Can you see the inclusions? Help w/ 1.5ct round. [pics]

[Snuffles_Rose]

Hi PSers,

Thought I'd ask your expert opinion before making a very large purchase. This is at the very top end of my budget, and I'm reaching a little because I thought this was a good value. I've attached a bunch of "exhibits" for your convenience, but would be happy to hear if you think this is not a reasonable diamond or price. Here's the URL (http://www.bluenile.com/round-diamond-1-carat-ideal-cut-h-color-vs2-clarity_LD04262022). I have a hold on it, which is why it says not available for purchase right now.

I am a little budget minded, so I was initially looking for something with excellent HCA spread (which if I understand correctly means a shallow stone). To get a feel for the pricing, I searched for comparable stones in the PS search, but found 3+ HCA scores for all cheaper comparable stones.

My questions are thus:
1) Does the photograph tell you anything about the inclusions or the quality of the cut? Do you think the inclusions are a problem?
2) Is this a reasonable value?
3) Where should I look, if this is not quite the right diamond?

Carat weight: 1.53
Cut: Ideal per BN, Excellent per GIA
Color: H
Clarity: VS2
Price: $12,609
Price per carat: $8,241
My price: $12,108 ($12,609 - $7,500 * 5% Chase Freedom cashback - $12,609 * 1% regular cashback)
Certification: GIA

Depth: 61.4%
Table: 57%
Crown Angle: 34.5%
Pavilion Angle: 41%
Girdle: 3% (medium, faceted)
Culet: None

Polish: Excellent
Symmetry: Excellent
Fluorescence: Medium Blue
Measurements: 7.41 x 7.44 x 4.56
Inclusions: Crystal, cloud, feather, cavity (see GIA detail)

HCA
TVP: 1.9
Light Return: Excellent
Fire: Very Good
Scintillation: Very Good
Spread: Very Good

I've attached:
Picture of stone
GIA Detail (showing inclusions)
HCA
GIA Report

Thanks so much,
Friend of snuffles

 

[Snuffles_Rose]

Bump.

 

[MarionC]

not a fan of inclusions on the table, although they could be fine if not dark. Hard to tell from photo.
Personally I would put cut above size or color.

I've started looking and have not found anything yet in your budget - I see what you are up against.
The only thing I've found so is over budget: http://www.whiteflash.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut-loose-diamond-3045738.htm
I'm sure others will chime in!
and I will do some more looking.
Here is a slightly smaller one:
http://www.whiteflash.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut-loose-diamond-3063800.htm?source=pricescope

edit for further info.

 

[Lance_Alot]

I'm far from an expert, but I just went through a pretty detailed search on BN recently for my wife's ring. I don't think you need to worry much about clarity being an issue with a VS rated ring, as it will be eye clean (I.e.- you can't see it). H color in platinum also shouldn't be an issue. With that said, how do you and your SO feel about fluorescence? Most here seem to like some fluorescence, but this diamond has medium. My wife didn't want any, and opinions can be strong on this attribute. It can significantly impact the price.

I agree with the previous poster that you may want to look in the 1 to 1.25 carat range to get all that you want in your budget. BN has a generous trade in policy if you want to upgrade down the line. You will need to trade for a diamond that is twice as expensive later though, so I wouldn't stretch now if that is what you are thinking.