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(Message started by: marlinsfan on Feb 8th, 2006, 2:00pm)
Title: Question for the ladies
Post by marlinsfan on Feb 8th, 2006, 2:00pm
Guys can chime in too, but I'm realling looking of the ladies' point of view.

My 10th wedding anniversary is coming up next month, and I want to buy my wife a nice diamond ring. I wish I could spend a ton of money, but I can only spend so much. 10+ yrs ago I was not making too much money and we lived in a country where wearing something like that could cost you your life, so I want to upgrade what she has now.

So my question is: for the same amount of money, would a woman prefer a bigger diamond that is not as good quality? Or a smaller one that is better quality? By quality I'm referring to the clarity and color ratings that the GIA uses. Her engagement ring now is pretty small.

What would you prefer?
Title: Re: Question for the ladies
Post by Gena on Feb 8th, 2006, 2:10pm
My  [smiley=twocents.gif]

Quality counts...

Not the size.

::) At least in dimonds anyway ;)
Title: Re: Question for the ladies
Post by LeLimey on Feb 8th, 2006, 2:16pm
Is there anyone you can get to have this conversation with your wife "innocently"? Cos it doesn't really matter whether I think smaller or bigger when it's on HER finger! You know us wimmin.. you're never going to get it right!
My two cents? Something bought with the love and devotion you are showing by wanting to buy her a ring will be more priceless than the Koh-i-noor.
I have a feeling no diamond will match up to the one she married  :-*
Title: Re: Question for the ladies
Post by ExplodingEyeBall on Feb 8th, 2006, 2:18pm
What ever looks more impressive.  ;;D
Title: Re: Question for the ladies
Post by seasonalboomer on Feb 8th, 2006, 2:20pm
go big with a flashy CZ!!!!   :o :o
Title: Re: Question for the ladies
Post by rickyshot on Feb 8th, 2006, 2:24pm
Well personally I like a diamond you can see without a magnifying glass but of good quality. How about a smallish to medium size with good to excellent quality depending on what you can find in your price range. You gotta do a lot of shopping on this one, and men don't generally like to shop. BTW you are a doll. I would love that kind of gift.
Title: Re: Question for the ladies
Post by Melissa on Feb 8th, 2006, 2:29pm
Why don't you just go for a 3 stone ring?  One for past, present and future.  That is what I want for my 10th (in 2 years) and they always have good sales on them at the department stores and jewelers.

:)


modified to add:  BTW, unless the lady is a jeweller or a diamond fanatic, she won't really be able to tell the difference between cut & clarity.  Of course with my engagement ring, I picked out a smaller marquise diamond, but with very good C&C and a uniqueness in design on the band. ;)
Title: Re: Question for the ladies
Post by sandie99 on Feb 8th, 2006, 2:34pm
I think that your idea is so sweet. :)

Naturally, every woman has her own opinion about jewels. But I think that she'll love the ring you'll pick because she loves you.

When my dad bought mum that fancy ring, mum was too scared to wear it as often as she does that ring she got on her wedding day.

I think that Helen's idean is a good one, though: if you can, talk with her about it. When you see some jewellery commercial or leaflet.

Sanna
Title: Re: Question for the ladies
Post by imnotbub on Feb 8th, 2006, 2:35pm
Quality my man. A better investment. a better ring. I've seen large diamonds that were of less than good quality. not very impressive. Buy the smaller one that is of better quality.
Title: Re: Question for the ladies
Post by Karla on Feb 8th, 2006, 2:38pm
I think surprising your wife by taking her into a jewerly store can be just as surprising as the ring itself.  I think it is important since she is the one wearing it forever that she have some say as to what ring she wants on her finger.  Take her to the store, tell her how much she can spend and let her go at it.  I think she will love you just as much.  That is what my husband did for my second ring.  
Title: Re: Question for the ladies
Post by aprilbee on Feb 8th, 2006, 2:42pm

on 02/08/06 at 14:38:34, Karla wrote:
I think surprising your wife by taking her into a jewerly store can be just as surprising as the ring itself.  I think it is important since she is the one wearing it forever that she have some say as to what ring she wants on her finger.  Take her to the store, tell her how much she can spend and let her go at it.  I think she will love you just as much.  That is what my husband did for my second ring.  


