First, I have a 30 day ”no questions asked” return policy on the engagement ring I just purchased about four days ago. My future fiancee really wants an Asscher Cut diamond. I have the IGL report and here is what I purchased:

Weight: 1.00 carat
Color: E
Clarity: VVS2
Polish/Symmetry: Excellent/Excellent
Measurement: 5.53 x 5.31 x 3.80 MM
Cost: $7915.69 + 8.25% sales tax

I also purchased a setting, 18KW 1.07TX .91RAD Gemesis RG for $2479.00 + 8.25% sales tax (originally it was priced at $4795.00 but I ”got lucky” and hit the semi-annual sale. It is a single band with diamonds with a slightly raised halo with diamonds cut on all four sides. The asscher diamond then sits right in the middle of it.

After reading your site I’m beginning to think I paid about 2000-3000 dollars or more too much for diamond features that the human eye will never be able to perceive or appreciate.

Please get in touch with me when you have a chance; normally I would never buy a diamond because frankly I think they are a horrible ”investment” but my fiancee means the world to me and I want to get her what she wants- however, I don’t want to pay more than I have to!!

A: Are you sure the stone is certified by IGL and not IGI or EGL?

Q:The attached file is a scan of the plastic card that I received a couple of days ago. I purchased the diamond from Samuels Diamonds here in Austin, TX.

gemstone certification

A: I’ve never heard of that lab. Sounds like a made up in-house lab that puts down whatever they want to put down to help sell stones. You’re much better off returning it and buying a proper GIA certified stone.

Q: Well, that’s not encouraging. What she really liked about the stone is the cut and the way it set in the halo setting. She liked the setting because of the way it complimented the cut of the diamond.

She and I are prudent in our investing and with our money; however, I want to have something she is proud of and will enjoy wearing.

Originally in my mind I wanted to spend between $4000-$8000. Being at $11,000 is higher than what I planned but based on your website and your connections it sounds like you may be able to find me an asscher cut diamond around the same size (more or less) for a better price. What do you think?

A: Have a look at this:
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/G-VVS2-Ideal-Cut-Asscher-Diamond-1254225.asp

It’s got a great cut. It’ll look totally white and clean to your eye.

What about a setting like this:
http://www.jamesallen.com/designer-jewelry/meno-collection-by-danhov/ring/item_294-1143.asp

It’s a bit expensive because it’s a designer setting, but the whole package is still a lot cheaper than what you got. And I’m sure the diamonds are probably the same quality.

Also, you can apply the TADJ10 coupon code to that ring to knock off 10%.

Q: Thank you for your quick response and for your time. The diamond looks perfect. It meets all of your criteria but one (the depth is 1% over) but for the price it’s amazing. Looks like a very reputable company as well, plus I get a GIA certification which is very helpful. I can’t think of any reason why not to buy it; I know she will love it and it saves me almost $4000.00 over what I’ve currently have on 30 day review.

You must be a bit of a mind reader; the split band setting is almost identical to one we were looking at over at Helzberg Diamond except that the stone was one of their trademark princess cut diamonds with the corners cut off to make it have “the maximum brilliance”. She likes the split band but we decided against it because we could not figure out how to fuse a wedding band to it and get it up under the halo. The band is an absolute “must have” for her, and even by creating a custom band and fusing it on she felt it detracted from the ring and that it looked “lopsided”. Also, my soon to be fiancé has small hands and fingers and she thought that the split band with the wedding band fused on the side looked too wide on her finger.

The setting at Samuels is a single band with diamonds on both sides of the ring (similar to the one in the picture but they didn’t go down quite as far). It has a halo very similar to the picture of the one you sent me except it may be a little wider (maybe it has another square track of diamonds?). However, the one in the picture you sent me is nice and I don’t think would be a deal killer for her. The main reason she went with the single band is so a notch could be cut along the back side of the halo and the thin wire on top of the wedding band could be slid up inside of it to hold it in place thereby making the wedding band sit perfectly flush against the single band of the ring. Do you know if they have one that is closer to the one I have described?

I am already getting very excited about the possibility of getting my fiancée exactly what she wants and having money left over from the savings to put towards the wedding and/or a great honeymoon. Already many, many thanks for your help thus far.

