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Not Engaged Yet

Natural v. Lab Created Diamonds

My boyfriend and I have been talking about our future and all that good stuff :P and he hinted that I should start thinking about what kind of rings I like.

My dream ring would be a 6 prong round cut from tiffany's, but there's no way we would be able to afford that.

I've heard people talk about lab created diamonds being a lot cheaper and still look like the real thing. I'm apprehensive about this. An engagement ring is an investment for the rest of your life!

Do any of you know somebody with a lab created diamond or have you heard anything about them? Any help would be great!

Thanks!
Amanda

Re: Natural v. Lab Created Diamonds

  • edited December 2011
    I'm no scientist, but when this has been brought up before, science-minded Knotties have pointed out that "lab created diamonds" are essentially cubic zirconia.

    If you're okay with having a cubic zirconia ring, then great!  If you want a diamond, perhaps get a setting similar to the one you like at Tiffany's (for a fraction of the designer price) and buy a diamond that isn't perfect - you can sacrifice on either clarity or cut or color (or a little bit on each) and it most likely won't be noticable as long as it isn't too extreme.  That way you'll get a much more affordable diamond that no one will be able to tell the difference unless they're a professional appraiser with the correct equipment.
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  • edited December 2011
    Why the heck do people care about WHERE their ring comes from.  Why is it that you want a Tiffany's ring?  Tell me that.
  • katanne9katanne9 member
    2500 Comments
    edited December 2011
    Haha, I'm sorry. I think it's hilarious that you are going from Tiffany's to a lab-created diamond - there is QUITE a bit inbetween the two.

    I would recommend BlueNile.com.

    Just because you don't get a Tiffany's diamond doesn't mean you can't get a real stone. There are plenty of diamond rings out there that are affordable.


    That being said, if you WANT a lab-created diamond - that's okay too. Just don't think you have to get one because you can't get a Tiffany's ring.

    (Tiffany's is totally overrated.)
  • happyalc90happyalc90 member
    First Comment
    edited December 2011
    I don't need a Tiffany's ring by any means, I just like how their setting places the diamond above the band. I just want a simple, classic solitaire.
  • edited December 2011
    Do some ring shopping - if comfortable, go together with BF to try stuff on.  Stay away from stores outside your budget like Tiffany's - check out any family jewelers or similar places.  I bet if you want a standard setting, similar to Tiffany's, it wouldn't be hard to find one or even have one custom made for a LOT less than you'd find in a Tiffany's store.
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  • katanne9katanne9 member
    2500 Comments
    edited December 2011
    The 6 prong solitaire setting is VERY common and not native to Tiffany's. When you are ready there are many options - I think you'd be hard pressed to find a jewelry store that DIDN'T offer this classic design.


    http://www.bluenile.com/diamond-engagement-ring-platinum_6719


  • edited December 2011
    In Response to <a href="http://forums.theknot.com/Sites/theknot/Pages/Main.aspx/special-topic-wedding-boards_not-engaged-yet_natural-v-lab-created-diamonds?plckFindPostKey=Cat:Special%20Topic%20Wedding%20BoardsForum:136Discussion:a12aafe6-576f-48ce-85d7-229dfcb160b8Post:14db6f30-4403-418d-86db-4e7fcd2161b3">Re: Natural v. Lab Created Diamonds</a>:
    [QUOTE] <strong>(Tiffany's is totally overrated.)</strong>
    Posted by katanne9[/QUOTE]


    ^THIS X's a million!

    Do some research.  You can get "tiffany" style rings from lots of chain and independent jewelers if its the look that you like.  Also as PP's said there are very affordable real diamonds on the market especially if your willing to get a diamond that has a little lower clarity, etc.  Research, research, research.

