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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best wishes for a wonderful weekend!

Response from James Allen:
Ira/xxxxx,

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

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

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

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

Hope this helps!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hope you had a great weekend.

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

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

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

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

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

Let me know what you think of those!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

We were looking at 1 ct princess cuts for a 2mm-solitare setting.

Anything under $5500 is ”money in the bank” and I like money in the bank!

Was looking at diamond 1359966 on james allen…

Any reccos from you would be great too! Especially looking for a good cut stone since the princesses lake the cut on the GIA…

 A: Thanks for writing! I think you can do a bit better than that stone you linked to:
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-VVS2-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1343921.asp – great value just under 1.00
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1327167.asp
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1244485.asp

I believe an I color is fine when mounted in a solitaire.

Q: First off, thank you for the quick response. Your service is truly innovative and I applaud you on the business idea. I hope it is enough income to keep you happily working from home in Israel.

Before work this morning I quickly glanced over the stones you selected. The are all beautiful and I definitely think they have a little more elegance to the cut the the stone I sent you. I was up until 330AM last night with a 700 AM wake up call looking at diamonds. It definitely can get addicting and overwhelming. It is great to feel like I have someone “on my side” in the search.

I remember looking closely at the 1.00 stone you picked, the middle one. I remember the price. Although I think my favorite of the bunch is the last one, if for no other reason than it’s slightly bigger.

Although I have no fears of buying such an item online, the soon bride to be is not as big of a fan of the idea as I am. She likes the diea of being able to walk in someplace if we ever have problems or she would like a cleaning. But the savings, as well as the comfort of knowing someone with your history helped pick the stone (not SELL the stone!) overweighs that in my book. $1000 will pay for a lot of cleaning anyways

and if it ever needs plating, James Allen will be there. We’ve been together for 5 years and as soon as we started this “marriage” talk, things are moving fast and she’s looking for results. I need to get put her on a mission to figure out her ring size while I am out of town this week so I can place the order fast and just spring it on her! There’s no way she’d turn one of those stones down!

Well I’m going to see what I can get her to do in the ring size department and I’ll let you know how things go..

Thanks again for your help and I hope you are enjoying the Lysol wipes!

Let me know what you think!

[IRA FORWARDED THE PREVIOUS MESSAGE TO THE QUESTIONER IN 'LYSOL WIPES' Q&A WITH THE FOLLOWING EXPLANATION:]
I thought you’d like this. Look at the last line in his email.

A: My pleasure! Thanks for this very kind email – and I have to say, I’m impressed you read that whole Q&A! It’s really massive!

If you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to ask!

[THE FOLLOWING MESSAGE WAS A RESPONSE TO IRA FROM THE 'LYSOL WIPES' QUESTIONER]

That’s great… At least you know people are reading it. I also loved the Q&A. BTW, Erica is loving her ring. Everyone comments on how amazing the stone is. I’m very happy with the purchase.

…and by the way, you should tell xxxx that he ABSOLUTELY needs to buy online. It saved me a forture and James Allen wil clean, re-plate and maintain the ring for free. Not to mention that there is just as much (if not more) risk with the store. Who’s to say they won’t move, get sold, merge or go out of business. The chances of James Allen and Blue Nile going out of business are virtually none, since they have much lower overhead.

Having looked at the offerings in-store, the only place I would even consider buying is Costco. Prices are comparable with JA (except for Sales Tax).

Hope all is well with you

[MESSAGE FROM IRA TO 'LYSOL WIPES' QUESTIONER]

Man, I should hire you!

[MESSAGE FROM 'LYSOL WIPES' QUESTIONER TO IRA]
Why don’t you? I’m bored at work… hahaha…

Seriously though, it’s easy to recommend something that’s common sense. A buddy of mine had to buy an engagement ring at Tiffany’s of all places (his fiancee only wanted her ring from there). He spent $25K (+ Tax) on a ring that he could have got from James Allen for $17,500 (and all because of that blue colored box).

I told him to cheat and buy a “cheap” ring at Tiffany’s (for like $200), then get the engagement ring from James Allen and switch the boxes Hahaha…

A: I forwarded your message to xxxx, the guy who sent the lysol wipes because I thought he’d get a kick out of the fact that people are actually reading his Q&A. He wanted me to send you the following message: [QUOTED ABOVE WITH STARTING SENTENCE: "That's great...At least you know people are reading it."]

