Diamond noob needs advice on a Cushion

[Iaujla]

I need to get Cushion Diamond for my anniversary very soon. I only have basic knowledge about the 4 Cs and need expert advise. Basically, I want an I Color/VS2 diamond or better with VG or better Cut/Polish. Using price scope''s search, I came up with this diamond. Please tell me if there is anything wrong with it. What information I should request from the seller (Abazia)? I am open to any other similar diamonds that are better deals.

http://www.abazias.com/database/CertWin.asp?stock=71111548


My budget for Diamond + setting is around 12000-15000.

 

[hihowareyou]

First thing I will mention is that EGL is a ''lessor lab''. Their grading might be a bit less strict and you should expect an EGL stone to be cheaper than a AGS or GIA stone because it is likely a lower clarity/colour in reality. With any cushion obtain photographs and an ASET image, a video is also great if possible.

Next up it sounds as though your significant other has told you that they want a cushion cut diamond. The term ''cushion cut'' covers several different distinctive looks so I would be sure that you understand what she means when she says she wants a cushion. I got my cushion from GOG so would recommend them but even if you decide to go with another vendor then I strongly recommend watching this video first: http://www.vimeo.com/7579666. It explains the range of cushion shapes available and a little bit of why there are such a variety of pricing too.

Once you know in more detail what you want I''m sure we can be of much help tracking it down inside your budget.

 

[Lorelei]

Date: 1/6/2010 2:58:17 AM
Author: hihowareyou
First thing I will mention is that EGL is a 'lessor lab'. Their grading might be a bit less strict and you should expect an EGL stone to be cheaper than a AGS or GIA stone because it is likely a lower clarity/colour in reality. With any cushion obtain photographs and an ASET image, a video is also great if possible.

Next up it sounds as though your significant other has told you that they want a cushion cut diamond. The term 'cushion cut' covers several different distinctive looks so I would be sure that you understand what she means when she says she wants a cushion. I got my cushion from GOG so would recommend them but even if you decide to go with another vendor then I strongly recommend watching this video first: http://www.vimeo.com/7579666. It explains the range of cushion shapes available and a little bit of why there are such a variety of pricing too.

Once you know in more detail what you want I'm sure we can be of much help tracking it down inside your budget.

Good advice above, especially concerning watching the video. With the diamond above there is no way of knowing the cut quality and beauty without detailed photos, an ASET image and a Sarin report to get the crown height, it is probably a virtual stone which needs calling in for evaluation. I would look at vendors that have in house cushions of GIA grading personally, also as Hi explains, EGL can be soft on grading in some cases.

 

[ChunkyCushionLover]

Date: 1/6/2010 2:43:07 AM
Author:Iaujla
I need to get Cushion Diamond for my anniversary very soon. I only have basic knowledge about the 4 Cs and need expert advise. Basically, I want an I Color/VS2 diamond or better with VG or better Cut/Polish. Using price scope''s search, I came up with this diamond. Please tell me if there is anything wrong with it. What information I should request from the seller (Abazia)? I am open to any other similar diamonds that are better deals.

http://www.abazias.com/database/CertWin.asp?stock=71111548


My budget for Diamond + setting is around 12000-15000.

Your post is a classic problem that new buyers face when they just start learning about diamonds. In order to obtain a size of 3 Carats you will have to sacrifice everythingelse to get there to fit even close to your budget.
The diamond you posted above is EGL graded and is likelly to be 1 or 2 color grades lower and may also be one or two clarity grades lower if it was sent to GIA. With a crown height of only 9% and a large pavillion depth and modified brilliant facet pattern I can safely say this stone was cut to get to the magical 3 CT weight rather than for light performance.

You have a nice budget for a 1.5 - 2.5 Ct cushion depending upon how strict you want to be in cut and color and clarity. We could be most helpful as a community if you tell us what type of cushion cut you prefer. I put together a little guide below which should help you to view the cushion cuts and once we know your preference it will help in your search.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ChunkyCushionLover''s Guide To Buying Cushion Cut Diamonds

Step 1 (Choose The Type of Cut)

Decide the look of cushion you like best. (Watching the videos should help you the most with this.)