    If you are looking to spend less than a real diamond also think about Moissanite maybe?  Its a real stone not simulated and its very very durable and sparkles brighter than a diamond.
    Wedding Countdown Ticker
  • chirpchirpchirpchirp member
    500 Comments
    edited December 2011
    In Response to <a href="http://forums.theknot.com/Sites/theknot/Pages/Main.aspx/special-topic-wedding-boards_not-engaged-yet_natural-v-lab-created-diamonds?plckFindPostKey=Cat:Special Topic Wedding BoardsForum:136Discussion:a12aafe6-576f-48ce-85d7-229dfcb160b8Post:41662bde-be56-4e80-b017-b4252ddfb99e">Natural v. Lab Created Diamonds</a>:
    [QUOTE]My boyfriend and I have been talking about our future and all that good stuff :P and he hinted that I should start thinking about what kind of rings I like. My dream ring would be a 6 prong round cut from tiffany's, but there's no way we would be able to afford that. I've heard people talk about lab created diamonds being a lot cheaper and still look like the real thing. I'm apprehensive about this. <strong>An engagement ring is an investment for the rest of your life</strong>! Do any of you know somebody with a lab created diamond or have you heard anything about them? Any help would be great! Thanks! Amanda
    Posted by happyalc90[/QUOTE]

    A diamond is actually a pretty poor investment.  In my opinion.  But then again, my boyfriend told me that he needs to wait to propose because engagement rings cost 20K.  I really want to know what he's smoking.
  • KatyRoseMKatyRoseM member
    1000 Comments Third Anniversary
    edited December 2011
    Wait, how are lab diamonds the same as CZ?  Aren't lab diamonds physically diamonds while CZ's are not?  Just asking.
    image
  • edited December 2011
    There are a LOT of solitares with the stone above the band.  Infact, I had to search pretty hard for one that did NOT stick up off the band (just my preference).  We are working with a family owned small business and the service is excellent, plus they can usually make you anything you want.  I found a really unusual Ritani setting and took it to them for some tweaks and have a gorgeous design.  Just waiting on my BF to make his special tweaks and ask.  I'm excited about the future, but I am in no hurry to get there.
    Love isn't how you feel. It's what you do. --Madeleine L'Engle in "A Wind in the Door"
  • edited December 2011

    I don't really have an opinion on the nature vs lab debate; I just wanted to back you up on the Tiffany front. .. that's my dream ring too.

    There is added value if you admire the iconic style of Tiffany. That ring can make a statement about who you are, it will say something about you, and it’s obvious you have dreamed of that ring. Pair that with stricter standards, ethical sourcing, and a life-time warranty, and the gap begins to close a bit ... it’s up to you if all those add-ons are worth the price.

     

    I was a bridesmaid in two weddings this year and both couples had issues with their family-store jewelers (crooked settings, bad sizing, ect) and it caused them so much stress that both girls kinda resent their rings. I know it doesn’t happen often, but I can’t see it happening at all with a name like Tiffany. I also just looked at the web site and noticed that they have financing options available also.  

    I think while planning a wedding you will always have to stay focused on what really matters to you. If the ring really matters, then try to make it happen. If it’s not so important, you don't want to sacrifice it for say your dream dress or dream honeymoon, than absolutely look into other diamonds. I think the best place to go for answers regarding lab diamonds is a jeweler.

     

    Good luck!

