<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?> <rss version="2.0" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/" ><channel><title>Truth About Diamonds &#187; $2500 Budget</title> <atom:link href="http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/tag/2500-budget/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" /><link>http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com</link> <description>Opening the Eyes of the Diamond Consumer</description> <lastBuildDate>Thu, 09 Feb 2012 09:24:25 +0000</lastBuildDate> <language>en</language> <sy:updatePeriod>hourly</sy:updatePeriod> <sy:updateFrequency>1</sy:updateFrequency> <generator>http://wordpress.org/?v=3.3.1</generator> <item><title>Best Princess Cut For Less Than $3,000: 0.86 Carats, H Color, VS1 Clarity, GIA Certified Diamond</title><link>http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/2011/11/27/best-princess-cut-for-less-than-3000-0-86-carats-h-color-vs1-clarity-gia-certified-diamond/</link> <comments>http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/2011/11/27/best-princess-cut-for-less-than-3000-0-86-carats-h-color-vs1-clarity-gia-certified-diamond/#comments</comments> <pubDate>Sun, 27 Nov 2011 10:55:06 +0000</pubDate> <dc:creator>Mike</dc:creator> <category><![CDATA[Daily Diamond]]></category> <category><![CDATA[$2500 Budget]]></category> <category><![CDATA[$3000 Budget]]></category> <category><![CDATA[0.80 ct]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Buying Help]]></category> <category><![CDATA[engagement ring]]></category> <category><![CDATA[eye-clean]]></category> <category><![CDATA[GIA]]></category> <category><![CDATA[H Color]]></category> <category><![CDATA[James Allen]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Princess Cut]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Square]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Very Good Polish]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Very Good Symmetry]]></category> <category><![CDATA[VS1 Clarity]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/?p=4111</guid> <description><![CDATA[This is great deal for a princess cut.  I was looking at 0.90 ct &#8216;I&#8217; color diamonds.  Base on the dimensions, they were virtually identical in size.  Here you get a brighter diamond  and it is 20% cheaper then the 0.90s I saw. Here are the Stats (Or Click Here for a Copy of the GIA [...]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>This is great deal for a princess cut.  I was looking at 0.90 ct &#8216;I&#8217; color diamonds.  Base on the dimensions, they were virtually identical in size.  Here you get a brighter diamond  and it is 20% cheaper then the 0.90s I saw.</p><div id="attachment_4112" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 543px"><a href="http://www.jamesallen.com/diampics/GEM3277pic.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="size-full wp-image-4112 " src="http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/GEM3277pic.jpg" alt="" width="533" height="426" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Click on diamond for enlarged view</p></div><p>Here are the Stats (Or Click Here for a Copy of the<a href="http://www.jamesallen.com/certs/GEM3277cer.jpg" target="_blank"> GIA Certificate</a>):</p><p>Shape: Princess</p><p><a title="Diamond Carat Weight" href="http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/truth-about/diamond-carat-weight/" target="_blank">Carats:</a> 0.86</p><p><a title="Diamond Color" href="http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/truth-about/diamond-color/" target="_blank">Diamond Color:</a> H</p><p><a title="Diamond Clarity" href="http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/truth-about/diamond-clarity/" target="_blank">Diamond Clarity:</a> VS1</p><p>Measurements:  5.15*5.08*3.77</p><p><a href="http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/truth-about/diamond-cut/" target="_blank">Depth</a>: 74.2%</p><p><a href="http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/truth-about/diamond-cut/" target="_blank">Table</a>: 72%</p><p><a title="Diamond Polish" href="http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/truth-about/diamond-polish/" target="_blank">Diamond Polish:</a> Very Good</p><p><a title="Diamond Symmetry" href="http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/truth-about/diamond-symmetry/" target="_blank">Diamond Symmetry:</a>  Very Good</p><p><a title="Diamond Fluorescence" href="http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/truth-about/diamond-fluorescence/" target="_blank">Diamond Fluorescence:</a> None</p><p><a title="Diamond Prices" href="http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/truth-about/diamond-prices/" target="_blank">Diamond Price:</a>$2,640</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h3><strong><a title="James Allen" href="http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-VS1-Premium-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1431294.asp" target="_blank">Click here to be Brought to the Diamond on James Allen</a></strong></h3> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/2011/11/27/best-princess-cut-for-less-than-3000-0-86-carats-h-color-vs1-clarity-gia-certified-diamond/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item><title>Q&amp;A: Confused about Buying Best Princess Cut for ~$2500 Budget</title><link>http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/2011/11/04/qa-confused-about-buying-best-princess-cut-for-2500-budget/</link> <comments>http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/2011/11/04/qa-confused-about-buying-best-princess-cut-for-2500-budget/#comments</comments> <pubDate>Fri, 04 Nov 2011 08:37:46 +0000</pubDate> <dc:creator>DU</dc:creator> <category><![CDATA[Q&A]]></category> <category><![CDATA[$2500 Budget]]></category> <category><![CDATA[0.80 ct]]></category> <category><![CDATA[0.90 ct]]></category> <category><![CDATA[1 carat]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Buying Help]]></category> <category><![CDATA[engagement ring]]></category> <category><![CDATA[eye-clean]]></category> <category><![CDATA[H Color]]></category> <category><![CDATA[I Color]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Ideal Cut]]></category> <category><![CDATA[James Allen]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Princess Cut]]></category> <category><![CDATA[VS1 Clarity]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/?p=3972</guid> <description><![CDATA[Q: I am looking for the best possible Princess cut for roughly around $2700 before the setting. I’ve scoured the James Allen site and came across your site. Wow, I would have wasted money. I was down to my top 3 choices after the gemologist review haha. I want to get the best diamond for [...]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Q: I am looking for the best possible Princess cut for roughly around $2700 before the setting. I’ve scoured the James Allen site and came across your site. Wow, I would have wasted money. I was down to my top 3 choices after the gemologist review haha.</p><p>I want to get the best diamond for my budget.<br /> Has to be a princess cut.<br /> H preferably but if you see an I let me know.<br /> VS1 + for clarity<br /> Budget for loose stone – $2200 – $2700(if I can stay lower than the max, I will be able to get the band she will love)</p><p>Thank you, I really appreciate it. I am on a 24 hour period, where they are holding my diamonds until I make a decision.</p><p>After reading your post, with James allen, I decided the only real contender based on measurements is item number <a href="http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-VS1-Premium-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1305061.asp" target="_blank">1305061</a>.</p><p>I am also looking at <a href="http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-VVS2-Premium-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1329360.asp" target="_blank">1329360</a> but I feel the black in the center is the clarity thing you mentioned in your article. I’m so confused. Could you help me get the best bang for my budget?