i) Cushion Brilliant (most buyers on Pricescope prefer Cushion Brilliants due to the better light return and larger flashes of light returned to the eye)

a) 4 main like this one http://www.octonus.com/oct/projects/foxymovies/round_cushion2_office_fr.phtml or http://www.vimeo.com/2120607 (4 main is on the far left)
b) 8 main modern http://www.vimeo.com/2120607 (stone on the left)
c) 8 main old mine cushion http://www.vimeo.com/5310842
d) BGD modern 8 main cushion (the mains intersect at the corners) https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/bgd-cushion-let-me-know-what-you-think.128493/

ii) Square Cushion Hearts and Arrows http://video.jogiadiamonds.com.au/images/analysis/CXF7266-2.mov http://video.jogiadiamonds.com.au/images/analysis/CXF7266.mov

iii) Cushette http://www.vimeo.com/3164922

iv) Cushion Modified Brilliant (often referred to negatively as the "crushed ice" variety as many in this category have only small flashes and were cut to save weght not to optimize light return),
a) 4 Pavillion main facets (several varieties) (The diamond you posted above would fall in this category)
b) 8 mains (several varieties) http://www.vimeo.com/3164922 Pictures and commentary here https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/the-shocking-final-diamond-choice-i-gave-to-my-fiance-which-one-would-you-pick.121154/
c) Square Brilliant (rare seen more in Belgium)
If you want to learn about cushions a great video by Jon at GOG can be watched here http://www.vimeo.com/7579666 and bonus footage here http://www.vimeo.com/7611843.

A helpful thread to see the plots and pictures of different types of cushions can be seen here https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/a-cushion-by-any-other-name.36001/ (keep in mind pictures aren''t as useful as videos and can only be used reliably to understand facet structure not light performance)


Step 2 (Choose the 4Cs)

1) Post your budget, Color, Clarity, Carat Weight, LW(length to width) Ratio (do you like perfectly Square or Rectangular?) and cut preference. We will help find stones in your price range or tell you if your budget is realistic for the specs you have chosen or if you will have to make some tradeoffs. If you would rather go directly to the vendor at this point I suggest you speak to:

i) Mark at Engagementringsdirect.com
ii) Jon at Goodoldgold.com
iii) Bob at Whiteflash.com
iv) Brian at Briangavindiamonds.com

This list is limited to what I beleive are vendors who specialize in cushion cuts designed for light performance there may be others but I haven''t had experiences with them. Some vendors like GOG and BGD have even developed their own cushion signature cut diamonds lines not available for sale by any other vendor. All of these vendors will be able to provide ASET images and pictures of stones to help you decide prior to purchase.

Example:

Budget: Up to $15,000
Color: I and above
Clarity: SI1 and above (Anything Eyeclean from 12 inches away looking faceup)
Carat Weight: 1.5Ct+
Lw Ratio = 1 - 1.05 (I want square) or 1.1 - 1.3 (I want rectangular)
Cushion Brilliant (Modern) either 4 main or 8 main

Than we can help you narrow things down considerably.

Step 3 (View and Post ASET Image and Photographs in this threador links to them and/or see in person)

Ask the vendor for a Video and/or ASET image (http://www.ideal-scope.com/1.using_ASET_scope.asp) of your possible choices and we can help you narrow down which of your selections we prefer and why.

Step 4 (View a side by side comparison at a vendor or appraisor for final selection)

If you are still not sure I would send your two or three favourite stones to a PS listed appraisor https://www.pricescope.com/appr_list.aspx close to you, where you can view your final choices in person prior to purchase you will just have to pay shipping. Many PS vendors will send stones to a trusted appraisor without you having to pay first and the appraisor will only release the stone to you only upon payment to and consent of the vendor.
For such an expensive purchase $100 in shipping and $100 in appraisor time seems well worth it to make the most informed choice possible.

Happy Hunting,

CCL

 

[sweetpea&babycorn]

a 12K - 15K budget is VERY flexible for what you want your budget is a little higher than my fiance''s, and we were able to get a pretty 2ct cushion on a simple diamond band setting.

i think CCL''s guide is a great starting point to get you thinking more about what you want. if you don''t limit what you want, i think you''ll go crazy with a budget like that.

also think about what kind of setting you would like ie name brand, custom, stock, etc. name brands will cost you more, custom work can be expensive or reasonable depending on what you want, and stock settings are always the least expensive option. a lot of people here put most of the money on the stone and compromise on the setting with the intention of "upgrading" the setting later, while others feel the opposite. decide on what''s important to you and you''ll have a better idea of what you can spend on the stone/setting.

with cushions, it''s best to see them in person. it''s perfectly acceptable to search online, but numbers won''t help you much. the GoG video is also AMAZING, it helps me tremendously when picking out my cushion.

best of luck, and please post pictures if you get any!

 

[Iaujla]

My Budget is 12000-1500 ...I assume the setting would take up 1k-2k of that since I want some tiny diamonds in the setting.
Color: I and above
Clarity: Vs2 and above (I understand SI1 can be eyeclean but just the SI designation would not make wife happy)
Carat: 2+ though I would really prefer to get something close to 2.5 The 3+ I listed was just a big stone that caught my eye.
Lw Ratio: I would prefer something slightly rectangular 1.1-1.2 maybe....I think 1.3 would be too elongated for me. I could compromise to more squarish if I had too.
I Dont like the crushed ICE look so I would normally say Cushion Brilliant but the vid posted here http://www.vimeo.com/3164922 would seem to indicate that certain Cushion Modified Brilliants would be good too.