  • katanne9katanne9 member
    2500 Comments
    edited December 2011
    In Response to <a href="http://forums.theknot.com/Sites/theknot/Pages/Main.aspx/special-topic-wedding-boards_not-engaged-yet_natural-v-lab-created-diamonds?plckFindPostKey=Cat:Special%20Topic%20Wedding%20BoardsForum:136Discussion:a12aafe6-576f-48ce-85d7-229dfcb160b8Post:a9359c16-0bd1-4d67-9046-98069db8a0bf">Re: Natural v. Lab Created Diamonds</a>:
    [QUOTE]I don't really have an opinion on the nature vs lab debate; I just wanted to back you up on the Tiffany front. .. that's my dream ring too.<strong> There is added value if you admire the iconic style of Tiffany. </strong><font color="#ff0000"><strong>This is not true. My stone is the highest quality in Cs. It is flawless cut and color, but if you boughy my ring at Tiffany's my FI would have spent 4x as much</strong>. <strong>Tiffany's is about a brand name. Period.</strong> <strong>They do NOT own the market on well-made rings and good diamonds</strong>. </font>That ring can make a statement about who you are, it will say something about you, and it’s obvious you have dreamed of that ring. Pair that with stricter standards, ethical sourcing, and a life-time warranty, and the gap begins to close a bit ... it’s up to you if all those add-ons are worth the price.   I was a bridesmaid in two weddings this year and both couples had issues with their family-store jewelers (<strong>crooked settings, bad sizing, e</strong>ct) <strong><font color="#ff0000">Well these people clearly just were awful - but it is NOT a generic representation of family jewelers. </font></strong>and it caused them so much stress that both girls kinda resent their rings. I know it doesn’t happen often, but I can’t see it happening at all with a name like Tiffany.<strong> I also just looked at the web site and noticed that they have financing options available also.  </strong><font color="#ff0000"><strong>If you can't afford the ring - DON'T BUY IT. Don't go into debt for a ring. That's just silly.</strong></font> I think while planning a wedding you will always have to stay focused on what really matters to you. If the ring really matters, then try to make it happen. If it’s not so important, you don't want to sacrifice it for say your dream dress or dream honeymoon, than absolutely look into other diamonds. I think the best place to go for answers regarding lab diamonds is a jeweler.   Good luck!
    Posted by evemarie_rodrigues[/QUOTE]
  • Ana_2985Ana_2985 member
    1000 Comments
    edited December 2011
    In Response to <a href="http://forums.theknot.com/Sites/theknot/Pages/Main.aspx/special-topic-wedding-boards_not-engaged-yet_natural-v-lab-created-diamonds?plckFindPostKey=Cat:Special%20Topic%20Wedding%20BoardsForum:136Discussion:a12aafe6-576f-48ce-85d7-229dfcb160b8Post:a9359c16-0bd1-4d67-9046-98069db8a0bf">Re: Natural v. Lab Created Diamonds</a>:
    [QUOTE]There is added <strong>value</strong> if you admire the iconic style of Tiffany. That ring can make a statement about who you are, it will say something about you, and it’s obvious you have dreamed of that ring. <strong>Pair that with stricter standards, ethical sourcing, and a life-time warranty</strong>, and the gap begins to close a bit ... it’s up to you if all those add-ons are worth the price. 
    Posted by evemarie_rodrigues[/QUOTE]

    Financial value or emotional value?

    What statement does a ring from Tiffany and Co. make?  What does it say about YOU?  I know what it tells me...

    You can get all of those things without having a price gap to begin with.
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  • edited December 2011
    In Response to <a href="http://forums.theknot.com/Sites/theknot/Pages/Main.aspx/special-topic-wedding-boards_not-engaged-yet_natural-v-lab-created-diamonds?plckFindPostKey=Cat:Special%20Topic%20Wedding%20BoardsForum:136Discussion:a12aafe6-576f-48ce-85d7-229dfcb160b8Post:a9359c16-0bd1-4d67-9046-98069db8a0bf">Re: Natural v. Lab Created Diamonds</a>:
    [QUOTE]I don't really have an opinion on the nature vs lab debate; I just wanted to back you up on the Tiffany front. .. that's my dream ring too. There is added value if you admire the iconic style of Tiffany. <strong>That ring can make a statement about who you are, it will say something about you,</strong> and it’s obvious you have dreamed of that ring. Pair that with stricter standards, ethical sourcing, and a life-time warranty, and the gap begins to close a bit ... it’s up to you if all those add-ons are worth the price.   I was a bridesmaid in two weddings this year and both couples had issues with their family-store jewelers (crooked settings, bad sizing, ect) and it caused them so much stress that both girls kinda resent their rings. I know it doesn’t happen often, but<strong> I can’t see it happening at all with a name like Tiffany.</strong> I also just looked at the web site and noticed that they have financing options available also.   I think while planning a wedding you will always have to stay focused on what really matters to you. If the ring really matters, then try to make it happen. If it’s not so important, you don't want to sacrifice it for say your dream dress or dream honeymoon, than absolutely look into other diamonds. I think the best place to go for answers regarding lab diamonds is a jeweler.   Good luck!
    Posted by evemarie_rodrigues[/QUOTE]

    Most of us here are of the belief that a ring doesn't define you, and that a designer name doesn't guarantee value.  Are Coach purses well made?  Sure!  Are they likely to last longer than my $20 purse?  Probably... but I could buy a whole bunch of $20 purses before I'd come close to the cost of a Coach purse, so to me, I don't see the value.  Those dozens of purses would ultimately last longer than one Coach purse.  So the extra cost is in simply having a designer label, not in the added quality.  I find that true of most name brands - if something is a good value or can show me why it's more expensive, great.  If it's just expensive because it has a flashy name, I'm not impressed.

