http://www.bluenile.com/build-your-own-diamond-ring?offer_id=12959&forceStep=STYLE_STEP

Any comments or concerns you have about the ring would be greatly appreciated. We didn’t know if these stones were significant enough in size that we have to worry about color matching to the center stone. Also was wondering how much we should be worried if the side diamonds are eye clean. I had a diamond previously that did have black inclusions (2 fairly small but visible) and it was always disappointing. Even though otherwise it was a beautiful diamond, those black dots always bothered me.

As for the center stone the most important thing to us is that it’s brilliant, white and sparkly. We are looking for a round cut, eye clean and somewhere between 1-1.35 ct. We don’t want to have to pay for something unneccessary, but would like a big wow factor. We realize that there is a lot left open on options for size, but we’re more concerned with the other factors that fit within these size parameters.

Also, I know you often suggest diamonds from james allen just because you can actually see what you are buying before you buy it. If that is the case would we be able to take the setting purchased from Blue Nile and separate center stone to a local jeweler to be set or do you have another suggestion?

Thanks for your site and all your help! It’s much appreciated.

A: That is a beautiful ring indeed! Lets move forward like this – your best bet in this situation would be to have JA match the setting from BN for you. I’ve helped many people in the past accomplish this and they’ve always left very satisfied.

Btw, these side stones aren’t small at all (as far as sidestones go), so you do need to be concerned about color. If JA can make the ring with G/Hs, then it should be perfectly fine to stay in the H/I range for the center stone.

I’m CCing to this email Mr. Jim Schultz from JA who will hopefully respond to us both positively or negatively re: their ability to match this setting for you. Keep in mind also that when JA matches a ring, it is not simply pressed out of a mold, but is rather hand made and considered to be of higher quality.

Best wishes for a wonderful weekend!

Response from James Allen:
Ira/xxxxx,

Thank you for the email. We can reproduce the setting in the link below for $3,000. Production time is approximately two weeks. As a custom design, however, the ring would be subject to a 15% restocking fee if returned.

I want to quickly also point out that we offer a similar setting that is substantially less expensive and also has a matching wedding band. Our item number is 11009p and a link to the design can be found here:
http://www.jamesallen.com/engagement-rings/settings-with-sidestones/ring/item_58-1935.asp

To give you some sense of how this diamond looks with a 1.00ct center diamond, you can view this photograph from our Recently Sold Collection:
http://www.jamesallen.com/engagement-rings/sold/settings-with-sidestones/1502/Engagement-Rings-Side-Stones.html

The 11009p features slightly smaller side diamonds that the other design, but they are still large enough to make a really “pop” next to the center diamond. By reducing the size of those side diamonds by just a few tenth of a millimeters, you can still get a fantastic look, but free up almost $1,300 that can then be applied towards the center diamond.

Hope this helps!

Q: Thanks for the suggestion of having JA custom match the setting. We looked at the setting Jim suggested from JA and have one concern when compared to the one we had picked out from BN. The setting from BN (to us) looks like the first diamond off the center stone on either side is farther to the side, allowing it to be seen better. It seems to us that the first stone on either side of the center stone on JA setting is 1/2 hidden by the center stone. We had actually seen that one and ruled it out previously because of that. Do you think that is a non issue or valid concern? We have discussed possibly going with the JA setting and if we are not satified with the look of it we could return it and have them custom match the other setting at that point. Do you know, if we went ahead with having them custom make the ring would we be able to pick out the side stones or would they just do that as they do with their settings? Thanks for all of your help with this!

Also, we see the clarity rating of the diamonds in the JA is slightly less… any way we could make sure they would be eyeclean?
…….
After doing a little more talking and window shopping at local jewerly stores this weekend we’ve decided we are going to have James Allen match the setting from BN. We are also looking for a center stone between 1.25-1.5. We did some searching through JA site and picked out a few that we thought might be possibilities but wanted your opinion on which are the best/cleanest and best value. Also, if you have any other suggestions, we’d love to look at them!

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-VS2-Premium-Cut-Round-Diamond-1280700.asp

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/G-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1344860.asp

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-VS2-Premium-Cut-Round-Diamond-1347641.asp

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1353926.asp

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-VVS2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1360339.asp
We haven’t asked Jim yet if the quote he gave for matching the setting was with diamonds in the G/H range or the F that BN had on their site. We’re going to have it made with G/H diamonds though.

Hope you had a great weekend.

A: I think that’s a great choice! I don’t know if the price of the ring will be any cheaper for G/H color side stones, but I’m sure they can definitely accomodate that request!

Can I assume that 12,000 is your max budget? I think the stones you picked, for the most part, are really nice. My only suggestion would be to allow some lower clarity stones in the mix. I can help you find ones that will be clean to the naked eye. For example:

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-SI1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1192013.asp

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-SI1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1333866.asp

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1360374.asp

Let me know what you think of those!

