Down to 2 choices...

[patmat]

So I've narrowed down the pick for an engagement ring to the following 2 choices:

http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/radiant-cut/1.20-carat-g-color-vvs2-clarity-sku-319034

http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/radiant-cut/1.15-carat-g-color-vvs2-clarity-sku-609114

Basically, they are the same CT weight, color, clarity. The main difference being that one is less square-ish than the other, and that is reflective in the price, as it is about 1mm longer, I think due to the depth % being 66% vs. the other at 70.4%. The LxWxH for both stones is as follows:

- Sku319034 (6.68 x 5.53 x 3.70)
- Sku609114 (5.68 x 5.57 x 3.92)

I think the GF would be happy with either; however, my concern is that if I opted for the more square choice (the 1.15 CT stone), that it would show wide enough with the setting I'm getting (http://www.jamesallen.com/engagement-rings/channel-set/platinum-bow-tie-channel-set-round-shaped-diamond-engagement-ring--item-812)

Any thoughts that might sway a decision??? Thanks so much in advance...this is such a difficult purchase!

 

[telephone89]

I am confused by what you mean about "my concern is that if I opted for the more square choice (the 1.15 CT stone), that it would show wide enough with the setting I'm getting "

If you look at the JA setting, in the lower left corner you can select the shape of stone - if you select radiant, there is both a square and a rectangle so you can get a feeling of what either would look like.

Out of the two, I prefer the rectangle, but I don't love either.

Here are a few that I personally like... unfortunately the clarity is really high on em.
http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/radiant-cut/1.13-carat-f-color-if-clarity-sku-23433 (slight bow tie)
http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/radiant-cut/1.13-carat-f-color-if-clarity-sku-23478

I didn't see any square ones that I loved, but this one is okay
http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/radiant-cut/1.23-carat-f-color-vs2-clarity-sku-612002
Would need to check if eye clean and it does have a slight bow tie

Here is basically a princess with the corners cut off it you like square
http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/radiant-cut/1.23-carat-h-color-vs2-clarity-sku-380745

eta - Pick your 3 favourites and ask JA for ASETS on them. That will help narrow it down

 

[chrono]

I agree with telephone. If I had to choose one, the rectangular radiant has slightly better light return but both aren't good performers in the first place. The center of the squarer radiant just never lights up.

 

[patmat]

I appreciate the responses. I do have to ask how you know they are "not good performers." I did request and receive the ASET images from JA, along with a "Gemologist inspection", for each of those 2 stones. I probably should have included them in my original post, but here they are:

SKU 319034 (1.20 G VVS2 Radiant) This diamond features excellent light return throughout the center and perimeter. Also facing up white, this G color displays beautiful sparkle and amazing transparency. Unique faceting and an elongated shape make this a wonderful option as well



SKU 609114 (1.15ct G VVS2 Radiant $5,000) Excellent brilliance and fire makes this diamond a great candidate as well! Squareish shape is unique and gives you a one-of-a-kind look. Wonderful faceting in the center, not a "crushed ice" radiant. Very bright and white face up.

 

[telephone89]

Most people on here prefer crisp, clearly defined facets. The ones you posted have a lot of 'mush' - the darker greenish areas that all sort of blend together. I don't think the JA person was lying - the first one likely is bright in the very center and around the edge. But there is a lot around the center that looks dull.

Anyways, if you are stuck on those two, go with the rectangle.