Q: Hello, I am going to propose this December and I am looking for a round diamond with the specifications below. My main priority is that it be a extremely brilliant diamond. Ideally, I would like to get some sort of spectrum test performed on the diamond like ISEE2 or such. But really looking for a blazing diamond. Range: $5500-$6500 Size: 1.2c-1.4 Shape: Round Cut: AGS 0 or similar I would prefer inclusions be around a VS2. But I have seen some SI1′s that I would have thought was a VS or higher. Please advise. Thanks!

A: Hey G.  Thanks for writing.  Regarding ISEE2 or Gemex (brilliantscope) and the others, I can tell you from experience that they’re all pretty gimmicky. They’re there to convince the customer that walks into the store to buy diamonds there and nowhere else.  These “tools” weren’t created by scientists, they were created by marketing executives.

AGS and GIA cut grades, on the other hand were created by scientists.

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