A: Hi C. Thank you for the very kind words about the site! I really appreciate it. And I’m very happy I was able to help you reverse your uninformed decision.

That’s a beautiful ring you chose. I think we’ll be able to find you a great stone to match that will save you a lot of money compared to the BN stone you bought, and will look even better/bigger.

Here’s what I found for you:

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-SI2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1288633.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357 – Triple Excellent. Eye clean. The yellowness you see in the picture is completely an artifact of the photograph. I’ve seen D color stones on JA sometimes look like this.

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-SI2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1311097.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357 – triple excellent. Eye clean. This stone is a killer. Just look at the picture.

If you want something at the lower end of your range, you could try this:

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-SI2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1308162.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357

Have a look at these and let me know what you think!

Q: Thanks Ira for your quick reply.

I do like the middle stone (1.52 Carat I-SI2 Ideal Cut Round Diamond) – looks quite clean on the table. I am slightly concerned about colour “I” as previously I was only looking at F,G and maybe H. Will it still look pure white in the ring with the side stones? JA might put E sidestone etc which might cause this stone to look yellow.

Also, does hearts and arrows make a big difference? I see that JA is selling the truehearts line and I heard H&A diamonds show the maximum fire and sparkle.

Also, whats your opinion of Princess cut with this type of ring?

Thanks again.

A: You shouldn’t be concerned about an I color center stone. I color stones look completely white to the eye when set in a ring face up. And the side stones are not E, they’re G/H average which will match very nicely with that stone.

H&A makes a difference, but it’s very very slight.

I most definitely believe rounds are better than princess cuts. take a look here to see why:

http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/truth-about/diamond-shapes/

Q: Thanks for your reply.

Another question.. do you have an idea what the size of the stone in the 3D video of the ring (http://www.jamesallen.com/engagement-rings/settings-with-sidestones/ring/item_58-162.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357 )

is? I am guessing its bigger than 1ct

Also – whats a good way to get the ring size of my GF without her knowing- I dont want to ask her sister/mum etc yet.. any tricks of the trade? I am assuming if I can guess the ring

size to 0.5 of a size should be ok? e.g. if she is 4.5 and I get size 5.. I assume this should be fine.

A: I’m not sure about the size of the stone in the 3D pic, but you can scroll down in the page of the ring to see pics of recently sold rings with that setting. Each pic will tell you how large the stone is exactly.

Before I forget, make sure to use the TADJ10 coupon code. IT’ll give you 10% off the setting.

As far as the GF finger size question goes, I’m really not sure! But don’t worry, even if you screw up, you can get it resized by JA for free. Maybe try stealing one of her cheaper old rings?

Q: Also, could you recommend some killer 1-1.2ct eye clean stones? I might look at saving some $ on the ring etc

…………

Update.. I have decided to purchase the diamond (http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-SI2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1311097.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357) which you recommended. Looks great – cant wait

to see it in person. JA has confirmed item is eye clean and they will put a prong over the needle to be extra sure.

Thanks for all your help. Should I be interested in another future purchase, I’ll consider your brokering service.

A: GReat!  Please let me know how it turns out!  Did you remember to use the TADJ10 coupon code?  It’s not much – just 10% off the setting only.  But every little bit helps!

Q: Yes thanks – I used it.

A: Fantastic!  I’m looking forward to hearing your report!

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First, great site, I’ve been gleaning information for the past 4 months or so researching diamonds for my upcoming engagement ring purchase. From time to time I look other places but always end up coming back for the quality and truthful insight. I’ve got a budget of $5000 and am looking at going with J.A. because of their return and upgrade policies. I’ve been searching for stones in the 1.10 to 1.30 carat range. I’m looking at this ring and stone in particular:

http://www.jamesallen.com/engagement-rings/solitaire-rings/ring/item_57-1906_design.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/J-SI2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1274572.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357

But was hoping to get a few other suggestions from you. I’ve pretty much been following all of your suggestions on standards for cut, color and clarity and seem to gravitate toward a higher quality polish. My G.F. wants a round brilliant diamond. Thanks for your help in advance.

A: Hey J. Thanks for the kind words about the site. I really appreciate it. I took a look at the stone you referenced, and I’m glad you contacted me, because that stone has a large inclusion in the table of the stone that would most likely be visible to the naked eye. If you look at the picture, it’s on the bottom of the table.

I took another look for you, and this is what i found:

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/J-SI2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1210052.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357

It’s definitely eye clean, and has an excellent cut. It’s only negligibly smaller, as well. Not noticeably smaller.

Let me know what you think!

Q: Great, thanks Ira.  I’m actually pretty surprised that i didn’t notice the glaringly obvious inclusion.  I am very happy that you pointed it out however.  The diamond that you recommended was perfect, not to mention it saved me a few hundred dollars.  It’s been ordered and will hopefully arrive within the next week or so.  Thanks so much for your help, it is greatly appreciated.

A: Fantastic!  Please let me know what you think when it arrives!

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My question concerns potential vendors. I live in Los Angeles where we have a wholesale jewelry district downtown. An acquaintance, who actually picked out her own engagement ring, swears that I would be a fool to not use one of these local vendors. Is she right? (And if so, would you happen to have anyone here that you recommend?)

I love to buy online but I’m still not entirely convinced that buying a diamond online is the wisest option. Especially with the local options reportedly being so great. Ultimately, of course, I just want the best deal. Perhaps better deals will, in fact, be found online? I intend to go in soon to see for myself and have some basis for comparison, but I’d love to know what to expect. Any insight here would be very welcome. And I thank you in advance.

