Could a stone with an HCA score of 3.6 be worth looking at?

[Zizzy]

Hello,
I'm a lurker on a steep learning curve and I know I've a long way to go.
There's a De Beers pre-loved platinum ring for sale with a diamond with the following GIA spec:
Cut: Ex
Polish: VG
Symmetry: Ex
Table: 59%
Depth: 60.5%
Crown angle: 34.5
Pavilion angle: 41.2
Culet: none
Colour: J
VS2
8.20 x 8.23 x 4.97
2.02 carat

This yields a disappointing 3.6 on the HCA. Could it be that the minor facets might still make this a sparkler? It looks good on the photograph I saw but there is no asset or anything. I live in the UK and we just don't seem to have the same availability of diamonds at such competitive prices as you do in the USA. This is offered at under £14,000, however irrespective of price, I wouldn't want to buy it if it doesn't have terrific fire and scintillation. Do you think it's worth a 2 hour drive to take a look? Should I buy an Idealscope online?
I would be so grateful for your opinion on this. Particularly Gypsy, - although I know it's annoying that I can't show you an asset image.
Kind regards

 

[blingbuyer]

Re: Could a stone with an HCA score of 3.6 be worth looking

Im still a newbie. but from what i gather, the HCA helps to rule out stones and stones lower than a 2 have a better chance of performing better. That said, i believe it is possible that something that scores above a 2 can be worth looking at. But the chances are slimmer.

Either way you will need to see it, and/or an ASET or idealscope to be sure.

 

[AprilBaby]

Re: Could a stone with an HCA score of 3.6 be worth looking

Keep looking

 

[arkieb1]

Re: Could a stone with an HCA score of 3.6 be worth looking

Is it a round brilliant or a transitional or old cut? I assume it is a round brilliant but be aware the HCA doesn't work if it is an antique cut diamond.

 

[Zizzy]

Re: Could a stone with an HCA score of 3.6 be worth looking

Thanks for the replies. It is a round brilliant. I suppose the price makes it tempting but I will try to resist its siren call.
It is surprising how low a GIA excellent cut can score.
Has anyone here seen an excellent Idealscope image from a stone with a score in this range?

 

[Snowdrop13]

Re: Could a stone with an HCA score of 3.6 be worth looking

Don't know about the Idealscope images but I do agree that here in the UK we are much more restricted with the quality and prices for diamonds! Have you considered buying pre-loved from the US? Even factoring in postage and taxes it is often still way cheaper. I have done it myself with no problems. Have a look at Jewels by Grace's loose diamond pages to see what you might be able to have- there are lots in the 2-3 carat size, many are sold but it will give you an idea. Good luck with your search!

 

[Zizzy]

Re: Could a stone with an HCA score of 3.6 be worth looking

You are probably right Snowdrop. I have just taken a peep at the Jewels by Grace website and there is a scrumptious 2.51 G RB with an excellent HCA score for the equivalent of under £18,000 (excluding shipping and taxes). I do feel nervous about buying from the US so your experience is very reassuring.
Thanks!

 

[luvdajules]

Re: Could a stone with an HCA score of 3.6 be worth looking

Hi Zizzy and Snowdrop, not sure if you know about Phoenix's pre-loved stone. If it's not sold, it's with Perry at Leon Mege, but maybe she should consign it with Grace! If memory serves, it's 2.656 ct H/Si2 eyeclean Brian Gavin Signature diamond for $28k
USD to a pricescoper. Anyway, just thought you might want to know if you were considering larger sizes for the right price and specs. Brian Gavin diamonds are top of the line cut and Leon Mege is a well respected vendor, to mitigate any sense of risk. Good luck with both your searches and diamond journey