</p><p><span id="more-3972"></span>A: Very happy to help. Here&#8217;s what I like for you:<br /> <a href="http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1340131.asp" target="_blank">http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1340131.asp</a><br /> <a href="http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-VS1-Premium-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1306966.asp" target="_blank">http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-VS1-Premium-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1306966.asp</a></p><p>Let me know what you think of those! While the ones you suggested are very nice, I think these two I suggested offer you much better value.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Q: Hmm, the <a href="http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1340131.asp" target="_blank">1340131</a> was one of my top choices, it looked the clearest and based on the magnification, I couldn&#8217;t spot anything but the dark center. Wow, so this diamond is better than an H color? The other option is also nice, but I am trying to get the measurements as close to a 1ct as possible haha.</p><p>&#8230;&#8230;.</p><p>If I upped the amount to say max 2700, would you have any other suggestions? Thinking of changing the setting and trying to get a bigger stone. Thanks.</p><p>&#8230;&#8230;.</p><p>Never mind Ira, I am going to stick to your 1st choice. I am hesitant being that the color is an I, but based off your reviews, I am going to trust your judgement. You obviously know what you are doing. I will keep you posted. Thanks a bunch.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A: Sounds great! Please let me know what you think when it arrives!</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/2011/11/04/qa-confused-about-buying-best-princess-cut-for-2500-budget/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>5</slash:comments> </item> <item><title>Q&amp;A: Round Diamond for Custom Two-Toned Engagement Ring</title><link>http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/2011/10/26/qa-round-diamond-for-custom-two-toned-engagement-ring/</link> <comments>http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/2011/10/26/qa-round-diamond-for-custom-two-toned-engagement-ring/#comments</comments> <pubDate>Wed, 26 Oct 2011 06:47:41 +0000</pubDate> <dc:creator>DU</dc:creator> <category><![CDATA[Q&A]]></category> <category><![CDATA[$2500 Budget]]></category> <category><![CDATA[$3000 Budget]]></category> <category><![CDATA[$3500 Budget]]></category> <category><![CDATA[0.85 carat]]></category> <category><![CDATA[0.90 ct]]></category> <category><![CDATA[1 carat]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Buying Help]]></category> <category><![CDATA[engagement ring]]></category> <category><![CDATA[eye-clean]]></category> <category><![CDATA[GIA]]></category> <category><![CDATA[H Color]]></category> <category><![CDATA[I Color]]></category> <category><![CDATA[I1 Clarity]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Ideal Cut]]></category> <category><![CDATA[J Color]]></category> <category><![CDATA[James Allen]]></category> <category><![CDATA[k color]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Round Brilliant]]></category> <category><![CDATA[SI1 Clarity]]></category> <category><![CDATA[SI2 Clarity]]></category> <category><![CDATA[VS1 Clarity]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/?p=3962</guid> <description><![CDATA[Q: Would you be able to help me source a stone 0.90 -1.00ct, colour H-K, ideal cut. I’m helping my sister’s fiance find a stone within a reasonable budget. Maybe 2.5-3.5k. The ring will be custom made with two tones of gold, white and yellow. I was having a browse in jamesallen and these are [...]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Q: Would you be able to help me source a stone 0.90 -1.00ct, colour H-K, ideal cut.<br /> I’m helping my sister’s fiance find a stone within a reasonable budget. Maybe 2.5-3.5k. The ring will be custom made with two tones of gold, white and yellow.</p><p>I was having a browse in jamesallen and these are the stones I came up with.</p><p><a href="http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/K-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1317175.asp" target="_blank">http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/K-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1317175.asp</a></p><p><a href="http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/K-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1282203.asp" target="_blank">http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/K-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1282203.asp</a></p><p><a href="http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/K-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1331287.asp" target="_blank">http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/K-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1331287.asp</a></p><p><a href="http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/K-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1334675.asp" target="_blank">http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/K-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1334675.asp</a></p><p>I’ve only really looked at K colour. Do you think it’ll be fine? Will it show it much?</p><p><span id="more-3962"></span>A: Can you describe the ring a bit more? Will the yellow gold be in the basket holding the stone?</p><p>As for the stones you linked to, I like this one the best:<br /> <a href="http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/K-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1317175.asp" target="_blank">http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/K-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1317175.asp</a></p><p>Simply because it&#8217;s the cheapest. They&#8217;re all so similar, you probably wouldn&#8217;t be able to distinguish one from the other.</p><p>Get back to me about the ring. I might be able to find some better options for you once I understand the ring better.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Q: My sister likes this ring setting<br /> <a href="http://www.markschneiderdesign.com/company-info/bridaldetail/1/bedazzle.html" target="_blank">http://www.markschneiderdesign.com/company-info/bridaldetail/1/bedazzle.html</a></p><p>it&#8217;s the design with the two tone that she likes</p><p>I found stones that are only premium cut.</p><p><a href="http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/K-SI1-Premium-Cut-Round-Diamond-1331266.asp" target="_blank">http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/K-SI1-Premium-Cut-Round-Diamond-1331266.asp</a></p><p><a href="http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/K-VS2-Premium-Cut-Round-Diamond-1192956.asp" target="_blank">http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/K-VS2-Premium-Cut-Round-Diamond-1192956.asp</a></p><p>If she like the diamond to be as sparkly, are these any different?</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A: Yeah definitely a difference. It&#8217;s worth it to stick with Ideal.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Q: Browsing through 0.90-1.00ct stones:<br /> Which one would you recommend out of the following?</p><p><a href="http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/K-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1342368.asp" target="_blank">http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/K-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1342368.asp</a></p><p><a href="http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/K-SI1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1331725.asp" target="_blank">http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/K-SI1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1331725.asp</a></p><p><a href="http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/K-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1317157.asp" target="_blank">http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/K-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1317157.asp</a></p><p><a href="http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/K-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1330993.asp" target="_blank">http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/K-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1330993.asp</a></p><p><a href="http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/K-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1282203.asp" target="_blank">http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/K-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1282203.asp</a></p><p>also will they suit this setting even though they are K coloured stones<br /> <a href="http://www.markschneiderdesign.com/company-info/bridaldetail/1/bedazzle.html" target="_blank">http://www.markschneiderdesign.com/company-info/bridaldetail/1/bedazzle.html</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A: A K color will be fine as long as you&#8217;re comfortable with the fact that the stone will show some warmth &#8211; that it won&#8217;t be a bright icy white.