A: My pleasure to help! What I might recommend, then is contacting JA and asking if they could do a custom job for you and make this ring:
http://www.jamesallen.com/engagement-rings/pave/ring/item_412-2227.asp

with an asscher head instead of a round. It’s basically a simple halo setting with two wedding bands that go on either side.

Q: Hmm… That may be a possibility. I’m going to discuss some options with my future fiancée later tonight and see what she thinks. I’ll let you know what we come up with tomorrow. Thanks again.

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

Q: I spoke with her yesterday. She agrees that getting the other diamond and saving $4000+ is a no brainer. We looked at all the settings at James Allen and she didn’t really like any of them; she said they all looked too “modern” for what she is looking for. The one we have on hold at Samuels has a bit of a “Victorian” feel to it, more “vintage”. The halo sits on top of what I can only describe as a small looking pill box or even a tiara. The sides of the band connect into it and it has three very small diamonds on either side. The halo then sits on top of it.

Do any of your sources have vintage wedding bands?

I think I’m going to buy that diamond today. The set I ordered from Samuels is ready. Unless we find another band I’m thinking about asking them to remove the diamond they put in there and setting the one I’ll get from James Allen. Of course the set the original diamond for free; is there anything I need to watch out for when negotiating with them? For instance, if they say “OK we will remove the diamond we put in there but we are going to charge you to set the other diamond for you” what would be a reasonable price for this service? They may try to jack up their price to reset it because they are losing the sale on the diamond (but still getting the band so they should be happy with that). Would there be any other games you can think of that they would try to play?

PS I spent about two hours on your site and read the part about “the truth about the truth about diamonds”. It is important to me to make sure you get credit for the sale of the James Allen Diamond.

A: That’s very kind of you regarding the credit. I really appreciate it.

I have a feeling Samuels is going to give you a very hard time about this. Also, in a way they will be justified. Halo settings need to be made specifically for each diamond since they need to fit perfectly all around. I would actually suggest you send a link to the ring to JA’s customer support to see how much they’ll quote you for a custom job. YOu can be sure that whatever they put together will be of a significantly higher quality than what Samuels will do. So that might be an important consideration in terms of long term wear and tear.

If you want, try Samuels first to see their reaction, but I’m sure it’s going to be very aggressively negative.

Q: Lisa and I went shopping yesterday to several more local jewelry stores and we found one called Benold’s that had the “mother load” of vintage style settings. She narrowed it down to four that she loved and would be very happy with. Therefore at this point I’m thinking of returning the other ring and moving forward with one of these four settings and having them set one of the stones from James Allen.

We have looked at the other Asscher cuts and I want to ask your opinion about the following: Do you think the increase in price is worth it to go with one of the two 1.20+ carat diamonds over the one you already suggested? Is the increase in carat size be noticeably different?

Here is the one you suggested before:

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/G-VVS2-Ideal-Cut-Asscher-Diamond-1254225.asp

Here are the other two we are considering:

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/G-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Asscher-Diamond-1336830.asp

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/G-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Asscher-Diamond-1279737.asp

Also, here are three of the four settings she likes:

http://www.simongjewelry.com/shop.php?search=mr1840&submit.x=19&submit.y=14&submit=submit (one difference – the wedding band will not be curved – it is straight and will go up under the halo)

http://www.verragio.com/gallery_search.php?field_set=&field_shape=&field_price=&search=yes&keywords=&style=afn5022&submit.x=0&submit.y=0

http://www.verragio.com/S/Verragio-Engagement-Rings/Insignia-Engagement-Rings/INSIGNIA-7005#section1

The fourth one is a Chad Allison Halo; I’ll send you a link if I can get it; we searched their website and can’t locate it. Benold’s said the style number is ME219.

We are ready to move; please let me know what you think as soon as you can. Thanks again.

A: Glad to hear you found the setting she loves! As for the diamonds, here’s what I think: The difference between the stone I suggested and this one:
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/G-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Asscher-Diamond-1336830.asp

is not significant. Its JUST BARELY noticeable, and that’s only on one dimension. The other stone, though (http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/G-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Asscher-Diamond-1279737.asp) will be slightly more noticeable as a larger stone, but I don’t feel the difference is really worth the major jump in price. It’s not like the extra size will be overwhelmingly noticeable. Especially once it’s set.