Best – D

PS – I anticipate going for a round cut, 1.25 or so Carat, and trying to get the cleanest, clearest one I can for *hopefully* under $8k. But that’s just an initial direction. I definitely do not intend to spend more than ten grand, and would be thrilled to find something great that’s closer to five! Anyway, thanks again for your help.

A: Hi D. I know the LA scene well. I used to travel there to sell when I was working in NY.

If you had a real connection in one of the better up-stairs wholesalers in 550 Hill St., then go for it. But dont be fooled by shops/booths on the lower floors marking themselves as “wholesale only.” Those guys are looking for people like you.

The problem is that there’s a lot of sharks in LA just looking to screw you. And anyway, even the cheapest guy (unless you’re talking about a real wholesale dealer upstairs) in LA won’t be cheaper than the stones online. The sites online like JamesAllen.com don’t own their inventory. They just list the inventory that belongs to wholesalers and add on a small amount of profit. This lack of investment in an inventory allows them to get by with very small margins – margins that a shop in the jewelry district can’t match because of their expenses related with a bricks and mortar operation.

How’s this:

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-SI2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1301846.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357

It’s a GIA triple excellent ideal cut. Totally eye clean. It’s a real beauty, and a fantastic price. Let me know what you think!

Q: Hey Ira. Thanks for the speedy reply. Gotta love the time difference.

I kinda figured you must have been through LA a time or two. And I’ve heard the same about the downstairs shops – I will definitely go to the one that my friend went to. Upstairs and apparently on the up and up. We’ll see.

I certainly see the issue of physical overhead vs online advantages. I suppose I was just hoping that I might find something “wholesale” that would be just as good as online, possibly even a bit better, carrying the added advantage and reassurance of tactile presence. Then again, how can I be sure I can trust them. LA sharks, indeed. I’m sure that with a little more looking around, my confidence in buying from a distance will rise. To that end, thank you very much for that suggestion.

I agree that it certainly looks nice but I also think that there’s too much color there. I don’t know how much the photos may exaggerate color, if it all, but from what I can see in that pic it’s just too much. And I know that’s something she’ll be sensitive to. Also, I’m thinking at this point that I don’t want to drop below the VS level of clarity. Of course, I say that without having really seen the spectrum in person – still in the theoretical stage. Perhaps judging on the blown up photo is unfair and disadvantageous to myself? I suppose I’m quickly pricing myself upward which is exactly why it’s great to have you around to set me and the rest of us straight.

Thanks again. If you don’t mind I am sure I will have more questions for you. In the meantime, if you run across anything else that seems to fit my bill I would, of course, be grateful for the tip.

A: I’m happy to help more. Just as regards that one stone, you can’t judge color from these pictures. I’ve seen D and E color stones with the same tint. When you go to the dealer downtown, ask him to see an ideal cut GIA I color stone to see for yourself. It’ll only look “less white” when you put it next to a much higher color stone.

Have you read my article on clarity? If not, it’s definitely worth seeing.

Q: Just wanted to drop a line to let you know that I finally found some time to re-read your clarity article and it has indeed changed my frame of mind.  Matter of fact, I’m reviewing your entire site and many of its links to really be sure I know what I’m getting myself into.  So, when I go see some stones in person, which I’ll likely do next week, I will be doubly informed thanks to you.  Of course, questions will abound.  Until then, thanks for your input. I will be in touch again in a couple of weeks at the latest.

A: Sounds good.  I look forward to hearing from you.

Q: Hello Ira,

My apologies for such a delayed response – I was up in Canada for a bit. I’m back home in LA now, and I actually went to a jeweler today! Oscar’s, which was recommended to me, is a shop on an upper floor of 550 S. Hill St. Anyway, Oscar was kind enough to show me a lot of stones and help me see the differences I needed to witness for myself. I found it to be extremely helpful seeing things in person.

The stone which seemed to be in the sweet spot for me was as follows:

1.17 Carat

Brilliant Round (off by only .02mm)

G color

SI2

GIA excellent on cut and symmetry, very good polish, no florescence, no cutlet.

The price I was quoted was $5700. $6485 when set in a four-prong platinum ring. With tax, call it $7000.

My impressions:

The size of that stone was nice. I wouldn’t go any smaller, and I wouldn’t pay heaps more for something only slightly larger. If I could get a stone that was 1.25 or 1.30 that met the rest of the demands then super.

Looking at several stones side by side, color differences were clear. Predictably, viewing them separately changed that. G color seemed to be good for me. The H stones he showed me seemed to have some noticeable color, even on their own in some cases. H could work, but G seemed to be what I really preferred.

Your article on clarity was an immense help and seeing things today really showed your points. SI1 or SI2 should certainly be fine, so long as the inclusions are in fortunate places and not black, of course.

The ratings with which it came definitely made me happy.

So that’s where I am now. I’m going to look around online and see if I can find some comparables. I’d love to hear what you think about the above, and if you know of anything else that I should consider.

A: Nice to hear from you. Here’s a couple options that I think give you a tremendous value. They’re a tiny bit smaller in weight, but the difference in diameter most likely won’t be visible to the naked eye. You didn’t send the dimensions of the Oscar’s stone, so I can’t say for sure.

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/G-SI2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1238124.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/G-SI2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1259387.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/G-SI2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1310948.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357

Couple it with this ring:

http://www.jamesallen.com/engagement-rings/solitaire/solitaire-engagement-ring.html

(using the TADJ10 coupon code gives you 10% off the setting)

and couple that with the fact that you won’t be paying sales tax from JA, and you’ll wind up spending much less than the OScar’s offer.

Let me know what you think!

