Expert help needed: buying a ''fancy intense orangy yellow''

[Jason79]

So i went to the DD with a sufficient amount of research on fancy colors: ended up choosing a fancy intense with an EGL USA cert, with the following specs

1.02 CT
measurements: 7.68x5.19x3.42
depth: 65.9%
table: 70%
crown: 11%
pavilion: 50.7%
girdle: EX. Thin to Thick polished
culet: None

polish and sym: GOOD
fluorescence: strong blue and yellow.
distribution: even

On the HCA it came out below par and was suggsted i not buy it due to the deep pavilion. However, does pavilion depth matter for a fancy that one really likes (i.e. loves the color shade etc.)? It is about 4.3 grand--is that a good price?

Please advise if you feel there is a red flag.

 

[chrono]

I presume this to be a round shape?

With fancies, the colour is the most important part of the equation. Cut does still play a part, but it isn't the top priority here. As for pricing, I would ask, is the term fancy intense orange yellow the terminology on the EGL cert? I am not familiar with EGL certs on coloured diamonds.

 

[curiopotter]

I would hope it's not round.. it measures 7.68 x 5.19


HCA is used only for round brilliants by the way, so that's why you're getting a low score.

Cut in a fancy color isn't generally the most important factor, however from my understanding, there are certain types of cuts that can improve the intensity of the color. There are also cutting techniques that can make the color darker or lighter. Also (if you're buying sight unseen), realize that the color will be different in person than in photographs, so make sure you get a good return policy and enough time to send it off to an independent appraiser.

What kind of cut is it?

 

[chrono]

I missed the dimensions. So it's obviously not a round. I'm guessing it's a radiant shape based on the dimensions and the table size. Am I right? HCA is only for rounds so it does not apply in this case.

 

[dkodner]

Hi Jason,

You should never rule out a fancy colored diamond because of it''s cut, the most important factor is how to get the most face up color from the stone. That is not to say to completley disregard it, the stone must still be bright and appealling to have any real value. It certainly will not fit onto any cutting formulas for so-called ideal make stones. the other issue with the stone you were looking at is the EGL cert. It has been my experience that the color grading, and more importantly description of color are not as accurate, and certainl not as trusted as having a GIA cert. I have issues with GIA color grading as well, but there is no arguing the fact that every colored diamond of any signifanct size should have a GIA cert, even if you get other certs or letters about the stone. Hard to say about the price, that really depends on the color.......could be a fair price, may not. I''ve seen fancy intense pink diamonds of similar weight and clarity for $30,000.00, and $300,000.00, which is why you should NEVER buy color sight unseen, EVER. Good luck in your search.

 

[Jason79]

I like the color so that is not a problem. The staff is a quite pushy and in a hurry to seal the deal. That makes me worry. If they were courteous it would help. So i am a little nervous with the purchase due to their antics.

As far as shape: it is a radiant, on the cert it says MOD. OCT. BRILL
and as far as color grade, yes ''fancy intense orangy yellow'' seems to to be EGL lingo.

 

[dkodner]

Jason-

It may just be that they are not used to selling such stones.....and they''re nervousness comes off as pushy. By your description of the stone and the fact that you like the color there are no real red flags. The price is fair. Are they making money? I hope so, so they can buy more..but if everything is as it appears...that''s a more than fair price. If it were me, I would ask them to send it to the GIA, and offer to pay the $150 or so it costs if it comes back close to what they represent. The color description may be slightly different, but again if you like the color that is what matters. You really just want to make sure it is not treated. There are a lot of hpht stones in that color range. If it comes back hpht or treated, than you walk away from the deal. If it comes back right, then enjoy your amazing new colored diamond...)