White Flash ACA and Brian Gavin Signature Diamonds Questions

[TwinkleCootie]

Re: White Flash ACA and Brian Gavin Signature Diamonds Quest

Thought about it some more and I think that I am set on going with an AGS Superideal diamond. Out of curiousity, does anyone have any experience returning a loose stone or other items from either one of these vendors? I would like to read about others' personal experiences and see how easy/difficult it's been in case I change my mind or find another stone within the return period.

 

[OoohShiny]

Re: White Flash ACA and Brian Gavin Signature Diamonds Quest

Each vendor offers an inspection period of a varying length of time, you will have to check on the websites you are particularly looking at. Returning the stone is the cost of shipping + the cost of insurance. The shipping companies usually have a $1k limit so you will have to purchase third party insurance, assuming I understand things correctly.

 

[TwinkleCootie]

Re: White Flash ACA and Brian Gavin Signature Diamonds Quest

Here's another and if this one is eyeclean (possible) I'd be ALL OVER this one:
http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/2.27-carat-h-color-si1-clarity-ideal-cut-sku-310791

The stone above is a GIA I SI1 stone.

Every single instance I have seen of disagreement on color of stones graded by both labs had one grade higher color from AGS than GIA. I once bought a GIA H&A stone in H color and later sold it with new grading from AGS at G color. That worked out really well for me! I feel that it is likely borderline color stones that AGS is looser on grading and GIA stricter. I do have WhiteFlash AGS diamonds and am totally happy with them. But I have also been fortunate in that Good Old Gold will check color for me when I look at their stones, and I don't buy an AGS stone that falls in the low end of a color range.

With the James Allen stone, I would compare prices and be sure it is priced at I color prices and not H.

Hi Diamondseeker,

Based on your personal experiences and given what you know about diamonds today, would you still purchase an AGS certified stone or would you just go straight to GIA?

 

[Dancing Fire]

Re: White Flash ACA and Brian Gavin Signature Diamonds Quest

I would buy either GIA or AGS graded RBs as long as I have good information about the cut.

 

[TwinkleCootie]

Re: White Flash ACA and Brian Gavin Signature Diamonds Quest

Need opinions between these two stones:

http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/2.02-carat-g-color-vs2-clarity-sku-299955

http://www.whiteflash.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut-loose-diamond-3063787.htm

The JA is a g color as opposed to WFs H. Anyone think it is better than the WF stone?

 

[sarahb]

Re: White Flash ACA and Brian Gavin Signature Diamonds Quest

I'm not one of the resident 'specialists', my call would be the WF stone only because the arrows on the JA image get lost as they reach the girdle. However, I'm also bothered by the WF stone in that the red bleeds out around the girdle, I believe that means leakage. One of the resident experts will be chiming in soon & definitively give you an option you can take to the bank! Good luck with your journey, you are doing it the right way--researching & learning!

Please come back with the ring when finished, it will be gorgeous 2 ct'r!

 

[teobdl]

Re: White Flash ACA and Brian Gavin Signature Diamonds Quest

You'd have a very difficult time telling the two apart if they were side by side. The decision should come down to factors beyond what's immediately visible.

I'd likely get the WF diamond b/c better upgrade policies (if you're ever interested), branded pedigree for insurance purposes (must replace with like kind and quality, ie with WF ACA if ever lost or stolen), and the WF doesn't doesn't have any fluorescence.

 

[TwinkleCootie]

Re: White Flash ACA and Brian Gavin Signature Diamonds Quest

I just noticed that the James Allen ring was graded a G color by AGS but an H Color by GIA:

http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/2.02-carat-g-color-vs2-clarity-sku-299955

If I go with an ACA diamond from WF or a BGD signature diamond should I have concerns with color downgrades? Has anyone ever had their ACA or BGD diamond regraded by GIA?

 

[TwinkleCootie]

Re: White Flash ACA and Brian Gavin Signature Diamonds Quest

Need opinions on this diamond:

http://www.whiteflash.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut-loose-diamond-2938305.htm

This is an 2 carat, H VS1 from WF's ACA line. I was previously looking at this 2 carat, H VS2:

http://www.whiteflash.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut-loose-diamond-3063787.htm

I called white flash and asked them about both stones. I asked the gemologist at AGS about the color (concerns with AGS color grading) and they said that both diamonds are "Strong H colors" that are accurately graded. They noted that they both appear very white face up but from the pavilion point of view, the VS1 was slightly whiter but that the difference is almost non existent.