Q: Wow! There sure is a lot to get excited about when looking at diamonds. The 3 you sent us were beautiful. Yes, max budget for the diamond is 12,000. Of course if we can get a great looking diamond for less that’s even better. After we sent off that email last night we did find one more that was a lower clarity and wanted to have you look to see if it would be eye clean.

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-SI1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1306843.asp

I guess the question now is where do we go from here. Which of the ones we sent you would you stay away from? Any suggestions as to how to make a decision from the choices we have or should we do more searching for a lower clarity diamond? You have been so extremely helpful in this process!

A: All that’s really left to do is make a decision! You can definitely save a lot of money going with a 1.2ct stone like the one you linked to (which is really nice btw). But going up to a 1.50ct stone will definitely be a noticeable jump in size. It’s about 0.5mm which is very easily noticeable.

Maybe pick your favorite 3 and have JA do a side by side comparison for you?

Q: Wanted to let you know we made a decision. We split the difference on the diamond size. We purchased the 1.36 diamond you had offered as a suggestion.

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1360374.asp

The customs setting has been ordered and will take a couple of weeks for production. Thanks for all your help, we’ll let you know what we think when we receive the ring!

A: Great! I can’t wait to hear your reaction!!

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

Click here to view enlarged image of diamond.

Shape: Round

Cut: Excellent

Carats: 1.51

Diamond Color: I

Diamond Clarity: SI1

Measurements:  7.31*7.37*4.53

Depth: 61.7%

Table: 59%

Diamond Polish: Very Good

Diamond Symmetry:  Excellent

Diamond Fluorescence: None

Diamond Price:$11,100

Click here to be Brought to the Diamond on James Allen

I have a budget of between 5-7K for the stone, and really want to get the best diamond for my money. Leaning towards buying a round diamond in the J color range between 1.25 – 1.5 Ct size. I’ve looking throught a few online vendors.. blue nile / james allen and found 2 i think are winners.

Here’s the 2 I was looking at, but wouuld appreciate any others you think would fit the mold.

This one I almost purchased yesterday, but had it put on hold while evaulating others.

http://www.bluenile.com/round-diamond-1-carat-ideal-cut-j-color-vs2-clarity_LD01904608

This one I found today on James Allen.

http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds-search/diamonds/J-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1341336.asp

thanks ahead of time for you feedback.

A: Thanks for writing and thanks for the kind words about the site!

The JA stone you linked to looks great. I can’t really comment on the BN stone, though, because I can’t see what the VS2 looks like. I was thinking, though, that you’d get more for your money with a stone like this:
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/J-SI1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1343076.asp

It looks to be completely clean to the naked eye in the picture – so there’s no downside to going with an SI1 instead of VS1. The cut is excellent and it’ll save you $740 without giving up anything noticeable.

Let me know what you thinK!

Q: thanks for the response. I really like the one you picked out, just illustrates how important it is to be able to inspect the actual piece before purchasing.

I’m still in the process of looking, but leaning towards the stone you selected, might go slightly bigger if I can find something of the same quality around the 7K mark. Let me know if you have any suggestions.

A: If you wanted to upgrade color, you could go witih this one:
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-SI1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1335851.asp

but honestly, I don’t think it’s worth it.

Q: I slept on that first recommendation and went to purchase it today, but it sold yesterday.

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/J-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1348477.asp

This was the next best I thought in the price range, but @ 11oclock in the internal looks like a big black spot. What do you think? Any other suggestions you can make on what’s avialable?

A: That’s a great stone, and that inclusion won’t be visible to the naked eye. It’s too faint.
This might also be a nice option:
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/J-SI1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1357370.asp

Q: I like that one as well. between the 2, which do you think is the better value? Also what are those squigly looking lines @10oclock?

A: THe SI is the better value. The squiglys are twinning wisps. They won’t be visible to your naked eye.

Q: thanks again. I truly appreciate the help. I think I’m going to bite the bullet and buy it. Your the man, I’ll be sure to leave a nice comment on your site. Now its time to figure out how I’m going to pop the question!

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

I am looking for the ’best’ round brilliant or princess diamond in a 5-6K range, not paticular about clarity or colour (maybe, no less than VS2, I) but I’d like at least 1 carat.

I already have a wedding band so I’d like a raised, yellow gold setting to make sure they go togther.

Could I get your opinion on side gemstones. JA has beautiful rings with a round center diamond and square side rubies. I like this idea because it’s something different from the common solitaire, but I wonder if the side stones detract from the center one. What do you think?

A: Thanks for writing! If you like the color red, then ruby side stones are a great idea! I don’t think they’ll take away from the center stone at all. here’s what i like for your budget (since you’re setting it in yellow gold, I’m going to stick to the lower colors):
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/K-SI1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1320047.asp
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/J-SI1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1346316.asp

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/K-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1331708.asp
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1326994.asp

Let me know what you think!

Q: Thanks!