The http://www.abazias.com/database/CertWin.asp?stock=71111548 diamond I posted seemed to have "less facets" that alot of the other diamond reports I saw so I had assumed it would have slightly more chunky flashes. Does the VG/VG cut and polish on this diamond make no difference to how nice this diamond looks?

I am open to any suggestions. I want this diamond ring soon. Thx for everyone''s help so far.

 

[sweetpea&babycorn]

Date: 1/6/2010 1:38:31 PM
Author: Iaujla
My Budget is 12000-1500 ...I assume the setting would take up 1k-2k of that since I want some tiny diamonds in the setting.
Color: I and above
Clarity: Vs2 and above (I understand SI1 can be eyeclean but just the SI designation would not make wife happy)
Carat: 2+ though I would really prefer to get something close to 2.5 The 3+ I listed was just a big stone that caught my eye.
Lw Ratio: I would prefer something slightly rectangular 1.1-1.2 maybe....I think 1.3 would be too elongated for me. I could compromise to more squarish if I had too.
I Dont like the crushed ICE look so I would normally say Cushion Brilliant but the vid posted here http://www.vimeo.com/3164922 would seem to indicate that certain Cushion Modified Brilliants would be good too.


The http://www.abazias.com/database/CertWin.asp?stock=71111548 diamond I posted seemed to have ''less facets'' that alot of the other diamond reports I saw so I had assumed it would have slightly more chunky flashes. Does the VG/VG cut and polish on this diamond make no difference to how nice this diamond looks?

I am open to any suggestions. I want this diamond ring soon. Thx for everyone''s help so far.

sounds good! with a budget like that for the setting and your desire for what sounds like a pave or micropave, i think custom work may be hard to get. whiteflash has some beautiful settings, i especially love the legato with micropave WF Legato with Micropave

they also have lots of other settings within your price range. that would leave 10K - 13K for the stone. that much for a 2.5ct may be difficult to find for your I/VS2 criteria. my cushion is a 2.09 J/VVS2 that was a smidge under 11K.

i think you should consider calling mark at engagement rings direct. he is amazing when it comes to looking for cushions. people also like talking to jon at GOG (i''ve never worked with him). they also have beautiful cushions as well. both have website that you can peruse too. looking for cushions on your own can be challenging, but many people have been able to find beautiful ones on their own.

you can also look at blue nile which has a nice inventory of cushions. unfortunately, they don''t have images, but you can view the GIA reports to look at the pavilion structure to find your cushion brilliant. i know if you talk to vendors, they can pull diamonds on the blue nile website to view.

here are some i found. these are within your preferences and they have acceptable depth and table %s for cushions. one is a cushion brilliant (i think more of the vintage than modern look) and the other is an 8-main cushion modified brilliant. i''ve seen the modified one before, and it looks very pretty and very close to the more modern cushion brilliant. pricewise, they are at the upper end of your budget

http://www.bluenile.com/cushion-cut-diamond-2-carat-good-cut-i-color-vvs2-clarity_LD00294324 (cushion brilliant)
http://www.bluenile.com/cushion-cut-diamond-2-carat-very-good-cut-i-color-vs2-clarity_LD01547141 (cushion modified brilliant)

if you want to take a look at these, i would suggest you either start working with a vendor or purchase the one you like, examine it, and either keep it or return it within their return policy (30 days i believe). working with a vendor is nice because you can negotiate the price and get an expert''s opinion on them.

 

[ChunkyCushionLover]

Date: 1/6/2010 1:38:31 PM
Author: Iaujla
My Budget is 12000-1500 ...I assume the setting would take up 1k-2k of that since I want some tiny diamonds in the setting.
Color: I and above
Clarity: Vs2 and above (I understand SI1 can be eyeclean but just the SI designation would not make wife happy)
Carat: 2+ though I would really prefer to get something close to 2.5 The 3+ I listed was just a big stone that caught my eye.
Lw Ratio: I would prefer something slightly rectangular 1.1-1.2 maybe....I think 1.3 would be too elongated for me. I could compromise to more squarish if I had too.
I Dont like the crushed ICE look so I would normally say Cushion Brilliant but the vid posted here http://www.vimeo.com/3164922 would seem to indicate that certain Cushion Modified Brilliants would be good too.


