Advice on this 3.5+ Emerald Cut - Pic

[Gypsy]

No, this sucker is going to be glassy and flat. That huge table and those facets are not boding well.

The EGL is not enough to totally discard it, mainly because it is a fancy and their performance is a matter of angles not in the cert, and because it could have been re-certed by the vendor (but originally certed by GIA, for example). But it likely isn't a top diamond cutter's new stone if its sent to EGL.

I would stick to the other. Still got a big table but from the pics the performance looks better.

 

[chrono]

I would skip the "new" EC because it has a very high chance of being a dud from the picture.

 

[Millennistar]

Thanks for the weigh-in Gypsy. Would the large table on the second diamond make it look glassy and flat even with a depth of 70%? I thought I was doing better on the depth and the crown % on this one.

 

[Millennistar]

Chrono, thanks so much! So helpful. Even though the new one is bigger, it just doesn't make sense that a 4.5 ct would be <$40K. I'm feeling better and better about #1. And, I'm sure my boyfriend will appreciate not have more cash tied up.

Now I can focus on...the SETTING!!!!

 

[chrono]

There are many more facets and angles to consider in addition to the table % and depth %. These must all work together in order to look beautiful. With a smaller table and depth that isn't too low or deep, you increase your chances of a better performing stone but is still not guaranteed. I've seen plenty of ECs that are within the sweet spot that are duds or mediocre looking as well.