    If you personally like the name brand, and it's not a sacrifice for you and your BF/FI to pay for it, then no judgements from me.  I definitely don't think it guarantees you better service - Tiffany doesn't need your business, but that little Mom & Pop shop will likely value you much more.
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  • edited December 2011
    In Response to <a href="http://forums.theknot.com/Sites/theknot/Pages/Main.aspx/special-topic-wedding-boards_not-engaged-yet_natural-v-lab-created-diamonds?plckFindPostKey=Cat:Special%20Topic%20Wedding%20BoardsForum:136Discussion:a12aafe6-576f-48ce-85d7-229dfcb160b8Post:a9359c16-0bd1-4d67-9046-98069db8a0bf">Re: Natural v. Lab Created Diamonds</a>:
    [QUOTE]I don't really have an opinion on the nature vs lab debate; I just wanted to back you up on the Tiffany front. .. that's my dream ring too. There is added value if you admire the iconic style of Tiffany. <strong>That ring can make a statement about who you are, it will say something about you,</strong> and it’s obvious you have dreamed of that ring. Pair that with stricter standards, ethical sourcing, and a life-time warranty, and the gap begins to close a bit ... it’s up to you if all those add-ons are worth the price.   I was a bridesmaid in two weddings this year and both couples had issues with their family-store jewelers (crooked settings, bad sizing, ect) and it caused them so much stress that both girls kinda resent their rings. I know it doesn’t happen often, but I can’t see it happening at all with a name like Tiffany. I also just looked at the web site and noticed that they have financing options available also.   I think while planning a wedding you will always have to stay focused on what really matters to you. If the ring really matters, then try to make it happen. If it’s not so important, you don't want to sacrifice it for say your dream dress or dream honeymoon, than absolutely look into other diamonds. I think the best place to go for answers regarding lab diamonds is a jeweler.   Good luck!
    Posted by evemarie_rodrigues[/QUOTE]

    You are correct that ring will say something about you...  I have a feeling what you think it says about the person wearing it is different than what I think though.


    Personally if you can't afford a ring you shouldn't be looking into financing it and lots big jewelry stores even Tiffany's (gasp) have problems with their jewelry... I even know a woman who had multiple issues with a ring from there.   They did fix them for her free of charge (but any reputable jeweler will do that as well.

    Anywho, if you can actually afford Tiffany and you love it that's your business.  If Tiffany is too expensive for your budget then consider a reputable jeweler that has a "tiffany style" band and your in business.
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  • leia1979leia1979 member
    2500 Comments Fifth Anniversary 100 Love Its Name Dropper
    edited December 2011
    There are lab created diamonds that are actually carbon, not cubic zirconia. I believe Apollo and Gemesis are two companies that create these, but they're not cheap. Other man-made diamond-like gems include moissanite and cubic zirconia. I think moissanite is a decent diamond alternative if you want a clear stone. It's durable and far less expensive than a diamond. There are lots of places to read up on these choices online.

    I'd also like to say that people calling an engagement ring an investment is starting to become a pet peeve of mine. Do you expect to sell your engagement ring at some point in the future for more than was paid for it? If yes, then great, it's an investment, but somehow I think 99% of the people I read that statement from don't intend to sell their rings for profit.
  • katanne9katanne9 member
    2500 Comments
    edited December 2011
    In Response to <a href="http://forums.theknot.com/Sites/theknot/Pages/Main.aspx/special-topic-wedding-boards_not-engaged-yet_natural-v-lab-created-diamonds?plckFindPostKey=Cat:Special%20Topic%20Wedding%20BoardsForum:136Discussion:a12aafe6-576f-48ce-85d7-229dfcb160b8Post:896b5333-aa6f-4f5a-bf70-dbb0cf1d3ca8">Re: Natural v. Lab Created Diamonds</a>:
    [QUOTE]I'd also like to say that people calling an engagement ring an investment is starting to become a pet peeve of mine. Do you expect to sell your engagement ring at some point in the future for more than was paid for it? If yes, then great, it's an investment, but somehow I think 99% of the people I read that statement from don't intend to sell their rings for profit.
    Posted by leia1979[/QUOTE]

    Ditto this.