Both appear to be very nice stones. My question is whether anyone thinks it's worth paying an extra $3,000 to trade up and get a VS1.

Do any of the gurus on this forum have any thoughts?

 

[marcy]

Re: White Flash ACA and Brian Gavin Signature Diamonds Quest

They both look like great diamonds. If I was picking between them I would go for the VS2 and have more money towards the ring. You won't see the inclusions in either one of them so you may as well buy the less expensive one.

 

[Dancing Fire]

Re: White Flash ACA and Brian Gavin Signature Diamonds Quest

They both look like great diamonds. If I was picking between them I would go for the VS2 and have more money towards the ring. You won't see the inclusions in either one of them so you may as well buy the less expensive one.

I'd agree with saving the 3K. I doubt it's worth the extra money.

 

[Daisyoz]

Re: White Flash ACA and Brian Gavin Signature Diamonds Quest

Ask WF if the VS2 is eye clean to your standard (from top and from the side) then decide from there. They're very honest and will describe it in details for you. It looks like it is eye clean from the photos. If it is, I'd go with that and save the 3k. When we were looking, there was no VS2 that is eye clean to our standards so we ended up with a VS1. But there are VS2 that are eye clean and hopefully this one is.

ETA: I'd also ask if this one is eye clean. It's the same price as the VS1 you're considering with an extra 0.27 carat. I know it is ES but I doubt the sparkle is going to be much different.

http://www.whiteflash.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut-loose-diamond-3164217.htm

 

[1fookntitefd]

Re: White Flash ACA and Brian Gavin Signature Diamonds Quest

Curious but does anyone know or has seen how these super idealcut diamonds from white flash, brian gavin, or infinity compare in brilliance to Hearts on Fire? My girlfriend likes Hearts on Fire but I would rather get an alternative so I don't set my wallet on fire

 

[Dancing Fire]

Re: White Flash ACA and Brian Gavin Signature Diamonds Quest

Curious but does anyone know or has seen how these super idealcut diamonds from white flash, brian gavin, or infinity compare in brilliance to Hearts on Fire? My girlfriend likes Hearts on Fire but I would rather get an alternative so I don't set my wallet on fire

Just as good but for 25% less...

 

[Gypsy]

Re: White Flash ACA and Brian Gavin Signature Diamonds Quest

If you want something as good or better I would go for an Infinity Diamond available at High Performance Diamonds or Brian Gavin Signature Line.

If your lady wants a Hearts on Fire though, have you considered a pre-owned Hearts on Fire? It would be a nice way to get her what she wants without the huge hit to budget.

 

[Valoriejoy]

Re: White Flash ACA and Brian Gavin Signature Diamonds Quest

Hi everyone. I am new to pricescope here so if I am asking a redundant question I apologize in advance. I just started looking for a diamond engagement ring for my girlfriend of 4+ years and decided to go the online shopping route. I have been browsing several websites including Blue Nile, James Allen, Zoara among others and noticed that the A Cut Above diamonds listed with White Flash and the Signature Collection with Brian Gavin are noticeably pricier than comparable GIA diamonds listed with other vendors.

For example, this 2 carat G Color VS2 with White Flash is listed at almost $35,000:
http://www.whiteflash.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut-loose-diamond-3157612.htm

A diamond with similar parameters with Blue Nile's Signature Ideal collection (2 carat, G, VS2, signature ideal) shows diamond prices ranging between $30.5k-$32.4k.

This 2 carat H Color VS2 with Brian Gavin is listed at over $29k:
http://www.briangavindiamonds.com/diamonds/diamond-details/2.088-h-vs2-round-diamond-ags-104069928003

Similar diamonds with James Allen list between $23.4k to $24k.

Why are White Flash and Brian Gavin diamonds so much more expensive? Are these diamonds really superior to other more "plain vanilla" stones from Blue Nile or James Allen or is it because they are AGS diamonds which are pricier than GIA stones?

Take a look at Victor Caner CANERA Hearts and Arrows

I am beyond over-the-moon happy with my Super Ideal CANERA Hearts and Arrows 1.258 ct. SI1 H

Good luck

may you be blessed always

 

[TwinkleCootie]

Re: White Flash ACA and Brian Gavin Signature Diamonds Quest

If you want something as good or better I would go for an Infinity Diamond available at High Performance Diamonds or Brian Gavin Signature Line.