Q: Hey! Just wanted to let you know we received the loose diamond today from James Allen; it came in a nice box with the GIA document. I showed it to Lisa and she loves it! After looking at it she decided to go with the Simon G setting because she really wants the setting to draw attention to the stone.

I’m very thankful that I found your site and for all your assistance. I feel like I got her what she wanted at a very good value.

When I ordered the diamond online I typed in the “special shipping instructions” box your name and that you assisted me. Please let me know if you need anything else from me; I want to make sure you get credit.

If I don’t talk with you again best of luck and God bless. Who knows, if we ever get a chance to travel to Israel maybe you and your wife could join us for dinner (my treat of course)!

A: Thanks for this very kind email! I appreciate you doing what you could to make the sale go through! Mind if I ask you for a couple of favors?

If you have the time, do you think you might be able to leave me a review on ivouch? If you can, I would be very grateful. Here’s a direct link if you have the time:
xxxxxxx

And if you do ever come to Israel, DEFINITELY be in touch. My wife is a licensed tour guide – she can be a big help!

May God bless you and your wife to be with a long life together filled with health, happiness, and love!
Ira

Q: I’ll certainly go to ivouch and write a very positive review.

That’s most auspicious about your wife being a tour guide; I’ll certainly be in touch if we ever have the opportunity to visit.

Your site and guidance have been a tremendous help; I feel good about the diamond that I purchased. You saved me almost $4000.00 over the other stone I had purchased plus the one I have now has GIA certification, etc. etc. Thanks again!

…….

How are you? I hope things are going well. Thanks again for all your help – the entire setting turned out to be gorgeous.

I forgot to fill out a review on ivouch. When I clicked on the link below it said that the link had expired.

If you can please send me a new one and I’ll go online and fill it out.

Take care and all the best to you and your family.

A: Sure! Thanks so much! That’s very very kind of you!

[LINK TO REVIEW ON IVOUCH]

Q: Ira- do you have any idea why this diamond seems to be so discounted for its color? i know the clarity is low – am i missing something???? the clarity seems to be miss categorized.

A: It’s cheap only because of its clarity. It’s not hard to believe that the SI2 lies in such a way in this stone that it’s not visible face-up. It happens all the time.

Q: Thanks for your thoughts. I was able to get the GIA report from James Allen. Is there anyway i can get it to you for your review? I just want to make sure the report lines up with your initial thoughts.

How visible do you think the cloud directly to the left of the center is by the naked eye?

Thanks.

A: I’ll contact you via email.

Q: The cert is attached.

A: Very interesting cert. Feathers are generally very clear and blend in nicely with the rest of the stone. Looking at the stone from the sides, you’ll almost certainly see something there, but from the top, I would guess that it would look like the picture (clean). Here’s what I think – for a stone like this, it might be worth it to just buy it with the mindset that you’ll just return it if you can see the inclusions yourself. It’s the kind of thing that’s very subjective. Meaning, if you ask JA to inspect it, they’re always going to err on the side of caution and tell you not to get it because they don’t like to deal with returns – they’re expensive. But from your perspective, it’s very likely that you wouldn’t see the inclusions that the gemologist at JA sees. So why not give it a shot?

Q: Thanks again for your time. The setting will be similar to this:

http://www.jamesallen.com/designer-jewelry/meno-collection-by-danhov/ring/item_294-1130.asp

This setting may eliminate seeing anything from the side. I think I might take your advice and just buy the stone.

I’ll let you know how it turns out.

Thanks again.

A: Go for it! And PLEASE let me know what you think when it arrives. I’m very curious – especially in your case.

Q: I just found this Asscher: http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-SI2-Premium-Cut-Asscher-Diamond-1276069.asp

The price is very appealing on this one. What do you think of the color/clarity?

I promise I won’t bother you everyday. I really appreciate your help.

A: No Good. Look at the bottom of the pic. The feather is strong and obvious.

…….

And you’re not a bother!