Of course, I do love the size of the 3rd one! If I were to one day change my setting to white gold, do you think the K colour would be visible? If so, I am likely to go with the 4th one.

Do you give advice about settings? I have decided again gemstones but am thinking of this one: http://www.jamesallen.com/engagement-rings/solitaire-rings/ring/item_57-2442_design.asp?module=setting

do you think the thickness of the band will make the diamond less ‘shiny’?

…….

Can you give me your opinion on this diamond:

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/K-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1317163.asp

It has colour K but medium-blue fluorescene (will that compensate?) and I only see one small mark left of center.

A: Yes, if you changed to white gold, the K color stone would definitely have a noticeable warmth to it.

That setting is very nice. I don’t think the thickness of it would make the diamond less brilliant at all.

…….

A beautiful stone!
Let me know what you decide to go with!

Q: Thanks for your patience with me. I am planning to go with this diamond, but am a but anxious about the colour. Even the loupe seems quite yellow. Do you think the medium fluorescence will put it in the I-J range?

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/K-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1317163.asp

A: The stone looks yellow in the picture because of photograph issues. Even the background behind the diamond looks tinted yellow.

In that ring you chose, that diamond will be a great choice!

Q: Thank you! I am going to go for it!

…….

Do you think this stone:
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/K-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1331708.asp

is worth the extra money over:
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/K-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1317163.asp

(ie. is the extra $400 worth the extra 0.25 carat)?

A: Those are both great stones. The only issue when deciding between them should be which shape do you like better. ie, the princess is only worth the extra money if you want a princess cut!

Q: Don’t know if you recall my diamond search that I had queried you about a couple weeks ago.

Just wanted to let you know that I finally made the purchase today for the http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/K-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1317163.asp
and I did use the discount code.

I am very excited and can’t wait to see it. Really hoping the k colour will not be an issue, especially with medium blue fluorescence.

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

Q: Don’t know if you remember me but I just wanted to let you know that I have finally received my ring and I love it!

Thanks for all your help and for making such a great website.

A: Thanks so much for writing to let me know! That’s very kind of you and I’m very happy for you!

I’m currently in Bahrain with the Navy and am planning on proposing to my girlfriend a few months after I get home (need to have the ring made). She likes a modern-looking ring and is particularly enamored with a platinum half-bezel solitaire setting (I don’t have the link to the site; will get it to you later).

I’ve heard stories of guys who have had diamonds they bought here appraised for significantly more than they paid for them. However, I only have a few more days here and don’t want to pull the trigger too fast just to have a diamond – I just want a beautiful stone that I’ll be glad I bought and that she will love.

I’d like to keep my budget around $6-8k for the stone and ring; more if I have to. My girlfriend hasn’t set any requirements for size or anything, which is nice, but I’m starting my search around 0.90ct and going up to 1.5ct or so. Based on the setting, a round brilliant makes the most sense to me, though a princess cut would be fine (though I’m nervous about there not being an organization that will classify princess cuts).

I’m torn right now because I did find an absolutely beautiful stone last night – a 0.9ct round brilliant, SI1 D GIA certified stone that was absolutely radiant compared to the other stones I saw. The dealer quoted me $3,600 or so for the stone alone, and I feel like I’m paying a lot for the perfect color (which will be relatively unnoticeable once the stone is set) that I could get back in a little more size for the same money.

Any guidance you could provide would be wonderful – thanks in advance.

A: Thanks for writing! I hope I’m able to help. If that dealer was showing you a 0.90ct round diamond for $3600, then that’s an unbeatable deal. It’s so good, in fact, that it makes me wonder if you’re being cheated. If it’s GIA certified with a dossier (small cert), then the girdle of the diamond should be inscribed with the cert number. You should check that to make sure it’s the same diamond on the cert.

Also make sure the cut is at least VG and it doesn’t have strong blue fluorescence.

Let me know what you discover!

Q: I’ll check the diamond tonight – is the laser engraving relatively easy to see on the girdle with 10x magnification? I looked at your loose diamond pricing tool last night as well and from everything I could see, it looked like I was getting the diamond about $700-1000 below comparable stones, which is hard to believe.

I had been planning on going back to buy it yesterday evening, but became engrossed in the rest of your articles. Assuming that the diamond is the one on the cert, I’m thinking that I’m paying a lot for the D color, which will end up being far less important, and could even get a larger stone for roughly the same money.

Again, I’m not part of the “bigger is always better” crowd, but my girlfriend is tall (6′) and wears a size 7 ring, so I don’t want to get her a diamond that’s going to look underwhelming on her. Thoughts?

Last – some of the stones I looked at seemed to positively explode with fire, and others seemed completely lackluster. Obviously the latter I’m staying away from, but what’s the difference with the others? Is it simply the cut is that much better?

Thanks again!

…….

