Help needed from Experts

[KeN3]

Need help from the experts here..

I have been searching for an engagement ring to propose in about 2 mths, so have been scouring around both locally & online to find 1 that fits her minimum requirement (yup, my soon-to-be missus has her own set of requirements) & also my budget.

Her requirements are that it has to be at least 1.5ct, colourless and clean to the eye. So after much research and reading, I narrowed down my search to Ï-J"colours and "SI"clarity as I got a tight budget of about US$7k.

I have now short-listed a piece from Blue Nile and will need any advise the experts here can provide..

Carat weight:1.50
Cut: Very Good
Color: J
Clarity: SI2
Depth %: 62.4%
Table %: 58%
Polish: Very Good
Symmetry: Excellent
Girdle: Slightly Thick to Slightly Thick
Culet: Very Small
Fluorescence: Faint
Measurements: 7.28 x 7.25 x 4.53 mm

I checked with the Blue Nile help desk and was told their gemologist has advised that this diamond is completely eye-clean and will not have any visible inclusions from 6-8 inches away, from the top down.

I read the GIA report and the additional comments were that additional twinning wisps, pinpoints and surface graining are not shown.

Is this piece ok? Planning to have it set on a 4 prong solitaire setting..

Thanks!

 

[TitanCi]

Can you post up the link to the report? There's no way to tell if the stone is nice or not based on the info you gave.

 

[KeN3]

my apologies... missed it out...

https://myapps.gia.edu/ReportCheckPortal/getReportData.do?&reportno=2136377463&weight=1.5

 

[KeN3]

I have also shortlisted another piece...

the price difference between the 2 pieces is US$1k.


Carat weight: 1.50
Cut: Very Good
Color: J
Clarity: SI2
Depth %: 63.9%
Table %: 58%
Polish: Excellent
Symmetry: Very Good
Girdle: Medium to Thick
Culet: None
Fluorescence: Medium
Measurements: 7.12 x 7.20 x 4.58 mm

The accompanying GIA report: https://myapps.gia.edu/ReportCheckPortal/getReportData.do?&reportno=2136189826&weight=1.5

Blue Nile's gemologist has visually-examined and was reported that it iseye-clean, however it does have black clouds around the table that can be seen under very close scrutiny.

Will this be better? worth the extra 1k for it?

 

[TitanCi]

The GIA site must be down or something cuz I can't access either of the two...

 

[diamondseeker2006]

I have also shortlisted another piece...

the price difference between the 2 pieces is US$1k.


Carat weight: 1.50
Cut: Very Good
Color: J
Clarity: SI2
Depth %: 63.9%
Table %: 58%
Polish: Excellent
Symmetry: Very Good
Girdle: Medium to Thick
Culet: None
Fluorescence: Medium
Measurements: 7.12 x 7.20 x 4.58 mm

The accompanying GIA report: https://myapps.gia.edu/ReportCheckPortal/getReportData.do?&reportno=2136189826&weight=1.5

Blue Nile's gemologist has visually-examined and was reported that it iseye-clean, however it does have black clouds around the table that can be seen under very close scrutiny.

Will this be better? worth the extra 1k for it?

This is a good example of why we say to ONLY consider GIA Excellent cut. This stone is too deep and has the diameter (face-up appearance) of about a 1.35 ct. stone. A 1.5 ct stone should be very close to 7.4mm. Why pay for a 1.5 when the stone looks like a 1.3? I'd honestly rather have the 1.3. First stone is also too deep and too small in diameter. You need to start over and limit your search to GIA excellent cut only.

I am going to add that you need to have a talk with your girlfriend and explain to her that her wishes and the budget do not match. You are just not going to get the specs she wants for $7000. And that is a very nice budget...diamonds are just very expensive.

 

[diamondseeker2006]

When buying SI stones, you have to have a vendor who can look at the stones and tell you if they are 100% eyeclean from the top and sides. Here are some suggestions within your budget:

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-SI1-Excellent-Cut-Round-Diamond-1463508.asp

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/I-SI2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1473901.asp (this one is AGS Ideal cut which is great and the only other lab that is reliable)

I think if she wants colorless (which is really D-F), I think you may get into trouble with J color since many people can begin to see a tint with J. You need to ask her if she'll accept a little tint to get a larger size.