Q: Thank you, Ira, once again for the recommendations and help. The second link you sent looks like an especially good choice. And I’m very grateful for the sales tax tip. I hadn’t thought of that important fact, and it could save me some cash or, better yet, upgrade the stone a tad.

So I now find myself considering something slightly larger. She doesn’t have tiny hands and I’m willing to spend a little more so perhaps there’s room for a bigger stone… While I do prefer a platinum ring and I realize that will increase the cost by several hundred dollars, I am getting to be more comfortable with the subject of clarity and even the possibility of an H with medium florescence. Maybe.

Do you have your eye on anything in the 1.25 carat range that I should look at? (Keeping total price below $8k.)

Thank you!

p.s. Am I falsely convincing myself that a .15 carat size difference even matters (is visible)??

A: The difference in 0.15cts will add an additional (approximately) 0.3mm which is definitely noticeable. It’s not a huge difference, but it’s definitely a difference you can see an appreciate.

What you ARE falsely convincing yourself of, though, is that an H will look materially different from a G. Diamond color grades are so fine that two adjacent color grades (especially in an ideal cut round viewed face up) look identical. So there’s no reason to be so hesitant to drop to an H. Also, you’re under the false impression that medium fluorescence will make a serious difference on an H. It won’t. If it’s noticeable at all, it would only be viewed from the side on a color card. It wouldn’t make a noticeable difference viewed face up.

The fact is, dropping from G to H is the smartest thing you could ever do. The most expensive jump between any two colors is between H and G. There’s no logic to it – it’s not like going from H to G is more noticeable than going from I to H or F to E. So that being the case, it’s simply an inefficient use of money to stick with a G when you can get an identically looking H for significantly less.

Let me know what you think and I’ll send you some recommendations.

Q: I think I just worry about the comparison moment, when her ring is held next to her girlfriends’ rings. But I worry sometimes, and it’s usually, if not always, fruitless.

What do you think about this one?

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-SI2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1310674.asp?a_aid=dmnd1375

A: I understand your concern, but the fact is that an H held next to a G will look exactly the same.

As for that stone you suggested – BUY IT! You will not find a nicer SI2 if you looked for another 4 months. And the cut is near perfection. It’s very new on their site, and I would venture to guess it won’t last long.

Q: Well, sir, I’ve done it. Should be here in a week.  I will let you know how it looks when it arrives.

In the meantime, I’d like to say thank you.  I used your coupon code but I know you have saved me FAR more than $80.  Your website, and the service that you provide to complete strangers, is quite special.  It’s wonderful to find a friend out there in the maze.  Thank you!

A: great news!  Please let me know how it looks when it arrives!

Q: I received the ring last week and will be taking it for appraisal in two days. I’m very excited and I think it looks really good. Certainly eye clean. Still waiting for a chance to really check it out in good lighting. I think it will be great.

I will follow up with you after the appraisal.

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A: Thanks for writing.  One question before I send you suggestions – why such high clarity?  Have you seen my article on diamond clarity?

Q: Mainly because of the possibility of the inclusion being visible to the naked eye.  I know the VS2 inclusions are rarely seen buy I plan to buy on Bluenile.com and won’t be able to preview the stone before I buy it.

A: Why not buy from James Allen, where you can view a magnified pic of the stone?  Then you could lower your clarity to a VS2 or SI1 or maybe even an SI2 if you get lucky with a nice one, and save the money or use it towards a larger stone.

Q: I haven’t looked into them much.  I will compare them and Bluenile before purchasing.  Thanks!

A: No problem. Would you be interested in seeing what I can find for $2500 eye clean on JA?

Q: Yes please.  I am looking now as well.

A: This is the biggest nice stone I saw:

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/E-VS2-Premium-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1262519.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357

Ironically, there’s one with a slightly nicer cut, but it doesn’t have a picture yet. You should request it from them:

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/F-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1293393.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357

Another great option:

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/D-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1256054.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357

Q: Funny thing…….  Their headquarters is 20 miles from where I live.

A: You a Ballimore guy?

Q: I live in Yeminsville, Md…….  A small town between Frederick and Hagerstown.  I called the Frederick office and they will have up to 3 diamonds sent there for me to view.  Thanks so much for recommending them!!

A: Sweet! When you buy, have them ship it to an out of state fedex locale to avoid sales tax if you want.

Q: Ah, good idea!  Thanks!

A: Also, when you’re there, make sure and tell them that you want to use the TADJ10 coupon code.  It’ll give you 10% off the setting.

Q: Great! That’s $170. Thanks so much!

…….

I have also lowered my budget with the setting she picked. I’m now looking for a 3/4 or close princess around $2000 or less.

…….

Could you recommend some more stones for me? I keep narrowing them down several different ways. Here are some that I am considering.

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/D-VS1-Premium-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1291505.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/E-VS1-Good-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1291940.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/E-VS2-Premium-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1289667.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/E-VS2-Premium-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1292653.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357

A: I’m sorry I never responded to this email!  I just noticed it.  Is it still relevant?  Have you made your purchase yet?

Q: No problem Ira.  Yes, i did make the purchase from James Allen (1291505) set in (11141P).  I went in to the Frederick, MD location and viewed 3 stones and the 1291505 was by far the best.  I proposed on Sunday in Punta Can and she said yes!  She loves the ring!  Thanks for all your help!

A: Excellent!  Did they let you use the TADJ10 coupon?

Q: Yes, they did.  No problems at all.  I also noticed the setting $125 cheaper the next day on their site and they credited the difference back for that as well.

