Guy needs help in selecting a diamond

[adventuremc]

I''m in the market for a ring for my girlfriend and I''m lost as to how to go about this. I''ve got a few things from her that I know she wants:

1. Solitaire ring setting in platinum
2. A setting that holds the diamond close as she works with kids and doesn''t want the diamond to scratch.

I''ve looked all over online but not ventured out much locally (San Jose, CA). I''ve been back to Blue Nile a few times but not sure how good their prices are.

I''m trying to find a ring that''s under 5k, but not sure where I can compromise a bit in the 4-C''s. Is 1 carat sort of the magic number the diamond needs to be over?

How important is cut vs clarity?

Thanks,

Dan

 

[Regular Guy]

If you can stretch a little, this one''s at $5388 wire priced, and a simple setting wouldn''t add much.

 

[JulieN]

Does the 5000 include the setting?

1 ct is only a number you have to reach if she says you have to reach it.

Cut is WAAAAY more important than clarity. Cut is number 1. Clarity is like...number 4 (if we''re talking the 4 Cs).

 

[adventuremc]

I''m looking to get the setting + ring in at about 5k. She wants platinum, so the setting is going to be non trivial. She''s pretty simplistic and not particularly flashy.

0.84-Carat Round Diamond this Ideal-cut, G-color, and VS1-clarity.. does fit the budget.

If want to update the carat, how much of a step down is H/I on color and VS2/SI1 on clarity?

Dan

 

[Daisi2112]

Regarding how important cut vs clarity is: cut is extremely important , it gives a diamond that life and sparkle that makes it stand out no matter what the size is. Clarity is also important too but little inclusions don''t necessarily block light from going in and out. You could get an si1 that is eye clean. As long as it''s eye clean I think it should be fine.

 

[Lorelei]

Date: 1/27/2009 2:24:11 AM
Author: Daisi2112
Regarding how important cut vs clarity is: cut is extremely important , it gives a diamond that life and sparkle that makes it stand out no matter what the size is. Clarity is also important too but little inclusions don''t necessarily block light from going in and out. You could get an si1 that is eye clean. As long as it''s eye clean I think it should be fine.

Ditto Daisi, also GIA/ AGS graded H or I colour will still look white and can be a good choice for maximising size for the budget.