Q: Great insight from xxxx. Let him know I said thanks… I don’t know if many people read as much as I did on the site but I did read nearly all everything under the top headers, at least those that applied to my purchase. I’m a little crazy detail oriented like that… I don’t just like random stats like, you need an XX carat and XX cut. I like to know the why. I like to know the motivation of the person sending the information to me as well. That is why I really enjoyed the read on your blog post about how you make money and how internet advertising sales work. Very intriguing for me…

I think I’ve decided to just buy online. As I said, I am already comfortable with it, and I am pretty sure she won’t care once she has a ring on her finger after 5 (pushing 6) years together! We went ring shopping together already so it’s no secret it’s going to happen, but I did send her the txt today that she needed to get me her ring size. She replied “6ish”, and I said “that’s not close enough…” She hates surprises and just not knowing the exact date/time/ring will be enough to drive her crazy…

Once I get a ring size, we’ll talk a little more on specific diamonds. I’d hate to pick one out and have it disappear online before I can purchase it!

We’ll check again for diamonds soon, hopefully she got the hint that I was looking now!

A: Sounds like a plan! I look forward to hearing from you!

Q: In case she moves fast to get a ring size, I requested the “Idealscope” image from James Allen for the 1.01 from your list below. I also asked if I could place it on hold until after I get the image and am able to review it… With you of course!

–No need to reply, just giving you a heads up…

…….

In some more conversations, color seems to be very important to her for reasons unknown, regardless of what I tell her. She’s concerned she could tell the difference when comparing rings to others. Sounds shallow to me but hey, who am I to judge when I drive a lifted 4×4 pick-up truck. She has come up with a size of 6.5 at work. I asked her to test some of her other rings at home against one of this size-circle charts to see if that agrees with what she came up with. I’d just hate to have to take the ring away from her to have it resized right after she gets it!

In the G/H Color range, is there a diamond or two that stick out to you… I’ll throw you a couple I was looking at and I am sure you will find one better!

I thought this one looked pretty flawless and fit in your suggested parameters… 1.08 H VS2

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1360134.asp

…….

I put it on as well while talking to a James Allen associate since you won’t be able to see it, price is $4240…

…….

Sorry to flood you with emails, hopefully I hear from you after you soon after you wake up, obviously I am getting a little excited!

The only eye-flaw I saw in the diamond I sent you was in the lower left corner and I think that would be at least disguised a bit by the setting, and the $700 over the I-Colors we were looking at is safe so I can tell her I “went with the better color” to appease her probably unfounded worries…

As I said though, let me know your opinion and you opinion comparing the 1.08 H VS2 to the 1.01 I VS2 you sent at the start of our exchanges (should still show below). And as I said, let me know what you see in that 1-carat G/H color range out their with my $5k budget in mind.

You are a real help and glad I stumbled across you site. It’s amazing how much time I can spend looking at pure internet junk before finding something valuable like truthaboutdiamonds.com.

A: That H VS2 you linked to is a great option. I think you’re better off going with this – it’s for her after all, so why screw around? Get what you know she’ll like. Listen, in the end, there’s no real value to diamonds themselves. We only buy them for the psychological reaction it creates for the women. So not buying what she says she wants kind of defeats the purpose.

The inclusions in the corner would be completely invisible to your eye whether you cover them or not, so don’t worry about that. And don’t bother with an Idealscope. I don’t think it adds anything – especially with princess cuts.

Q: Great help and advice. She will be off to get her ring size checked at a Jewelry Store after work today to make sure what she came up with is correct, and I will most likely place the order as soon as we get off the phone and have the coveted ring size in hand.

I’m more proud more than anything that the H VS2 is a diamond that I picked out after “learning the ropes” so to speak from yourself. I told you earlier I don’t just like blank recommendations, I like to understand the reasoning. I’m detailed oriented and want to know each characteristic and its real effect myself. A step beyond that, I really like to being able to take that knowledge of diamonds (knowledge you almost single-handedly helped me gain by the way), and take the examples you gave me as a learning tool, and go out and find a stone myself. That will make it that more special to us both. I get the sense of accomplishment and knowledge, and she gets the ring she’s dreamed of.

I’ll be sure to use the coupon code and will let you know how things work out in the end.

A: Sounds great! I look forward to hearing good things from you!

Q: Still awaiting ring size for another day… Work didn’t let her out in time to get sized.