It's going to be around $9000 to get to 1.5 cts:

http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/J-SI1-Excellent-Cut-Round-Diamond-1463673.asp

 

[KeN3]

I have also shortlisted another piece...

the price difference between the 2 pieces is US$1k.


Carat weight: 1.50
Cut: Very Good
Color: J
Clarity: SI2
Depth %: 63.9%
Table %: 58%
Polish: Excellent
Symmetry: Very Good
Girdle: Medium to Thick
Culet: None
Fluorescence: Medium
Measurements: 7.12 x 7.20 x 4.58 mm

The accompanying GIA report: https://myapps.gia.edu/ReportCheckPortal/getReportData.do?&reportno=2136189826&weight=1.5

Blue Nile's gemologist has visually-examined and was reported that it iseye-clean, however it does have black clouds around the table that can be seen under very close scrutiny.

Will this be better? worth the extra 1k for it?

This is a good example of why we say to ONLY consider GIA Excellent cut. This stone is too deep and has the diameter (face-up appearance) of about a 1.35 ct. stone. A 1.5 ct stone should be very close to 7.4mm. Why pay for a 1.5 when the stone looks like a 1.3? I'd honestly rather have the 1.3. First stone is also too deep and too small in diameter. You need to start over and limit your search to GIA excellent cut only.

I am going to add that you need to have a talk with your girlfriend and explain to her that her wishes and the budget do not match. You are just not going to get the specs she wants for $7000. And that is a very nice budget...diamonds are just very expensive.

have tried various means to convince her of a smaller piece, but still she's sticking to the minimum 1.5ct.. as for colour, I showed her a Ï"colour by IGI and she was ok about it.. checked that an IGI Ï"colour is about a "J"for GIA, so "J"is ok for her..

with the limited budget I have, i had to compromise on the cut to a "very good"to fit my budget..

are they any others that fit my budget? or at least near?

Thanks!

 

[KeN3]

Have refined & shortlisted another piece:

https://myapps.gia.edu/ReportCheckPortal/getReportData.do?&reportno=5136559887&weight=1.54

Pls advise if this is better?

Was told that it is an eye clean diamond, inclusions are also not visible to the naked eye.

Thanks!

 

[Enerchi]

Hey KeN3...just coming out of left field on this... but if gf is aware of your budget and is aware of what can be purchased for that amount and is STILL insisting on a higher end/larger diamond... is gf aware that compromising for the sake of size, may not be the better option?? If it were me, I'd really prefer the better cut stone, not necessarily the size. Cut is king in "diamondland" - a big stone won't give her the magic she's looking for if it isn't cut well.

Seems harsh to put out there, but ... not everyone receives a large engagement ring. It *is* ok to start slightly smaller and then upgrade at a later date - that's probably how a lot of the larger diamonds you see on PS came to be... I don't mean to be controversial or rude when I say that, just sort of piggy backing on what Diamondseeker wrote above:

I am going to add that you need to have a talk with your girlfriend and explain to her that her wishes and the budget do not match. You are just not going to get the specs she wants for $7000. And that is a very nice budget...diamonds are just very expensive.

I will apologize in advance if you've already talked this thru with her, I just sense that her expectations could be pushing you into a financially challenging position. (... I will skulk away hanging my head in shame, for being so bold.... )

 

[TitanCi]

KeN3 - That's the thing with us guys, we try to do everything we can to please them based off what we have or can do, and some women just don't see it or get it. It's really poetic and romantic. Sad, but that's how it's been for ages - you gotta pay to play in the game of love; just some girls you have to pay more!

She'll have to compromise or you'll have to continue to save. Personally, I wouldn't buy a (new) 1.5ct stone for $7k if it existed. Most well cut, nice colored ones will be at least double the cost.

Unfortunately, most women want big stones... and they should value an E-ring for what it represents, not for what it "is". Good luck, and I'm sure u'll find plenty of help here!