    The only "investment" my FI made in my ring was that it's something we hope to pass on in our family for generations to come.
  • edited December 2011
    OP, your post seems to have been jacked by the girl with expensive taste.  I think you and your BF need to go try on rings together, if you're both up for that.  You'll probably find a style and setting you love, as you seem to like the Tiffany's style but want to make sure your BF doesn't break the bank.  Good plan!  Going into debt over a ring is really not the most financially sound decision to make when there are plenty of beautiful rings that are affordable for any budget.

    And if someone asked me straight up if my ring was from a certain designer, I'd tell them we found it on the floor in the gym locker room and decided to keep it.  Or in a garbage can.  All most people will think if you have a Tiffany's ring is that you probably paid a lot for it.  Whether they'll be impressed or think you overpaid, that depends on who you hang out with.


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  • edited December 2011
    An engagement ring from tiffanys is only a statement if you think people will actually know, or for that matter care. Personally, and I cannot speak for everyone, but I have never/would never ask someone where their ring came from, 1. because it's not appropriate and 2. because I couldn't care less. Unless you walk around telling everyone most people will not know and if you do walk around telling everyone I think you have bigger issues.
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  • edited December 2011
    In Response to <a href="http://forums.theknot.com/Sites/theknot/Pages/Main.aspx/special-topic-wedding-boards_not-engaged-yet_natural-v-lab-created-diamonds?plckFindPostKey=Cat:Special%20Topic%20Wedding%20BoardsForum:136Discussion:a12aafe6-576f-48ce-85d7-229dfcb160b8Post:a9359c16-0bd1-4d67-9046-98069db8a0bf">Re: Natural v. Lab Created Diamonds</a>:
    [QUOTE]I don't really have an opinion on the nature vs lab debate; I just wanted to back you up on the Tiffany front. .. that's my dream ring too. There is added value if you admire <strong>the iconic style of Tiffany</strong>. <strong>That ring can make a statement about who you are, it will say something about you, and it’s obvious you have dreamed of that ring.</strong> Pair that with stricter standards, ethical sourcing, and a life-time warranty, and the gap begins to close a bit ... it’s up to you if all those add-ons are worth the price.   I was a bridesmaid in two weddings this year and both couples had issues with their family-store jewelers (crooked settings, bad sizing, ect) and it caused them so much stress that both girls kinda resent their rings. I know it doesn’t happen often, <strong>but I can’t see it happening at all with a name like Tiffany.</strong> I also just looked at the web site and noticed that they have financing options available also.   I think while planning a wedding you will always have to stay focused on what really matters to you. If the ring really matters, then try to make it happen. If it’s not so important, you don't want to sacrifice it for say your dream dress or dream honeymoon, than absolutely look into other diamonds. I think the best place to go for answers regarding lab diamonds is a jeweler.   Good luck!
    Posted by evemarie_rodrigues[/QUOTE]

    The only thing iconic about Tiffany's is the robin's egg blue box. Now, do you plan on wearing the box around your finger, or a diamond? I'm very curious as to what "statement" a Tiffany's ring can say about you. In my experience, when someone is engaged and shows their ring, most people say, "How wonderful! Congratulations!" Never once did I know of a person saying, "Where did he get the ring from?" or "Well, that ring is OBVIOUSLY from Tiffany's."

    Maybe it's just me, but I always dreamed of a wonderful man that I wanted to spend my life with, not a ring he will give me.

