
New member Username: Tec Post Number: 47 Registered: 2-2002 |
Good point. I wouldn't have even considered using this angle if I thought she'd be upset if she thought I bought the car. In fact, I think more likely she'll probably be mad that I didn't buy it after the dust settles from getting engaged. | ||
| Jim Schad (Jim_schad)
Junior Member Username: Jim_schad Post Number: 170 Registered: 7-2002 |
Hey I got engaged in a friends garage over new years eve. In the pics you could see these rust stains coming down the walls and a mattress up in the rafters. Classy I tell ya, but it makes for a good story. Just be careful she doesn't blast you with all the things she hates about you when you "trick" her on the phone. "You are so irresponsible, I dont know if we should be together..." | ||
| Todd Chen (Tec)
New member Username: Tec Post Number: 46 Registered: 2-2002 |
How's this for a proposal idea? The 911 I ordered (which I've decided not to buy and already got my money back) is coming in October. I thought I'd tell my girlfriednd that it's in, and I'm going to look at it just to see how it came out. I'll say I'm not buying it, but I'll make a big production out of getting my checkbook "just in case". I'll spend the day supposedly doing that so I can really go pick up the ring, etc. On my way home, I'll call her and tell her I did something totally crazy and irresponsible, that I know I spent more money than I should have but I figured to heck with it because it's something I really want, it's my money, and it makes me happy. (She'll be ecstatic--she's been telling me to just buy the stupid car for months). I'll say I really don't want to talk about it on the phone, but I'll call her when I'm close to home and she can meet me in the garage to check out my new purchase. I'll call her when I pull in the garage and tell her to come down and check it out. When she gets down there, she'll see the old car and say, "Where's the new car?" (If I'm lucky she might even think I decided to keep both cars) I'll say, "oh, the car? It was real nice, but I decided I'd rather buy this instead." Then I pull the ring out and, BAM! Right there in the garage I lay it on her. I know the garage wouldn't really be the most ideal place, but we're awfully sentimental about that building, and it is a historical landmark, after all. | ||
| John J Stecher (Jjstecher)
Member Username: Jjstecher Post Number: 300 Registered: 1-2002 |
Man John I feel sorry for you!! I have already got my girlfriend to consent to a Lambo after we get married in two years so I am sitting pretty. Thanks for the advice on the diamonds I am looking to pick one up here in a year and this will help a lot. | ||
| bruce wellington (Bws88tr)
Member Username: Bws88tr Post Number: 837 Registered: 4-2002 |
buy a cubic zarconia, she will never know, then buy your f-car....(unless your father in law to be has a jewelers loop) | ||
| TomD (Tifosi)
Intermediate Member Username: Tifosi Post Number: 1266 Registered: 9-2001 |
Fred has given you some good advice. A quick way to give yourself hints on the quality of cut is to look at the stone in normal light away from the bright lights of the jewerly store showcase. If the stone still sparkles brightly you have a idea of the cut quality - all the other items still need to be considered though | ||
| John Delvac (Johndelvac)
Junior Member Username: Johndelvac Post Number: 75 Registered: 11-2001 |
Strong Advice! - Buy the Ferrari first. Trust me... Don't get me wrong, my wife is the greatest and is usually right. But at least make it clear that you really are getting a Ferrari before you marry and have her consent for the savings goal. Many of your friends and family will consider your Ferrari purchase a very selfish thing. I never saw it coming. After 3 years, I'm still dealing with the aftermath. My wife said it was OK to buy. Then it suddenly wasn't OK after the deed was done. It took her a year to appreciate it and now she likes the car. But seriously, her family thinks I'm a selfish bastard for it. Get it worked out now or buy the car first. At least go and get a Dino 308GT4 to hold you over (assuming you have a garage). They are fantastic cars. You can get in this game pretty cheap. It would not be selfish if you bought one as a single guy. If you still don't have the money, take her to a dealer or something and have her blessing (in writing in her own blood). Talk to her about how her family will feel when you get a $50K toy. I keep buying my wife $3K jewery every year, but it still doesn't make it up to her family. Even my parents still tell me I'm selfish and "when am I selling that car?" every time I see them. Driving a Ferrari in traffic can be fairly embarassing because everyone looks at you and tries to talk to you through their window. Also, every one with a rice rocket revs their engine and dares you to race. All of the attention is a pain in the butt. But nothing like the scorned feelings of overprotective family. I don't know your girlfriend. She probably races other people's Ferraris and wants one badly. Anyway, she has to be on board with this thing before you get engaged. What do you think her reaction will be when you have to spend $3,200 every five years to maintain the car? I expect it to take me another 3 years to have her blessing on a 355 or 550. But she is going to have to feel really finacially secure before she lets me pull the trigger. A very prominate Ferrari salesman in the SE region tells me that the things I have said here are very common. He has seen many cars returned within 3 months for the reasons I noted. I hope I'm wrong about your situation or I hope you are OK with telling everyone else to screw-off when you get one. And for God's sake, don't drive the Ferrari to work unless you own the place. Everyone will think you are irresponsible and flamboyant. 'Glad I didn't have that problem. That's a whole different issue. Wife is home, must hide the soapbox. | ||