 

[KeN3]

Hey KeN3...just coming out of left field on this... but if gf is aware of your budget and is aware of what can be purchased for that amount and is STILL insisting on a higher end/larger diamond... is gf aware that compromising for the sake of size, may not be the better option?? If it were me, I'd really prefer the better cut stone, not necessarily the size. Cut is king in "diamondland" - a big stone won't give her the magic she's looking for if it isn't cut well.

Seems harsh to put out there, but ... not everyone receives a large engagement ring. It *is* ok to start slightly smaller and then upgrade at a later date - that's probably how a lot of the larger diamonds you see on PS came to be... I don't mean to be controversial or rude when I say that, just sort of piggy backing on what Diamondseeker wrote above:

I am going to add that you need to have a talk with your girlfriend and explain to her that her wishes and the budget do not match. You are just not going to get the specs she wants for $7000. And that is a very nice budget...diamonds are just very expensive.

I will apologize in advance if you've already talked this thru with her, I just sense that her expectations could be pushing you into a financially challenging position. (... I will skulk away hanging my head in shame, for being so bold.... )

no prob.. i'm cool about it.. thanks for understanding my position... unfortunately, she's putting her emphasize on the size 1st.. so I just gotta comply..

spent many sleepless nites finding something that balances between budget and quality..

anyway, i have another piece by IGI... anybody can help see?

Description: Natural Diamond
Shape And Cut: Round Brilliant
Carat Weight: 1.50 Carat
Color Grade: G
Clarity Grade: SI 2
Cut Grade: Excellent
Polish: Excellent
Symmetry: Excellent
Measurements: 7.47 - 7.55 x 4.43 mm
Table: 60.5%
Crown Height - Angle: 12.5% - 32.5°
Pavilion Depth - Angle: 43.5% - 41°
Girdle Thickness: Medium (Faceted)
Culet: Pointed
Total Depth: 59.2%
Fluorescence: None

 

[KeN3]

KeN3 - That's the thing with us guys, we try to do everything we can to please them based off what we have or can do, and some women just don't see it or get it. It's really poetic and romantic. Sad, but that's how it's been for ages - you gotta pay to play in the game of love; just some girls you have to pay more!

She'll have to compromise or you'll have to continue to save. Personally, I wouldn't buy a (new) 1.5ct stone for $7k if it existed. Most well cut, nice colored ones will be at least double the cost.

Unfortunately, most women want big stones... and they should value an E-ring for what it represents, not for what it "is". Good luck, and I'm sure u'll find plenty of help here!

thanks for the advice & encouragement... good to know there are bros like me out there... sad life... lol..

anyway, she saw a 1.5ct IGI graded "I" colour SI2 ExExEx H&A and was ok with it, but was retailing at $12k at a local jewelery store.. i figured that for that quality, i could get 1 at a cheaper price...

so i'm still searching....

 

[TitanCi]

Hey KeN3...just coming out of left field on this... but if gf is aware of your budget and is aware of what can be purchased for that amount and is STILL insisting on a higher end/larger diamond... is gf aware that compromising for the sake of size, may not be the better option?? If it were me, I'd really prefer the better cut stone, not necessarily the size. Cut is king in "diamondland" - a big stone won't give her the magic she's looking for if it isn't cut well.

Seems harsh to put out there, but ... not everyone receives a large engagement ring. It *is* ok to start slightly smaller and then upgrade at a later date - that's probably how a lot of the larger diamonds you see on PS came to be... I don't mean to be controversial or rude when I say that, just sort of piggy backing on what Diamondseeker wrote above:

I am going to add that you need to have a talk with your girlfriend and explain to her that her wishes and the budget do not match. You are just not going to get the specs she wants for $7000. And that is a very nice budget...diamonds are just very expensive.

I will apologize in advance if you've already talked this thru with her, I just sense that her expectations could be pushing you into a financially challenging position. (... I will skulk away hanging my head in shame, for being so bold.... )

no prob.. i'm cool about it.. thanks for understanding my position... unfortunately, she's putting her emphasize on the size 1st.. so I just gotta comply..

spent many sleepless nites finding something that balances between budget and quality..

anyway, i have another piece by IGI... anybody can help see?

