Best value advice

[lizzybride]

Hi all,

My fiance and I are currently in the process of searching for a diamond. Our budget for the diamond (not including the setting) is $7.5K to $8.5K USD. I would like a round diamond that is approx 1.5-1.75 carats.

I would like to know what specifications for cut, color and clarity we should be looking at to get the best value given the specifications above. I had been doing a search for:
ideal to excellent cut
VS1-VS2 clarity
F color
and those seem to be out of our price range. However, certain websites have suggested going to a G or even and H color to get within our price range. Are G and H diamonds really colorless to the eye? Also, how different is a G diamond from an H diamond? Should I instead be changing one of my other parameters (cut or clarity)?
Thanks in advance for any help

 

[stone-cold11]

Take a look at this post https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/photographic-death-match-f-versus-k.116295/

And this video. http://vimeo.com/3288695

 

[jet2ks]

Stone cold has you covered on color. I would also suggest looking at SI-1 and possibly SI-2 clarities to maximize budget, as long as you are working with a vendor that can physically examine the stones to confirm that they would be eye-clean.

 

[Lorelei]

Date: 5/29/2009 2:28:12 PM
Author:lizzybride
Hi all,

My fiance and I are currently in the process of searching for a diamond. Our budget for the diamond (not including the setting) is $7.5K to $8.5K USD. I would like a round diamond that is approx 1.5-1.75 carats.

I would like to know what specifications for cut, color and clarity we should be looking at to get the best value given the specifications above. I had been doing a search for:
ideal to excellent cut
VS1-VS2 clarity
F color
and those seem to be out of our price range. However, certain websites have suggested going to a G or even and H color to get within our price range. Are G and H diamonds really colorless to the eye? Also, how different is a G diamond from an H diamond? Should I instead be changing one of my other parameters (cut or clarity)?
Thanks in advance for any help

Hi Lizzy,

Colour perception can vary, a video and photos can give examples but bear in mind that computer monitors and aforementioned colour perception are variable so it really is best to look at some diamonds in person especially as you are considering larger weights.

If possible check some AGS or GIA graded diamonds of similar size and cut quality and colour out in person to make sure where your preferences lie. G and H colour diamonds are colourless to me but some can distinguish between the two rarely or even notice a hint of warmth so it really would be best if unsure to check some out in person.

Cut - I would suggest AGS0, AGS1 and GIA Excellent cut grades, find diamonds you like and post the details here if shopping online.

Clarity - if on a budget VS2 or SI1 if verified eyeclean by a trusted vendor can be good choice.