| Fred (Iluv4res)
Junior Member Username: Iluv4res Post Number: 85 Registered: 8-2002 |
Start & Learn the 4 c's. 1) Color- Diamonds range in color from D to Z. D is colorless (clear). As you move down in grade, they become more tinted with yellow/brown. 2) Clarity- Diamonds are made by carbon under tremendous pressure. Sometimes all of the carbon is completely crystallized causing flawless diamonds. More often, there are either black flaws or white/crack looking flaws in the stone. The less flaws the better. The flaws are called inclusions. To simplify, they have ranges such as VVSI & VSI (Very, Very Small Inclusions-Imperfections can not be seen clearly with a 10x loupe), SI (Small Inclusions-Imperfections can be seen with a 10x loupe but not with naked eye), I (Included-Imperfections can be seen with naked eye). There are grades of VVSI, SI and I to farther distinguish. By the way, be very careful of clarity enhanced stones. 3) Carat- This is actually the weight of the stone. Sometimes confused with the size of the stone. This is tied into #4. 4) Cut- There are many cuts/designs of stones (round brilliant, marquis, etc...) There is also the quality of the cut. Good cut stones are property proportioned so that light goes into, then refracts out of the stone causing it to have brilliance in the light. Be careful, many stones are cut to have a large top appearance to look like bigger sized stones (carat), but don't have the brillance due to poor angle refraction. Brilliance is another quality that is important that they left out of the 4 c's!! If you're looking for 1/2 carat or more, buy the stone separate from a setting. You should really be paying for the stone. This way you can compare apples to apples. Then, get it set in a simple tiffany setting (should only cost around $100-200). You can always get it re-set in your wedding rings, etc. later on. But, buy the stone separate for now. Diamonds are priced according to grade. The most regarded grading/pricing system is the "Rapport Sheet". This prices stones on a grid type system. Jeweler's buy and sell as a % of Rappaport value. Be very careful about this process. I know diamonds and I see jewelers grading their stones they are selling much better than what they actually are!!! Having a GIA certification helps, but they are sometimes still a bit over-certified. I live in South Florida. I am not a jeweler, however, I have many connections in the industry. If you are local let me know, I can get some sent to me and perhaps you would want one. Let me know if you need help in the process. | ||
| Chuck Babel (Chuck_98_rt10)
Junior Member Username: Chuck_98_rt10 Post Number: 54 Registered: 5-2002 |
If you don't have your Ferrari yet, why would you get an engagement ring? Stalling? LOL | ||
| Nika (Racernika)
Member Username: Racernika Post Number: 689 Registered: 12-2001 |
Look at the jewelry she wears often - does she like simple things - go solitaire - if she likes some detail - go with more ...um...what is the best word - frill. Buy what you can afford I would not buy out of state/country - I would want to see the diamond - have it mapped and have it guaranteed. But now that you have the ring idea - remember what is the MOST IMPORTANT - HOW DO YOU PROPOSE. Guys - I stress this because it is a beautiful memory in a girls mind - be creative - make it fun and then you KNOW you'll get a yes. Right now amongst my friends - platinum princess cut is hot...but I'd rather get the Ferrari | ||
| Parker (Fletch)
New member Username: Fletch Post Number: 16 Registered: 3-2002 |
Check out the Blue Nile online store (www.bluenile.com). I will soon be purchasing a diamond as well and have many friends that have used this online store. They are very friendly and easy to deal with, over the phone or over the Internet. They are based out in Washington, so as long as you don't live there, the diamond is tax-free. This is a big deal when you are buying something that costs around $6,500 or more! Almost all of their diamonds are GIA certified, which is the best in my opinion. The have a great interactive online shopping thing that allows you to adjust the clarity, color, size, and price and immediately see what they have in stock. They have access to tons of diamonds, so if you don't see exactly what you want, I am sure they can get it for you in a timely manner. I personally have picked out a setting from a local jeweler and will just bring the diamond to them. I would recommend telling a local jeweler, if you go the same route as me, that the diamond came from a family member and not that it was purchased online. They tend to get a little pissy when you find a diamond $2,000 cheaper somewhere else. To