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A:  Here you go. Cheaper and, TWO cut grades better:

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/G-SI2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1296580.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/G-SI2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1297368.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357

Q: Wow… What is your guarantee/return policy? I want to see this stone in person and see that it is better in my hands. Is this possible? I also saw somewhere that there is a coupon code for your site so I wanted to make sure your best price was shown so I don’t have to go crazy looking for codes on-line.

P.S. I am super happy to see that somebody wants my money finally and is willing to work with me!

A: Sorry for the delay getting back to you. Just to be clear, I do not work for James Allen. I am what’s called an “affiliate” of theirs, and numerous other diamond sites. Take a look at the article on my site “Truth about truthaboutdiamodns.com” to get a better idea of what I’m talking about.

But, yes, James Allen has a 30 day return policy. So you could order a diamond from them, and see it in person, and if you’re not thrilled, you can return it and only loose the postage.

You can use the coupon code TADJ10 to get 10% off the setting (not the diamond). Did you like those stones I suggested?

Q: Great pulls! I chose one and it’s shipping out Monday, I was told both were eye clean from 8-10″ but the one with the whisp/crystal in the middle was more visible so I chose the 1.01. All of my answers are found. If you have a better one in mind, let me know sooon as I plan to get the ring set in ASAP.

A: Hey. No, I think that stones a winner! Did you order it with a ring, or are you having it set yourself? If you ordered with a ring, did the coupon work?

Q: I ordered it to compare to the one I picked out at Jared. Hopefully, it will blow the one I got out of the water! I will let you know either way!

The setting was picked out and fallen in love with by my gf so i’m not mucking with that! =-)

A: Great! So if goes out today, you should have to really really soon! I can’t wait to hear!

Q: It should go out today for pickup tomorrow in the afternoon… If it’s the better stone, it is set in by Friday!

A: Great! Please give me your impressions when it arrives.

Q: OK..

The two diamonds you picked out for me were pulled and looked at by the J.A. people. They said that the one with the wisp in the center was visible if you really studied the stone at “just the right angle from closer than 8″. As my GF will look this thing over a million times, I had to get something that was as eye clean as possible in the SI2 range so I ordered the slightly smaller (.03ct smaller). I got it and WOW it was great! Much nicer than the one that the guys at the chain store tried to sell me.

In short, the J.A. stone gets set today for me!

A: Great news! I’m glad I saved you from that Jared stone

Do you think you might be able to do me a small favor? If you have the time, would you be so kind as to write a short review of my site on ivouch? If you can, I would be most grateful! You can reach it directly with this link here:

(LINK REMOVED)

Thanks! And Congrats!

Q: I did the ivouch thing for you this AM. Glowing review. (CLICK HERE TO SEE THE REVIEW)

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A: Hey XXXX. Go Canes! I spent the first 18 years of my life in Miami and bleed orange and green!

I also happen to have traveled to Miami many times as a professional in the diamond trade and so I know the scene there quite well. First of all, any store you walk into on the ground floor of the Sebold building is not wholesale. Don’t be fooled by what it says on the walls. Those are all retail stores. The real wholesale offices are all upstairs, and the real powerful wholesalers in Miami aren’t even in Seybold – they’re in the Dupont building a block over between 1st and Flagler.

I think it’s a good idea to go to Jared’s (just to look, of course – they’re prices are awful).

As far as prices online vs. the prices in Seybold, it really depends on your luck. Some guy might have a great deal on a specific item at the time that nobody online will be able to compete with. Also, one store in particular in Seybold has the best prices and quality and that’s Buchwalds. The reason is that he’s a very skilled buyer who always pays with a check on the spot (which is very much not the norm in the business. Usually dealers will get 90 days payment terms), so he demands the best prices possible. But even if he buys at the cheapest prices, he still has to mark up his stones enough to make his operation profitable. Rent in Seybold must be very expensive and he has a lot of employees. The stores online don’t own their own inventory, so they can slide by with much lower margins.

But even having said all that, if you buy locally, you have to pay sales tax which is what, 7% now? That’s a big difference that even skillful buying won’t be able to overcome. When you buy online, there’s no sales tax because the stores aren’t based in Florida.

Think about all this and let me know what you decide. If you decide to buy online, let me know, and I’ll help you pick out the best possible stone for your budget.

Have a great weekend!

Q: Thanks so much Ira. Your advise was super helpful. You were right with that area of Miami being a but overwhelming. I think I learned a lot but I would still like to compare what I’ve seen to what you would suggest (you are the expert after all).

I have pasted a picture of a ring that is exactly what my girlfriend would like. It’s got a 1.3 carat diamond with 5 channel set diamonds on either side making the ring a total of 1.5.

Now I’m not looking for exactly that size but something close. I could afford that ring but my girlfriend has hinted that she doesn’t want something too expensive. Not sure what that means but she has said around $5000. I’d rather get her something as amazing as she is even if it cost me $10000. I’m only planning on ever buying one engagement ring after all.

Can you suggest a center diamond that you think is nice around 1 carat and then another diamond around 1.3 carat and then may be something around 1.5 so I can get an idea of what colors and clarity you as an expert would get.

Thanks so much. All your help has been super so far. You are a life saver. Me and hopefully my future wife will owe you. Thanks.

A: Hi. The stone in the picture looks like a radiant. Did you want a radiant like the picture, or did you want to stick with a princess cut?

Q: Good Morning Ira,

Thanks for the quick reply. My girlfriend has always said she wanted a princess cut but the previously attached ring is one she has hinted at wanting. I think she thought that one was a princess cut with the prongs over the corners.

I would want the one that looks nicer for the value. I know from reading your website that cut is very important but still a but subjective for non-round cut diamonds. Which would you suggest from your experience?