Description: Natural Diamond
Shape And Cut: Round Brilliant
Carat Weight: 1.50 Carat
Color Grade: G
Clarity Grade: SI 2
Cut Grade: Excellent
Polish: Excellent
Symmetry: Excellent
Measurements: 7.47 - 7.55 x 4.43 mm
Table: 60.5%
Crown Height - Angle: 12.5% - 32.5°
Pavilion Depth - Angle: 43.5% - 41°
Girdle Thickness: Medium (Faceted)
Culet: Pointed
Total Depth: 59.2%
Fluorescence: None

I'm not too familiar with IGI other than their appraisals are often too astronomically high, but I'd only stick to GIA XXX stones or AGS 000 stones, and even then you really have to filter out the GIA XXX stones using the HCA tool we have (https://www.pricescope.com/tools/hca)

regarding the stone you selected, it is what's known as a 60/60 stone (roughly), where it has it's own "look". Have you seen it IRL? Here's an article discussing certain 60/60 stones: https://www.pricescope.com/wiki/diamonds/60-60-proportioned-diamond

Without actual pics of the stone, reflector imaging of the stone (ideal-scope.com), the report... it's impossible to tell if this stone will be nice or not. But based off the limited info, and the fact it's not a GIA or AGS stone, I'd keep on looking.

I've never searched or seen a 60/60 stone IRL, so I won't comment on the appearance, but IF this is the ONLY stone you'd consider or the only stone available, then according to the HCA it scores a 1.6, which means it would warrant further investigation to determine if it's a nice performing stone or not.

Go to whiteflash.com and take a look at their A Cut Above stones and all the imaging they provide so you can get a better understanding of what PS'ers look for in stones.

I really don't think it's inappropriate to call serious PS'ers "cut elitists"... because in fact, a stone's cut will determine its true beauty.

 

[KeN3]

Hey KeN3...just coming out of left field on this... but if gf is aware of your budget and is aware of what can be purchased for that amount and is STILL insisting on a higher end/larger diamond... is gf aware that compromising for the sake of size, may not be the better option?? If it were me, I'd really prefer the better cut stone, not necessarily the size. Cut is king in "diamondland" - a big stone won't give her the magic she's looking for if it isn't cut well.

Seems harsh to put out there, but ... not everyone receives a large engagement ring. It *is* ok to start slightly smaller and then upgrade at a later date - that's probably how a lot of the larger diamonds you see on PS came to be... I don't mean to be controversial or rude when I say that, just sort of piggy backing on what Diamondseeker wrote above:

I am going to add that you need to have a talk with your girlfriend and explain to her that her wishes and the budget do not match. You are just not going to get the specs she wants for $7000. And that is a very nice budget...diamonds are just very expensive.

I will apologize in advance if you've already talked this thru with her, I just sense that her expectations could be pushing you into a financially challenging position. (... I will skulk away hanging my head in shame, for being so bold.... )

no prob.. i'm cool about it.. thanks for understanding my position... unfortunately, she's putting her emphasize on the size 1st.. so I just gotta comply..

spent many sleepless nites finding something that balances between budget and quality..

anyway, i have another piece by IGI... anybody can help see?

Description: Natural Diamond
Shape And Cut: Round Brilliant
Carat Weight: 1.50 Carat
Color Grade: G
Clarity Grade: SI 2
Cut Grade: Excellent
Polish: Excellent
Symmetry: Excellent
Measurements: 7.47 - 7.55 x 4.43 mm
Table: 60.5%
Crown Height - Angle: 12.5% - 32.5°
Pavilion Depth - Angle: 43.5% - 41°
Girdle Thickness: Medium (Faceted)
Culet: Pointed
Total Depth: 59.2%
Fluorescence: None

I'm not too familiar with IGI other than their appraisals are often too astronomically high, but I'd only stick to GIA XXX stones or AGS 000 stones, and even then you really have to filter out the GIA XXX stones using the HCA tool we have (https://www.pricescope.com/tools/hca)

regarding the stone you selected, it is what's known as a 60/60 stone (roughly), where it has it's own "look". Have you seen it IRL? Here's an article discussing certain 60/60 stones: https://www.pricescope.com/wiki/diamonds/60-60-proportioned-diamond

Without actual pics of the stone, reflector imaging of the stone (ideal-scope.com), the report... it's impossible to tell if this stone will be nice or not. But based off the limited info, and the fact it's not a GIA or AGS stone, I'd keep on looking.