give you and idea of prices, the diamond I was look for was about $7,500 - $8,000 at all of the local diamond stores. I did find the same diamond at the Blue Nile store with the same certification (GIA) for about $6,500 AND it was tax-free. Thus, I would easily be saving over $2,000 once you take tax into account. I am also nervous about ordering a diamond I haven't seen, but they do offer a 30 day full refund if you don't like the diamond when you get it. I would, however, still recommend using a credit card that has good customer protection options. Once you get the diamond you can take it into the jeweler to see what it looks like in the setting you picked out. You can also ask the jeweler to make sure the diamond you got matches the GIA report that they sent with it. You could make up something like, "I trust the relative that sold/gave it to me, but not the person that sold it to them", or something like that. You don't have to do this, I just don't trust anyone so I would see what the jeweler has to say. The Blue Nile store seems to be very legit and I have several friends that have ordered from them and they have all been very happy with the results. By the way, I am in no way affiliated with this company; I just hate how local diamond stores try to rip off the customer. | ||
| Mike Burke (Maranlo550)
New member Username: Maranlo550 Post Number: 8 Registered: 6-2002 |
My father was a licensed jeweler "back in the day" so I have several tips. One of the best tips I learned is look at the stone NOT in a setting! Sometimes stores will mount a stone and cover at imperfections. Also do NOT look at a stone on a piece of black felt like the ones at MOST jewelry stores! Bring a piece of pure white paper (5x7inches). Place the diamond on the paper and fold it like a U-shape (like rolling a cigarette), now look down into the paper and you should "lose" the diamond for a very clear diamond will disappear in the paper where as one with imperfections or poor coloring will show up. Also make sure you find a stone that fits the woman's hand. I have seen more "gaudy" rings on hands that do not fit the stone shape. Long, slim fingers will better be suited for a marquee or pear shape where as with a thicker,shorter finger the round or princess cuts look better. Like someone mentioned before, learn the 4 "c"'s or color, cut, clarity, and carat. For the color look no higher the d-f range, (a-c are PERFECT and VERY expensive!!) and clarity should be VVS or better. When I got my ring for my fiance I didn't want a big, poor quality one so I went with a slightly smaller, better quality one and everyone loves the ring especially her! Lastly and MOST important!! Do not get suckered into the "this will appraise for $xxxx.xx" game! This a huge scam! Say you pay $7500.00 for a ring and they appraise it for $12-13K. What would happen if the ring was stolen? Your insurance company will NOT be giving you $12-13k for your loss! They will give you replacement value! Find a dealer who give EXACT value not inflated for their appraisal! The jeweler I dealt with, his wife is an insurance executive and I talked to her about it and she told me how people get suckered into paying higher insurance rate and they will NOT re-coup their $$! So good luck and do LOTS of reading! | ||
| Jim Schad (Jim_schad)
Junior Member Username: Jim_schad Post Number: 169 Registered: 7-2002 |
Send your money to someone in Texas and have them "buy" the ring and then ship it to you. Tax free. Did this with 2 Rolex's for my uncle in Oklahoma. | ||
| Todd Chen (Tec)
New member Username: Tec Post Number: 45 Registered: 2-2002 |
I'm in the same boat. Probably will be purchasing in the next 2 weeks. I've found the site listed below to be very educational. It's a very good way to see how the 4 c's interact to result in certain values. I'm not sure about the logistics of purchasing from them (don't think I'd buy a diamond sight unseen), but I believe their prices to be very competitive. I'm looking for a basic Tiffany platinum setting and round cut rock, and I can do that with them. http://www.ashford.com/category/index.jsp?categoryId=1063662&cp=1080351 No interest, affiliation, etc. Also, it sucks for me because they're located in Texas and that means sales tax. (I know, I know, but no need to start another thread on how to defraud the taxing authorities) | ||
| TomD (Tifosi)
Intermediate Member Username: Tifosi Post Number: 1265 Registered: 9-2001 |
forget what people tell you - size does matter, JK anyway many people have "friends" in the business. Do some research on what to look out for, do a lot of looking and educating yourself than try to find that friend of a friend connection. BTW make sure you know what you fiancee likes - I am sure she has dropped a few hints | ||
| chris cummings (Entelechy)
Junior Member Username: Entelechy Post Number: 120 Registered: 5-2001 |
Hey Guys, Sorry to go off topic for a sec, but I've always been so impressed with the aggregate knowledge and insights of the group in this forum on a wide range of topics. I'm sure many of you have been down this road before and wondered if anyone had any advice on how to find the best deal on engagement rings (I am, after all, still saving for a Ferrari!). Looking forward to your thoughts and I'm sure, some good humor. Thanks in advance, ~Chris |