Q: Alright – this is the last one I will ask you to look at. If this one is no good then i will likely get the one that you initially reviewed on your website. The cert says the fluorescence is “faint”. Would that make an H diamond look a little more clear?

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-SI1-Ideal-Cut-Asscher-Diamond-1275911.asp

If you still think the 1.72 F SI2 is a better option i will pull the trigger on that one.

thanks.

A: Faint fluor has no effect whatsoever.

I don’t like this H SI1. spready inclusions like the ones on this stone will be visible because it’s an asscher. On a round, it would be great.

I think you should give the F SI2 a try and see what happens when it arrives.

Q: Me again. James Allen has been stalling with putting the F SI2 back on the internet so i can take another look at it before i purchase. To be honest, that diamond is a little more than i wanted to spend. I was hoping to be all in for 10K with the setting. I’d like your opinion on another diamond on JA. Its smaller and the color isn’t as good. Can you give me your opinion on the diamond below. Does it look a little yellow to you? As always, i appreciate and value your opinion.

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Asscher-Diamond-1353122.asp

A: That’s a VERY nice looking stone. Don’t worry about H color – it’ll look totally white to your eye. It’s definitely a less risky choice than the SI2.

Q: Great- Before i buy this stone i wanted to show you another diamond and get your opinion as it compares to the previous one. Its the same size and clarity but an I color. It is $1500 cheaper than the H color. In your opinion – is it worth spending the extra $1500 to get the H? Will there be a noticable difference to the naked eye? I should preface the question by saying i DO NOT want a yellowish looking diamond. I’ve looked at some I color cushion cuts in person and they seem to have a yellowish tint.

H color link: http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds-search/diamonds/H-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Asscher-Diamond-1353122.asp

I color link: http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds-search/diamonds/I-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Asscher-Diamond-1335557.asp

A: yeah, I would definitely err on the side of caution with an asscher and say you should go with the painful decision and buy the H.

I found a setting that I really like, it’s fairly simple, platinum with a tapered baggette and round stone on each side, and am thinking of a princess cut diamond for the center stone.

I have been doing a lot of research on diamonds, and while I really love the setting from the jeweler ( the shane co) I’m not sure their loose diamonds are the best quality for the money…

In reading through your advice on color, cut and clarity I’m now more confused on the parameters to search for… Orginally we were searching for a 1 carat diamond minimum size with a color of F or better and a clarity of VS1 or better… After reading your advice I’m not sure if we need to find a princess of that high of quality and may be able to find a bigger diamond for the same price…

Our budget is about $5,000 for the loose diamond, the setting is another $1,200.

Obviously the bigger the better however I’ve had bad experiences with diamonds in the past, I’m very nervous about the stone appearing yellowish or cloudy and of it having inclusions that are visible…

I am willing to have a different cut, such as a radiant or cushion if the price/quality is better or if you think, based on my description, another shape would look better on our setting, I can send you a photo if you like…

As for the loose diamond search I’ve looked at the Shane co, Blue Nile and Jared, but I am nervous about buying a diamond without looking at it first…

Any help would be appreciated!

Thank you!

A: I definitely understand your position, and hesitation about buying a stone online without seeing it. This is precisely why I refer so many people to james allen. They have pics of almost all of their diamonds online.

I took a look for you and found these stones which would make amazing center stones. Totally white to your eye. Totally clean of inclusions to your eye, and fantastic cuts that will sparkle like crazy:

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-VVS2-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1337584.asp

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/G-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1333900.asp

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/F-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1342911.asp

Have a look and let me know what you think!

Q: Thank you do much for getting back to me so quickly! The diamonds are beautiful, but last night we kept researching diamonds after I sent my email, and believe we may have a different choice in mind…

I really like the look of a square diamond, which is why I initially preferred the princess, but once we began researching I found the asscher and it looks so stunning to me! Unique and something a little rare… Afterall did I mention, I have my bachelors degree in geology and the idea of something pure and unique attracts me…

I read on your website about needing higher clarity and cut for the asscher and once again am concerned about color, I wonder if you wouldn’t mind taking a look for me… I looked at James Allen last night and found three that looked pretty good, of course any you suggest I’m sure will be better you know what to look for on each cut…

The ID numbers that we saw were:

1254225

1294340

1188912

I’m not sure what the minimum color and clarity for this type of cut so I looked at the high end…

I checked with the company who has the setting we like, they said an asscher will fit, and I’m hoping you can tell us if you think it looks good in the setting, I attached a photo of it…

They charge $3/point to set a loose diamond from somewhere else, is this reasonable?