I've never searched or seen a 60/60 stone IRL, so I won't comment on the appearance, but IF this is the ONLY stone you'd consider or the only stone available, then according to the HCA it scores a 1.6, which means it would warrant further investigation to determine if it's a nice performing stone or not.

Go to whiteflash.com and take a look at their A Cut Above stones and all the imaging they provide so you can get a better understanding of what PS'ers look for in stones.

I really don't think it's inappropriate to call serious PS'ers "cut elitists"... because in fact, a stone's cut will determine its true beauty.

how about this piece?

https://myapps.gia.edu/ReportCheckPortal/getReportData.do?&reportno=5136559887&weight=1.54

i'm just a little skeptical cos the HCA score is 3.6.. but was told that is an eye clean diamond, inclusions are also not visible to the naked eye.

 

[diamondseeker2006]

I wouldn't consider an HCA score above 2.5 or so. I would really advise you to look in the 1.4 ct. range and get a well cut stone just below 1.5 because there is a price jump at 1.5.

And IGI is unreliable. You'd have no idea what you'd be getting. You really need to stick with GIA Excellent and just buy the largest diamond within your budget.

The thing is, if given the choice between a piece of crap 1.5 ct. diamond and a very fine 1.4 ct. diamond that appears more beautiful, who would choose the bad 1.5? Everyone has to make this choice unless they happen to have unlimited money. You just happen to be on a diamond forum where good quality diamonds are appreciated and we are not going to encourage you to buy a badly cut diamond!

 

[KeN3]

I wouldn't consider an HCA score above 2.5 or so. I would really advise you to look in the 1.4 ct. range and get a well cut stone just below 1.5 because there is a price jump at 1.5.

And IGI is unreliable. You'd have no idea what you'd be getting. You really need to stick with GIA Excellent and just buy the largest diamond within your budget.

The thing is, if given the choice between a piece of crap 1.5 ct. diamond and a very fine 1.4 ct. diamond that appears more beautiful, who would choose the bad 1.5? Everyone has to make this choice unless they happen to have unlimited money. You just happen to be on a diamond forum where good quality diamonds are appreciated and we are not going to encourage you to buy a badly cut diamond!

shld my emphasis be on the cut or on the HCA score? cos i found a few "very good"cuts that have a HCA score of 2.1 to 2.5.. are they recommended in that sense?

 

[Christina...]

I'm starting to really have a lot of sympathy for you men out there. Seems to be quite a few threads lately where the gf wants a big rock and doesn't really care if or how it can be done. *sigh* Have you considered purchasing a diamond on the secondary market? You may be able to find a better deal there. Or have you considered asking her to pitch in some of her own money if she is unwilling to compromise on size or quality? I think that women are more willing to do this these days to ensure that they are getting exactly what they want, and I think it should be encouraged if she isn't willing to compromise.

If your interested in the secondary market let us know, there are some PSers around that are incredible at navigating ebay and some other sites for a real bargain.

EDIT: I just saw your recent post. It will depend on the diamond. HCA is only a rejection tool. If you find a diamond that scores under 2 or 2.5 whichever your personal cutoff is, it's only means that the diamond is worth further investigation. It's not guaranteed to be a good performer. You would need to get idealscope images of the stone. You could post the report and we could give you our opinions but in the end the recommendation will be to get an idealscope images of the stone. But we can help you narrow down your short list based on the reports and the HCA.

 

[KeN3]

I'm starting to really have a lot of sympathy for you men out there. Seems to be quite a few threads lately where the gf wants a big rock and doesn't really care if or how it can be done. *sigh* Have you considered purchasing a diamond on the secondary market? You may be able to find a better deal there. Or have you considered asking her to pitch in some of her own money if she is unwilling to compromise on size or quality? I think that women are more willing to do this these days to ensure that they are getting exactly what they want, and I think it should be encouraged if she isn't willing to compromise.

