1.53 J VS2 vs 1.57 I SI2

[Nick2413]

I have the choice between two rounds at the same price for a solitaire setting.

I already own the 1.53 J VS2 ($7,200 on Bluenile): GIA 2276238480
https://www.bluenile.com/diamond-details/LD09586416

I was offered the same price for this I SI2 when I took the Bluenile in to Jeweler's row: GIA 6271139364

Both diamonds are eye clean and based on calculators the cut on the first one is very slightly better, but the color is better on the second one which is the only thing I am concerned about with mine.

The only inclusions I could notice on the second diamond are that it is every so slightly cloudy, something I could only notice when looking side by side for a good half hour or more. We're talking almost entirely insignificant. I covered up the diamonds from the jewelry store lighting to see them in shadows and performance was still about equal between the both of them.


My question is: am I missing something? Both diamonds appeared just as good in person except that the I SI2 had better color which makes me lean toward buying it instead. Was the jeweler only able to give me this price because I came in with something I already own that he had to match, and normally he wouldn't be able to give this price? Or am I somehow missing something and that diamond shouldn't be worth anywhere near what he is asking? Thanks!

 

[EvaEvans]

I don't see the sense to exchange one thing with the same other thing.
If you want to trade, do an upgrade. Yes, most probably this will involve additional money, but you will receive something different.
J to I is one step up, but VS2 to SI2 is two steps down.
I would not buy SI2 clarity, except in some specific very rare cases.

 

[ringo865]

He wanted to exchange your better blue nile stone for his in store stone? Even up? Hmm. He's the expert and you're not. Who stands to gain? Him or you. (Hint: not you)

 

[Nick2413]

Looking at the two stones in person as well as the GIA report his stone objectively looked as good or better than mine, from all angles. I can see an improvement in color for what I consider an insignificant change in cut/clarity.

 

[ringo865]

Sorry, I thought you were asking what our thoughts were. If you were missing something. I'm not a fan of clouds in SI2 stones. You can return the bliue Nike one to blue nile and get your VS money back or with help from pricescope. Members, find a better stone with an I color and not Si2 clouds.

 

[Matthews1127]

I don't see the sense to exchange one thing with the same other thing.
If you want to trade, do an upgrade. Yes, most probably this will involve additional money, but you will receive something different.
J to I is one step up, but VS2 to SI2 is two steps down.
I would not buy SI2 clarity, except in some specific very rare cases.

^——This. For the record, I have an SI2 graded diamond, but...that’s debatable...which is why it’s mine...lol! I believe dropping down in clarity to move 1 color grade up isn’t the best bargain.
Upgrading would be the better idea. Increase size, color, and keep clarity within VS+ range....

 

[SimoneDi]

You stone is better cut and I actually really like it very much! It is a great price for the size that you got. I do not like the Jewelers choice and as other people have said- clouds in SI2 clarity is something to stay away from.

 

[GearGirly]

I would stick with yours as well. I have a J and the color, at least to me, is still very white.

 

[jadesilver]

Doesn’t sound like a good deal if a jeweler is looking to swap his SI2 stone with your better-cut stone. Your stone is probably worth more than his if you’re looking at value. I think PS-ers can find you a better stone with color as good as the jeweler’s.