So I returned to the store tonight and confirmed that indeed it is the diamond in question – the ID number on the stone matched the paperwork. However, I also determined that while the stone exhibits no fluorescence, it’s rated a fair cut, not VG like you recommended.

I just looked up the pricing for a similar stone on your website and included the additional fluorescence, polish (rated excellent) and symmetry (rated good), and only two stones were left in the category, one at $4,219 and one at $4,470. Obviously I’m not exactly comparing apples to apples since you don’t have a “Fair” cut option, but equally obvious is the fact that I’m not looking at as great a deal as I initially thought.

I’m probably talking well past my experience level, but the diamond in question is exceptionally brilliant, more so than any of the other stones I’ve looked at in the last few days. There are two conclusions I can draw from this. One possibility is that most of the other diamonds are pretty inferior stones as a whole, so this one simply shines in comparison (there are very few stores here that carry GIA certified diamonds – most are IGI and I’ve been less than impressed with most of them). The other option is that the cut was rated a little low due to it being borderline in some way, which I find hard to believe.

I only have a day left in town, so any advice you could provide would be greatly appreciated. I also haven’t bargained with the proprietor much, and that’s pretty common here–what would be a truly fair price for the stone as it is right now? Of course, if you believe I’m barking up the entirely wrong tree, point me to the right one.

A: Now everything makes more sense. If it’s a “Fair” cut, then the price you were shown is really nothing special. THe reason is simply that a 0.90 with a fair cut is most likely a stone that is cut too deep, so even though it weighs 0.90cts, it’s going to look like a 0.70ct stone. You’d do much much better with your money just buying an ideal cut 0.70ct stone which will be the same size (in terms of diameter) and be much more brilliant. You should most definitely pass on this stone.

For example:
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/D-SI1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1308045.asp

This stone has an “excellent” cut from GIA, and I’m willing to bet that it’s got larger dimensions than the 0.90ct stone you’ve been shown.

Q: Glad I decided to pass before I got your email! You were pretty adamant on the cut quality being there in your email and articles, so I decided to take your word. I don’t have the dimensions of the stone I was looking at in front of me, but I think you’re right – the “excellent” stone from JA has larger dimensions…

Thanks for steering me the right way; I’ll be sure to touch base with you again when I get back to the States and have a chance to look at some more GIA diamonds in person. I’m continuing to read your articles and get smarter about this process for later on.

Thanks again!

A: My pleasure! Stay safe. And if you stop by israel on your way home, you’ve got a cold beer waiting for you!

Q: I’m back – have finally had a chance to look at what my girlfriend likes and have an idea of where to start at least. The ring she’s interested in is linked below:

http://www.turgeonraine.com/detail.asp?pid=1032

I hadn’t been looking at anything except round diamonds before so I’m trying to get a handle on this area. I’m also finding out the proportions of the CZ that’s in the linked picture; will advise when I have that info. She seemed to be picking things with approximately a 1.5 ratio. Right now I’m thinking 0.95-1.49 carats, VS2-SI2 clarity, F-H color. My budget is still $6-8k for the diamond. Any ideas you could give me would be excellent – I appreciate your help.

A: Looks like you got out of Bahrain just in time! What shape is she looking for? In the past we were discussing rounds, but now you said you’re looking for something with a 1.5 ratio.

Q: Ira, thanks for the quick reply! You’re right; I was just talking to my friends about how lucky we were to get out of Manama when we did…

My apologies on not mentioning the actual cut – she’s liking the look of an oval now. Any ideas? Thanks again!

A: Here are some I like:
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/E-SI2-Premium-Cut-Oval-Diamond-1353366.asp – have JA inspect this one. If they say it’s eye clean, then this is a real winner. It’s borderline to me based on its picture.
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/G-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Oval-Diamond-1342819.asp – not quite as elongated, but still very nice.
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/E-VS1-Premium-Cut-Oval-Diamond-1337284.asp – another beauty

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

Q: Thanks for getting back to me so quickly as usual. I’ve got an email in to JA to inspect the first diamond for eye cleanliness; I agree, the quality of the picture isn’t as good and I wonder how much it will really “pop” and scintillate based on that picture.

I had seen the second one but wondered a little about the lower color grade (we’re debating 18k white gold or platinum; my girlfriend is leaning more towards the white gold now) and the inclusions on the right side of the picture. The facet pattern seemed a little odd to me on this one as well, somehow; the clouds of reflections on the sides of the diamond seemed a little off-putting, but what do I know?

We both really like the last one you picked; I think that’s a winner. We’ll talk about it some more and I will definitely let you know how it all turns out. Thanks again for all your expertise and help – you’re truly one of a kind.

A: My pleasure! I look forward to hearing from you!

A: I’m very happy to help. btw, I noticed the 904 area code. My aunt and uncle live in Jax. They’ve got a relatively well known name for that town – Wolfson. I think there’s even a high school named after my Uncle’s father.