    And of course, a name brand store NEVER had anything wrong with their products. Ever.
  • edited December 2011
    If I got a Tiffany ring, I'd probably just glue the box to my forehead.
    Anniversary
  • frenchy730frenchy730 member
    500 Comments
    edited December 2011
    Pretty much every jewelry store has a simple solitaire setting where the diamond sits above the band.  Not many people who look at a ring will instantly know it is a "tiffany" unless you tell them.  Just go look around at stores... I'm sure you'll find something affordable and classic.
  • PandaBurrPandaBurr member
    1000 Comments Combo Breaker
    edited December 2011
    In Response to <a href="http://forums.theknot.com/Sites/theknot/Pages/Main.aspx/special-topic-wedding-boards_not-engaged-yet_natural-v-lab-created-diamonds?plckFindPostKey=Cat:Special%20Topic%20Wedding%20BoardsForum:136Discussion:a12aafe6-576f-48ce-85d7-229dfcb160b8Post:896b5333-aa6f-4f5a-bf70-dbb0cf1d3ca8">Re: Natural v. Lab Created Diamonds</a>:
    [QUOTE]There are lab created diamonds that are actually carbon, not cubic zirconia. I believe Apollo and Gemesis are two companies that create these, but they're not cheap. Other man-made diamond-like gems include moissanite and cubic zirconia. I think moissanite is a decent diamond alternative if you want a clear stone. It's durable and far less expensive than a diamond. There are lots of places to read up on these choices online. I'd also like to say that people calling an engagement ring an investment is starting to become a pet peeve of mine. Do you expect to sell your engagement ring at some point in the future for more than was paid for it? If yes, then great, it's an investment, but somehow I think 99% of the people I read that statement from don't intend to sell their rings for profit.
    Posted by leia1979[/QUOTE]

    Thank you for saving me the time. :) There's also Takara and D.nea, I believe. However, I think Takara doesn't actually do the growing process, but they're the ones that sell it. I may be wrong though. Also, the biggest thing that people need to know when looking at these options is that synthetic and simulant are NOT synonyms. If you get that cleared in your mind, then it'll make shopping a lot easier, and you'll be less likely to buy an overpriced CZ.

    Also, Narwhal, you should just cut a hole out of the box, so you can stick your finger in it, so when you open the box there's the ring!
  • edited December 2011
    Brilliant!
    Anniversary
  • bajedivabajediva member
    500 Comments
    edited December 2011
    In Response to <a href="http://forums.theknot.com/Sites/theknot/Pages/Main.aspx/special-topic-wedding-boards_not-engaged-yet_natural-v-lab-created-diamonds?plckFindPostKey=Cat:Special%20Topic%20Wedding%20BoardsForum:136Discussion:a12aafe6-576f-48ce-85d7-229dfcb160b8Post:6a2e46fc-1bac-4497-9722-9b851a076e20">Re: Natural v. Lab Created Diamonds</a>:
    [QUOTE] Also, Narwhal, you should just cut a hole out of the box, so you can stick your finger in it, so when you open the box there's the ring!
    Posted by PandaBurr[/QUOTE]

    Hmm...you make a good point. But I dunno, I feel like the forehead will more instantly convey my awesomeness. I might have to lift my hand first if the box is on my finger, but no one could miss who I am if it's on my forehead.
  • edited December 2011
    The setting you're referring to is called a Tiffany Mounting. Every jewelery store I have ever walked into has this type of mounting. Tiffany may have made it popular, but they do not have a monopoly on the style. Nor do they have a monopoly on offering a lifetime warranty. Most (if not all) jewelers offer this, or something very similar.

    As far as the diamond itself is concerned, it is very possible that Tiffany's purchases their diamonds from the exact same retailer as Kay's & possibly even Wal-Mart.

    I used to work in a jewelry store and the first thing I told every person shopping for rings is to find something that you love to look at, and definitely don't break the bank. It doesn't matter where it came from, what other people think or what the GIA/AGS certificate says (if it has one). Because afterall, you will hopefully be wearing the ring on your finger, not the receipt, box or grading certificate.

    HTH Laughing 
  • edited December 2011
    Check out moissanite. It's not technically a diamond, but looks close enough to it. Prices are reasonable and the gem is harder than a CZ so it doesn't chip. It doesn't get cloudy like a CZ either. They sell them at helzberg, but I got mine at moissaniteco.com and the stone is much whiter than any stone I saw at a huge chain store. Good luck! 
  • edited December 2011
    It's hard to explain, but Tiffany solitaires do look a bit different.  They are pretty low and the prongs are shaped differently.  I have a Tiffany replica by Whiteflash.  Excel Diamonds also makes a setting that is similar to Tiffany's.  BTW, a .5 carat Tiffany solitaire runs $5,000 or more.  My ring was WAY less than that and it's a 3/4 carat.  Pictures in my bio.

    You can also get a moissanite in an amazing setting.  Although it's not quite a Tiffany, Mark Morrell makes awesome settings and he'll set a moissanite.  

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