Thank you

A: I took a look at the three stones, and I think the best option is the D VS1. It’s the largest of the 3, and the color will be fantastic. The only issue (and it’s most likely not an issue) is the medium blue fluorescence. All you need to do is contact JA and ask them to check the stone to verify that the fluorescence doesn’t cause any milkiness.

$3/point sounds a bit high. You should try to bargain with them.

I didn’t get a picture attached, btw. But even if I did, I’m not sure i could help. My professional experience is limited to the loose diamond trade – not jewelry. I actually have a very poor aesthetic sense

Good luck! Let me know how it goes!

Q: I just wanted to let you know that we had one of James Allens gemologists inspect the Asscher d color stone for it’s florescence and they determined that it is bright white and completely eye clean, with no negative impact from the florescence at all.

We are currently arranging to purchase the stone, and we are also choosing a setting from James Allen as well, so we wanted to thank you for all of your assistance, you opinions and input were greatly valued and appreciated! I will recommend anyone I know looking for a diamond to you!

A: Sounds great! Don’t forget to apply the TADJ10 coupon code. It’ll give you 10% off the setting.

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

Q: We received our ring, and we love it! Attached is a photo of the ring and setting we chose, thank you so much for all your help!

A: Wow! The ring looks amazing! Such great pictures, too!

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

Thanks for your help. I love your site and all the things I (think) I learned. I did pick out #1316061 what do you think?

Thanking you in advance for your time Ira!

A: I’m so sorry for the delay in writing you back. I’ve been a bit under the weather lately. Anyway, I took a look for you, and I think there are two stones out there that are better value than the stone you suggested. Here’s the links:

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/G-VVS2-Ideal-Cut-Asscher-Diamond-1290746.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/G-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Asscher-Diamond-1332568.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357

The only real reason is that they’re both higher in clarity, yet their prices are basically the same. Have a look and let me know what you think!

Q: I hope you are feeling better.

Thank you for your help in choosing a diamond. The one I wanted and was on my “wish list” and you recommended was sold this afternoon.

May I ask why do you do this, help people on the internet? It is so nice of you. I learned so much from the internet and you.

The diamond I wanted that you chose and I had on my list was sold. I am still looking. You don’t have to help me but I would like to wish you a Happy Hanukkah! By your name I hope that is an appropriate wish for you!

I did check out the diamonds you chose and they looked awesome. I also looked at #: 1336821, and a few others. I hope my future husband moves faster on my new choice!

I wish you good health and happiness!

If you’re buying it with a ring, then don’t forget to apply the TAD0611 coupon code to get 10% off the setting.

A: Yes, happy hanukkah is appropriate! Thank you very much. It’s not just my name, I live in Israel as well

As for why I do this, I received this quesiton so often, I wrote an article answering the question:

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

Q: I hope you are enjoying your holiday and feeling well!

Well, I need your help again. I really want an asscher cut diamond and it should be a good one. My problem is I want the largest stone I can have in an asscher without it looking crappy. I read that the color of an asscher has to be great . The price point is 8,000.00 for the total cost. My setting is about $1,100 white gold, $1,600 platinum. I love JamesAllen because I can view the stones.

What do you think ?

A: Lets see what we can pull together for you.

1) After applying the TAD0611 coupon code, your settings prices go down to 990 and 1440.

2) That leaves us between 6560 and 7010 for the diamond.

3) G color really is totally fine for an asscher. You cannot see any yellow whatsoever in a G color stone.

4) Here’s what I like in addition to the others:

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/F-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Asscher-Diamond-1260038.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/E-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Asscher-Diamond-1334693.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357

Q: Well I am happy to say we were able to order one of your original picks (http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/G-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Asscher-Diamond-1332568.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357) as it became available again! I chose the Common Prong Ten Brilliant Diamond Engagement Ring in platinum.