So here’s what I like for you:
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Emerald-Diamond-1245440.asp – very slick looking stone
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Emerald-Diamond-1335840.asp
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/G-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Emerald-Diamond-1305493.asp

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

Q: Wolfson is indeed a big name here. There is a children’s hospital and a high school named after your family. Those diamonds all look really nice. In your opinion, what qualities makes the first stone a better pick that the third? The third seems to have better clarity and color with only a slightly higher price tag? By the way, my friend who used you was Allan xxxxx from Tampa, Florida.

A: Wolfson is the family that my father’s sister married into, so I’m only vaguely familiar with the details. I just know it always impresses people from Jax

I didn’t necessarily think the first one was better than the third. I was just really struck with it’s picture when I saw it, so I commented on it. But I do want to correct one thing you wrote – the third stone is a grade higher in color, but it’s a grade lower in clarity.

The 1.77 is significantly larger in terms of LxW. So, in my mind, that pushes it a notch higher than the other two. So I guess after further thought, I do like the first one better than the third.

Q: You’re right, I was incorrect as to the Diamond 3′s clarity. I know clarity is very important with an emerald cut stone, but what about color grade? Will G or H color grade be noticeable/problematic? Basically, I want the all around best diamond around 1.5 ct. that is on budget. I think we may have found a winner with Diamond 1 though. Again, thanks for your time!

A: Clarity is definitely very important with an Emerald. That’s another reason why I think option #1 is better. THe color’s not an issue. You can’t really tell the difference in adjacent color grades with your eye when a stone is mounted in a ring.

Q: Unfortunate news but Diamond 1 sold before I could make a move. I do like the other two, but could you possibly suggest a stone with similar qualities as Diamonds 2 and 3, but VS1 clarity?

A: This one’s nice:
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Emerald-Diamond-1335840.asp

But honestly, I think #3 from the original list might be your best option now.

Q: It’s so hard to make a decision of this magnitude! To provide more context, this will likely be a platinum ring with small pave diamond’s surrounding the center stone and along with band (similar to this http://www.collectibles-articles.com/antique/collectible-image-large/2-70ct-emerald-cut-diamond-engagement-ring-gia-14k-gold_130472554675.jpg). I agree that diamond 3 looks very nice, but my only concern is the VS2 rating. I see the small inclusions in the center left of the stone. I browsed some VS1 options and found these with slightly different measurements.

Diamond 5

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Emerald-Diamond-1314403.asp

Diamond 6

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/G-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Emerald-Diamond-1327058.asp

…….

And I know that I am probably being a little anal about this, but I am trying to maximize value here. I think the stones we have selected place an emphasis on weight, which is what I want. The fact that this is an emerald is just making me cautious about the stone’s clarity.

A: The first one is square. Is that what you want? The 2nd one is very nice. If you’re nervous about the 1.72 H VS2, than you can always have JA inspect it for you and let you know if you can see the VS2 or not.

Q: Diamond 3 from our initial list is the clear favorite. I have requested a JA gemologist inspect Diamond 2, Diamond 3 from the intial list, and the second stone I just sent you. They are holding the stones for 72 hours. Once they get back to me, I think I am going to pull the trigger.

A: sounds like a plan! Please let me know what they say!

Q: I haven’t received the gemologist report yet for the stones mentioned in the previous email, however, I notice that the diamond 1 (the diamond you originally recommended) from our original list is available again. In your opinion, do you still consider that diamond 1 the best available? If so, what makes it more desirable than stone 3? Is it the fact that it is larger with better clarity?

A: Actually, with this stone, it wasn’t anything in particular that drew me to it. Something just looked very slick about it. i think it might have been the larger corners that are at a very steep angle. It just looks like a very nice build.

Q: I am still waiting on the JA gemologist inspection and then I will make a decision likely between diamond 1 and 3. Both seem like great choices. Diamond 1 is slightly larger with better clarity, but a lower color grade (and a great build). Diamond 3 has better color, but smaller and a lower clarity grade (but the inclusions appear to be very faint).

…….

And funny thing, I was browsing your site and found what I am quite sure is your correspondence with my good friend. http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/2010/02/04/qa-skeptical-about-brokering-service-for-2-carat-emerald-cut-ends-up-completely-satisfied/

A:

…….

You can see the name if you click the ivouch link at the bottom.

Q: That’s Allan alright. That was a beautiful stone you found him!

A: It really was! I remember.

Q: Here is the gemologist report. It was mainly between stone 2 and 3 of our original list. Unfortunately, they did not inspect diamond 1 as it was unavailable at that time.

Thank you for your patience while waiting for the gemologist inspection of diamonds 1335840, 1305493, and 1314403.

I have great news, our gemologist has determined that diamond 1335840 has a nice H color performance and is completely eye clean. It was noted by our gemologist that this diamond also has the best light performance of your selections.

Diamond 1305493 has a more rectangular make with corners that have a wider cut. This diamond is predominantly eye clean but the high relief crystal located under the table is not impossible to see. Of your selections, this is the darkest and has the weakest symmetry.

