My gf/soon to be fiance wants a moderately large diamond of 1.5cts RBC. Problem is my budget is 8k and that barely buys a 1ct ideal cut RBC. She thinks a 1.5ct is within reach because name brand stores have some awful I1/I2 H or I stones for that price. She loves the finger coverage and a halo won't suffice so I need a 7.2-7.4mm diameter stone.
Now, I want a well cut with an HCA of 2.5 or less with a nice ASET. It doesn't have to be an ideal cut Hearts & arrows diamond. I'm looking for eye clean SI1 and around 1.4-1.5ct in size. Given my budget and desire for well cut I have to lower color standards. So there's plenty of J color stones that fit the bill. But bump up to an I color stone and the price increases by 25% or more.
Why is there such a price jump from J to I? Is the color that noticeable?
Now, I want a well cut with an HCA of 2.5 or less with a nice ASET. It doesn't have to be an ideal cut Hearts & arrows diamond. I'm looking for eye clean SI1 and around 1.4-1.5ct in size. Given my budget and desire for well cut I have to lower color standards. So there's plenty of J color stones that fit the bill. But bump up to an I color stone and the price increases by 25% or more.
Why is there such a price jump from J to I? Is the color that noticeable?