I've read some bad press about EGL diamonds - that the EGL standards are not good compared to other gem labs. Would that make EGL stones cheaper? Does this make them a bad deal?
EGL stones are often cheaper. Sometimes you get what you pay for. You'll want to find out by using the services of an independent appraiser prior to the expiration of a return policy whether or not the diamond was properly graded by EGL. Differences in color, clarity and cut grades have an effect on the price of a diamond plus you'll want to be sure about what you are buying. You can also ask a vendor to send a stone to GIA or AGS to double check the EGL grading. You can offer to pay for the cert at the dealer's cost if the grade comes back the same. If the labs disagree, you will have a basis for renegotiation of price or the opportunity to choose another diamond.