Diamond 1314403 faces eye clean and has a mid to H color performance. Our gemologist feels that this diamond has very good symmetry rather than the excellent grade it was given on its lab certificate. This is an emerald cut diamond that has a square ratio.

I see that you are looking for an emerald cut diamond with a rectangular shape. I believe you will be very happy with diamond 1335840 for that reason and that it will look stunning in any setting. As my colleague Stacy mentioned, we are unable to have additional diamonds placed on hold for inspection due to our three diamond limit per customer. After seeing the gemologist evaluation of diamond 1335840, I don’t believe additional inspections would be fruitful.

Please take a moment to review this information and let me know if you have any additional questions. I have extended your hold on these diamonds for an additional 24 hours while you consider your options. After that time we will release them back to our inventory.

To finalize a purchase, simply call our Customer Service department at 877-826-9866. We are staffed Monday through Friday from 9am-12am (EST), and from 10am-6pm (EST) on Saturdays and Sundays. Please don’t hesitate to contact us with any additional questions. I hope to hear from you soon.

…….

So it’s between 1 and 2 now. I’d love your thoughts when you get a chance. Thanks

A: If they can get #1 inspected soon, then wait, otherwise, I think you’ll be very very happy with #2.

Q: After sleeping on it and speaking with James Allan reps last night, I am going to go with my gut and purchase diamond # 1 even without an inspection report. I will update you when I receive it here in Jacksonville. Again, I want to thank you for all your help and advice on this! You truly provide an incredible service and I wish you all the best!

A: I’m sure it’ll be great! I look forward to hearing your report!

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

Shape: Oval

Click on image for enlarged photo.

Carats: 1.51

Diamond Color: H

Diamond Clarity: VS1

Measurements: 8.52*6.39*4.26

Depth: 66.7%

Table: 54%

Diamond Polish: Very Good

Diamond Symmetry: Very Good

Diamond Fluorescence: Faint

Diamond Price: $9,630

Click here to be Brought to the Diamond on James Allen

I am looking at a fixed budget purchase for the highest quality diamond i can get. that budget is 8000 and down…with 8000 being the most i really want to pay but doesnt mean a nice well balanced 6k diamond is out of the question at all.

I am looking for exclusively Cushion or Radiant diamonds, my real preference being the square cushions and am thinking i can possibly get something around 1.1-1.2 carats, G color (though you recommend slightly higher for these cuts), VS2/SI1…it is going to be set on a white gold ring with two .15 carat pears on the side, and the band tapers into the point on the pears which face away from the center stone.

I look forward to your insight, thank you! I realize the cut makes it more difficult but that is her desire.

A: Thanks for writing. I really think you can go down to an H color, and you’d be very happy. An H will look totally white to your eye. Also, if I can find an eye clean Si2, it would also be a smart thing to go for. Look at what you can get following this advice:

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-SI2-Ideal-Cut-Cushion-Diamond-1341346.asp

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-SI1-Ideal-Cut-Cushion-Diamond-1351002.asp

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/F-SI1-Ideal-Cut-Cushion-Diamond-1324842.asp

Let me know what you think!

Q: Thanks Ira, these are great. I especially like the 1.51C diamond.

What do you think about this one as a comp? i like it all except that the girdle is very thick…any thoughts on that as a trait?

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/G-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Cushion-Diamond-1281552.asp

Also, am i correct in that most jewelers will put the ring together for me if i bring the diamond in (the few ive spoken to have said yes with minimal enthusiasm)…but i am too smart to buy the diamond from them…too much juice on the price.

Thanks

…….

and one more…this diamond caught me real hard in a way none other did. is that center flaw of concern to you? The specs match your reccomendations.

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-SI1-Ideal-Cut-Radiant-Diamond-1289511.asp

A: that is a very nice looking stone. And I think that the inclusion will not be visible to your eye, so I think you’re in the clear!

Q: Thank you! Thats great to know. My finals are between these two; the 1.22 carat is a G but doesnt look as brilliant as the 1.53 H, though i imagine photography has something to do with it. Can i get one final opinion, and then i am going to buy. I assume if i go to the james allen link on your site and put in the chosen diamond’s code, then you will get proper credit for your help?

Thank you Ira

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/G-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Radiant-Diamond-1277232.asp

A: Definitely go for this one:

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-SI1-Ideal-Cut-Radiant-Diamond-1289511.asp

Just click on that link before you buy, and it should get tracked automatically. Just remember to also apply (for your benefit) the TADJ10 coupon code if you buy it with a setting. It’ll give you 10% off the setting only.

Q: Yeah im quite partial to that one. Thanks Ira! You are a truly great resource and educator for this Right of Passage.

A: Sounds great! Let me know how it goes. I’d love to hear your impressions once you see it face to face.