A: I think it’s best to stick with what we know she wants.

So here’s what I got:

1 carat: http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1276801.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357

1.30 carat: http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1294770.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357

1.5 carat: http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-SI1-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1101656.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357

Have a look and let me know what you think!

Q: Thanks so much for all the help so far. The examples you sent are awesome. I think the one that looks the best to me is the 1.3 carat diamond. However, I played around with the setting all while trying to stay within all the limits and guidelines that are on the Truth About Diamonds’ website. I found one other loose diamond that meets everything and is the same price as the 1.3 but it’s a 1.5 carat. The diamond is linked below:

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1276853.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357

I know that the color is a little different, it’s got a slight florescence, and a few other small differences. The one thing I don’t like is it appears the background used to take the image of the diamond in James Allen’s viewer seems to be darker. I’m not so sure it’s that bad of a diamond as bad as the photograph doesn’t do it justice.

Of course I want to get my girlfriend the biggest and the best, but I want the prettiest diamond as well. Please let me know your thoughts.

A: Hey. That’s a great stone. I wouldn’t worry about the photo, though. Each vendor that works with JA takes their own pictures, so I find that their pictures are very inconsistent since there are probably about 20 different people taking them.

…………

I just wanted to follow up with you. Did you manage to make a purchase yet? If so, did you go with this 1.5 carat stone in the end? If not, I’d love to hear what else you went with!

Click to Enlarge

Q: Before I say anything else, thanks so much. Wouldn’t have been able to do it without you.

I ended up going with something closer to 1.3 because I think the 1.5 was going to be too big on her finger. I was mad at myself for not getting the 1.3 you had suggested but it had been sold by the time I was ready to purchase. I ended up finding one I was happy with that was 1.24 carats. I think it’s the right proportion to her hand. The specs are:

Click to Enlarge

Item # 1284514

Princess 1.24 carat H color VS1 clarity diamond

Price: $5,640

I got it set in a channel set band. I’ve attached some pictures. I haven’t asked her yet. The big day is this Thursday.

Again, thanks so much. I owe you a ton and she will too I hope. I’ve already recommended your site to a few people and hopefully they’ll contact you when they’re ready.

A: Hey! Great to hear the awesome news! And I took a look at that stone’s page, and it’s a real beauty!

I was wondering if you could do me a small favor. My site is still pretty new – I only launched about a year ago – and so I rely a lot on reader reviews to help me boost credibility. If you have the time, do you think you might be able to write me a short review on ivouch? If you can, I would be most grateful! Here’s a direct link if you have the time:

(LINK REMOVED – YOU CAN VIEW HIS IVOUCH REVIEW HERE)

Best Wishes, and good luck on Thursday!

Q: Done. Thanks again.

A: Wow, I just read it. It’s amazing!! Thank you VERY much!

Q: I have one final question but first I must tell you she said YES! The ring is slightly too big. Do you know of anywhere we can get it resized in the Ft. Lauderdale/Plantation area?

Thanks again. Couldn’t have done this without your help.

A: Congratulations!! JA will actually resize your ring for free for a full 60 days after the purchase. They’ll even ship it back to you for free (via 2-day Fedex).  It’s very routine.  Here’s the quote from their FAQ:

“Nervous that you’ve ordered the incorrect ring size? That’s no problem, either. We offer free ring resizing from 60 days after your purchase. Even better, we’ll send the newly-resized ring back to you, for free, via two-day FedEx.”

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http://www.bluenile.com/diamond-search?filter_id=0&track=head#diamonds_pid=LD01788438

http://www.bluenile.com/asscher-cut-diamond-1-carat-very-good-cut-f-color-si2-clarity_LD00439308

I am looking for the best Asscher Cut for less than $8,000 US. I would like a color grade of D-G I would like the best clarity possible and am very open to SI2 as long as it is eye clean and the inclusions are not too bad. Simply put, I would like the biggest bang for my buck. Please advise me. This has been very stressful for me and I have been to many brick & mortar jewelers in Southern California (where I am from) that have trying to persuade me to buy their diamonds. Thanks in advance!! Budget Anything else you might feel is relevant

A: Thanks for writing. Buying a diamond can most definitely be a very stressful experience. Especially going door to door in B&M jewelry stores and getting haggled by annoying salespeople whom you never know if you can trust or not.

I would be very hesitant to recommend buying an SI asscher cut from BN. The reason is simply that the large majority of SI1 and especially SI2 Asscher and Emerald cuts are NOT eye clean.

Take a look at the pic on this stone, and it’s a VS2!!

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/G-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Asscher-Diamond-1295751.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357

So you see, you need to be REALLY careful with Emerald Cuts and Asscher Cuts because they really show off their inclusions strongly.

I really like this stone, but it’s an H Color (which, btw, I think is totally fine to get in an asscher cut):

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Asscher-Diamond-1304654.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357 – it’s 100% eye clean and a really really nice cut.

Here’s another one, but a bit on the expensive side:

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/E-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Asscher-Diamond-1294903.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357

One more, a G color. Well under your budget, and a little smaller than you were hoping to get, but has a favorable depth that makes it look bigger than it is:

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/G-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Asscher-Diamond-1244863.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357

Have a look at these and let me know what you think!

Q: Thank you Ira for the quick response. When I talked to someone on the phone from Blue Nile, they had their Gemologist look at them. The 1.5C was eye clean according to them, while the 1.42 was not eye clean but the inclusions were white. The person on the phone said that while the 1.42C could present a great value due to this. I am hesitant but it does appear to be a great value for what seems to be a nice diamond. Do you have an opinion on buying SI1 and SI2 Asscher Cuts from Blue Nile that are said to be “eye-clean”?

