Advice welcome choosing a diamond

[mikebrad]

I'm looking for a round diamond in the 1.3 carat range with a very nice cut and on the better side of color and clarity. Clean to the eye is definitely a must. My total budget is in the $15k range but of course I'd be happy to spend less. Probably like most amateurs, I struggle with the subtle differences and why two seemingly similar diamonds will be priced 20% differently. Anyway, are there any red flags in the ones that I have linked below or any indications that one may be cut better than the others? Any other stone suggestions you have would also be very welcome. Thanks!

http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/1.30-carat-f-color-vs1-clarity-sku-362867

http://www.bluenile.com/diamond-details/LD01927381?keyword_search_value=LD01927381

http://www.bluenile.com/diamond-details/LD04220410?keyword_search_value=LD04220410

 

[RockyRacoon]

I was able to find a few stones in your budget that meet your specs.

These have all been vetted by well-respected vendors and possess a top-notch cut.

Here are the Lucky 7:

1.4ct, G, VS2
http://www.goodoldgold.com/diamond/12167/

1.34ct, G, SI1
http://www.whiteflash.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut-loose-diamond-3172029.htm

1.32ct, G, VS2
http://www.goodoldgold.com/diamond/12675/

1.31ct, G, VS2
http://www.briangavindiamonds.com/diamonds/diamond-details/1.312-g-vs2-round-diamond-ags-104074500012

1.28ct, F, VS2
http://www.whiteflash.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut-loose-diamond-3227662.htm

1.26ct, G, VS2
http://www.highperformancediamonds.com/index.php?page=view-id-diamond-infinity-new&id=1305

1.24ct, F, VS2
http://www.briangavindiamonds.com/diamonds/diamond-details/1.236-f-vs2-round-diamond-ags-bl-104072305012


Choose any of those stones and you will end up with a well-cut stone, inspected by an expert, with a generous upgrade policy in the future.

Best of luck!