help me with buying a diamond ring - possibly mail order.

[DiamondLils]

Bit of background....married for 35 years, had a small engagement ring (no cash) and now we are in a position to buy me a big diamond!
I'm thinking of up to around £5K.

I don't know where to go. Locally we have a good jewellers (independent) but I think they are quite expensive and tend to have only very traditional designs.

I am not sure what style I want. I'm toying between a classic solitaire with maybe 4 claws, a rubover solitaire, or an emerald cut solitaire.

I also quite visualise the carat size / style on my very small hands. I'd be hoping to go to around a 0.8 or even 1 carat.

I bought a new eternity ring from Samara James a while back and thought they were good, but am wary of buying online when I can't actually see the diamond, how it looks on my hand etc. The eternity ring came as a mock up in silver, with no stones.

I know there is also Blue Nile where you can build your own ring.

Any advice? I wondered about trying styles in local jewellers to get an idea and then ordering online.

I can get to London but find the choice at Hatton Garden a bit overwhelming and not sure if good value.

As someone who bought their engagement ring online, I'd say definitely go into a jeweller. When you're spending 5k you absolutely should discuss it with the jeweller and try on some different options. Mine didn't look quite how I wanted/expected and I still feel slightly disappointed about it.

I don't have any recommendations I'm afraid but will watch with interest!

The jewellery quarter in Birmingham is very good

I would steer clear of buying diamonds online especially with your budget.
Second finding a local jeweller and seeing if they have a design service, most do. Get your own ring made to your taste - doable within your amount to spend.

Second what @Nanasueathome said

Thanks all.

I think I will go to Harriet Kelshall which is very close to where I live. I've been once before for a browse. Their bespoke rings are very £££ but they also do off the peg so it's a starting point to have a browse.

You need to see how different ring settings sit on your finger/hand and you simply cannot double guess that when looking online.
All the best, enjoy your diamond shopping !