Hi everyone! The search is on, and I couldn't be more excited!! 
My goal is to find an excellent cut and maximize size (on a diameter basis*, not ct basis) within my budget. *Caveat being I've found the 60/60 stones have the largest diameters, but I'd like to avoid them for now.
I'm looking for a modern round brilliant diamond of 3 carats or larger, excellent cut (AGS 0 or under 2.0 on HCA), willing to go down to J color, and SI1 clarity (eye-clean from a few inches is a must!). My budget is around ~$40k.
I guess I should mention I'd ultimately like to get the diamond set in one of VC's halos, so would it be best to go through his sourcing program? I'm just not sure how that works.. whether you'd be able to compare whatever he sources vs. diamonds on other sites?
I am so thankful to have everyone's advice and appreciate the assistance in the hunt!! Thank you so much!
Here is one I've found so far, please let me know what you think:
http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/3.52-carat-j-color-si1-clarity-excellent-cut-sku-184984
My goal is to find an excellent cut and maximize size (on a diameter basis*, not ct basis) within my budget. *Caveat being I've found the 60/60 stones have the largest diameters, but I'd like to avoid them for now.
I'm looking for a modern round brilliant diamond of 3 carats or larger, excellent cut (AGS 0 or under 2.0 on HCA), willing to go down to J color, and SI1 clarity (eye-clean from a few inches is a must!). My budget is around ~$40k.
I guess I should mention I'd ultimately like to get the diamond set in one of VC's halos, so would it be best to go through his sourcing program? I'm just not sure how that works.. whether you'd be able to compare whatever he sources vs. diamonds on other sites?
I am so thankful to have everyone's advice and appreciate the assistance in the hunt!! Thank you so much!
Here is one I've found so far, please let me know what you think:
http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/3.52-carat-j-color-si1-clarity-excellent-cut-sku-184984