I did a search to see if anything new turned up and found this diamond…

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1359966.asp

The other diamond I picked was this one…

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1360134.asp

Price difference is +300 for the VS1. Does one have more ideal proportions (table/depth) in your mind than the other? If so are we splitting hairs? To me it appears slightly more ‘brilliant’ but I believe its a camera focus issue…

I’ve asked James Allen the same question..

A: I don’t think there’s any reason to switch. They’d probably look identical to you if you had them in front of you right now.

Q: Order placed on 136014.

Thanks again so much for your help! You really do provide a value-added service. While making a decision where advice you can trust is difficult but twice as hard to find, you definitely filled the niche, at least for me. I don’t know if I ever have the opportunity to recommend you site or your advice, but if I do it will be quick and convincing.

I wish you and your family the best and I will pray for a peaceful resolve in the middle east for Israel with all of you in mind.

I will be sure to update you when the ring arrives and the imminent “Yes!” I have no doubts as to the quality. One of the uneasiest parts of ordering online (and I order EVERYTHING online) is waiting to see if your first purchase from a new source is as described and performed professionally. Due to your site reviews, countless Q & A’s on your website, and your diamond knowledge has completely mitigated that feeling.

I truly applaud you for the business as much as I do the help. You probably don’t hear this as much as you do thank you’s for the guidance but I appreciate the ingenuity. It’s times like these I wonder, how would I explain this transaction to anyone, even myself, 20 yrs ago?

Any way, I am rambling as I have tendency to do. I appreciate your help, and will stay in touch when the ring arrives next Thursday…

…….

FYI: Big diamond image link from JA…

http://www.jamesallen.com/DiamPics/ads-9824pic.JPG

A: Looks great! Thanks so much for all your kind words! Your prayers are always needed, so please continue!

Q: We have not communicated since you helped me with my diamond order. I do not consider ourselves friends or acquaintances but I felt the need to write this letter anyways. After the President of the United States made his speech today, I was embarrassed and felt the need to reach out to you with my support for yourself and your country. I am sure you may receive many notes to this affect, but I needed to stand somehow, and you are my only contact I have ever had directly with anyone in Israel. Although the President of the United States may not stand for a free defensible Israel, many people in the United States do, and I am one of them. I stand with Israel. And I believe so does the majority of this Christian nation, at least they would if they were knowledgeable of the issues.

As I said before, I am sure these are tough times in your part of the world and I pray for you and the people of Israel. I am sure there is nothing I can do myself but stand for what I believe in and voice my beliefs. I do so for those like yourself in Israel. Good will prevail, God will prevail.

God Bless

A: Your email is very kind and welcome. I haven’t received any notes to this effect, as a matter of fact. This speaks very strongly of your character as an individual. I only wish there were more people like you. Your support is very welcome and needed.

Please do what you can to get Obama out of office!

Here are the details:

- Is your goal cheapest price for given parameters, or best diamond for fixed budget?
No, it is not. Quality is very important.

- Shape
Princess shape.

- Desired Color Range
I, H, G

- Desired Clarity
VS2 – VVS2

- Desired Cut
Very Good – Ideal

- Desired Size
1.70 – 1.90

- Budget
8,000 – 12,000

Thank you.

A: Here are some very fine options. Each is eye clean of course, and each has a near-perfect cut:
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1314714.asp
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/G-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1280747.asp

Q: I had actually picked the first one – 1.77, so this reassures my decision. Thank you for your help. Would you recommend buying off of James Allen?

…….

Can you please provide me with your opinion of this diamond versus the other ones that you sent. It seems to be priced well:
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-VS2-Premium-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1243862.asp

A: Most definitely I recommend them. I’ve had a ton of experience over the past year and a half since I started the site sending people to JA – I’ve never heard any complaints. Everyone’s extremely pleased with them.

As for the I VS2 you linked to, the cut isn’t QUITE as nice as the H VS1, but you know what, for that much of a difference in price, you might be better off with the one you picked! If you’re setting it in a solitaire setting, then for sure go with the I VS2. Otherwise, you might need to stick with H or better in color to match the side stones.

Q: Thank you for your help. It is very much appreciated. I am looking at this setting with a single diamond.
Selected Setting:
http://www.jamesallen.com/engagement-rings/solitaire/1-carat-solitaire-engagement-ring.html

Here are the 5 diamonds I have narrowed it down to:

I VS1 – $9520
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1318388.asp

I VS2 – $9780
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-VS2-Premium-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1243862.asp

G VS2 – $12170
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/G-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1280747.asp

H VS1 – $11050
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1314714.asp

I VS2 – $9270
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-VS2-Premium-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1339636.asp

I am having trouble deciding if I should spend the extra 2000-3000 dollars on the G and H. I guess I just don’t have the experience to determine the exact difference in the diamonds.
I am trying to keep the diamond at around $10000 since the setting is around $1500.
Which one would you recommend? Also do you think the setting I selected will look fine with the selected diamonds?