If your interested in the secondary market let us know, there are some PSers around that are incredible at navigating ebay and some other sites for a real bargain.

EDIT: I just saw your recent post. It will depend on the diamond. HCA is only a rejection tool. If you find a diamond that scores under 2 or 2.5 whichever your personal cutoff is, it's only means that the diamond is worth further investigation. It's not guaranteed to be a good performer. You would need to get idealscope images of the stone. You could post the report and we could give you our opinions but in the end the recommendation will be to get an idealscope images of the stone. But we can help you narrow down your short list based on the reports and the HCA.

thanks, chris... having another gal's support & sympathy makes me feel much better...

in my list of short-listed of "very gd"cuts:

https://myapps.gia.edu/ReportCheckPortal/getReportData.do?&reportno=1139570964&weight=1.5 HCA score of 2.2

https://myapps.gia.edu/ReportCheckPortal/getReportData.do?&reportno=2136358052&weight=1.5 HCA score of 2.1

https://myapps.gia.edu/ReportCheckPortal/getReportData.do?&reportno=1139419191&weight=1.5 HCA score of 2.0

in my list of short-listed ""ex"cuts:

https://myapps.gia.edu/ReportCheckPortal/getReportData.do?&reportno=6147712401&weight=1.5 HCA score of 2.4


the reason i'm also looking at IGI certified 1s is that the HCA scores of most of them are in the 0.8 to 1.6 range.. I understand about the part where gotta downgrade IGIs by 1 colour as compared to GIA, so I take that into account as well..

it's 5am, my local time & i'm still searching....

 

[Christina...]

Ok, hopefully someone with more experience than me can chime in and confirm my thoughts, but I'll give you my impression of your choices.

The first stone has a very shallow crown angle. In profile it's going to look quite flat. We would usually recommend that the crown angle be between 33.5-35. I think that it will have more white light return than it will colored light. It's what is considered a 60/60ish type diamond and will have a different visual effect than a more traditional ideal cut stone. It's probably a better choice for a pendent than for an ering.

The second diamond is way too deep and is going to face up like a 1.3ct stone while you still pay a premium for the 1.5ct weight. It would make more sense to purchase a 1.3 ideal cut. The third choice is facing up too small too, so same idea, you'd do better to purchase a smaller ideal cut stone.


Your last choice is similar to the first, except it has a better CA, but the table is very large at 62 and I would suggest viewing a stone with these proportions or at the very least being able to see magnified images before committing to it. Most people prefer a table of 54-58.

Hopefully someone with more experience than me will weigh in, but I'm not a fan of any of these choices, and not just because of the VG cut grade. I actually just purchased a GIA VG cut, but I did so with a lot of caution and with a lot of guidance from some of the super knowledgeable people here, so I'll be the first to say that it is possible, but you may have to be very patient.....and flexible. Would your gf be opposed to a K color? This could open up more and better choices for you. I'm not having any luck finding anything with your gf's criteria and your budget.

I want to mention too, you really can't equate a formula to convert an IGI graded stone into a GIA graded stone. It's possible that IGI may be one color grade off a GIA comparable grade, or it may be 3, or even 4. We have this conversation often on PS when people try to convert an EGL grade to GIA but the exact same thing can be said about IGI. This is why we recommend sticking with GIA and AGS because they are the strictest and most consistent labs in the world and the only way to be sure that what you purchase is accurately described in the report.

 

[KeN3]

Ok, hopefully someone with more experience than me can chime in and confirm my thoughts, but I'll give you my impression of your choices.

The first stone has a very shallow crown angle. In profile it's going to look quite flat. We would usually recommend that the crown angle be between 33.5-35. I think that it will have more white light return than it will colored light. It's what is considered a 60/60ish type diamond and will have a different visual effect than a more traditional ideal cut stone. It's probably a better choice for a pendent than for an ering.

The second diamond is way too deep and is going to face up like a 1.3ct stone while you still pay a premium for the 1.5ct weight. It would make more sense to purchase a 1.3 ideal cut. The third choice is facing up too small too, so same idea, you'd do better to purchase a smaller ideal cut stone.