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Q: I asked a local jeweller to show me a K coloured stone. I don&#8217;t think my sister will like that tint of yellow<br /> Will a &#8216;J&#8217; colour be better or is it safer to go for an I colour?</p><p>What is your opinion on this stone?<br /> according to james allen its 0.95, F colour, clarity I, very good cut (even though they said it&#8217;s ideal)<br /> <a href="http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/F-I1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1240092.asp" target="_blank">http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/F-I1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1240092.asp</a><br /> will that black inclusion be obvious? Will it still be eye clean?</p><p>this one is 0.91, J colour, SI2, again very good cut<br /> <a href="http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/J-SI2-Premium-Cut-Round-Diamond-1208031.asp" target="_blank">http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/J-SI2-Premium-Cut-Round-Diamond-1208031.asp</a></p><p>thank you for the expertise</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A: The black inclusion on the F I1 will definitely be noticeable unfortunately.</p><p>The J SI2 looks nice, though. Should be eye clean. I also think it will look white enough for you.</p><p>Was the K color stone you saw GIA certified?</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Q: I forgot to ask what certification they used for the K coloured stone. It was so obviously yellow even when mounted on white gold setting.</p><p>Found three more stones.</p><p><a href="http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/J-SI2-Premium-Cut-Round-Diamond-1213175.asp" target="_blank">http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/J-SI2-Premium-Cut-Round-Diamond-1213175.asp</a></p><p><a href="http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/F-I1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1350993.asp" target="_blank">http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/F-I1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1350993.asp</a></p><p><a href="http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-I1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1297369.asp" target="_blank">http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-I1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1297369.asp</a><br /> this third one. if my sister sets in in 6 prong, will it hide the side inclusions?</p><p>If I had to rank what my sister will notice when she gets her ring, she&#8217;ll notice the size (carat) first, then the sparkle (cut) then colour, lastly the clarity.<br /> Is that any help?</p><p>thank you</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A: I like this one the best:<br /> <a href="http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/J-SI2-Premium-Cut-Round-Diamond-1213175.asp" target="_blank">http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/J-SI2-Premium-Cut-Round-Diamond-1213175.asp</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Q: The stone your suggested was sold.<br /> Anyway.<br /> What do you think of this one:<br /> <a href="http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-SI2-Premium-Cut-Round-Diamond-1355256.asp" target="_blank">http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-SI2-Premium-Cut-Round-Diamond-1355256.asp</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A: I think it&#8217;s very nice! Go for it. Looks like it&#8217;ll certainly be eye clean!</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Q: Thank you for all the help. Went ahead to the purchase of the 0.85ct stone.<br /> <a href="http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-SI2-Premium-Cut-Round-Diamond-1355256.asp" target="_blank">http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-SI2-Premium-Cut-Round-Diamond-1355256.asp</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A: Great! Congrats! Please let me know what you think when it arrives!</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/2011/10/26/qa-round-diamond-for-custom-two-toned-engagement-ring/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item><title>Best Round Brilliant Cut Diamond for $2,500; 0.75 Carats, J Color, VS2 Clarity, GIA Certified Excellent Cut.</title><link>http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/2011/10/10/best-round-brilliant-cut-diamond-for-2500-0-75-carats-j-color-vs2-clarity-gia-certified-excellent-cut/</link> <comments>http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/2011/10/10/best-round-brilliant-cut-diamond-for-2500-0-75-carats-j-color-vs2-clarity-gia-certified-excellent-cut/#comments</comments> <pubDate>Mon, 10 Oct 2011 10:02:54 +0000</pubDate> <dc:creator>Mike</dc:creator> <category><![CDATA[Daily Diamond]]></category> <category><![CDATA[$2000 Budget]]></category> <category><![CDATA[$2500 Budget]]></category> <category><![CDATA[$3000 Budget]]></category> <category><![CDATA[0.70 ct]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Buying Help]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Excellent Cut]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Excellent Polish]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Excellent Symmetry]]></category> <category><![CDATA[eye-clean]]></category> <category><![CDATA[GIA]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Ideal Cut]]></category> <category><![CDATA[J Color]]></category> <category><![CDATA[James Allen]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Round Brilliant]]></category> <category><![CDATA[VS2 Clarity]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/?p=3933</guid> <description><![CDATA[This is a great diamond on a budget.  The cut on this diamond is beautiful, and the inclusions are a faint grey, so they will be eye-clean.  The faint fluorescence is an olive in the martini (just a little bonus). Here are the Stats (Or Click Here for a Copy of the GIA Certificate): Shape: [...]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>This is a great diamond on a budget.  The cut on this diamond is beautiful, and the inclusions are a faint grey, so they will be eye-clean.  The faint fluorescence is an olive in the martini (just a little bonus).</p><p>Here are the Stats (Or Click Here for a Copy of the <a title="GIA Certificate" href="http://www.jamesallen.com/certs/EBADS-14814cer.jpg" target="_blank">GIA Certificate</a>):</p><div id="attachment_3935" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 542px"><a href="http://www.jamesallen.com/diampics/EBADS-14814pic.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="size-full wp-image-3935 " src="http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/EB20923pic1.jpg" alt="" width="532" height="426" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Click on image for magnified view.