What would you do?

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queennadine

loVe
O.G.
Dec 10, 2008
6,323
3,773
DH and I went to a jewelry store yesterday to see if there was anything that caught my eye for my birthday coming up.

To make a long story short, we bought a friend's engagement rring last year when she broke off her engagement. We did it to help her out and kind of as an investment for us as well. I had been toying with the idea of having it re-set, but I don't wear it all of the time since I still have my original e-ring as well.

The jewelry store yesterday told me they would give us $3,500 for it to use as a trade-in value, which is 1 and a half times what we gave my friend.

Since I'm not attached to the stone I'm seriously considering it. But what should I get with it?

I like classic diamond jewelry, nothing over the top or costume-y.

I have my original e-ring along with an eterniy band and a second stacking band. I have a diamond pendant, small diamond bezel studs, and a vintage Omega for daily wear.

Here is what I'm thinking:
1. Larger diamond studs: I love my baby bezels, but of course getting a larger pair would be nice. But I might feel self conscious wearing larger studs. Or maybe diamond hoops? But I'm not much of a hoop-wearer.

2. Diamond bracelet: either bangle or tennis bracelet. I don't have a nice bracelet, but I'm worried I would lose it or break it.

3. Pre-owned Rolex: maybe a ladies or midsize. I would love a Rolex but am starting law school soon and I don't know if I'll look too pretentious?

4. Larger diamond: maybe getting a larger OEC or something along those lines.

Any other suggestions?
 
I'd go for a tennis bracelet (more comfy than a bangle.) It's a classic staple that you can wear with jeans or an evening gown. I have one that I wear all the time. DOn't worry about losing it! These things are meant to be used and enjoyed if you love them - besides, that's what insurance is for!! :)
 
What size are your current diamond studs? I would go for larger ones, maybe in a prong setting for special occasions? (I am not the prong lady, I tear around so much, would ruin any prong setting in no time),
 
You've basically shot down every single one of your suggestions!!!

My advice would be to get something you'll wear and love.

A 3-4.5 total carat tennis bracelet for example would be classic and elegant and something you could wear everyday. Have them make a safety chain clasp or one that locks in place and you'll never have to worry about losing it.

I've never like big diamond studs......I feel that smaller, daintier ones make an even bigger statement IMHO

Good luck! Have the fun is the dilemma! ;)
 
My opinion would be to keep your friend's engagement ring. If the store offered you $3,500.00, it's probably worth a lot more. Could you hold on to it for a few more years? Diamonds always go up in value.
 
I'd go with larger diamond studs. They are something that can be worn literally every day, with anything at all. And they are timeless and never trendy. IMO, they are a great investment.
 
DH and I went to a jewelry store yesterday to see if there was anything that caught my eye for my birthday coming up.

To make a long story short, we bought a friend's engagement rring last year when she broke off her engagement. We did it to help her out and kind of as an investment for us as well. I had been toying with the idea of having it re-set, but I don't wear it all of the time since I still have my original e-ring as well.

The jewelry store yesterday told me they would give us $3,500 for it to use as a trade-in value, which is 1 and a half times what we gave my friend.

Since I'm not attached to the stone I'm seriously considering it. But what should I get with it?

I like classic diamond jewelry, nothing over the top or costume-y.

I have my original e-ring along with an eterniy band and a second stacking band. I have a diamond pendant, small diamond bezel studs, and a vintage Omega for daily wear.

Here is what I'm thinking:
1. Larger diamond studs: I love my baby bezels, but of course getting a larger pair would be nice. But I might feel self conscious wearing larger studs. Or maybe diamond hoops? But I'm not much of a hoop-wearer.

2. Diamond bracelet: either bangle or tennis bracelet. I don't have a nice bracelet, but I'm worried I would lose it or break it.

3. Pre-owned Rolex: maybe a ladies or midsize. I would love a Rolex but am starting law school soon and I don't know if I'll look too pretentious?

4. Larger diamond: maybe getting a larger OEC or something along those lines.

Any other suggestions?

I'm going into my third year of law school and I wear my Rolex but I don't think I look pretentious. One girl in my con law class was recently married to her doctor hubby and she wore her 5 carat e-ring every day to school! :nuts: Honestly, I find most people don't even notice my watch.
 
I think when you find the right piece you'll know it. I personally wouldn't keep a friend's diamond though, i would just feel weird if i re-set it and was like look this was yours. But i'm weird like that.
 
I'd take the pre-owned rolex then the diamond bracelet comes in second.

I think the rolex would be more subtle than a diamond bracelet if you are worried about drawing too much attention in your classes. It's a great everyday piece!
 
You've basically shot down every single one of your suggestions!!!

My advice would be to get something you'll wear and love.

A 3-4.5 total carat tennis bracelet for example would be classic and elegant and something you could wear everyday. Have them make a safety chain clasp or one that locks in place and you'll never have to worry about losing it.

I've never like big diamond studs......I feel that smaller, daintier ones make an even bigger statement IMHO

Good luck! Have the fun is the dilemma! ;)

ITA! I love my tennis bracelet. I tell some people it's fake just so they could get off my case sometimes. You should probably get one before prices skyrocket.

But at the end of the day, get the piece you love and enjoy wearing. It shouldn't matter what others think.
 
What does your heart say?

Personally, since you already have other diamond pieces, but no matching bracelet, I'd go for the bracelet. However, a Rolex watch is timeless (not literally, one hopes! LOL), but I'm not into watches myself, so I'd naturally lean toward the bracelet.

Someone mentioned that, since your jeweler is willing to give you that amount, you may be able to get more (in cash) elsewhere. Perhaps you could try that, then return to your jeweler to buy something.
 
I wear my watch daily but diamond bracelet for occasions. So it's really up to you and what you wear most or what attracts you most, earring, pendant or ring?
 
What about a diamond pendant, like the diamond-by-the-yard style? I have seen some that are more of a slide style, so that you can put them on a slightly thicker chain if you're worried about the security of the thinner chains.
 
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