If your lady wants a Hearts on Fire though, have you considered a pre-owned Hearts on Fire? It would be a nice way to get her what she wants without the huge hit to budget.

Gypsy,

I was under the impression that the diamonds from WF, BGD, and Infinity are of similar quality and are more or less interchangable. Are the BGD and Infinity diamonds are superior in some way? I am still considering the 2 ct H, VS2 stone from BGD but am a little turned off because the images show that the inclusions are very visible to the naked eye...

 

[luvdajules]

Re: White Flash ACA and Brian Gavin Signature Diamonds Quest

Hi OP, I'll take a shot at this question as I've seen a Crafted by Infinity but not the other two. My feeling after being on PS for 5 months is that perhaps WF ACA line has loosened the standards to meet the designation, over the years since Brian left and started BGD. I've seen many hearts images that are branded ACA but I would have thought ES (Expert Selection); whereas Brian G and Infinity stones are more consistent, imo. But this of course, is a stone by stone consideration. I would hope that most ACA's really meet the strict symmetry standards to be branded an ACA. Hopefully, one of the seasoned experts will chime in. I think it might be a touchy subject though.

 

[OoohShiny]

Re: White Flash ACA and Brian Gavin Signature Diamonds Quest

I believe CBI diamonds from HPD are extremely consistent in their cut, in that they will always be cut for maximum light performance, even if it loses some weight over what it could have been with very slightly less light performance. That is why they can be a little more expensive; you are paying for the additional, lost rough weight.

 

[Texas Leaguer]

Re: White Flash ACA and Brian Gavin Signature Diamonds Quest

Hi OP, I'll take a shot at this question as I've seen a Crafted by Infinity but not the other two. My feeling after being on PS for 5 months is that perhaps WF ACA line has loosened the standards to meet the designation, over the years since Brian left and started BGD. I've seen many hearts images that are branded ACA but I would have thought ES (Expert Selection); whereas Brian G and Infinity stones are more consistent, imo. But this of course, is a stone by stone consideration. I would hope that most ACA's really meet the strict symmetry standards to be branded an ACA. Hopefully, one of the seasoned experts will chime in. I think it might be a touchy subject though.

We are very mindful that we should normally refrain from posting in any thread where one or more of our diamonds are being considered. We of course respect forum rules and we are happy to have our diamonds evaluated objectively by the community. However, we feel it appropriate and necessary to set the record straight regarding A CUT ABOVE standards. (to Luvdajules- this is in no way a rebuke to you for the comment. It seems to be a viewpoint that gets perpetuated through the years for reasons that we may not fully understand).

The perception that somehow ACA standards were ever lowered is entirely false. In actual fact, ACA standards were tightened beginning in 2009. The proportion guidelines, hearts patterning criteria and requirements related to light performance imaging have been maintained since day one. In addition, we have implemented new requirements that eliminate such things as scratches, chips, extra facets, and clarity features that inhibit light performance.

We took the review process for ACA to another level altogether in 2010 with our successful initiative to become ISO 9000 certified. Each diamond is reviewed by a panel of experts for dozens of details and must emerge from that review with a passing grade for each and every characteristic. We have devoted ourselves to evolving as a transparent, accountable, and professional organization and have left the “wizard behind the curtain” concept for others to embrace as they see fit.

We welcome our customers to hold us accountable for every claim we make about our diamonds. In that spirit we took the proactive step of posting a comprehensive list of specifications and qualifications for our A CUT ABOVE diamonds.
http://www.whiteflash.com/a-cut-above-diamonds-specifications-and-qualifications/

While some businesses gear their marketing around unfounded claims or urban legends, we are dedicated to proving each aspect of our value proposition. We feel the astute consumer today expects and deserves this level of respect.

Thank you for taking the time to read this. We really appreciate the unique nature of this community with its many accomplished and knowledgeable members.

 

[TwinkleCootie]

Re: White Flash ACA and Brian Gavin Signature Diamonds Quest

Hi OP, I'll take a shot at this question as I've seen a Crafted by Infinity but not the other two. My feeling after being on PS for 5 months is that perhaps WF ACA line has loosened the standards to meet the designation, over the years since Brian left and started BGD. I've seen many hearts images that are branded ACA but I would have thought ES (Expert Selection); whereas Brian G and Infinity stones are more consistent, imo. But this of course, is a stone by stone consideration. I would hope that most ACA's really meet the strict symmetry standards to be branded an ACA. Hopefully, one of the seasoned experts will chime in. I think it might be a touchy subject though.

