Today’s featured marriage proposal was created by your Proposal Planners at The Heart Bandits.  Keith contacted us because he wanted to propose using umbrellas that spell out Will You Marry Me.  But he knew he needed some help from professionals to pull off such an elaborate proposal idea.  We began by finding the perfect proposal location, Multnomah Falls, which we chose because of the stunning waterfall backdrop and the footbridge that went across the falls.  The footbridge was perfect for the 15+ volunteers we coordinated with to help pull off this amazing day.  Keith also wanted a musician there to serenade the couple with “their song” so we hired the a guitarist to play as soon as he saw Keith and Alyssa.  That was the cue for everyone to drop the “Will You Marry Me” umbrellas and as you can see by the video below by Lance Watts, everything went perfectly.Marriage Proposal

The Heart Bandits are Proposal Planners who help people all over the world propose marriage.   They are Proposal Experts and have been featured in the New York Times, Fox News, Houston Chronicle, Orange County Register, Brides Magazine and many more. Contact The Heart Bandits to have them plan your marriage proposal and ensure that your big moment stands out from the rest. For more information about The Heart Bandits, visit www.theheartbandits.com.

So you can imagine how thrilled we were when she offered to give us an exclusive coupon for pre-set diamond stud earrings for our readers for the entire month of May to celebrate Mother’s Day!

If you’ll be spending between $400 and $999, use the coupon TADMAY50 for $50 off your purchase.  If you’ll be spending $1000 and up, use the coupon TADMAY100 for $100 off your purchase.

Click here for their Mother’s Day Jewelry Selection.

Click here for their Diamond Stud Earrings Selection.

I’m looking for a .70 cushion cut diamond in the $2000 range for a white gold square halo engagement setting.

I found this one (Item # 1280104) at James Allen and wanted to get your opinion. Seems to me like it has a lot of thing going for it, including the dimensions (except for the girdle thickness, which isn’t great).

Any help would be much appreciated!

A: That stone is stunning, but I think these might be just slightly better:
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/E-SI1-Ideal-Cut-Cushion-Diamond-1333794.asp
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/F-SI1-Ideal-Cut-Cushion-Diamond-1325204.asp

Q: Thank you so much for the super-quick reply. Those are both lovely as well.

I noticed that they are both modified brilliants, which I have heard can give the diamond a more of a “crushed ice” appearance that I don’t particularly like. The one I had found was not modified.

I prefer both the ones that you picked, but what are your thoughts on the modified brilliant (in regards to the “crushed ice effect), and is that something that you can recognize from just looking at the pictures?

A: That’s a misconception. Modifieds and non-modifieds can give you the crushed ice look. Neither of these are crushed ice. For comparisons sake, look at these (which are crushed ice):
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/E-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Cushion-Diamond-1355193.asp
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/E-SI1-Ideal-Cut-Cushion-Diamond-1371379.asp
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/E-SI2-Ideal-Cut-Cushion-Diamond-1371552.asp

Q: Thanks Ira! Bought one of the diamonds that you recommended and it’s beautiful. It also fit the setting I had picked out perfectly. The ring is gorgeous and, just as importantly, within in price budget. Thanks so much for your help again.

A: Such great news! Thanks so much for writing!

Thanks again! And congratulations!

A: Thanks for writing. I believe these would be clean to the naked eye (keep in mind that the actual diameter of the diamond is going to be about 4/5s of a centimeter!):
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/J-SI1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1358001.asp
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/J-SI1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1337194.asp
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-SI1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1290510.asp
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/J-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1307905.asp
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/J-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1334546.asp – great size!

Let me know what you think!

Q: Loved the last one and so did the wife:-) The fun thing is that I did not see that stone when looking yesterday on their site. That stone will surely do fine. Are we thinking wrong when we looking for color J? I have seen some in shops here in China where I am now and J seems ok but on most sites and forum on the net they say it should be higher color. Is it common to detect the yellowish in a J stone of this size? I guess that you get some sort of commission from JA so if I use the links below you will get that right? Fine for me. I will not be able to order today since i need to transfer the money to my card and that I can’t do from China. Probably place the order around may 7 when back in Europe again.