I know you favor James Allen because of their pictures and it’s funny that you suggested the 1.53C because I was attracted to that diamond as well.

Also, I went to a B&M store yesterday and they attacked the Blue Nile diamonds I linked you basically questioning why a diamond that seems to be of such great value (the 1.42C) was still available even though the GIA report was done in 2006. It seems to me like a credible question. In your opinion, does that give consumers a hint of whether a diamond is a great deal or not if it’s still available long after the GIA report? Or can GIA reports be updated to reflect a more recent date?

Sorry for the long email but it seems as though that as I read more about diamonds and especially this Asscher cuts, I come up with more questions than answers. BTW: your website has been absolutely helpful. If not for it, this email would probably be twice as long.

A: The problem with the gemologists at BN is that they’re not really looking at the diamonds. BN doesn’t own any diamonds. They work with major wholesalers all over the world and just list their diamonds “virtually.” So when someone like you calls, they make a phone call to the vendor that owns the diamond in question and ask the owner their opinion of the diamond. The problem with that is the guy who owns the diamond is incredibly biased. Their stone is in competition with hundreds of others on BN, and they want THEIR stone to sell.

JA on the other hand only works with vendors within walking distance to their NY office. When someone like you calls JA, they go and get the stone and see it for themselves. The difference is clear – JA doesn’t care if you buy a stone that’s owned from their vendor X or vendor Y, they just want you to buy a stone from them that you’re going to be happy with. So it’s totally in their interest to be completely honest with you.

As far as the old cert goes, it’s the kind of thing that CAN be a bad sign, but certainly doesn’t necessarily mean it is. It could be a stone that the vendor bought off the street from a divorce or broken engagement.

And yes, GIA reports can definitely be updated. All you have to do is throw away the old cert and send the stone in again for certification. The only downside to this is that GIA certs are very expensive. I think about $100 per carat.

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A: Thanks for writing.  Pear shapes, like ovals and marquise are tricky. Since their shapes are so fluid, you really can’t evaluate them by their measurements alone. You really need to be able to see them. So, unless you can find an amazing deal in a local store, I suggest you buy from JamesAllen.com where you can at least see pictures of the diamonds.

I took a look for you, and found these:

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-SI2-Ideal-Cut-Pear-Diamond-1239616.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357 – pic looks great and eye clean. This will be the biggest you’ll be able to find.

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-SI2-Ideal-Cut-Pear-Diamond-1239615.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357 – a little above your budget, but a beauty of a stone. Also, since pear shapes show color relatively strongly, it might be best to stick with H or higher.

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-SI2-Ideal-Cut-Pear-Diamond-1216425.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357 – this is a great option if you wanted to save a couple Gs.

Have a look at these and please let me know what you think!

Q: thanks for your input… I learned everything I know from your website… I actually just bought a stone yesterday

its getting here this weekend,

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Pear-Diamond-1264804.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357

what do you think? It’s a little stretched but its looked good to me.  again, awesome website!

A: That stone is better than all the stones I suggested! It would have definitely been on my list if it was still available!

Please let me know what you think when it arrives!

Q: that 1.83 carat pear shape looks awesome…JamesAllen is great. I have a couple of questions about getting it set and appraised. How much does that usually cost (appraising and making the ring)? I bought my semi online through a guy on ebay… it has 2 carats in side-stones…he made the prongs according to the measurements of my diamond. Im trying to take the both, the stone and the setting to a local Jeweler here in SC to have it set and appraised.

Do I get both appraised separately or after they are made into a ring?

Do you have some pointers about this process?

(… I don’t even feel like telling them where I got the diamond from since I might get treated weird and have to listen as to why buying from them would be better…)

A: I’m glad you like the stone! Setting and appraising is usually a cheap service. Most places do it for free if you buy the ring from them.

You’re definitely right in that no jewelry store wants to do what you’re asking them to do. They want to sell you the diamond and the setting. So I think in your case, it might be best just to tell them that the ring and diamond are from two different family members.

You should probably expect to pay maximum $200 for the setting and appraisal.

…….

Hi XXXXX. I hope you’re doing well. I wanted to ask you a small favor. My website is still relatively new (not quite a year old!) and I rely heavily on user reviews to help me boost credibility. Would you mind leaving me a short review on ivouch.com? If so, I’d really appreciate it! If you have the time, you can access it directly with this link:

(LINK REMOVED) (You can view his ivouch review here)

Q: done, thanks again for your website, awesome advice

A: That’s great! Thanks so much!

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http://www.jamesallen.com/engagement-rings/settings-with-sidestones/ring/item_58-169.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357

I have located this diamond:

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Emerald-Diamond-1305777.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357

at James Allen and have ordered the image (which I will be happy to fwd to you for your review). It certainly seems like a nice price for this diamond. I would like your opinion on this diamond and any other similar ones you might be able to find and recommend. I assume/hope you receive some type of payment from the sources from which you recommend a diamond that is subsequently purchased. I would of course cooperate in any way necessary in this regard.

A: It’s rare, but I really love when I get emails from good people like you. I really appreciate your concern regarding my compensation. It’s very kind of you. If you’d like to understand the whole thing a bit better, take a look at the article on my site, “truth about truthaboutdiamonds.com”

I took a look at the diamond – it looks great. To answer your question, a VS2 on an emerald cut is most definitely not a given to be eye clean. But by the look of the inclusion plot on the cert, it looks very likely that it will be eye clean. It’s a feather on the edge of the stone, which is the best place for an inclusion on an emerald.