</p></div><p>Shape: Round</p><p><a href="http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/truth-about/diamond-cut/" target="_blank">Cut:</a> Excellent</p><p><a title="Diamond Carat Weight" href="http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/truth-about/diamond-carat-weight/" target="_blank">Carats:</a> 0.75</p><p><a title="Diamond Color" href="http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/truth-about/diamond-color/" target="_blank">Diamond Color:</a> J</p><p><a title="Diamond Clarity" href="http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/truth-about/diamond-clarity/" target="_blank">Diamond Clarity:</a> VS2</p><p>Measurements: 5.80*5.82*3.63</p><p><a href="http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/truth-about/diamond-cut/" target="_blank">Depth</a>: 62.4%</p><p><a href="http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/truth-about/diamond-cut/" target="_blank">Table</a>: 57%</p><p><a title="Diamond Polish" href="http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/truth-about/diamond-polish/" target="_blank">Diamond Polish:</a> Ecellent</p><p><a title="Diamond Symmetry" href="http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/truth-about/diamond-symmetry/" target="_blank">Diamond Symmetry:</a> Excellent</p><p><a title="Diamond Fluorescence" href="http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/truth-about/diamond-fluorescence/" target="_blank">Diamond Fluorescence:</a> Faint</p><p><a title="Diamond Prices" href="http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/truth-about/diamond-prices/" target="_blank">Diamond Price:</a> $2,550</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h3><strong><a title="James Allen" href="http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/J-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1422994.asp" target="_blank">Click here to be Brought to the Diamond on James Allen</a></strong></h3> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/2011/10/10/best-round-brilliant-cut-diamond-for-2500-0-75-carats-j-color-vs2-clarity-gia-certified-excellent-cut/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>3</slash:comments> </item> <item><title>Q&amp;A: Advice on Buying Princess Diamond for $2500 Budget</title><link>http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/2011/09/11/qa-advice-on-buying-princess-diamond-for-2500-budget/</link> <comments>http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/2011/09/11/qa-advice-on-buying-princess-diamond-for-2500-budget/#comments</comments> <pubDate>Sun, 11 Sep 2011 07:08:50 +0000</pubDate> <dc:creator>DU</dc:creator> <category><![CDATA[Q&A]]></category> <category><![CDATA[$2500 Budget]]></category> <category><![CDATA[0.70 ct]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Buying Help]]></category> <category><![CDATA[G Color]]></category> <category><![CDATA[GIA]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Ideal Cut]]></category> <category><![CDATA[James Allen]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Princess Cut]]></category> <category><![CDATA[VS2 Clarity]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/?p=3742</guid> <description><![CDATA[Q: I have a question regarding a Princess Diamond, just to know if it is a Good Stone… My budget is around 2500usd… Here are the Specs of the stone please let me know if it’s worth to buy it, the Cost is 2400usd… Princess Diamond Carat.- 0.70 Color.- G Clarity.- VS2 Measurement.- 4.73×4.74×3.6 Depth: 76.1% [...]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Q: I have a question regarding a Princess Diamond, just to know if it is a Good Stone… My budget is around 2500usd…</p><p>Here are the Specs of the stone please let me know if it’s worth to buy it, the Cost is 2400usd…</p><p>Princess Diamond</p><p>Carat.- 0.70</p><p>Color.- G</p><p>Clarity.- VS2</p><p>Measurement.- 4.73×4.74×3.6</p><p>Depth: 76.1%</p><p>Table: 68%</p><p>Gridle: Slightly Thick to Very Thick</p><p>Polish: Excellent</p><p>Symmetry: Very Good</p><p>I appreciate a lot your comments… THANKS A LOT!!!</p><p><span id="more-3742"></span>A: What kind of certificate does the stone have?</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Q: GIA</p><p>&#8230;&#8230;.</p><p>Thanks for answering. =D</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A: It&#8217;s not a nice cut (too deep), and it&#8217;s too expensive.  See these for comparison:</p><p><a href="http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/G-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1292760.asp" target="_blank">http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/G-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1292760.asp</a></p><p><a href="http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/G-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1335356.asp" target="_blank">http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/G-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1335356.asp</a></p><p>This one&#8217;s really special:</p><p><a href="http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/G-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1347453.asp" target="_blank">http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/G-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1347453.asp</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Q: Excellent!!!</p><p>Thanks a lot!!! I think they are charging me (Jewlery) for taking the stone here into Mexico&#8230;</p><p>I&#8217;ll try to get the 0.75ct It&#8217;s a very nice Stone!! Thanks!</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A: Great!  Let me know what you think when it arrives!</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/2011/09/11/qa-advice-on-buying-princess-diamond-for-2500-budget/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item><title>Q&amp;A: Best Round Diamond for $2500-$3000 Budget</title><link>http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/2011/08/04/qa-best-round-diamond-for-2500-3000-budget/</link> <comments>http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/2011/08/04/qa-best-round-diamond-for-2500-3000-budget/#comments</comments> <pubDate>Thu, 04 Aug 2011 08:15:39 +0000</pubDate> <dc:creator>DU</dc:creator> <category><![CDATA[Q&A]]></category> <category><![CDATA[$2500 Budget]]></category> <category><![CDATA[$3000 Budget]]></category> <category><![CDATA[0.75 carat]]></category> <category><![CDATA[0.90 ct]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Buying Help]]></category> <category><![CDATA[eye-clean]]></category> <category><![CDATA[G Color]]></category> <category><![CDATA[H Color]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Ideal Cut]]></category> <category><![CDATA[James Allen]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Round Brilliant]]></category> <category><![CDATA[SI1 Clarity]]></category> <category><![CDATA[VS1 Clarity]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/?p=3650</guid> <description><![CDATA[Q: Shopping for a diamond is not my idea of fun but a man does what a man has to do… I guess I am looking for a round diamond .75-.90 ct, G-H clarity with no visible inclusions for about $2,500-$3,000 (or slightly more if it is a good deal). Do you think any of these [...]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Q: Shopping for a diamond is not my idea of fun but a man does what a man has to do… I guess I am looking for a round diamond .75-.90 ct, G-H clarity with no visible inclusions for about $2,500-$3,000 (or slightly more if it is a good deal).</p><p>Do you think any of these are good buys?</p><p><a href="http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-SI1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1350248.asp" target="_blank">http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-SI1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1350248.asp</a></p><p><a href="http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1345123.asp" target="_blank">http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1345123.asp</a></p><p><a href="http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/G-SI1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1345266.asp" target="_blank">http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/G-SI1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1345266.asp</a></p><p>Any other suggestions? Many thanks for your help.</p><p><span id="more-3650"></span>A: For someone who doesn&#8217;t enjoy it, you certainly did a great job! Those are three very nice stones.  Out of the three, I like this one the best:</p><p><a href="http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-SI1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1350248.asp" target="_blank">http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-SI1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1350248.asp</a></p><p>Simply because it&#8217;s the cheapest.  The three stones would be virtually identical to you if they were in front of you now, so you might as well go with the one that will cost you the least.</p><p>Let me know what you think!</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Q: I very much appreciate your advice. I went ahead and bought the one you&#8217;d suggested. I also used a TADJ10 coupon for the setting.</p><p>You are running a great website. Good luck!</p><p>All the best</p><p>P.S. Loved your family pictures. Looks like you are blessed with beautiful kids&#8230;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A: Thanks for letting me know and thanks for the compliments on the pics <img src='http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif' alt=':)' class='wp-smiley' /></p><p>Please let me know what you think when the stone arrives!