Now I received your email and am doubting the pick because these stones are higher on color scale. I checked them out and I can see flaws though in the center of the stones so all & all I hope we selected the best quality stone.

Thank you so much for your help and your coupon code.

I can’t wait to see it! I hope it will be as beautiful as the online pictures.

Thanks again, enjoy your holidays

A: That stone looks amazing. You’re going to be very pleased, I’m sure! Please let me know what you think when it arrives!

Q: Thanks Ira. I will let you know after it arrives! I am so excited!

Q: We changed the stone to the one below. I researched a bit more and think I made a better choice. Wondering if you think the same if you have the time to check it out. i am so excited to get my ring with a F stone! OMG!

Jamesallen.com

1.21 Carat F-SI1 Ideal Cut Asscher Diamond

Specifications for Item #: 1336814

A: Did you have the people at JA confirm it’s eye clean? If so, then that’s fantastic!

Q: No I did not ask if it was “eye clean” I didn’t think the customer service reps knew anything; I thought they just take orders. Oh well, I hope and pray it is what I viewed on the screen. If not it will have to be returned. And I hope it makes it here for Christmas!

I’ll let you know

A: Ok, just know that SI1s on asscher cuts are usually visible to the naked eye. Good luck!

http://antiqueengagementrings.com/shopping/shopexd.asp?id=2527

I really like this ring. It’s over 2 carats. My first concern is color – J – while you recommend H or better for emerald / assher cuts. Should I be concerned about the color of this particular stone? It looks fine to me in the photo.

I guess my other concern is will the whether I will be disappointed in the radiance / sparkle of this stone. I do prefer the more organized pattern of the assher cut over the somewhat disorganized pattern of a radiant cut, but what you gain in order / structure you lose in sparkle, so I guess it’s a bit of a tradeoff.

If you had any thoughts, I would be greatly appreciative. Thanks.

A: Thanks for writing. Have you considered a cushion cut? Cushions can look either like a radiant (call it the “Broken glass’ look), or a more patterned symmetrical look like a round. And they’re brilliant in the same way rounds are as well. I think that might be exactly what you’re looking for. Let me know if you’d like me to help you find one.

As for the color, you can’t really see color in a still photo like that. But you can trust me on this – the stone would definitely have a yellow tinge.

Q: I’ll research the cushion cut. I can always buy just the setting for the ring I showed you, and could buy the diamond elsewhere. Could I then just have any local jeweler set the stone in the ring?

A: Yeah, that’s definitely a possibility.

If you want, let me know your budget, and I’ll send you some links to stones that I recommend.

Q: Thanks Ira. I’m looking to spend about $10k, and would not want anything less than 2 carats.

A: That’s on the stone alone, or including the setting?

Q: Probably both stone and setting. I just started looking, so my parameters are still somewhat fluid.

…….

I liked the cushion cut stones, so I may follow your recommendation there.

The other thing I should mention is that I may get the setting I showed you in yellow gold rather than platinum. So if I went for a cushion cut with that setting in yellow gold rather than platinum, should I get an I or a J color as you recommend in your color recommendation web page? Thanks.

A: That’s definitely the case. You should take advantage of the yellow gold and get a J.

Q: This would be one option in an I color. What do you think?

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Cushion-Diamond-1316046.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357

A: That’s a great looking stone!

Here are a few more that I like:

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/K-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Cushion-Diamond-1184114.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/K-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Cushion-Diamond-1096811.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/J-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Cushion-Diamond-1333535.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357 – no pic yet, but has potential!

Q: Thanks for the good advice and for sending me those links.

With respect to the stone I emailed you about last time, I sent the link (http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Cushion-Diamond-1316046.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357 ) to the jeweler who makes the ring and who would be setting the stone. She was concerned with the strong fluorescence, thinking that it might make the stone look milky or cloudy. What do you think about the fluorescence issue?