One last thing. The stone second from the bottom: http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/J-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1307905.asp is that really clean to the naked eye. To me it seems to be a rather large dot in the middle. I know that all diamonds to have inclusions bu this is in the middle and appear already in the magnified photo be rather large.

A: See this article here:
http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/truth-about/truthaboutdiamonds-com/

If you will be setting the stone in a solitaire setting, then, in my opinion, a J color stone is a great option. If held next to a much higher color stone, then the J will definitely look warmer. But a J color ideal cut round diamond will definitely look white to your eye.

It’s very unlikely this stone will still be available in May, so you should definitely get back in touch with me at that time, and I’ll take another look for you

Q: Thank you very much for your articles and answers. Helps us a lot. We are actually trying to get the stone now anyway. Pushing my wife to choose setting and help me finding the papers I need for the wire transfer. If possible we buy the stone now for delivery may25, if not I will come back to you in May:-)

A: Sounds good. Let me know how it goes!

Q: Back home now so time to order a ring. They cold now hold anything even with payment done then so I have to look for a new one now. I will place the order next week since they can only hold the package for three days at DHL and we will not be in US until May 25.

We were looking at this stone:

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/J-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1361493.asp

How can this be a vs2 stone with that big spot in the middle? Will that not be noticeable with the naked eye? Like the size:-) Price is OK but that spot does not look great.

or this one:

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/J-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1370642.asp

Other recommendations? I am looking for a round stone at least 2 carat preferable closer to 2,5. i-j color, vs2-si1, ideal cut around 18.000 but can go up to 22.000 if the right stone is there.

A: Yeah, that’s a VS2. I think it’d be too small to be visible to the naked eye. So I think you should go for the 2.52.

Q: Thanks, then I try that. Can i just add: ?a_aid=dmnd1357 to the link to give you your credits? I guess there is something like a referral program at james allen and that this is your ID.

A: Yes, that’s right, Malte! Thanks! See here:
http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/truth-about/truthaboutdiamonds-com/

Q: Placed the order today. It did become another stone, 2 carat. My wife is one of few woman that did not like any bigger stone so she decided on this instead.

A: Thanks! And congrats!

Q: I have just asked them to change the diamond since i did a major,major mistake. When I (or actually my wife) finally decided for a diamond the search criteria where wrong. Size, color etc where Ok but cut where only very good and not excellent. By some reason we failed to click correct in that search criteria. Fond a new stone that match what we like and hope that they will be able to change to that today. 2000 more expensive but i really feel that it is worth it.

A: Sounds great! Please stay in touch and let me know how everything works out!

Q: My only problem now is that the Volcanic eruption on island might cancel our flight to US on Wednesday to pick up the ring. My life in a nutshell.

A: I hope you can fly soon!

Q: We did get the ring today and wow, that is a rock! Perfect stone, so good looking. So glad I followed your advice to use James Allen instead of Blue Nile. Absolutely perfect stone, ring and shopping experience.

Thank you so much for all your advices. I learned so much from your site that have been really useful in my search for this stone.

A: That’s so great to hear! Thanks so much for letting me know! Would you mind doing me a small favor and leaving me a short review on ivouch? If you could, I would be extremely grateful! here’s a direct link if you have the time:
xxxxxxx

Thanks! And congrats!

Q: [LINK TO REVIEW ON IVOUCH]

I am currently a young Australian, looking at an engagement ring purchase. Im looking to spend between $4000 – $6000 USD for a Round brilliant 0.90 – 1.0 carat diamond, eye clean, I or above colour, Ideal cut, GIA cert, going into a 4 claw platinum setting.
This is my partners “perfect” ring. She has rather small fingers K ½ which I think is 5.25 in the James Allen site. So going over 1 carat will look kind of silly.

I have seen your recommendations about James Allen (and the virtual loupe) and I’m happy to go with one of their Platinum settings .