Exactly what I was going to say...either way, she'll just be happy you put so much thought into this...you're a sweet guy!!  :D
Title: Re: Question for the ladies
Post by Gena on Feb 8th, 2006, 2:48pm

on 02/08/06 at 14:38:34, Karla wrote:
I think surprising your wife by taking her into a jewerly store can be just as surprising as the ring itself.  I think it is important since she is the one wearing it forever that she have some say as to what ring she wants on her finger.  Take her to the store, tell her how much she can spend and let her go at it.  I think she will love you just as much.  That is what my husband did for my second ring.  


Although that is nice - who would say no to a shopping spree in a jewelry store.
Knowing how hard it is for a man to shop, and knowing he did it to find that perfect piece that he would like you to wear  - Well it makes that piece of jewelry extra special.

So pay close attn to the details of what she likes, and what ever you pick - she will love
Title: Re: Question for the ladies
Post by E-Double on Feb 8th, 2006, 3:03pm

on 02/08/06 at 14:35:22, imnotbub wrote:
Quality my man. A better investment. a better ring. I've seen large diamonds that were of less than good quality. not very impressive. Buy the smaller one that is of better quality.


The proper way to buy a diamond.

I had to become a near expert to get my wife's engagement ring.

here is a really good resource:

http://www.goodoldgold.com/

I bought my wife's rock at that store and literally bought it from under people who flew in from Chicago and came from Philly to get the same stone.

Really good place and the website is very informative.

Eric whose last name makes me an expert ;)
Title: Re: Question for the ladies
Post by Jonny on Feb 8th, 2006, 3:12pm
Ring?....No ring!!!!

Buy her a stove, washer/dryer, vacum, iron and a new apron.

She will love you for making her life easier....LOL ;;D
Title: Re: Question for the ladies
Post by Grandma_Sweet_Boy on Feb 8th, 2006, 3:13pm
By virtue of the fact that you asked the question - I think your wife already has a king sized diamond in her life!  ;)

Rings are such a personal thing that I'm thinking she might like a hand in choosing.  Why not go to the jeweller ahead of time - let him know your price range and ask him to have a tray of rings for her to see - all within your price range.  That way she can choose something she loves and you can afford.

Just my two cents worth - for what it's worth!

Carol
Title: Re: Question for the ladies
Post by aprilbee on Feb 8th, 2006, 3:19pm

on 02/08/06 at 15:12:38, Jonny wrote:
Ring?....No ring!!!!

Buy her a stove, washer/dryer, vacum, iron and a new apron.

She will love you for making her life easier....LOL ;;D


LMAO!!   [smiley=laugh.gif]  

If you do decide to go Jonny's way, I'd suggest buying a nice warm blanket as well, so you won't freeze to death on the couch... ;)
Title: Re: Question for the ladies
Post by nani on Feb 8th, 2006, 3:44pm
You're a good husband, Jose.  :)  
I like Helen's idea about asking the hypothetical question to your wife. I also like Mel's 3 stone ring suggestion. I've been asking for one of those since our 10th...  :-/   I better get it for my 20th. What can I say, my hubby's a bit dense.
Title: Re: Question for the ladies
Post by marlinsfan on Feb 8th, 2006, 3:44pm
I live in Florida, so no need to worry about freezing!!

Wow! Thanks all for your input so far. It seems that most ladies prefer quality over size (at least when it comes to diamonds :D).

The idea to bring her to the store is a good one, but Helen, Sanna & Gena make a good point that it's more special if I pick it.

I really like Helen's idea of getting somebody to casually find out. I'll see if I can trust one of her girlfriends.

Keep em coming!
Title: Re: Question for the ladies
Post by JenniferD on Feb 8th, 2006, 4:07pm

on 02/08/06 at 15:12:38, Jonny wrote:
Ring?....No ring!!!!

Buy her a stove, washer/dryer, vacum, iron and a new apron.

She will love you for making her life easier....LOL ;;D


and the snow shovel, and the mixer, and the rotary push-type lawn mower..... that is why I divorced him!