We are very mindful that we should normally refrain from posting in any thread where one or more of our diamonds are being considered. We of course respect forum rules and we are happy to have our diamonds evaluated objectively by the community. However, we feel it appropriate and necessary to set the record straight regarding A CUT ABOVE standards. (to Luvdajules- this is in no way a rebuke to you for the comment. It seems to be a viewpoint that gets perpetuated through the years for reasons that we may not fully understand).

The perception that somehow ACA standards were ever lowered is entirely false. In actual fact, ACA standards were tightened beginning in 2009. The proportion guidelines, hearts patterning criteria and requirements related to light performance imaging have been maintained since day one. In addition, we have implemented new requirements that eliminate such things as scratches, chips, extra facets, and clarity features that inhibit light performance.

We took the review process for ACA to another level altogether in 2010 with our successful initiative to become ISO 9000 certified. Each diamond is reviewed by a panel of experts for dozens of details and must emerge from that review with a passing grade for each and every characteristic. We have devoted ourselves to evolving as a transparent, accountable, and professional organization and have left the “wizard behind the curtain” concept for others to embrace as they see fit.

We welcome our customers to hold us accountable for every claim we make about our diamonds. In that spirit we took the proactive step of posting a comprehensive list of specifications and qualifications for our A CUT ABOVE diamonds.
http://www.whiteflash.com/a-cut-above-diamonds-specifications-and-qualifications/

While some businesses gear their marketing around unfounded claims or urban legends, we are dedicated to proving each aspect of our value proposition. We feel the astute consumer today expects and deserves this level of respect.

Thank you for taking the time to read this. We really appreciate the unique nature of this community with its many accomplished and knowledgeable members.

TexasLeaguer, thank you for the above. I also want to add that the staff at White Flash have been extremely friendly and helpful (I will also add PATIENT) to all of my inquiries and that the customer service has been excellent.

 

[luvdajules]

Re: White Flash ACA and Brian Gavin Signature Diamonds Quest

Hi Texas Leaguer, thanks for your response. It always helps to give real information from those who are in the inside of things. I suppose it's hard to make a hard line of a borderline ACA candidate, it's a slippery slope.

 

[Andelain]

Re: White Flash ACA and Brian Gavin Signature Diamonds Quest

Hi Texas Leaguer, thanks for your response. It always helps to give real information from those who are in the inside of things. I suppose it's hard to make a hard line of a borderline ACA candidate, it's a slippery slope.

In the case of WF, they have the ES category to catch all the near misses. That gices them the chace to still sell a beautifil stone that doesn't quite make the ACA grade, and for us to be able to save a few $$$. I have several ACA's, and a few ES's too. I have no regrets about any of the ES's I have, they're all gorgeous.

 

[TwinkleCootie]

Re: White Flash ACA and Brian Gavin Signature Diamonds Quest

Update: I pulled the trigger on the White Flash stone and wired payment to them earlier today. I should be receiving the diamond later this week and will post pictures!

 

[OoohShiny]

Re: White Flash ACA and Brian Gavin Signature Diamonds Quest

Excellent, congratulations!

We will look forward to pictures!

 

[marcy]

Re: White Flash ACA and Brian Gavin Signature Diamonds Quest

Excellent, congratulations!

We will look forward to pictures!

Agreed!

 

[TwinkleCootie]

Re: White Flash ACA and Brian Gavin Signature Diamonds Quest

Diamond from White Flash arrived today.

 

[TwinkleCootie]

Re: White Flash ACA and Brian Gavin Signature Diamonds Quest

I ended up buying the loose stone by itself because White Flash did not have the setting that I wanted in my gf's size in stock and I did not want to wait a few weeks for it The stone came with a cleaning cloth, tweezers, and a H&A viewer. The images below were taken from the point of view from the H&A...

 

[TwinkleCootie]

Re: White Flash ACA and Brian Gavin Signature Diamonds Quest

This is the AGS Certificate. I am no expert but it is hard to believe that this is a VS2. The inclusions on the certificate were actually less visible than the AGS certificate posted online. It is definitely an eye clean stone. I even bought a 10x loupe in anticipation of receiving this diamond and still could not find any inclusions after looking for about 10 minutes!

 

[TwinkleCootie]

Re: White Flash ACA and Brian Gavin Signature Diamonds Quest

These are some random pictures that I took of the stone both indoors and outdoors. I could not get a good shot because these pictures were taken from my iPhone...