After narrowing down the search, ive found the following diamonds, but I just cant make that final decision on which one is best.

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-SI1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1370569.asp – This one is the highest on my list

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/F-SI1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1362081.asp

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1370695.asp

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1370885.asp

Im also interested if you have any other diamonds you could recommend or any advice.

Thanks

A: Thanks for writing and the very kind words about the site! I took a look at the stones in your list and did my search as well, and I think that the stone you prefer is a really great option. I definitely think it’s your best option.

Please let me know how it goes and what you think when it arrives!

Q: Thanks heaps for your help, I purchase the ring two weeks ago and it finally arrived today, to say im impressed is an understatement. Im absolutely over the moon.
I have seen plenty of stones (loose and set) and this one is so much more lively and brilliant than anything I have seen. Im totally happy with my purchase, and I know my girlfriend will be too. Now all I have to do is get up the courage to propose.

I dont think I would have even considered buying a diamond (and e-ering) off the internet until seeing your site and reading your reviews of James Allen. After paying import taxes and all I have saved almost 4 grand compared with buying within Australia.

Thanks once again.

A: Thanks so much for this amazing email! I’m so happy it worked out so nicely for you! Do you think you could do me a small favor? If you could leave me a short review on ivouch, I would be extremely grateful! Here’s a direct link if you have the time:
xxxxxxx

Thanks! And congratulations!!

Q: Ive left a great review for your help.

Once again, thank you for your time to respond, and more importantly thank you for a brilliant website.

A: It’s amazing! Thank you so very much! Have a great weekend!

click on image for for larger view

Here are the Stats (Or Click Here for a Copy of the GIA Certificate):

Shape: Cusion

Carats: 1.51

Diamond Color: G

Diamond Clarity: VS2

Measurements:  6.43*6.37*4.37

Depth: 68.7%

Table: 60%

Diamond Polish: Very Good

Diamond Symmetry:  Good

Diamond Fluorescence: None

Diamond Price:$12,700

Click Here to be brought to the diamond on James Allen

I know I want a round diamond; and my budget is approximately $10,000 to 12,500. There is a diamond at Sam’s Club that is 1.17; G; VS2; and the cut is very good. With tax I’m looking at roughly $10,000.

But I did see that color on a round diamond doesn’t matter when it is round? So, should I go for a larger diamond somewhere else?

Any help you provide is greatly appreciated.

A: Thanks for the kind words about the site! Where do you live (ie, what State)? If it’s not NY or MD, then you can buy online from JamesAllen.com and not pay sales tax. There’s no need to go for a G VS2. These are a much better value and will look even nicer because of the better cut:
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-SI1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1375595.asp
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-SI1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1376855.asp

let me know what you think!

Q: Thanks for the recommendations, Ira. I live in South Carolina.

What is the difference between James Allens’ ideal vs. true hearts / arrows ideal? Do you think it is worth the extra $3,000?
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1362934.asp

Also, how noticable will the black blemishes on the 1.32 carat diamond actually show? It is hard to tell on a computer screen vs. actually seeing the diamond.
…….
Nevermind. After reading your website more I realize that “hearts / arrows” diamonds are the same as “triple excellent.” And you are pretty clear that “triple excellent” diamonds are not worth it.

I guess I have just two final questions:

(1) Why did you choose the two you picked at the H/Sl1 range that you recommended? I see there are others, but I have no idea why you picked what you did over them.

(2) If my fiance wants a 6 prong “low profile” setting – will getting the larger diamond than 1.25 carats make a difference? I have read elsewhere that you can’t tell the difference once you’re over 1.25 carats unless you make a big jump.

Thank you for your help in this matter. I will be sure to recommend this website to others.

A: I limited myself to H SI1 only because you had seen and liked a G VS2. I didn’t want to stray too far from that base. But if you’re willing to set me free, I would probably drop down in clarity and possibly another color grade depending on the setting you choose.

As for larger vs. smaller stones – anything larger than a 0.2mm differential in diameter will be noticeable to your eye.