The L/W ratio is perfect as is the depth and table. So this should really be a winner. You should ask JA to put it on hold while the photo is on the way.

I did take another look through their inventory, and this stone is far and away the best choice for the price range.

As for my commission, if you’ve already clicked on any links from my site to James Allen, then the tracking should already be set. If not, you can click on this link to set it in place:

http://www.jamesallen.com/?a_aid=dmnd1357

But even if you don’t click on that link, there’s a fail-safe measure that is my coupon. If you make sure to use the TADJ10 coupon code (which will give you 10% off the setting), then even if the tracking doesn’t work, they’ll award me the commission after the fact.

Thanks again for your generosity! Please send me the picture when it comes through.

Q: Thank you for your prompt response! I have used many links to JA from your site, clicked the link you provided and also would use “TADJ10” so we should be set there.

I emailed a request to hold the stone and I will forward you the picture upon receipt.

I think it was implied in your email but would you agree the price on this particular stone (assuming it is eye clean) is also very good?

A: Hey XXXX. Yeah, that’s a great price for that stone!

…….

You know what. I was just thinking – since I saw nothing else even close to this for the price, I think it might be a good idea for you to just order the stone. When JA holds a stone, theres still a chance it can get sold out from underneath you (i’ve seen it happen a few times). JA doesn’t own most of the stones they sell. So there’s only so much they can control. You can always return it if you don’t like it, but based on everything I’ve seen, I put the odds of this one turning out to be a dud at close to zero.

I know that technically, I’m biased, and you should definitely take that into account when making your decision, but I really do feel that this is your best move. I’ve helped many people in the past who regret hesitating only to see the stone that they first wanted disappear.

Q: I am considering doing just that.  Damn I would like to see the picture first but it seems like minimal risk to get a nice stone at a great price!

A: There’s really no better picture than your own two eyes. Maximum, you loose 20-30 bucks on the shipping back to them.

Q: Yeah that’s nothing and I suppose I could even cancel the order prior to shipping if we are not pleased with the picture?

A: That’s true too. I forgot that it’d be held up for a week or two because you’re having it set. So you won’t even have to resort to that.

Just order it, and write in the notes/comments section (if there is such a thing), that before they start the work setting the stone, they should send you a picture of it just to confirm.

Q: One more thing. Are the baguettes at F-G color going to make the emerald at H look not as white?

A: No, you won’t notice a difference. It’s too close for there to be any kind of contrast.

Q: I ordered it and look forward to our review of the picture.  Thanks for your help to this point!

A: My pleasure! I look forward to seeing the pic.

Q: I’m glad I did because I am sure you have seen numerous instances of nicely priced diamonds being sold while others who are interested don’t pull the trigger in time (ie. while they wait for some type of further information like a picture!).

……….

I noticed a little abnormality on the inclusion plot on what looks like the view from the bottom. There are two lines running around one of the normal edge lines.

Anything to worry about?

A:  Hi XXXXX. Those are two very small extra facets. It’s very common. You almost certainly won’t notice anything out of the ordinary. The picture will show us for certain.

Q: Thank you and good night over there!

…….

I have never seen an image like this and you are the pro.

Obviously the picture makes the stone look much more square than it is.

Any areas of concern whatsoever?

A: That picture is pretty awful, unfortunately.  But she did confirm that it’s eye clean, so that’s the most important thing.

Q: Everything is ordered. At this point I am pretty confident I will be very pleased with the ring.

When I receive it I will let you know how it looks and thank you once again.

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A: Thanks for the kind words about the site! I really appreciate it.

Now about your questions…

Firstly, the style you describe is a very classy one that has no downsides at all. If you get a yellow stone set properly by a jeweler who understands yellow diamonds, you will end up with a very classically beautiful ring.

Secondly, regarding where to find such a stone, you’re in luck. It happens to be that one of my closest friends (and neighbor) is Yossi Polnauer, CEO of fancydiamonds.net. Now, I admit that I am biased, but they really are the best place in the world from which to buy colored diamonds. Firstly, their prices are unbeatable. They are primarily a wholesale outfit – their website brings in some welcome extra income, but the vast majority of their business is B2B. They are one of the largest dealers of fancy color diamonds in Israel. The reason why this is so important for you is that they really don’t differentiate between their retail and wholesale customers. Their prices are very low across the board.

Why don’t you let me know your budget (including the ring), what shape you would like, and ideally what size you would like to end up with, and I will sit down with Yossi and discuss what your best options are and get back to you.

In the meantime, take a look at these few rings they already have set that are similar to the style you describe:

http://www.fancydiamonds.net/view_diamonds/3649.htm

http://www.fancydiamonds.net/view_diamonds/2820.htm

http://www.fancydiamonds.net/view_diamonds/633.htm

I look forward to hearing from you!

……

Yossi sent me the attached pictures.  Enjoy!

Q: Thank you for the quick response. Seeing those rings and how they are put together definitely put my mind at ease with the dual tone. Here are some more of the specifics that my girlfriend and I had discussed for her ring.

Cut – Cushion or radiant

Clarity – Looking to try to stay in VS2 / SI range – but as you said on your site it is all about what type of flaws that the diamond has and not necessarily on the actual rating. So I am flexible.

Color – Already discussed, trying to stay in the W, X, Y, Z range and not get into the fancy. The 1064 shown above is pretty much spot on. With the right yellow gold setting the diamond will take more of that bright yellow color.

Carat – Largest of course with the prior criteria. I was shooting for at least 1 ct. Although more is always better.

Budget – I’m looking to spend 5000-6000 USD with ring.