Q: Ira-

just got back home and had diamond waiting for me. It looks great! choosing what looked like the flatest, broaded table on the cushion was a good decision, it has the effect that i had hoped for. i would like to see what E clarity would look like next to it, but all in all i dont think it will be a big deal….great diamond, cut is phenomenal, and that somewhat significant feather inclusion is not noticeable whatsoever.

Thanks!

A: Great news! Do you think you might be able to do me a small favor? If you have the time, do you think you could leave me a short review on ivouch? If you could, I would be very grateful. Here’s a direct link if you can do it:

xxxxxx

Thanks! And congrats!

Q: Done.

[LINK TO REVIEW]

the jeweler was impressed at the deal i got on my diamond…

A: Wow! Thanks so much!

I’m looking for a 1.5-2ct and my budget is around 10-15k USD. I think she would pref round but I’m not sure I don’t want to screw this up like I did with the expensive bag I bought her… she’s not a high-maintenance/materialistic girl but I wanted to make her feel special and it backfired big time!

I was looking at a IF [Internally Flawless] on bluenile to be safe but after reading your site, you have a good point about the industry guilt people into overspending even if it won’t be appreciated. Eye-clean is a really strong point but does it matter in terms of the meaning to say it was IF?

Thanks for your help Ira, I hope you can get back to me with your recommendations but even so, your site has been amazingly helpful already!

I’m truly impressed with your site and yourself. I hope your site continues to grow and take off in popularity and I will lend my support

A: Thanks for your very kind words. My wife is actually 2 years older than me, so I can relate

Now, about your diamond – I don’t understand this question, “Eye-clean is a really strong point but does it matter in terms of the meaning to say it was IF?”

Could you please elaborate on that?

Q: Glad I found someone who can relate!

Sorry about the confusion, what I meant was I was looking at getting a IF diamond (esp if it is online). However reading your points about being ‘eye-clean’ makes a lot of sense since our eyes can’t really tell the difference between IF or FL or VVS1 (depending of course on where inclusion is and if it is black etc.)

Then I spoke to my sister and her point was wouldn’t IF be symbolic of our love? What would getting her a flawed diamond say? Or how would she feel if her friends start gossiping/talking about their rings? So I was wondering what’s your take on that and the value/symbolic meaning of getting a IF diamond.

A: If you believe in symbolism created artificially by a company that profits from the creation of that symbol, then sure, go for it!

(sorry for the sarcasm, but I think you get my point)

Q: Haha touche!

That’s a very potent point there… thanks for that. Your sarcasm is appreciated.

Well that’s exactly why I would greatly appreciate your recommendations on diamonds here Ira. I don’t feel very confident picking out something eye-clean online.

A: :) Here’s my suggestions:

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1335616.asp – Totally eye clean. GIA Triple excellent ideal cut.

for a princess cut:

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1346258.asp – an amazing value for a 2ct H VS1 princess. Great cut.

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/G-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1254904.asp – Another great option.

have a look and let me know what you think!

Q: Wow Ira…

The 2ct VS1 really does stand out!

Not quite sure of the appeal of the 3rd one tho?

A: Yeah, you’re right. The 2ct H VS1 princess is a much better value than the 1.80 G VS1.

Q: I feel convinced about the 2ct princess but I worry because I think she might prefer a round though, are there any other rounds you think are worth looking at?

A: THis might be as close as you can get:

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1351792.asp

Q: Thanks for your recommendations Ira. I was wondering what you think about a 2ct round with a lower colour?

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/K-SI1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1333904.asp

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/J-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1310668.asp

…….

BTW I referred my colleague (Stanley) at work to your site and explained/shared your excellent points about clarity, eye-clean etc. He’s now going to buy a better valued engagement ring from jamesallen.com rather than bluenile – it’s testament to your excellent site and honest and v.experienced advice…

Thanks again for everything Ira

A: Great! make sure to tell him to use the TADJ10 coupon code to get 10% off the setting. Also, have him send me an email if he’d like me to help him find a stone.

…….

I really like this one:

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/J-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1310668.asp

I know it’s a lot more money, but I’m afraid the K would look too warm.

Q: Wow, its perfect!

I think/feel this is the one

A: Sounds great! Let me know how it goes! I would love to hear your impressions after you see it with your own eyes!

Q: Unfortunately that diamond was no longer available when they checked

I’ve been re-looking at diamonds and have spoken to some reps from James Allen.

I was interested in this one:

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/J-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1332481.asp

But their gemologist recommends this one over the above:

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/J-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1354574.asp

I can’t help but feel uncomfortable with the latter, not just given the inclusions but the fact that it is listed as Ideal on their site yet the GIA says Very Good?

Would appreciate your kind (honest) thoughts.

A: I agree with you on this one. I think that first one is a fantastic choice.

Q: Thanks for your advice as always!

The reps from James Allen got back to and I’m about to make a decisions on the two and I just realised I actually I got the links mixed up when I asked for your advice! so sorry!