The http://www.abazias.com/database/CertWin.asp?stock=71111548 diamond I posted seemed to have 'less facets' that alot of the other diamond reports I saw so I had assumed it would have slightly more chunky flashes. Does the VG/VG cut and polish on this diamond make no difference to how nice this diamond looks?

I am open to any suggestions. I want this diamond ring soon. Thx for everyone's help so far.

Given your max budget of about 13k for the stone you will have to make several compromises.
You won't find many modern faceted stones (ie cushion modified brilliants) or modern cushions with good optics especially if you want a rectangular stone. In general modern cushion brilliants look best when perfectly square and will be out of your budget and size range.

I think sweatpea has found you a stone that most closely fits your criteria, it is a chunky faceted vintage cut stone with a rectangular ratio. Good find sweatpea.

Mark at ERD could probably call this one in and a few others in this style and likely beat the Bluenile price as well. He can also take a photograph and ASET which you can post here if you want more comments on the cut.
Bob at Whiteflash can do the same although he is not as well recognized for finding great cushions.

In order to get optimized optics and the best cut for this style you would have to go down in size to something like this http://www.goodoldgold.com/diamond/6819/. (smaller and more square)

Finding a modified cushion brilliant or trying to go much above the 2 carats is going to be really tough and will be like searching for a needle in a haystack. Even the one posted in the video 31649222 is very rare and was rejected by many consumers when compared to cushion brilliants. There are other video comparisons on vimeo showing what it looks like at less magnification and it isn't quite as impressive. Its unreasonable to say that all modified brilliants have a crushed ice appearance but as sweetpea found out they usually do have their flaws (see his thread) as most are cut for weight not light performance.

Good-luck I look forward to seeing pictures and/or an ASET images of what you find.

 

[Iaujla]

What do you guys think about these 4 diamonds:

http://www.abazias.com/database/NewDiamondInfo.asp?stock=64462168&flag=ps

http://www.abazias.com/database/NewDiamondInfo.asp?stock=74793928&flag=ps

http://www.abazias.com/database/NewDiamondInfo.asp?stock=74182870&flag=ps

http://www.abazias.com/database/NewDiamondInfo.asp?stock=62545333&flag=ps

 

[dssxxxx]

Remember that I know very little, but the first 2 are EGL graded and are most likely off 2 grades in color and carity.

See...I think I am learning.

 

[Iaujla]

I purposely chose only EGL stones that were a higher grade than my minimum of I to account for the fact that they may be a grade or 2 lower in reality. As far as the clarity goes, I am fine with them as long as they are eye clean and do not have an official SI designation. I would in fact be targeting eyeclean SI1s as a bang for the buck diamond but I know my wife would not appreciate it if she saw the certificate and saw it.

 

[hihowareyou]

Date: 1/6/2010 5:57:15 PM
Author: Iaujla
What do you guys think about these 4 diamonds:


http://www.abazias.com/database/NewDiamondInfo.asp?stock=64462168&flag=ps


http://www.abazias.com/database/NewDiamondInfo.asp?stock=74793928&flag=ps


http://www.abazias.com/database/NewDiamondInfo.asp?stock=74182870&flag=ps


http://www.abazias.com/database/NewDiamondInfo.asp?stock=62545333&flag=ps

Unfortunately it is near impossible to tell anything about a cushion without a real life picture. From what Rhino has said in the past I have gathered that labs have a set of stock images that they use to indicate for facet patterning. Sometimes they are correct but sometimes they are out completely.

 

[CharmyPoo]

I personally think it will be difficult to find a high quality 2.5 - 3.0 ct cushion in your price range. Some where around 2 ct is probably more realistic - heck with 16 K I didn't even get to the 1.8 ct mark with my stringent requirements.

Some of my thoughts:
1. You don't actually save a whole lot with a EGL stone over a GIA stone. Once you balance the C classifications between the two certificates, you are probably looking at around the same price. If you plan to get a EGL stone, make sure you get it independently appraised by a reputable appraiser. I recommend Richard Sherwood or Dave Atlas.

2. It is not just carat weight that determines size. Take a look at the actual dimensions to get an idea of the face-up size. Typically, the lower the depth % and girdle thickness - the larger the face-up size. I would not go lower than 60% depth.

3. Less facets does not mean chunkier facets. In fact, you are more likely to find a chunky facetted cushion with a plot that has 8 main pavillions. I personally find these to be the most beautiful cushions - both the modern 8 thin main pavillions and the chunky 8 fat main pavillions.

I hope this helps. I would rather have a nicely cut smaller diamond than a larger poorly cut one.