JOHNNY!!  You are such a dog!   LOL

The most beautiful ring in the world is on my finger. Its a 3 stone like Melissa said. HE picked it out and purchased it at Walmart and I cried my eyes out when he gave it to me. I will NEVER take it off!  It truly is the gift and the thought that counts.
Title: Re: Question for the ladies
Post by alienspacebabe on Feb 8th, 2006, 4:09pm
After 10+ years, you know her taste - solitare or more diamonds? white or yellow gold?. If you didn't know her so well, I'd suggest you ask her friends or family what her tastes are. I'm sure you'll find something perfect for her. As for quality versus size, as long as it's seeable (maybe 1/4 carat?) and not obviously of poor quality, it'd be all good with me. You're a special husband; you'll find a special ring for her.
Title: Re: Question for the ladies
Post by Jonny on Feb 8th, 2006, 4:11pm

on 02/08/06 at 16:07:05, JenniferD wrote:
I will NEVER take it off!  


Hope you dont plan on flying ;;D

Your right....I am a dog.....LOL  :-*
Title: Re: Question for the ladies
Post by imnotbub on Feb 8th, 2006, 4:16pm
Give her NOTHING and TELL her to LIKE IT!!!!!!


..........what's that dear? yes, I'll be right there.........

Sorry, got to go. My wife needs me to rub her bunions. [smiley=bow.gif]
Title: Re: Question for the ladies
Post by karma on Feb 8th, 2006, 4:18pm
Ghetto Ice
No doubt about it.
Title: Re: Question for the ladies
Post by BarbaraD on Feb 8th, 2006, 4:19pm
I'd go for size -- the flaws don't show if you keep the damn thing clean and the mounting will cover a lot of them -- go for BIG and flashy.

Once a diamond is set it ain't no investment no matter what anyone tells you -- it's to WEAR and let everyone look at..... Investments are kept in a bank box....

Solitaires are wonderful -- you can do such nice things with them -- put guards around them = other rings with them -- later on....

Me, I'd check out the pawn shops. You can usually pick up some "good" bargins there. They don't have the fancy boxes (you can buy those for next to nothing) and all the frills that the jewelry stores do NOR do they have the mark ups. You can usually find a lot more for a lot less there. Me, I love bargains.

GOod luck and happy anniversary....

Hugs BD
Title: Re: Question for the ladies
Post by Kris_in_SJ on Feb 8th, 2006, 8:07pm
What a sweetie you are!

When my husband and I got engaged we were poorer than poor.  We actually pooled our money to buy my ring.  (Don't tell him that I told you.)

The ring he picked out had a smallish diamond in the middle, but was bounded on each side by three very small diamonds.  When looked at as a whole, it looks extremely big and rich.  I'm complemented on it all the time.  All those diamonds put together shine like the sun and look worth a fortune.

It's the thought and your love for her that count - not the size of the stone.

Kris  
Title: Re: Question for the ladies
Post by Cathi04 on Feb 8th, 2006, 8:38pm
Well, here's another way of looking at it.
34 yrs ago, my man gave me a beautiful setting, with a perfectly flawless 1/3 ct diamond in the center. I was thrilled with it!
By today's standard, my stone is small...but, ya know what?? That's the one he used to asked me to spend my life with him. It is the ONLY diamond that counts. Since then, we have had ring guards made- with sapphires- to go around it. They represent 15yrs and then, 30 yrs.
I wouldnt care for a replacement ring. It has none of the history this lil one does.
I'll keep it, just as I'll keep him.

He loves giving me jewelry-which is cool! I once got a burger king box-with a pearl bracelet inside the bun, a fries bag, with pearl earrings, and a soda, with a chain hanging on the straw.....and pearls on the pendant.

With the love you have expressed for this woman.whatever you give her will be cherished. (unless ya listen to Jonny)  

 [smiley=inlove.gif] [smiley=heart.gif] [smiley=inlove.gif]

Good on ya...ya hopeless romantic!

Cathi
Title: Re: Question for the ladies
Post by broomhilda on Feb 8th, 2006, 9:04pm

on 02/08/06 at 20:07:36, Kris_in_SJ wrote:
It's the thought and your love for her that count - not the size of the stone.