Thank you!

A: That ring will look fantastic with any of these stones. Since you’re setting it in a solitaire, I really think your best bet is to go with an I color. There’s almost no visual difference between an I and H face-up mounted in a ring. So $1500 is a lot of money to pay for such an extremely minor effect.

Let me know what you decide in the end!

Q: That helps me narrow it down. Now to choose which I color one i want.
When I make my final decision I will be sure to let you know.

…….

Does a “thick” girdle matter? Do you think I should not consider diamonds with thick girdles.

…….

I think I have picked this one. I am not 100% certain yet, but I am leaning towards this one. It seems to be the best value for the largest size, and overall it seems to be a clean diamond.
What do you think?
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-VS1-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1249096.asp

Thanks.

A: Thick is Ok. Just stay away from “extremely thick” or “extremely thin”

…….

That’s a fantastic stone with an amazing value at 1.91cts. These are very very rare, so you should snap it up before someone else does!

Q: That’s great news. I was reading information online that said you don’t want a diamond in the 1.5-2.0 range that has a “I color” since you will really notice it. I guess that is not the case?

A: nope. Complete nonsense!

Q: Excellent, I will order it as soon as I can. Thank you for all of your help.

A: My pleasure! Please stay in touch and let me know how it goes and what you think of it when it arrives!

Q: I really appreciate your help and expertise. I ordered the ring tonight. I am anxious to see what it looks like.
Is there anything I can do to put a review on your website or help you out in any way?

A: Thanks for letting me know! Lets make a deal – wait until you get the ring. If you love it, then I’ll hit you up for a review

A: Here’s two great options:
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/J-SI2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1352997.asp
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-SI2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1352993.asp

Let me know what you think!

Q: Thank you for your input. I originally wanted to pay cash but I i have decided to put some the cost on credit so that will up my total to spend up to $3500 on the diamond. I was originally looking at the Jewelry Exchange but looking at there website they seem to have higher prices for the same quality of diamond from say james Allen or Blue Nile. All the other stuff is staying the same. It has to be at least .80 ct. weight and it is going on a white gold cathedral mount four prong ring. definatly would like to get the best diamond for the money.

A: Here’s a couple more options with the new budget:
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/J-SI1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1304068.asp
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/J-SI1-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1331948.asp

Q: I like the .91 ct. but do you think I should go smaller with better color say F or G in color. Not sure how J colored diamond would look compared to a F or G. Is there noticeable yellow in a J colored diamond. Definitely want a diamond with a lot of fire. Not sure exactly what I need to look for to get that. I would assume cut and color would achieve that But I have seen some E vs1 that look cloudy. In the ones you sent I can see yellow tint in the center a little. Is that just due to the photo? Basically what is the highest color I can purchase and achieve a fiery diamond.

A: A J color round ideal cut diamond set in a solitaire setting will definitely look white to your eye. The yellow you see in the pics is an artifact of the photography.

These stones will be exceptionally fiery and brilliant – and large!

Q: Thanks for the info.
Greatly appreciated.

A: My pleasure! Let me know what you decide to go with!

Q: I think this is what I’m going to go with! What do you think about? Is it a good choice?
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/J-VVS2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1313821.asp

A: It’s beautiful. You’re going to love it! Please let me know what you think when it arrives!

Click on diamond for enlarged view.

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

Shape: Round

Cut: Excellent

Carats: 0.90

Diamond Color: J

Diamond Clarity: VVS2

Measurements: 6.23*6.27*3.82

Depth: 61.1%

Table: 53%

Diamond Polish: Excellent

Diamond Symmetry: Very Good

Diamond Fluorescence: None

Diamond Price:$4,020

Click here to be Brought to the Diamond on James Allen

Click diamond for enhanced image.