(She also lightheartedly chastised James Allen for calling the cut “ideal,” saying that the GIA only assigns “ideal” cuts to round diamonds. J )

I liked the first two stones that you sent me, and would probably lean toward the larger stone (http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/K-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Cushion-Diamond-1184114.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357 ) but I am concerned about the K color. You think those K stones would look okay against a 14k yellow gold setting? I would just hate for them to look dull. This is one of those situations where I would love to go to a brick and mortar store and ask to look at K stones against a 14k gold setting, just to see for myself. The Ks sure are a lot cheaper, though!

Here are a couple of others in the J color that I came across that I liked:

Pricey, but very symmetrical looking and beautiful: http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/J-VVS1-Ideal-Cut-Cushion-Diamond-1268807.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357

Much less expensive, but not such a great photo: http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/J-VVS2-Ideal-Cut-Cushion-Diamond-1319292.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357

From the photos, the second stone doesn’t seem to have the sparkle of the first stone. I can’t tell if that’s because it’s a poor photo, or something inherent in the stones. But that’s a $3,500 difference for two stones that on paper appear to be very similar. I can’t quite understand why the first stone is so much more expensive.

Thanks for all your help, Ira.

…….

This one might also be worth inspecting. http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/J-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Cushion-Diamond-1246881.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357 No photo up yet. They want me to send them an email to get the photo. Would it be better if you made the inquiry, so you can get the commission?

A: Let me hit your points one by one.

1) It’s quite rare for Strong fluorescence to make an I color stone look milky. You can always ask JA to take a look for you to confirm this.

2) K color wouldn’t make the stone look dull, it’ll just make it look slightly yellowish. But I agree, you probably shouldn’t go for this until you’ve seen one up close.

3) The expensive one looks like it’s make by a specialty cutter that makes this unique type of cushion. It’s not a standard looking stone, but some kind of special cut. Looks incredible.

4) Even if the 2.44 is nice, I’m not sure it’s worth more money than the 2.30. It’s only marginally larger in LxW.

Q: This is fun. I feel like I’m becoming the amateur diamond expert here!

So here’s what I did. I contacted James Allen via chat and asked if their gemologist could look at the 2.30 (http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Cushion-Diamond-1316046.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357 ) to check for milkiness or cloudiness associated with the fluorescence. At that point, the rep told me I could also have the gemologist to compare it to two other stones, so I took her up on the offer.

So I linked the rep to the 2.41 color K that you recommended (http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/K-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Cushion-Diamond-1184114.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357 ) and asked that the gemologist review the color, so see how it would look against a 14K yellow gold setting. So on that one, the gemologist will address my concern over color.

Finally, I gave her the 2.11 special cut (http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/J-VVS1-Ideal-Cut-Cushion-Diamond-1268807.asp ). I have to admit, I find this stone captivating. Even the rep said it was gorgeous, and she looks at stones all day. I wonder how much of a difference it will make to the naked eye, but under the virtual loupe it’s really magnificent.

I also told the chat rep that I was working with you. So when it’s time to finalize, please let me know what to do to make sure that you get your commission.

Cost aside, I’d probably go for the 2.11, but the fact that it costs $5K more than the 2.41 is tough to swallow. Do you have a strong preference for any of the above three?

A: Unfortunately, I feel exactly the same way you do about the 3 options! So that doesn’t help you one way or the other. If it were my money, I’d feel the exact same tension in my gut as you’re probably feeling now

As for the commission, normally, if you’re buying a ring also, and use the coupon code I provide, then that acts as a fail-safe measure (it supposed to track automatically with cookies and whatnot). But the truth is, their system has been having problems lately. So if you don’t mind, please provide me with the order number after you place it so I can make sure it tracks properly.

Thanks! Let me know what they say!

Q: I think I’m going to go with the more expensive stone. The jeweler which will set the stone really loved it. What’s the coupon code? I don’t know anything about that. Thanks.

A: I’m sorry I wasn’t available last night to answer your emails. I fell asleep on the couch after I put my kids to sleep, so when I went up to bed, I set my alarm for 4:00am to get up to start working early. I see that you placed the order – thanks for remembering to send me the order number. That will help a lot!

Just to make you feel better – I actually don’t have a coupon code for a loose diamond. The code I have is only for an engagement ring setting.

Congrats! And please let me know what you think of the stone when it arrives!