About the ring, she has already found a few local stores that carry several styles that she really enjoyed. The ones you showed above are not that far off. Several key things she is looking for:

-Halo of smaller diamonds around the center stone

-Side stones down part of the band

-Two smaller bands intertwined in the ring

-Majority of the ring white gold but yellow gold is ok to accent the main diamond.

Looking forward to hearing back from you.

A: Take a look at this stone that Yossi found today in the bourse. It’s a real beauty at a great price. It’s fancy light yellow, so its stronger in color than an XYZ. It has strong fluorescence, but it doesn’t dull the color at all.

The price for that stone in a ring like you suggested will be $5800.

Q: That is a very nice one and has definately caught my eye.  The price you listed below, would that be the stone by itself or with the ring?  In regards to the ring setting — Does Yossi’s company do it’s own mounting or primarly sell loose stones?  I’m just curious if there is an inventory of rings of his that I could browse through.   If that is the price for the stone and ring combined I think we could be close to something final.  Thank you for your continued assistance.

A: Yeah, that’s the price including the ring.  FancyDiamonds.net doesn’t fabricate their own rings, but there are a ton of jewelry manufacturers in the area of the bourse in Israel, so it wont be a problem at all to have a ring made either exactly to your specs, or at the very least something very similar.  Why don’t you find a pic of one style you like the most, and we’ll see how close we can get.

Q: She really liked the detail of these two tacori styles.  We took a look at one at a local store which she really liked — it is the 2623RDSMP pics (there are 2).  She also likes the dual band as shown in the other pic 2573.  I think a combination of those would be perfect but even if we left off the dual band she would really enjoy it.

A: Ok, great.  I will discuss with Yossi tomorrow and we’ll see what we can come up with.

……

I spoke with Yossi and he says that in the fancy color business no two rings are alike. Everyone he sells a ring to gets a custom made ring to his/her specifications. He says since every stone is different in size, shape, and color, and since every client has their own very specific tastes (by definition someone looking for a colored diamond wants to be unique), they don’t even bother trying to sell the stock stuff.

The price will remain $5800 as long as the diamonds on the side are pave (and not larger like in one of the pictures you sent in your last email).

So I’m going to pass you on to Chavi, fancydiamonds.net’s head of jewelry. I have CCed her and Yossi to this email. I forwarded them your last email, so they have an idea already of what you’re looking for.

Of course, before they start working on your ring, you’ll have to arrange payment with them. The $5800 is the price for a bank wire (including shipping). For credit card, they’ll need to add 5% to cover related expenses. You’ll be able to work that out with them as well.

I’m always here if you have any more questions. Be well, and I look forward to hearing more from you!

Q: Ira, thank you so much for all of your assistance.  I will be sure to write up a recommendation when everything is all said and done.

A:  Unfortunately, I have some bad news. There was a miscommunication before between myself and Yossi regarding the price of the ring. We had priced the diamond at 5200 and the ring at 600 (cost). Basically, the problem is that a ring like this will have to be hand made. I mistakenly thought that a pre-existing mold would already be available. If you would like fancydiamonds to do the ring, they can do one that matches the tacori “2627PRLG”, but it will be $1400 for the ring (so $6600 total). That is their cost from their jeweler. It’s still a fantastic deal at $6600. A tacori ring like this with a stone like this would cost many thousands more in a retail store, and a couple thousand more from any other online store.

I feel really terrible about the mistake.

So I think there are three ways we can move forward.

1) You can stretch your budget, and we’ll still make the ring for you with this 1.53ct diamond for $6600.

2) We can scratch this stone, and look for a smaller/cheaper one to make the whole package fit into your $6000 budget.

3) You can buy the stone loose for $5200.

Please accept my heartfelt apologies once more. I truly hope we can still come up with a viable solution for you that will make you very happy.

Q: I must apologize, after having a long (and frustrating) conversation with my girlfriend.  Apparently, the type of ring I thought she wanted and what she actually wants are pretty different. So far we have pretty much come to the conclusion on two things.  The yellow stone and the halo.  The good news is I think the style she is leaning towards is simpler than I originally thought.  I’ve included a few pictures of what, I think, should be an easier ring to come across.  Here is a the latest set of criteria that we have discussed.

- Still the halo around the center stone
– Fairly shallow mount (does not want the main stone or prongs to sit high)
– Small adjustment from the images: A smaller sized halo and have the main stone sit slightly higher (she didn’t like the visible spacing between the stone and halo – see HD-B-change HD-A-Change)
– Thin band (single is is fine)
– Intricate classic metal working (such as the numerous notches between side diamonds shown in pics)

Let me know if Chavi or Yossi has something similar to this and can provide any pictures.

A: I spoke with Yossi and Chavi, and this will work great. Since the ring is being custom made for you, it will fit the diamond perfectly – no space between the diamond and the halo. Chavi even sent me a picture of a similar ring she’s made in the past. I’ve attached them to this email as well. We’ll be able to do this ring and this stone together for 6300 — will this be OK?

I’ve CCed Chavi on this email, so please be in touch with her directly now to make sure she understands your requests perfectly.

—–

(FROM CHAVI):

Hi there.  Here we go…  Your ring turned out BEAUTIFUL! It Looks like a Fancy Yellow not like a Fancy Light Yellow.

……….

(FROM ME AGAIN): Saw pics of the ring.  It looked amazing!  Did you get it yet?  I’d love to hear your reactions once you see it in person.

Q: I did get it and in time.  Chavi was great in expediting the process to I was able to propose exactly how I wanted to, for that I am very grateful.  The ring is beautiful! I am still very impressed with the service that both you and fancydiamonds.net provided.  Thank you once again Ira for all your help.

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