PS: I think the first diamond (http://www.bluenile.com/cushion-cut-diamond-2-carat-good-cut-i-color-vvs2-clarity_LD00294324) that Sweetpea found will be a good looking one! Have Mark at ERD or Jon at GOG call it in and have a look. As mentioned above, Mark will likekly beat the price and GOG has a price match policy. I am still not a fan of the modified cushion even though I know Rhino has shown that there are also beautiful modified cushions.

 

[CharmyPoo]

Also, ask Mark to call in WC79 shown below from one of his suppliers. He should be able to find this diamond. The table is bigger than I typically like but it can be a nice stone.

 

[Iaujla]

I still dont understand what is wrong with these 2 diamonds? They appear to be GIA certified (So reliable I assume), with table''s and depths very similar to the diamonds you guys say are probably good. They appear to have slightly better carat size and awesome face up size. They even have better cut ratings than the http://www.bluenile.com/cushion-cut-diamond-2-carat-good-cut-i-color-vvs2-clarity_LD00294324 everyone seems to like.


What is wrong with these 2 stones:

http://www.abazias.com/database/NewDiamondInfo.asp?stock=62545333&flag=ps

http://www.abazias.com/database/NewDiamondInfo.asp?stock=74182870&flag=ps

 

[Dreamer_D]

Date: 1/6/2010 10:18:31 PM
Author: Iaujla
I still dont understand what is wrong with these 2 diamonds? They appear to be GIA certified (So reliable I assume), with table''s and depths very similar to the diamonds you guys say are probably good. They appear to have slightly better carat size and awesome face up size. They even have better cut ratings than the http://www.bluenile.com/cushion-cut-diamond-2-carat-good-cut-i-color-vvs2-clarity_LD00294324 everyone seems to like.


What is wrong with these 2 stones:

http://www.abazias.com/database/NewDiamondInfo.asp?stock=62545333&flag=ps

http://www.abazias.com/database/NewDiamondInfo.asp?stock=74182870&flag=ps

No one said there is anything wrong with those stones that I read. But you cannot judge without images etc. Looking for a nice cushion is aneedle in a haystack process. For what you are planning to spend, I would go with a vendor with a good eye who will find you what you want and ensure you get a great diamond. Jon at GOG or Mark at ERD have the best reps for finding cushions. Let them do the hard work and weed through the chaff.

 

[Iaujla]

So on paper, the diamonds I listed are better than the one everyone likes correct? Can I not get the vendors everyone likes (Mark/Jon) to pull these diamonds and have a look?

 

[Dreamer_D]

Date: 1/6/2010 10:37:22 PM
Author: Iaujla
So on paper, the diamonds I listed are better than the one everyone likes correct? Can I not get the vendors everyone likes (Mark/Jon) to pull these diamonds and have a look?

I don''t think I read that either.

I would just call both of those vendors, tell that what you want and your budget and see what they come up with! Ask their opinions of the diamonds you have selected, they can call them in if they think it is worth it. Me, I would go with Jon. He will tell it like it is. The power of PS makes recommended vendors accountable and hence trustworthy, and that is why they are PS recommended.

 

[CharmyPoo]

Date: 1/6/2010 10:18:31 PM
Author: Iaujla

What is wrong with these 2 stones:

http://www.abazias.com/database/NewDiamondInfo.asp?stock=62545333&flag=ps

http://www.abazias.com/database/NewDiamondInfo.asp?stock=74182870&flag=ps

On paper, nothing is wrong with these two stones. The cut ratings don''t really mean much but you absolutely NEED photos and ASET images to determine the true beauty of a cushion. The difference between these two and the one we like is the facet pattern - take a look at the plot at the bottom of the certificate. I like the look of 8 main facets better than the 4 main. They look distinctly different to me in real life but you have to see them to be the judge. There are somewho like the look of 4 mains.

 

[Iaujla]

Well I am asking. ON PAPER are the diamonds I listed better than the one everyone likes? Are they as good? Are they Worse? If they are worse, in what way?


Would it be a problem for me to get photo's and ASET images of these 2 diamonds? Can a reliable vendor pull these diamonds for me and send me the info? Is there some protocol I am unaware of that mean only the BLue Nile diamonds are pullable?

 

[Dreamer_D]

Charmypoo I think gave a good response to your questions about cut. Any vendor can call in stones on BN''s site. Ask Jon/whoever if it is worthwhile calling those ones in, he can talk to the people who have the diamond in hand or recommend others that meet your specs.

 

[swingirl]

Date: 1/6/2010 11:03:32 PM
Author: Iaujla
Well I am asking. ON PAPER are the diamonds I listed better than the one everyone likes? Are they as good? Are they Worse? If they are worse, in what way?

Would it be a problem for me to get photo's and ASET images of these 2 diamonds? Can a reliable vendor pull these diamonds for me and send me the info? Is there some protocol I am unaware of that mean only the BLue Nile diamonds are pullable?