Q: I’m about to pull the trigger. Here is the setting I plan to get, and i guess go with the 1.25 c you recommended earlier.

http://www.jamesallen.com/engagement-rings/pave/ring/item_412-3964_design.asp?module=setting

let me know if you any other recommendations. thanks!

A: Looks great! Please stay in touch and let me know what you think when it arrives!

I really like 6 prong rings and round diamonds.

What do you think of:

This ring (18k White Gold Six Prong Knife-Edged Diamond Ring):
http://www.jamesallen.com/engagement-rings/solitaire/diamond-solitaire-rings.html

This diamond:
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-SI2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1345902.asp

I can see some imperfections using the virtual loupe – should I be worried about this?

Very grateful for any advice!

A: Thanks for writing! I think you can do better on the diamond – this one is too heavily included. The inclusions will be visible to the naked eye. I think these will be better for you:

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-SI2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1358803.asp
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-SI2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1376913.asp
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-SI1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1362602.asp

Let me know what you think!

Q: Thanks Ira, very glad I asked the question.

I think I will go with:
Item#: 1358803
Round 1.31 carat I color SI2 clarity diamond

Thanks for all of your help
…….
Thanks again Ira.

I bought the ring!

I am 100 percent sure that I have purchased a better ring than I would have without your help. And saved on the setting!

A: Congrats! Please stay in touch and let me know what you think when it arrives!

New York Rooftop Proposal. Photo courtesy Sean Kim Photography

The idea that we helped him pull off was simple but very romantic and effective. When he arrived with Vicky in NYC, he told her he was going to take her to a surprise location. That location was Gary’s Loft which has an amazing view of the Empire State Building. He went to the building and went straight to the rooftop. When they got to the top, she was surprised to see that there was a very nice table setup with flowers and candles. He even had some of their favorite music playing in the background. Adam took her to the table where he explained how much he loved her and how he had everything setup for that moment. He then dropped to one knee to propose to her. The entire scene was capture by Sean Kim photography. It was a great proposal and we’re really happy for Adam and Vicky.

New York Wedding Proposal. Photo courtesy Sean Kim Photography

The Heart Bandits are Proposal Planners who help people all over the world propose marriage.   They are Proposal Experts and have been featured in the New York Times, Fox News, Houston Chronicle, Orange County Register, Brides Magazine and many more. Contact The Heart Bandits to have them plan your marriage proposal and ensure that your big moment stands out from the rest. For more information about The Heart Bandits, visit www.theheartbandits.com.

A: Thanks for writing! What do you think of this option:
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-SI1-Premium-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1354174.asp

Q: Thank you so much for your fast response. I really appreciate the help, as this is not an easy purchase. We went out tonight and I actually tried on rings and matched the carat size from online to what it actually looks like on my finger. I want to stay .90 +. Below are some of the diamonds I am looking at. Please give me your input!
Looking forward to hearing from you!

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/J-VS2-Premium-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1350647.asp

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/J-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1305567.asp

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/J-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1345879.asp

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/J-VS2-Premium-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1350271.asp

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-VS1-Premium-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1361304.asp

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-VS1-Premium-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1361304.asp

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-VS1-Premium-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1370687.asp

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/J-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1359767.asp

The first one in this list looks dull, but I don’t know if that is the picture or not.
Sorry for sending so many, I am a little overwhelmed. If you can find better…. please send them my way!

Thank you so much again!

A: I would recommend you don’t go lower than I for sure. So I’m not looking at the Js you linked to. The two Is you linked to are both very nice. If I had to pick, I’d go with this one:
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-VS1-Premium-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1370687.asp

But only because it’s $30 cheaper. I think the two stones would look identical.

Q: Hey Ira. Thank you so much for all of your help! We have purchased the ring and cannot wait to get it! We really appreciate all of your input.

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

Q: I just wanted to let you know, we received our ring in the mail today, it is GORGEOUS!!! I love it. Thank you so much for all of your help.

All the best

A: Such wonderful news! Thanks so much for writing to let me know!

Thanks again! And congrats!!