</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/2011/08/04/qa-best-round-diamond-for-2500-3000-budget/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item><title>Q&amp;A: Looking for Square Radiant with Sparkle</title><link>http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/2011/05/01/qa-looking-for-square-radiant-with-sparkle/</link> <comments>http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/2011/05/01/qa-looking-for-square-radiant-with-sparkle/#comments</comments> <pubDate>Sun, 01 May 2011 06:18:29 +0000</pubDate> <dc:creator>DU</dc:creator> <category><![CDATA[Q&A]]></category> <category><![CDATA[$2000 Budget]]></category> <category><![CDATA[$2500 Budget]]></category> <category><![CDATA[0.5 carat]]></category> <category><![CDATA[1 carat]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Buying Help]]></category> <category><![CDATA[eye-clean]]></category> <category><![CDATA[G Color]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Polish]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Radiant Cut]]></category> <category><![CDATA[rectangle cut]]></category> <category><![CDATA[SI1 Clarity]]></category> <category><![CDATA[SI2 Clarity]]></category> <category><![CDATA[square cut]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Symmetry]]></category> <category><![CDATA[VS1 Clarity]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/?p=3453</guid> <description><![CDATA[Q: I am looking at having a custom engagement ring and wedding band made but am still chewing on the best center diamond for the engagement ring. The diamond style of choice is radiant but as you have so aptly pointed out on your website, there is no ”official” grading system that is consistent for all [...]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Q: I am looking at having a custom engagement ring and wedding band made but am still chewing on the best center diamond for the engagement ring. The diamond style of choice is radiant but as you have so aptly pointed out on your website, there is no ”official” grading system that is consistent for all diamond shapes.</p><p>My main trouble right now is related to the optimum table/depth percentages for a radiant diamond. I am fairly comfortable with the other baseline characteristics (VS1 or better, H or better, VG cut or better, 0.5-1 carat) that I have been looking at.</p><p>I realize that light performance related to how light moves around the diamond is very key to how it looks hence the table/depth question.</p><p>Additionally the center diamond will be mounted down into a setting with surrounding diamonds similar to the Tiffany Novo or Ben Bridge #10811669 setting. The primary difference between what I am looking to have made and the examples is that the center diamond will not stick up as far since I don’t want it getting caught and the ring damaged (my girlfriend is a teacher).</p><p>My budget right now is the 2-2.5K range for the center diamond (The settings custom made with the jewelers I have talked to are averaging 1.5K).</p><p>Any advice about the table/depth, etc is greatly appreciated. If you have additional concerns regarding the light performance with the center diamond being more captive than usual, please feel free to let me know.</p><p>Thank you</p><p><span id="more-3453"></span>A: Thanks for writing!  Quick question to start &#8211; do you want a rectangular or square radiant?</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Q: Oopse, forgot to include that detail.  Square radiant is what i&#8217;m looking for.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A: The thing with radiants is, there are so many different looks to them that you really do need to see at least a picture of the stone before you decide.  Before I go and send you suggestions, though, I have to ask &#8211; why are you set on such a high clarity grade?  Are you open to dropping down a few notches provided that the stone is still &#8220;eye clean?&#8221;  Clarity (as long as the stone in question is eye clean) has no affect on brilliance.  So an eye clean SI2 and a VS1 will look identical provided all else is equal.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Q: The VS1 clarity was just an average after looking on the web at various different example images against overall price therefore using VS1 as a guide just became habit as part of a smaller center diamond.  I am open to lower clarity diamonds that are eye clean.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A: I took a look, and honestly I couldn&#8217;t find a single square radiant in your price range that looked decent.  Please check back with me in a week or so, and I&#8217;ll take another look for you.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Q: I have also noticed that when I really search for something close to square, the options become few and far between.</p><p>I ran across the link below regarding overall size and structure for radiant diamonds.  What are your thoughts on the information listed?</p><p><a href="http://www.lumeradiamonds.com/diamond-education/radiant-cut-diamond" target="_blank">http://www.lumeradiamonds.com/diamond-education/radiant-cut-diamond</a></p><p>I also came across these articles while composing this email:</p><p><a href="http://www.gemappraisers.com/images/chrt3.jpg" target="_blank">http://www.gemappraisers.com/images/chrt3.jpg</a></p><p><a href="http://www.diamondarticles.com/diamond-proportions.php" target="_blank">http://www.diamondarticles.com/diamond-proportions.php</a></p><p>I have changed my search parameters to the following:</p><p>Carat: 0.5-1.1</p><p>Cut: Ex-VG</p><p>Color: D-H</p><p>Clarity: IF-SI2</p><p>Symmetry: Ex-VG</p><p>Depth: 60-70%</p><p>Table: 60-70%</p><p>Length/Wdth: 1.00-1.03</p><p>Fluorescence: None-Faint</p><p>Right now Eternity &amp; BlueNile seem to have the most options within the above parameters but of course they don&#8217;t show pictures of the actual diamonds <img src='http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_sad.gif' alt=':(' class='wp-smiley' /></p><p>Meeting with a few different jewelers over the next week.</p><p>Thank you again for looking around and helping clarify things!</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A: Lumera has to claim that you can evaluate cut by numbers alone because they sell blind &#8211; without pics.  This might be true with rounds and princess and maybe emeralds, but 100% not the case with radiants and the other fancy shapes (marquise, oval, pear, etc)</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Q: I have been to several jewelers and am still looking around online at diamonds.</p><p>This popped up recently on James Allen</p><p><a href="http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/G-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Radiant-Diamond-1335292.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357" target="_blank">http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/G-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Radiant-Diamond-1335292.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357</a></p><p>What do you think?</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A: Wow. That&#8217;s a beautiful looking radiant!</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Q: I like it a lot!</p><p>The crystal at the 8:00 position in the center is rather obvious but quite small.  I&#8217;m surprised that it has as many notes on the clarity but is still a VS1.</p><p>Is this due to the Cloud, Needle, Pinpoint being towards the sides near the girdle?  If this diamond is excellent polish, why would they mark Finish in the clarity characteristics?</p><p>Sorry for all the questions, just trying to make sure that I am thinking about things correctly.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A: That spot in the center is not even anywhere close to being eye visible.  I&#8217;m not even sure it&#8217;s an actual inclusion.  It might just be a dust particle.  VS1s usually aren&#8217;t visible with the virtual loupe.</p><p>&#8220;Finish&#8221; isn&#8217;t part of the clarity characteristics.  Finish is the heading of the next section of the cert.  Polish and Symmetry are the details of the heading &#8220;Finish.