Comparison of Round Diamonds in the 15-20k Range

[SoDoge]

Hi all,

I've been doing my diligence for an online purchase of a round brilliant diamond for an engagement ring for my girlfriend, with the hope that she accepts and becomes my wife.

My price range is relatively flexible, but I'm looking around the 15-20k area for a 1.7ct+ round stone, H color minimum and VS2 (or an eye-clean SI1, though I have been focused on a VS2).

I was hoping to get some thoughts on the diamonds below, as well as any potential alternative suggestions:

http://www.goodoldgold.com/ecommerce/1-7ct-h-vs2-superior-round-hearts-and-arrows-diamond.html

http://www.whiteflash.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut-loose-diamond-3236285.htm

Any thoughts on ACA vs. the GOG H&A?

http://www.whiteflash.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut-loose-diamond-3227677.htm

I'm a bit concerned about the drop from an H to an I in this diamond, but does the carat size increase make that less worrisome on balance?

I'm also considering the below, but I would likely have to have a discussion about fluorescence with my girlfriend prior to moving forward:

http://www.briangavindiamonds.com/diamonds/diamond-details/1.687-h-vs2-round-diamond-ags-bl-104074030042

Any help would be greatly appreciated!

 

[SoDoge]

I spoke to her and it seems the idea of florescence is not particularly appealing. Any suggestions?

Thanks again.

 

[16ocean]

Hi SoDoge-
That's a generous budget. I know there are some pros on this form who can give you some great advice.

To my eyes: the 1.7 H from GOG and the 1.755 from WF both look good options.

There is something different going on with some green patches around the edges of the diamond on the 1.898 from WF. I don't know . . . . hopefully some one can chime in on this. It might not be significant.

Where do you plan on setting the diamond? Often setting the diamond and buying the stone from the same vendor simplifies the process.

 

[SoDoge]

Hi SoDoge-
That's a generous budget. I know there are some pros on this form who can give you some great advice.

To my eyes: the 1.7 H from GOG and the 1.755 from WF both look good options.

There is something different going on with some green patches around the edges of the diamond on the 1.898 from WF. I don't know . . . . hopefully some one can chime in on this. It might not be significant.

Where do you plan on setting the diamond? Often setting the diamond and buying the stone from the same vendor simplifies the process.

Thanks for the response.

In terms of settings, I agree that the process would be streamlined if the same vendor provided the stone and the setting. Each of the vendors I've looked at have settings that would fit her criteria, so the only exceptional consideration is the stone itself.

 

[16ocean]

You are welcome.
Come back and let us know what you decide.

My non-expert choice would be the WF- 1.755 unless an expert could help explain the 1.898 ASET.
Hope the two of you a happy new year!

 

[RockyRacoon]

I would go for the 1.755ct from WF.

I would avoid dropping to I-color, if you can, particularly if you don't know how color sensitive the recipient is.

The stone from GOG is also a fine pick, but I prefer the proportions of the WF stone.

The 1.755ct looks like a winner!