Does this diamond look eye clean to you? Overall, does it look like a nice diamond?

Thanks in advance:-)

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/G-SI1-Ideal-Cut-Asscher-Diamond-1238435.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357

A: It looks like it might be, but its really hard to tell based on that photo since it’s not 100% in focus. ANyway, though, I like the cut better on this one for the same price:

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/G-SI1-Ideal-Cut-Asscher-Diamond-1013435.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357

Q: Thank you for a quick reply. I actually like the cut on the one I picket better. It is only graded with a good symmetry though.. Looks quite symmetrical to me. Is symmetry an important factor regaring the brilliance and shine in an asscher, or is that more important on a brilliant cut diamond?

A: it’s not really important at all.  See my articles on symmetry and polish.  If you like the stone you selected more, then go for it!  The two are very very close anyway.

Q: Hi Ira!

Still haven’t decided.. Looking at Asschers in different price ranges at the moment. Would appreciate your oppinion on these:

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Asscher-Diamond-1303466.asp?a_aid=dmnd1375

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/F-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Asscher-Diamond-1318389.asp?a_aid=dmnd1375

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/G-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Asscher-Diamond-1305489.asp?a_aid=dmnd1375

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/G-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Asscher-Diamond-1244863.asp?a_aid=dmnd1375

I would like a stone with a nice cut/appearance and as big as possible, preferably below $8000.

Many thanks!

A: Those are all really nice, but if you want as big as possible, then definitely go for the 1.51 H VS1. It’s noticeably larger than the others, and an H will still look really nice in an Asscher cut.

I just noticed that you wrote preferably BELOW 8000. So it’s ultimately going to be up to you. My 2nd favorite is the F VS2. Its the 2nd largest, and you get the added benefit of a higher color.

Let me know which way you decide to go!

Also, if you buy it with a ring, then dont forget to use the TAD0611 coupon code. It’ll give you 10% off the setting.

Q: Many thanks! Will let you know when I decide:-)

……….

Hi there Ira!

Just one more question for you, which one of these two stones would you go for?

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Asscher-Diamond-1322390.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357

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

Many thanks:-)

A : I would go with the G.  Because of it’s superior cut, it’s as large in terms of LxW as the H color.  SO in the end, you’re getting a higher color stone for only a little bit more.

Q: Thank you, I agree, the G has a nicer cut:-)

Is there a noticable difference, to the naked eye, in size (L/W) between a 5.90×5.66 stone and a 5.99×6.03 stone?

A:  Yes, the 2nd one will be noticeably larger and more square.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Diamond Magnified 20x - Click to Enlarge

Carats: 0.56

Diamond Color: D

Diamond Clarity: VS1

Measurements: 4.76*4.58*2.95

Depth: 64.4%

Table: 56%

Diamond Polish: Very Good

Diamond Symmetry: Very Good

Diamond Fluorescence: None

Diamond Price: $1,720

Click Here to be Brought to the Diamond on James Allen

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

Diamond Magnified 20x - Click to Enlarge

Carats: 0.72

Diamond Color: D

Diamond Clarity: VS2

Measurements: 4.98*4.72*3.33

Length/Width Ratio: 1.06

Depth: 70.6%

Table: 61%

Diamond Polish: Excellent

Diamond Symmetry: Very Good

Diamond Fluorescence: None

Diamond Price: $2,510

I recognize that the Length/Width ratio on this stone is really pushing the bounds of what is considered square.  GIA defines square as having a l/w ratio of 1.00 to 1.05.  This stone has a l/w ratio of 1.06.  So I would recommend for anyone considering buying this stone to look carefully at the picture above to ascertain for his or herself whether or not the stone looks square to you.  If so, then go for it!  If it looks off-square to you, then it’s better to pass on it.

Click Here to be Brought to the Diamond on James Allen

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

Carats: 0.92

Diamond Color: F

Diamond Clarity: VVS2

Measurements: 5.30*5.29*3.67

Depth: 69.4%

Table: 67%

Diamond Polish: Good

Diamond Symmetry: Good

Diamond Fluorescence: None

Diamond Price: $3,220

Click Here to be Brought to the Diamond on James Allen