&#8221;</p><p>See here:</p><p><a href="http://gia.edu/image_resources/flash/Diamond-Dossier-Reports.swf" target="_blank">http://gia.edu/image_resources/flash/Diamond-Dossier-Reports.swf</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Q: Wow I feel stupid for not realizing that <img src='http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif' alt=':)' class='wp-smiley' /></p><p>I ordered the diamond and called in to make sure that they know you were the one who referred me to them so that they can get you your referral bonus.</p><p>Thank you again for all your help and knowledge!</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A: Thanks! Did you get the ring yet?</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Q: The ring is currently being custom built right now.  It is expected to be done just after thanksgiving and if all goes well I will be proposing on December 3rd.</p><p>Thank you again for all your help and guidance.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A: But you saw the diamond already, right?  What did you think!?!?!</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Q: Yes I received it last Monday and immediately opened the box to see how the light moves in natural sunlight.  At the jeweler&#8217;s I looked at it under a 40x microscope and it looks great!  The imperfections are so small and spread out so there isn&#8217;t any one noticeable &#8220;spot&#8221; and the scintillation/sparkle is impressive.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A: fantastic to hear!  Do you think you might be able to leave me a short review on ivouch?  If you found the time and energy, I would be most grateful!</p><p>Thanks! And congratulations!!!</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Q: <a href="http://www.ivouch.com/truthaboutdiamonds-com/incredibly-helpful-intelligent-and-honest-guidance-on-diamon">http://www.ivouch.com/truthaboutdiamonds-com/incredibly-helpful-intelligent-and-honest-guidance-on-diamon</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A: Wow!  You really went above and beyond the call of duty!  Thank you VERY VERY much!</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/2011/05/01/qa-looking-for-square-radiant-with-sparkle/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>2</slash:comments> </item> <item><title>Q&amp;A: Buying Emerald Cut Diamond in the UK</title><link>http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/2011/01/29/qa-buying-emerald-cut-diamond-in-the-uk/</link> <comments>http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/2011/01/29/qa-buying-emerald-cut-diamond-in-the-uk/#comments</comments> <pubDate>Sat, 29 Jan 2011 07:06:46 +0000</pubDate> <dc:creator>DU</dc:creator> <category><![CDATA[Q&A]]></category> <category><![CDATA[$2500 Budget]]></category> <category><![CDATA[0.50 ct]]></category> <category><![CDATA[0.60 ct]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Buying Help]]></category> <category><![CDATA[D Color]]></category> <category><![CDATA[E Color]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Emerald Cut]]></category> <category><![CDATA[F Color]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Ideal Cut]]></category> <category><![CDATA[UK]]></category> <category><![CDATA[VAT]]></category> <category><![CDATA[VS1 Clarity]]></category> <category><![CDATA[VVS1 Clarity]]></category> <category><![CDATA[VVS2 Clarity]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/?p=3116</guid> <description><![CDATA[Q: Your website has provided me with some valuable advice, I really knew nothing before visiting it. I’m looking to purchase a ring, I’m UK based and have a £1,500 ring budget. I’ve seen this diamond: http://www.bluenile.co.uk/build-your-own-diamond-ring forceStep=DIAMONDS_STEP&#38;track=tab#diamonds_forceStep=DIAMONDS_STEP&#124;builder=BYOR&#124;pid=LD01195010 which seems to be a good balance of price/carat/cut/colour/clarity. What do you think? Many thanks A: Thanks for writing [...]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Q: Your website has provided me with some valuable advice, I really knew nothing before visiting it. I’m looking to purchase a ring, I’m UK based and have a £1,500 ring budget.</p><p>I’ve seen this diamond:</p><p><a href="http://www.bluenile.co.uk/build-your-own-diamond-ring forceStep=DIAMONDS_STEP&amp;track=tab#diamonds_forceStep=DIAMONDS_STEP|builder=BYOR|pid=LD01195010" target="_blank">http://www.bluenile.co.uk/build-your-own-diamond-ring forceStep=DIAMONDS_STEP&amp;track=tab#diamonds_forceStep=DIAMONDS_STEP|builder=BYOR|pid=LD01195010</a></p><p>which seems to be a good balance of price/carat/cut/colour/clarity. What do you think?</p><p>Many thanks</p><p><span id="more-3116"></span>A: Thanks for writing and the kind words about the site!  That stone looks nice, but I think you could do a little better on the cut.</p><p>This stone, for example, costs a little bit more, but it will look MUCH larger than the one you selected on BN:</p><p><a href="http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1174409.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357" target="_blank">http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1174409.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357</a></p><p>let me know what you think!</p><p><br class="spacer_" /></p><p>Q: Thanks for your swift response.</p><p>That stone looks lovely, the only issue is that being UK based, buying from the US adds around 20-25% to the price in the form of VAT and Duty, which unfortunately pushes the stone outside of my price range. I don&#8217;t believe James Allen have a UK operation, which is why I&#8217;ve been using Blue Nile. This is a shame though as the Virtual Loupe is a killer feature on the JA website.</p><p>Do you know of any similar organisations with UK-specific websites?</p><p><br class="spacer_" /></p><p>A: Don&#8217;t be fooled by BN UK &#8211; you&#8217;re going to have to pay the same VAT &amp; duty from them as well.  Their diamonds are not local, they&#8217;re all being imported.</p><p><a href="http://www.bluenile.co.uk/glossary.jsp?word=vat" target="_blank">http://www.bluenile.co.uk/glossary.jsp?word=vat</a></p><p><br class="spacer_" /></p><p>Q: Huge thanks for this, I genuinely hadn&#8217;t noticed.</p><p>Reading the UK tax website has told me that the only difference between the prices now will be a c5% import &amp; customs duty, on James Allen (although Blue Nile&#8217;s price doesn&#8217;t include VAT, the fact that it is a UK registered business means a ring purchase from them won&#8217;t count as personal import). 5% isn&#8217;t a huge amount though, and to me a price worth paying for the benefit of the virtual loupe which takes a good deal of the risk out of the purchase.</p><p>Buying a ring from the US will be a nice touch actually, my partner has a huge affinity for the US and has a lot of friends in Chicago.</p><p>To further complicate matters, I thought I would get in touch with one of my partner&#8217;s friends who is convinced that she would prefer an Emerald Cut to a Princess Cut. Apparently there was a lovely emerald cut ring in Sex And The City a few years ago which she loved.</p><p>I&#8217;ll go back to James Allen and see what I can find!</p><p>Thanks again.</p><p>&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;..</p><p>I have found this emerald cut stone:</p><p><a href="http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-VVS2-Ideal-Cut-Emerald-Diamond-1315607.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357" target="_blank">http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-VVS2-Ideal-Cut-Emerald-Diamond-1315607.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357</a></p><p>What do you think?</p><p>Regarding my budget I&#8217;m going to up it a little bit. I&#8217;m aiming for stone and setting for $2,500, this will mean that the fully landed cost (shipping, VAT, Duty, etc.) to me in the UK is £2,000. I&#8217;d love to spend more, but my partner isn&#8217;t currently working and is expecting our first child. James Allen does operate an upgrade service though, so if funds become available further down the line&#8230;</p><p>Regards</p><p><br class="spacer_" /></p><p>A: Send me an email on Sunday, and I&#8217;ll gladly help you find an Emerald.  It&#8217;s a Jewish holiday tonight and tomorrow, so I don&#8217;t have any time now.</p><p>Btw, do you have any friends/family flying in from the US in the next few weeks?  You could always try to smuggle it in yourself.  It&#8217;s very easy &#8211; someone just needs to wear it.