No one can assess a cushion from the numbers ON PAPER. The numbers don't mean anything. There are too many variables with fancy cuts.

Photos and ASET images can be made by the vendor that holds the stone if they have the equipment. If GOG or ERD (know cushion guys) can pull in those stones they could get you images. As experts they might offer an opinion about the stone just from the numbers. They won't bother to pull in stones they wouldn't want to sell. Some vendors will charge for the service of pulling in stones but they also might have something comparable in their inventory. Lots of questions to ask the vendor.

 

[ChunkyCushionLover]

Date: 1/6/2010 10:37:22 PM
Author: Iaujla
So on paper, the diamonds I listed are better than the one everyone likes correct? Can I not get the vendors everyone likes (Mark/Jon) to pull these diamonds and have a look?

There are very few 4 main cushion brilliants out there with great optics the cut just hasn't been optimized yet but there have been strides to get there see the top thread where gary asks which of the 9 cushions posters like best.

If in your final choice you want to compare the best cushion brilliant 8 main vintage to one of those 4 main cushion modified brilliants, or have Jon at GOG do a video comparison than maybe it is a worthwhile comparison. If you can't see them in person you might want to call in one of these 4 mains and against the suggested 8 main and have Jon do a video comparison to see which one you like best.

To give you an idea of the comparison take a look at this video http://www.vimeo.com/8337358 which one do you prefer?
Something to keep in mind though stone number 2 has a LW ratio of 1.2 and I would be hesitant to choose it as stones over 1.1 - 1.15 often show obstruction.

 

[ChunkyCushionLover]

Date: 1/6/2010 9:38:57 PM
Author: CharmyPoo
I personally think it will be difficult to find a high quality 2.5 - 3.0 ct cushion in your price range. Some where around 2 ct is probably more realistic - heck with 16 K I didn't even get to the 1.8 ct mark with my stringent requirements.
Agreed but you like higher colors as well.


Some of my thoughts:
1. You don't actually save a whole lot with a EGL stone over a GIA stone. Once you balance the C classifications between the two certificates, you are probably looking at around the same price. If you plan to get a EGL stone, make sure you get it independently appraised by a reputable appraiser. I recommend Richard Sherwood or Dave Atlas.

Agree totally on both lab certificates and choice of appraisors.

2. It is not just carat weight that determines size. Take a look at the actual dimensions to get an idea of the face-up size. Typically, the lower the depth % and girdle thickness - the larger the face-up size. I would not go lower than 60% depth.

Correct better to look at the Length and Width rather than a depth percentage but it becomes more difficult when the LW ratios are different.

3. Less facets does not mean chunkier facets. In fact, you are more likely to find a chunky facetted cushion with a plot that has 8 main pavillions. I personally find these to be the most beautiful cushions - both the modern 8 thin main pavillions and the chunky 8 fat main pavillions.

I agree again, It is not the number of facets but the interplay of light between the crown and pavillion facets. You cannot judge a cushion by a facet plot only estimate the performance which would then need to be checked by Video, ASET and photographs .

I hope this helps. I would rather have a nicely cut smaller diamond than a larger poorly cut one.

PS: I think the first diamond (http://www.bluenile.com/cushion-cut-diamond-2-carat-good-cut-i-color-vvs2-clarity_LD00294324) that Sweetpea found will be a good looking one! Have Mark at ERD or Jon at GOG call it in and have a look. As mentioned above, Mark will likekly beat the price and GOG has a price match policy. I am still not a fan of the modified cushion even though I know Rhino has shown that there are also beautiful modified cushions.

There are some good looking modified brilliants which do not have this crushed ice appearance but the flashes are still smaller than the cushion brilliants. Even that 1.7Ct I colored cushion featured by Rhino has not sold yet, even though its been featured and compared to other cushions in several videos for several consumers, invariably the customer has chosen the one with the bigger flashes which was in almost all cases a well cut cushion brilliant instead of the modified.
A novice consumer might draw the conclusion that because one modiified has decent optics that othesr will too and this is rarely the case, I'd say 99% of modified cushion brilliants would not come close to a cushion brilliant if one were looking for moderate to large flashes of light.

Since there are cutters in these forums and other vendors we cannot be careless enough to say that all modified brilliants are crushed ice or have inferior performance (especially with branded cuts), but in reality we make a much bigger fuss about being politically correct and not automatically eliminating some vendors stone when it is more than likely almost all modifieds don't hold a candle to the cushion brilliants comparing the best in each class for light return.

I really think the original poster should see a modified brilliant in person and then compare it to a cushion brilliant to see the differences for themself and in person.

