2.5Ct Stone Advice

[johnsemail26]

Hi,

I recently purchased a diamond engagement ring with a 2.5ct stone. I sacrificed somewhat on the clarity and color because in vieweing multiple diamonds I could not tell the difference. However, I have not seen this diamond in person although I have reviewed its GIA online and the proportions seemed to fit within the desired paramaters. My question is when I recieve the diamond, other than taking it to an appraiser, what inspection should I perform to ensure that the color J and clarity SI2 are not overwhelmingly infringing on the overall quality of the diamond. For example, should I review in direct sunlight and measure whether the color is an unappealing yellow and whether the inclusion marks are noticeable from1 foot away or should I do this only against a white background with artificial light?
Should I also be evaluating for sparkle, and if so how does one measure that as a layperson?

Generally, I find the process of selecting diamonds to require a degree of evaluation that I dont possess and I really cant tell the difference other than size.

Since Ive been with my girl 10 years I think she probably deserves something a little more substantial than normal and I was hoping to make it special.
Please help.
Thanks.

 

[Lorelei]

Hi John

If you like go ahead and post the following info

depth %
table %
crown and pavilion angles
girdle thickness
polish and symmetry grades
diameter in MM
star and lower girdle facet percentages

This will be on the grading report. Also if there is a Jareds near you go and compare some AGS0 Peerless or alternatively Hearts on Fire if there is a dealer near you so you can see some well cut diamonds in action. This will give you a good point of comparison to use for yours. Also compare your diamond in as many different lighting conditions as you can to see how it will look when being worn. If you would like expert reassurance, then make sure the diamond has a good return policy and get an independant appraisal on the diamond during the return period.

Here is an appraiser listing.

https://www.pricescope.com/appr_list.aspx

 

[johnsemail26]

Round Brilliant
2.52 Carat

GIA Report Info
8.74x8.85x5.29mm
Color J
Clarity SI2
Cut - Excellent
Polish - Excellent
Symmetry - Very Good
Table = 59%
Crown Angle - 33.5
Pavillion Angle - 40.8
Depth 60.2
Crown Height - 13.5
Pav Height - 43
Slightly Thick Faceted

HCA returns a 1.3 Grade and Excellent in each category

Thanks

 

[Lorelei]

Date: 8/15/2009 3:20:13 PM
Author: johnsemail26
Round Brilliant
2.52 Carat

GIA Report Info
8.74x8.85x5.29mm
Color J
Clarity SI2
Cut - Excellent
Polish - Excellent
Symmetry - Very Good
Table = 59%
Crown Angle - 33.5
Pavillion Angle - 40.8
Depth 60.2
Crown Height - 13.5
Pav Height - 43
Slightly Thick Faceted

HCA returns a 1.3 Grade and Excellent in each category

Thanks

It has definite potential, what I would do next if it is online is to request an Idealscope image and to find out if it is eyeclean. Make your expectations clear to the seller concerning this, its a big stone and as it is SI2 you might possibly see some inclusions. Also if there are cloud inclusions noted on the grading report on the plotting diagram, check that these aren't impacting brilliance by asking the vendor.

But it definitely looks promising!

If you aren't familiar with Idealscope, this page explains

http://www.highperformancediamonds.com/index.php?page=education-performance

 

[Stephan]

Ditto Lorelei, it has potential!