</p><p><br class="spacer_" /></p><p>Q: Many thanks, I will send an e-mail on Sunday.</p><p>My sister happens to be travelling back from the States just in time for Christmas. I think this could be a perfect opportunity!</p><p>Kind regards</p><p>&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;</p><p>Following on from last week, I have done a little digging, and had one of my partner&#8217;s friends do a bit of &#8216;undercover&#8217; work. It turns out that this was a good idea. I&#8217;m basically now looking for an emerald cut diamond. My budget for the diamond is $2,000 dollars or thereabouts, for a total ring value in the region of $2,500. This will land in the UK at a cost to me of about £2,000 (by my calculations.</p><p>I would appreciate any guidance you can give me</p><p>&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;</p><p>Did a bit of digging myself on James Allen, what do you think of the following few:</p><p><a href="http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/F-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Emerald-Diamond-1328244.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357" target="_blank">http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/F-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Emerald-Diamond-1328244.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357</a></p><p><a href="http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/E-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Emerald-Diamond-1203590.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357" target="_blank">http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/E-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Emerald-Diamond-1203590.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357</a></p><p>And a couple of wildcards (only graded as &#8220;Good&#8221; for cut):</p><p><a href="http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/D-VVS2-Good-Cut-Emerald-Diamond-1306167.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357" target="_blank">http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/D-VVS2-Good-Cut-Emerald-Diamond-1306167.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357</a></p><p><a href="http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/E-VVS1-Good-Cut-Emerald-Diamond-1228193.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357" target="_blank">http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/E-VVS1-Good-Cut-Emerald-Diamond-1228193.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357</a></p><p>Regards</p><p><br class="spacer_" /></p><p>A: You actually did a great job with these!  This stone:</p><p><a href="http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/D-VVS2-Good-Cut-Emerald-Diamond-1306167.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357" target="_blank">http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/D-VVS2-Good-Cut-Emerald-Diamond-1306167.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357</a></p><p>is the clear winner to me.  It&#8217;s rated &#8220;good&#8221; because the table is a little large (75%).  But large tables on emeralds aren&#8217;t really such a problem.  The good thing with this stone is that it is shallow, which means its weight is distributed more in its LxW versus its depth.  It&#8217;s weight that you can see and appreciate.  So even though the stone is 0.58ct, it&#8217;s larger in LxW than most 3/4ct stones.  Also, I personally like EMs with L/W ratios of 1.50 like this one.  Shallow stones brilliant shapes usually translate into a less brilliant diamond, but with a step cut like an Emerald or an Asscher, it doesn&#8217;t really matter.</p><p>Best Wishes.</p><p><br class="spacer_" /></p><p>Q: That&#8217;s the diamond I&#8217;ve gone for! I&#8217;ve put it on a simple Platinum comfort fit band (my partner likes simple ring bands, and I think it will accentuate the stone better), total cost (including shipping and including your discount code) was $2,329, so within my budget. I can&#8217;t believe my budget has stretched to a platinum ring with a diamond of that size and clarity. Thank you so much for your help, it has been such a learning experience, and I&#8217;m sure that without your advice I&#8217;d have spent more money for a lesser ring.</p><p>Regards</p><p><br class="spacer_" /></p><p>A: My pleasure!  Please stay in touch and let me know what you think when the ring arrives!</p><p><br class="spacer_" /></p><p>Q: Just thought I would send you a quick update.</p><p>The ring arrived very promptly from James Allen, excellent customer service throughout, I can see why you recommend them.</p><p>To say I was pleased with the ring would be an understatement, it is absolutely beautiful. The diamond was a superb recommendation, it looks so &#8216;pure&#8217; and catches the light superbly.</p><p>Most importantly, my partner loves it too. She didn&#8217;t have a clue I was going to propose, and thankfully she accepted! She was very impressed that I had not only got a ring, but one that she liked so much. I did admit to having had some outside help, so Liz sends her thanks too!</p><p>Many thanks once more Ira, your advice was invaluable, and it was reassuring to know that there are some genuinely nice people about in these increasingly cynical times.</p><p>Regards</p><p><br class="spacer_" /></p><p>A: That&#8217;s such wonderful news! I really appreciate you taking time out of your schedule to write me this update.  I love when I get emails like these.  They really brighten my day.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/2011/01/29/qa-buying-emerald-cut-diamond-in-the-uk/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>5</slash:comments> </item> <item><title>Q&amp;A: Setting with Side Stones</title><link>http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/2011/01/25/qa-setting-with-side-stones/</link> <comments>http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/2011/01/25/qa-setting-with-side-stones/#comments</comments> <pubDate>Tue, 25 Jan 2011 06:35:01 +0000</pubDate> <dc:creator>DU</dc:creator> <category><![CDATA[Q&A]]></category> <category><![CDATA[$2500 Budget]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Buying Help]]></category> <category><![CDATA[eye]]></category> <category><![CDATA[F Color]]></category> <category><![CDATA[H Color]]></category> <category><![CDATA[I Color]]></category> <category><![CDATA[ideal]]></category> <category><![CDATA[SI1 Clarity]]></category> <category><![CDATA[SI2 Clarity]]></category> <category><![CDATA[side stones]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/?p=3111</guid> <description><![CDATA[Q: I wonder if you could spare me 5 minutes and help me find a diamond to suit the ring i’m thinking of getting: http://www.jamesallen.com/engagement-rings/settings-with-sidestones/ring/item_58-3930.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357 I read on your ”Diamond Color” page that for ring with side stones you should match or go better with the colour of the centre stone – these pave are [...]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Q: I wonder if you could spare me 5 minutes and help me find a diamond to suit the ring i’m thinking of getting:</p><p><a href="http://www.jamesallen.com/engagement-rings/settings-with-sidestones/ring/item_58-3930.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357" target="_blank">http://www.jamesallen.com/engagement-rings/settings-with-sidestones/ring/item_58-3930.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357</a></p><p>I read on your ”<a href="http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/truth-about/diamond-color/" target="_blank">Diamond Color</a>” page that for ring with side stones you should match or go better with the colour of the centre stone – these pave are F/G so should i be going F or would a G be fine?</p><p>As i said my budget is approx $2500 for the diamond but it’s not all about the size – really want the package to work.</p><p>Thanks for taking the time to read this and thanks once again for the great site!</p><p><span id="more-3111"></span>A: I think I need to update that article as it leads to some confusion.  What I wrote there is really only true for larger side stones where the color is more easily noticeable.  You can&#8217;t really perceive any color or lack thereof in 1 point pave stones.  So you could comfortably put an I color center stone in that ring, and the whole package would still look totally white.  