 

[CharmyPoo]

Date: 1/6/2010 11:03:32 PM
Author: Iaujla

Would it be a problem for me to get photo's and ASET images of these 2 diamonds? Can a reliable vendor pull these diamonds for me and send me the info? Is there some protocol I am unaware of that mean only the BLue Nile diamonds are pullable?

All diamonds in the virtual internet inventory can be pulled by any vendor. Most of Blue Nile and Abrazias diamonds come from the virtual inventory.

On the other hand, GOG search engine only produces diamonds that they own and carry in their inventory. This means no one else can pull them for you.

You really need to look at some of the video links that were posted above - it will help you learn about the different types of cushions. There are more considerations to cushions than say a round. With a round - you are pretty safe adhering to a set of numbers. Cushions - you never know.

When my fiance first started down this journey, he was only shown 4 main cushions by Mark at ERD. He didn't know any different and purchased a 4 main cushion. We went back together to look at it and I was not loving it ... I asked about the 8 mains and Mark found one for us and we ended up purchasing it. In my eyes, the 4 main could not compare to the 8 main modern we purchased. I was still itching for a 8 main chunky facet but couldn't find one that met my requriements (D to F, VS1 anad above, square, cut to perfection). A little later, GOG came out with the August Vintage Cushions which stole my heart - we ended up getting one that met all my specs.

 

[ChunkyCushionLover]

Date: 1/7/2010 2:09:03 AM
Author: CharmyPoo

Date: 1/6/2010 11:03:32 PM
Author: Iaujla

Would it be a problem for me to get photo''s and ASET images of these 2 diamonds? Can a reliable vendor pull these diamonds for me and send me the info? Is there some protocol I am unaware of that mean only the BLue Nile diamonds are pullable?

All diamonds in the virtual internet inventory can be pulled by any vendor. Most of Blue Nile and Abrazias diamonds come from the virtual inventory.

On the other hand, GOG search engine only produces diamonds that they own and carry in their inventory. This means no one else can pull them for you.

You really need to look at some of the video links that were posted above - it will help you learn about the different types of cushions. There are more considerations to cushions than say a round. With a round - you are pretty safe adhering to a set of numbers. Cushions - you never know.

Most diamonds in GOG''s inventory with a lifetime policy they have purchased and are holding in their own stock and are the only vendor to offer it. If the diamond description says 30 day guarantee than there is a good chance it has been sent back to the cutter/vendor as it doesn''t meet Jon''s stringent criteria for light performance and any vendor may still have access to sell it.

 

[Iaujla]

Date: 1/7/2010 12:51:24 AM
Author: ChunkyCushionLover

Date: 1/6/2010 10:37:22 PM
Author: Iaujla
So on paper, the diamonds I listed are better than the one everyone likes correct? Can I not get the vendors everyone likes (Mark/Jon) to pull these diamonds and have a look?

There are very few 4 main cushion brilliants out there with great optics the cut just hasn''t been optimized yet but there have been strides to get there see the top thread where gary asks which of the 9 cushions posters like best.

If in your final choice you want to compare the best cushion brilliant 8 main vintage to one of those 4 main cushion modified brilliants, or have Jon at GOG do a video comparison than maybe it is a worthwhile comparison. If you can''t see them in person you might want to call in one of these 4 mains and against the suggested 8 main and have Jon do a video comparison to see which one you like best.

To give you an idea of the comparison take a look at this video http://www.vimeo.com/8337358 which one do you prefer?
Something to keep in mind though stone number 2 has a LW ratio of 1.2 and I would be hesitant to choose it as stones over 1.1 - 1.15 often show obstruction.

I watched the video and found both the 4main Cushion and the 8main vintage looked good to me, each in its own way. I would be quite happy with a diamond that looked like either one of those. The two 4 main Diamonds I linked are Cushion Brilliants not Modified Brilliants (At least unless GIA is lying or I misunderstood something).

I will keep in mind asking about obstruction. Is there any main difference in asking Mark from ERD to pull diamonds not in his personal inventory over asking Jon at GoG to do it?

 

[ChunkyCushionLover]

Date: 1/7/2010 3:16:28 AM
Author: Iaujla

Date: 1/7/2010 12:51:24 AM
Author: ChunkyCushionLover

Date: 1/6/2010 10:37:22 PM
Author: Iaujla
So on paper, the diamonds I listed are better than the one everyone likes correct? Can I not get the vendors everyone likes (Mark/Jon) to pull these diamonds and have a look?

There are very few 4 main cushion brilliants out there with great optics the cut just hasn''t been optimized yet but there have been strides to get there see the top thread where gary asks which of the 9 cushions posters like best.