Kris  

I couldn' t agree more! You are sweet to really think and plan such a great surprise for her she will be thrilled with whatever you choose!Happy Anniversary!
Title: Re: Question for the ladies
Post by Jonny on Feb 8th, 2006, 9:22pm

on 02/08/06 at 20:38:10, Cathi04 wrote:
He loves giving me jewelry-which is cool!i


LMMFAO!!! ;;D
Title: Re: Question for the ladies
Post by Linda_Howell on Feb 8th, 2006, 9:26pm



I have just counted....(and discounted Jonny's idea.)  ::)

 The women here, myself included,   overwhelmingly have spoken.

  Give her something YOU have picked out.

   Give her something from the heart, not the wallet.

 size does not not matter.

   And there you have it.

Problem solved.  

I love it when a plan comes together.    ;;D



    Linda

 
Title: Re: Question for the ladies
Post by purpleydog on Feb 8th, 2006, 9:33pm
My husband and I shopped for my diamond. We settled on a 1/3 carat, it's white (D) , and is (internally) flawless. It shines and sparkles... always. Not the biggest, but it looks great! We shopped for the diamond, then looked at settings to mount it in. It was made to order, and didn't cost any more that way.

Consider the 4 C's, Color, Cut, Clarity and Carat weight.
Here is another site explaining that info:
http://www.diasource.com/fourcs.htm Buy from a reputable jeweler.

The whiter it is, and the fewer flaws, the more it will sparkle, and no matter the size, it will always look good.

My mom and her husband were out shopping, and casually stopped into the jeweler, looked around, and he asked her what she liked. She picked out a beautiful 5 diamond ring, not thinking about it. Next thing she knew, he gave her that ring for their anniversary, and she wasn't expecting it. She loved it!

Have fun!!
Title: Re: Question for the ladies
Post by Jonny on Feb 8th, 2006, 9:42pm

on 02/08/06 at 21:26:52, Linda_Howell wrote:
size does not not matter. 


Oh yeah it does and it dont matter if its a ring or a dick.

Guys dont really care about shit, chicks are way far off that.

My adivce:........Get the nicest thing you can afford.....thats it.....The surprize beats the weight!!
Title: Re: Question for the ladies
Post by Linda_Howell on Feb 8th, 2006, 9:46pm


well.  hmm.  Chris has just skewed my counting and results.

And Jonny?   The women here tend to think or at least SAY  differently.   But I agree with you


Quote:
:........Get the nicest thing you can afford.....thats it.....The surprize beats the weight!!




;;D  Linda
Title: Re: Question for the ladies
Post by marlinsfan on Feb 9th, 2006, 8:38am
Thanks everybody for the great ideas and opinions. We are having two couples over on Saturday night for drinks and dinner, and the women are two of my wife's closest friends. I'm going to think about how I get them to bring the subject up on Saturday and see what my wife thinks.

Although I think bringing her to the store is a great idea, I am leaning on just picking it myself.

Will let you all know! I'll need advice on how/when to give it to her!

I'm taking that day off from work, and we're going to go have a nice meal. I can either give it to her at the restaurant, or as soon as we wake up......

Decisions, decisions! I'm glad I'm off the Dopeymax!!
Title: Re: Question for the ladies
Post by Sandy_C on Feb 9th, 2006, 5:35pm
If you've got a good marriage, where everyhing that is important is shared, she knows how much money can be spent on gifts.  On my 35th anniversary, My hubby gave me a three stone "diamond" ring, along with tickets for a cruise.  The diamonds weren't real, but it did not matter, they looked real and I loved wearing it. It popped on my finger and made me feel Oh so rich.

On our 36th anniversary, he gave me a ring that had three very small diamonds in it.  They were small, but they're real.  Guess which ring I'm wearing.

Old adage (or saying), size does not matter.  Quality does.

Sandy
Title: Re: Question for the ladies
Post by Jenny G on Feb 9th, 2006, 9:15pm
It depends on the type of lady she is.

Does she prefer designer bags and still have clothes hanging with tags still on them? Does she do research before you buy a car, or other large purchase?

If she's high maintenance go for size.  
If she's one of those people who prefers the best for the buck, go for quality.

A smaller clean sparkly diamond looks better in my opinion than a giant cloudy diamond that looks dirty all the time.


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