The first link, 1332481 is the one that had a Very Good cut grade but was listed as Ideal on the site. This is the one they recommended, which is at 9150 (but I’m told should now be higher given change in Rapport Price Index but since they had it on hold, this has not changed).

The second one, 1354574 is Ideal. But they said had the least colour performance compared. This was priced at 8810, but since Rapport Price Index has changed, now is 9250.

Would be very grateful (as always) for your opinion here Ira… I’m told they both have comparable light performance but I’m concerned about 1332481′s cut grade of Very Good and the numerous inclusions shown in it’s GIA report that are on the face. 1354574 has a feather but this is underneath on the pavilion. 1354574 seems like a better choice but the price is now comparable…

I also checked out something called, Holloway Cut Advisor (http://www.pricescope.com/tools/hca/) and 1354574 scores better than 1332481… Maybe I’m over thinking this?

I can’t thank you enough already Ira… sorry my case has taken so long… I can’t wait to finally put my diamond purchasing days behind me…

Thanks so much

A: You know, the truth is you probably wouldn’t be able to see the difference between the two stones if they were in front of you, so I would say to just go with the cheaper one. It’s really splitting hairs at this point. Occasionally, a stone misses an “excellent” cut because of some kind of technicality. It looks like it’s because of the girdle size in this case. So I don’t think you should be afraid of going for the VG stone in this case.

Best of luck!

I am looking for a round brilliant around 1.25ct to 1.50ct. My budget is $6,000 to $7,000 for the center diamond.

I think your advice regarding clarity, color, etc. makes a great deal of sense. I am looking for the best value given my parameters.

I am planning to set it in cushion shaped halo, if that matters.

Thank you so very much for your help with this. It truly is an amazing gift you give people.

A: Thanks for writing and thanks for the kind words about the site!

Do you have a link to the ring you want to purchase? I need to know a bit more about the setting before I go looking for a stone.

Also, you say you want a round stone, but you then mentioned a cushion shaped halo. Could you please elaborate on what you mean by this?

Q: Thanks for the quick response.

There should be a picture of the setting below.

To clarify, it is a cushion shaped halo, which the manufacturer says can hold a round diamond. My girlfriend and I like the halo setting and round stone, but we both like how a cushion shaped halo looks with the round stone. Rather than round stone, round halo. Does this make sense? Do you think this is a bad idea?

Thanks again for your help. You site and service are almost to good to be true.

I am a former attorney who now works with low income public schools, so I am a huge fan of using private knowledge base for public good.

A: That makes more sense now. Could you please do me a favor and find out from the guy making your ring what color the pave stones are?

Q: Sure thing. Thanks

…….

This is from the jeweler:

The color and clarity of the diamonds are G-I color and VS2-SI1 clarity.

Depending on the color of the center diamond we can have them change to what

we need. (I believe the highest color would be E-F and the lowest is I-J.)

A: This is great news! Now we can use an I color and get you the best possible value and not worry about it not matching the ring.

So here’s what I like for you:

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-SI2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1259391.asp

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-SI2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1320132.asp

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-SI1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1319124.asp

Have a look and let me know what you think!

Q: Thanks so much. This is amazingly helpful.

To be honest, as I look at them I am really not sure I know enough to be able to distinguish. To my naive eye:

-the SI1 appears a bit brighter and like it has more facets

-the 1.32 ct SI2 appears brighter than the 1.36ct

-the 1.36 ct SI2 carrot seems like it reflects darker colors in the facets.

Caveats:

-I have no clue if the different appearance is caused by the diamond or the camera.

-I have no clue of any of this would be visible to the naked eye.

At this point my thinking is as follows:

1) I am well within my budget, so if there is any naked-eye quality increase with the SI1, then I am inclined to get it.

2) If there is no naked-eye noticeable difference the three, then I would choose the largest and cheapest, the 1.36ct SI2.

What do you think? Any thoughts about which you would choose if it were you?

Thank you once again.

A: The differences you see are definitely due to the camera and not the diamonds. The pictures are really only good for two things: 1) Getting a feel for the cut (but that’s really something only I could tell because of my experience, and 2) getting a feel for the clarity (ie, is it a nice SI1 or SI2 or not).

Brightness, or color can’t really be perceived in these photos.

I think you’re right. The 1.36 seems the best value. Let me know how it goes!

Q: Gotcha. That makes sense.

And, just to check, the SI2 should be eye-clean?

A: yup

Q: Great. Thanks!

…….

Proposed today! (She said yes.) Thank you so much for your help.

She loves the ring. Says it is more beautiful than she could have ever expected.

Also, I am going to come in under budget. And, she said she is really proud I budgeted for the ring and came in under it.

I can’t thank you enough for all your help. It has been a true blessing.

A: Such wonderful news! I really appreciate you taking your time to let me know the great news!

Thanks again! And may you and your fiance share a long life together filled with health, happiness, and love!