If you were concerned about going with an I, then you for sure could go with an H without any hesitation.</p><p>Also, not sure if you noticed it on the site, but you can use the TAD0611 coupon to get 10% off the setting.  So the setting will cost you 1260 instead of 1400.</p><p>Here&#8217;s what I recommend:</p><p><a href="http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-SI2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1294209.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357" target="_blank">http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-SI2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1294209.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357</a> &#8211; eye clean.  Excellent cut.</p><p><a href="http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-SI1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1295749.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357" target="_blank">http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-SI1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1295749.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357</a> &#8211; ditto</p><p><a href="http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-SI1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1278237.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357" target="_blank">http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-SI1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1278237.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357</a> &#8211; H color. Eye clean.</p><p>Have a look and let me know what you think!</p><p><br class="spacer_" /></p><p>Q: Sorry about taking so long in replying.</p><p>I went for the H colour stone and used your saving code &#8211; thanks for that bonus!</p><p>When the ring arrived i couldn&#8217;t have been happier &#8211; the diamond looked so good &#8211; to my eye totally white and clean.</p><p>More importantly, my intended loved it!</p><p>Thank you so much, not just for the help you provided to me directly, but also for the help you provide on your website &#8211; you give the internet a good name!</p><p>Yours with eternal gratitude</p><p><br class="spacer_" /></p><p>A: Wow.  Such a wonderful email to receive!  I truly appreciate you taking the time to let me know about your purchase.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/2011/01/25/qa-setting-with-side-stones/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item><title>Q&amp;A: Best Princess Cut for $3000 Budget</title><link>http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/2011/01/23/qa-best-princess-cut-for-3000-budget/</link> <comments>http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/2011/01/23/qa-best-princess-cut-for-3000-budget/#comments</comments> <pubDate>Sun, 23 Jan 2011 06:34:23 +0000</pubDate> <dc:creator>DU</dc:creator> <category><![CDATA[Q&A]]></category> <category><![CDATA[$2500 Budget]]></category> <category><![CDATA[$3000 Budget]]></category> <category><![CDATA[1 carat]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Buying Help]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Eye Clean VVS1 Clarity]]></category> <category><![CDATA[eye-clean]]></category> <category><![CDATA[H Color]]></category> <category><![CDATA[I Color]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Princess Cut]]></category> <category><![CDATA[SI1 Clarity]]></category> <category><![CDATA[SI2 Clarity]]></category> <category><![CDATA[VS2 Clarity]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/?p=3108</guid> <description><![CDATA[Q: Your website has been so influential on my diamond buying journey.. I would love some help to sift through perhaps what I should buy! I’m looking for: 1. Best diamond for fixed budget of 2.5-3k (total) 2. Princess cut 3. The best value for the least noticeable (I-H?) 4. Eye-clean for the best value!! (SI1-2?) [...]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Q: Your website has been so influential on my diamond buying journey.. I would love some help to sift through perhaps what I should buy! I’m looking for:</p><p>1. Best diamond for fixed budget of 2.5-3k (total)</p><p>2. Princess cut</p><p>3. The best value for the least noticeable (I-H?)</p><p>4. Eye-clean for the best value!! (SI1-2?)</p><p>5. A carat that would look proportionate to a 4.5 size ring.. (6-7?</p><p>Thank you so much.. I’m not sure if this is possible!! You’ll help make my dream come true–marrying my girlfriend.</p><p><span id="more-3108"></span>A: I&#8217;m very happy to help!  I agree H/I is your best bet for color.  If we can find an eye clean SI1 or SI2, that would be great, but the problem with princesses is that usually the type of rough that princesses are cut from produce very strong black SIs.  So it&#8217;s very likely we&#8217;ll have to settle for a VS2.  Here&#8217;s a nice stone, but there&#8217;s no picture yet.  So you should definitely request one from JA;</p><p><a href="http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1326775.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357" target="_blank">http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1326775.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357</a></p><p>Forward me a copy when you get it.</p><p><br class="spacer_" /></p><p>Q: Wow thanks for the quick reply. To be honest, I wasn&#8217;t sure if you would! Thank you so much <img src='http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif' alt=':)' class='wp-smiley' /> Yes, I agree I think we&#8217;ll have to settle for a VS2. I just requested a picture from them but their office is down so It&#8217;ll take at least a week for the picture. Now, I&#8217;m wondering if it&#8217;s possible to get a diamond just a wee bit smaller, as I&#8217;m trying my best to keep it under 3000.. although if I push it then I could buy it, it&#8217;d be about 4000 with the set. I&#8217;m a student just finishing my degree.. so I don&#8217;t have any money. Heh. Well anyway, thank you SOO much for your help. I&#8217;m sure you get a thousand emails everyday.. If it&#8217;s possible I&#8217;d like to keep in touch.</p><p><br class="spacer_" /></p><p>A: It&#8217;d be my pleasure to stay in touch.  How&#8217;s this stone look for you:</p><p><a href="http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1327214.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357" target="_blank">http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1327214.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357</a></p><p><br class="spacer_" /></p><p>Q: This is amazing. This is perfect!! I don&#8217;t understand why it&#8217;s 1k cheaper&#8230; it&#8217;s amazing how much .1 carat can do to the price.</p><p>If you recommend this one, I&#8217;ll buy it. Are there any questions I should ask when I call? Do I need to call them to ask questions?</p><p>Why do you do this for people? I think it&#8217;s the nicest thing to do for guys who have no idea what to do. Thanks again Ira <img src='http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_biggrin.gif' alt=':D' class='wp-smiley' /></p><p><br class="spacer_" /></p><p>A: That&#8217;s a great stone, I definitely think it would be a very smart purchase.  No need to ask anything when you call.  Just tell them the ring style number and stone number and tell them to apply the TAD0611 coupon code (it&#8217;ll give you 10% off the setting).</p><p>As for why do I do this?  Have a look at the article on my site &#8220;<a href="http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/truth-about/truthaboutdiamonds-com/" target="_blank">truth about truthaboutdiamonds.com</a>&#8220;</p><p><br class="spacer_" /></p><p>Q: I&#8217;ve bought the diamond and it will arrive next week! I&#8217;m really looking forward to it. Here&#8217;s the GIA report. Now, should I be worried about the &#8220;crystal, feather finish&#8221; of the cut? Will I have to worry about this fracture in the future? Thanks! I did some research&#8230; and I&#8217;m not sure if my diamond has a feather finish inside or at the surface. thanks!!</p><p><br class="spacer_" /></p><p>A: It&#8217;s aboslutely nothing to worry about.  Please let me know what you think when it arrives!</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>http://www.truthaboutdiamonds.com/2011/01/23/qa-best-princess-cut-for-3000-budget/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> </channel> </rss>
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