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

Shape: Princess

Carats: 1.03

Diamond Color: I

Diamond Clarity: VVS2

Measurements: 5.78*5.61*3.97

Depth: 70.8%

Table: 73%

Diamond Polish: Very Good

Diamond Symmetry:  Good

Diamond Fluorescence: None

Diamond Price:$4,130

Click here to be Brought to the Diamond on James Allen

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]

I am looking for a diamond for my girlfriend’s engagement ring. I was hoping to get your opinions on a few diamonds and perhaps have recommendations for other diamonds that you may come across. Specifically, I am looking for a princess cut diamond in the 1 carat range for around $4,000, give or take a few hundred dollars. From reading your site, it seems like a nice diamond would be one that has G or H color with VS1 or VS2 clarity. All things being equal, I think I would sacrifice a bit of size for better color. I also was looking at SI1 diamonds, but I couldn’t find any that didn’t seem like the inclusions would be noticeable to the eye.

I found the following diamonds at James Allen and was interested to see what you thought of them:

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-VS1-Premium-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1232675.asp

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-VS1-Premium-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1344733.asp

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/G-VS2-Premium-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1311317.asp

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/G-VS2-Premium-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1261297.asp

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-VS1-Premium-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1344001.asp

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-VS1-Premium-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1345791.asp

Again, if you see any other diamonds that you would recommend, feel free to do so. I’m not totally against purchasing a diamond from a vendor other than James Allen, but it really is nice to get a good idea what you are getting. I greatly appreciate your help!

Thank you very much!

A: Thanks for writing and thanks for the kind words about the site! Is there a reason why you’re not considering more nicely cut stones like these:

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

??

Q: Thanks for getting back to me so quickly! I was including them in my searches, but I guess I wasn’t looking at them too closely because they were more slightly more expensive, with everything else being equal. If you think it is better to only look at ideal cuts, I will do that.

Both the diamonds that you linked look very nice. For the second one you linked to, I wanted to ask about the medium blue flourescence it has. I know that you mentioned on your site that flourescence in G or better diamonds might lead to cloudiness. Do you not see any reason for concern with this diamond? It looks like a very nice diamond!

I also saw the following ideal cut:

http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds-search/diamonds/G-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1326696.asp

What is your thought on that spot near the center? Do you think it will be noticeable to the naked eye? Other than that, the diamond looks really nice.

Similarly for this one: http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds-search/diamonds/G-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1326505.asp

Thank you again for your help!!

A: The spot on the 1.03 makes me nervous but the spot on the 1.04 doesn’t. I actually REALLY like the 1.04.

I also wouldn’t worry about MB on a G color. The odds of that combo turning out milky are extremely low.

Q: I hope I’m not being too much of a pain! I think I’ve come up with a list of diamonds that I like based on your recommendations and I was hoping you would give me your thoughts on them (and maybe let me know which one you like most).

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/G-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1333900.asp (I like this one a lot too)

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/G-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1326505.asp (I still really like this diamond. I’ll be sure to ask if it is eye clean because of that spot on the top)

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-VVS2-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1350176.asp (I think this would be my fallback if the others aren’t eye clean)

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/E-SI1-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1237769.asp (the GIA report shows that there are some naturals on the table of the diamond. I can’t make them out in the photo, so do you think they would be of concern?)

Thanks again for your help!! I think I’m about ready to make a decision

A: They are all really nice. Btw, the indented natural is not what you see on the inlcusion plot on the table. Naturals only occur on the underside of the diamond under the girdle. They’re nothing to worry about because you can’t see them.

If it’s eye clean, then this is your best bet:

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/E-SI1-Ideal-Cut-Princess-Diamond-1237769.asp

Q: Hi again Ira,

I just wanted to thank you for all of your help! I purchased that E SI1 diamond and am very pleased with it. No inclusions are visible to my eye and I couldn’t see anything under a loop. Very beautiful. I’m sure my girlfriend will love it! I will definitely recommend your site and resources to others!

A: So great to hear! Congrats!

If it’s not too much trouble, do you think you could do me a small favor? I would very much appreciate it if you could leave me a review on ivouch. Here’s a direct link if you have the time:

xxxxx

Thanks again for this email! I love getting emails like these!

[LINK TO REVIEW ON IVOUCH]

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

Click on the photo to see an enlarged version

Shape: Princess Cut

Carats: 1.02

Diamond Color: I

Diamond Clarity: VVS2

Measurements: 5.67*5.41*3.98

Depth: 73.5%

Table: 72%

Diamond Polish: Excellent

Diamond Symmetry: Excellent

Diamond Fluorescence: None

Diamond Price: $4,170

Click here to be Brought to the Diamond on James Allen

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!