If in your final choice you want to compare the best cushion brilliant 8 main vintage to one of those 4 main cushion modified brilliants, or have Jon at GOG do a video comparison than maybe it is a worthwhile comparison. If you can''t see them in person you might want to call in one of these 4 mains and against the suggested 8 main and have Jon do a video comparison to see which one you like best.

To give you an idea of the comparison take a look at this video http://www.vimeo.com/8337358 which one do you prefer?
Something to keep in mind though stone number 2 has a LW ratio of 1.2 and I would be hesitant to choose it as stones over 1.1 - 1.15 often show obstruction.

I watched the video and found both the 4main Cushion and the 8main vintage looked good to me, each in its own way. I would be quite happy with a diamond that looked like either one of those. The two 4 main Diamonds I linked are Cushion Brilliants not Modified Brilliants (At least unless GIA is lying or I misunderstood something).

I will keep in mind asking about obstruction. Is there any main difference in asking Mark from ERD to pull diamonds not in his personal inventory over asking Jon at GoG to do it?

You are right both are CBs not CMBs.

Well that video shows the best 8 main (better than what you will be pulling in and over your budget with your other specs) versus a very good 4 main (most likely better also than you have found). Jon at GOG is very picky and sorts through many to find ones that he is willing to put his lifetime policy on. You pay a premium for optics like both of those and I think you have probably established already you aren''t willing to sacrifice size that much to get the very best in cut and are tring to settle for a decent cut while still maintaining size, this is a reasonable choice IMO.

You shouldn''t need to ask about obstruction, the ASET and or photograph will make it quite clear but either vendor will answer your questions honestly.

There are pros and cons of using GOG versus ERD I love both vendors as combined they have taught me most of what I know about cushions and I have purchased from both of them.

With GOG you get all the reflector tests and can request a video comparison which will be the easiest way to make a decision if you aren''t buying in person. However you should get a price quote from Whiteflash or ERD on the diamond before asking Jon to call them in just in case you need to use price match and his price is higher (as it often is on virtual inventory).

With ERD Mark will teach you a lot about cushions as he is very knowledgebable but he isn''t nearly as picky, or invested in cut design as GOG. He doesn''t use video and is not great at taking ASET images or using other reflector technologies. With Mark he will not find you a poorly performing stone as he has very descriminating eyes but he is less concerned with finding you the BEST cut stone like GOG is. ERD has great prices and is often the most competitive on price.

Whichever vendor you decide to go to I would have them call in all the diamons for you to do a comparison. You should be committed to one vendor to save yourself and them unecessary shipping and insurance costs.

Good-luck,
CCL

 

[CharmyPoo]

Date: 1/7/2010 3:16:28 AM
Author: Iaujla

I watched the video and found both the 4main Cushion and the 8main vintage looked good to me, each in its own way. I would be quite happy with a diamond that looked like either one of those. The two 4 main Diamonds I linked are Cushion Brilliants not Modified Brilliants (At least unless GIA is lying or I misunderstood something).

I will keep in mind asking about obstruction. Is there any main difference in asking Mark from ERD to pull diamonds not in his personal inventory over asking Jon at GoG to do it?

They have different policies and styles so figure out which one works better for you. First, review their policies on their website to see which works better for you.

Based on my experience, Mark is a great price guy - he has a knack for finding you something in your budget. You seem to be sensitive to price so he might be a good fit for you. Jon also finds diamonds based on budget but he is one with high standards for cut quality - his desire for perfection works well for me. Mark is also less techy than Jon - Mark relies on his eye while Jon uses the help of lots of neat gadgets.

 

[ChunkyCushionLover]

Date: 1/7/2010 3:44:24 AM
Author: CharmyPoo

Date: 1/7/2010 3:16:28 AM
Author: Iaujla

I watched the video and found both the 4main Cushion and the 8main vintage looked good to me, each in its own way. I would be quite happy with a diamond that looked like either one of those. The two 4 main Diamonds I linked are Cushion Brilliants not Modified Brilliants (At least unless GIA is lying or I misunderstood something).

I will keep in mind asking about obstruction. Is there any main difference in asking Mark from ERD to pull diamonds not in his personal inventory over asking Jon at GoG to do it?

They have different policies and styles so figure out which one works better for you. First, review their policies on their website to see which works better for you.

Based on my experience, Mark is a great price guy - he has a knack for finding you something in your budget. You seem to be sensitive to price so he might be a good fit for you. Jon also finds diamonds based on budget but he is one with high standards for cut quality - his desire for perfection works well for me. Mark is also less techy than Jon - Mark relies on his eye while Jon uses the help of lots of neat gadgets.

I feel like saying ditto to every post you make in this thread, my thoughts exactly!