1.3-1.49 ct options

[Roqsteady]

Has anyone else noticed with the vendors dealing with the superideal cut diamonds (GOG, WF, HPD, BGD) a lack of diamond inventory in these sizes? I'm generally looking for a G-I, VS1-VS2 range, but even when I cast the net wider there's a dearth of options. I know JA and BNSignature have some but they provide less info and fewer still have an AGS platinum report. Just wondering if it's just me or if other people see/know why this is the case.

 

[Paul-Antwerp]

Hello,

The answer to this question is fairly easy. Regardless of cut-quality, a diamond's sales-value jumps up if the 'magic' weight of 1.50 Ct is passed. From a manufacturing perspective, it thus makes sense to judge a rough diamond and finish it above 1.50 if one can. Again, regardless of cut-quality as a potential extra margin because of better cut-quality does not make up for the basic loss in value for the stone being just under 1.50. That is the problem of the supply-side.

On the demand-side, some 'smart' consumers have figured out that they theoretically can save money by buying just under the magic weight (say 1.30 - 1.49), as there is little visual difference, but a serious difference in price. This creates a constant demand for such sizes, so if one is produced, it generally flies out the door.

Live long,

 

[Roqsteady]

Thanks for your response Paul - it's great to hear from a diamond cutter himself - and that does make sense. Two things that rise to my mind though is - there seem to be ample options on the .8ct-1ct range, but then again there are probably more diamonds in general in that range. The second is that - if suppliers hold that view that you suggest, and buyers do in fact snatch these up faster - why hasn't demand just driven up the price of these diamonds accordingly so that there isn't a discontinuous gap in the price per carat?

 

[Paul-Antwerp]

The reason for the price not driven up is probably because in the world market of diamonds, of the 4 C's, Cut is still under-valued. In essence, when buying a diamond of good cut-quality, you are over-paying for Carat weight, Color and Clarity and under-paying for Cut-quality.

Live long,

 

[SgrPlum12]

OP, I've definitely noticed the same thing! At the beginning of January my boyfriend bought my engagement ring from WF. It's a 1.498 ct J diamond. Since then, I've been checking around, just to price compare out of curiosity, and I've definitely noticed the same shortage that you have!

By the way, even though the diamond is only .002 ct away from being 1.5 ct, I think we avoided paying the extra premium that occurs at the 1.5 mark. That's why I've been curious to research these diamonds to price compare.