Your last choice is similar to the first, except it has a better CA, but the table is very large at 62 and I would suggest viewing a stone with these proportions or at the very least being able to see magnified images before committing to it. Most people prefer a table of 54-58.

Hopefully someone with more experience than me will weigh in, but I'm not a fan of any of these choices, and not just because of the VG cut grade. I actually just purchased a GIA VG cut, but I did so with a lot of caution and with a lot of guidance from some of the super knowledgeable people here, so I'll be the first to say that it is possible, but you may have to be very patient.....and flexible. Would your gf be opposed to a K color? This could open up more and better choices for you. I'm not having any luck finding anything with your gf's criteria and your budget.

I want to mention too, you really can't equate a formula to convert an IGI graded stone into a GIA graded stone. It's possible that IGI may be one color grade off a GIA comparable grade, or it may be 3, or even 4. We have this conversation often on PS when people try to convert an EGL grade to GIA but the exact same thing can be said about IGI. This is why we recommend sticking with GIA and AGS because they are the strictest and most consistent labs in the world and the only way to be sure that what you purchase is accurately described in the report.

thanks chris for the reply...

don't think she's ok with "K"colour... so "J"is the minimum..

time wise, i have about a month to get it, but i don't want to rush it through... I have went through at least 100 pieces and have yet to really settle on a probable shortlist due to the budget.. the max I can really push is to 8k, but that's gonna eat into my wedding plans etc.. so i don't wanna do that unless really necessary..

as for IGI, i placed that into my considerations as she herself saw 1 by IGI and she was ok, so i was hoping that will allow me a reasonable quality IGI diamond based on budget..

 

[Lula]

You're going to have to compromise on cut, and it sounds like your girlfriend will be okay on that. What I would do is look for the best 60-60 cut diamond you can find. Look for a GIA I or J, or IGI E - G, and try to stick with SI1 and SI2 clarity if possible. 60/60 cut diamonds tend to look larger for their carat weight (which is a plus in your situation) and there are some decent VG 60/60 cut diamonds out there. Better a 60/60 VG or G cut than a steep/deep VG or G cut, in my mind, if you've got to compromise on cut. You might want to give ID Jewelry a call and see what they can do for you. I'm not sure if the other vendors who are typically recommended here could get you the price you're looking for, even in a VG, and ID Jewelry is located in the diamond district in NY so they have easy access to diamond suppliers, and their prices are very competitive.

ETA: Here's one from James Allen that is a K color, SI2 clarity, with decent proportions, in your budget. You can see that something is going to have to give to get the carat weight she wants. This same stone could be graded 2 or 3 color grades higher by IGI, so you'd believe you'd be getting a H or an I. There are no bargains in diamonds. I'd actually consider taking a look at this one in person; JA has a good return policy. You'll know when you see it if it's too tinted or if the inclusions are eye-visible.
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/K-SI2-Good-Cut-Round-Diamond-1463368.asp

 

[Lula]

And this one's got potential, and a better color grade, if you can bump your budget up a bit.
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-I1-Very-Good-Cut-Round-Diamond-1482321.asp

 

[Lula]

Hey KeN3...just coming out of left field on this... but if gf is aware of your budget and is aware of what can be purchased for that amount and is STILL insisting on a higher end/larger diamond... is gf aware that compromising for the sake of size, may not be the better option?? If it were me, I'd really prefer the better cut stone, not necessarily the size. Cut is king in "diamondland" - a big stone won't give her the magic she's looking for if it isn't cut well.

Seems harsh to put out there, but ... not everyone receives a large engagement ring. It *is* ok to start slightly smaller and then upgrade at a later date - that's probably how a lot of the larger diamonds you see on PS came to be... I don't mean to be controversial or rude when I say that, just sort of piggy backing on what Diamondseeker wrote above:

I am going to add that you need to have a talk with your girlfriend and explain to her that her wishes and the budget do not match. You are just not going to get the specs she wants for $7000. And that is a very nice budget...diamonds are just very expensive.

I will apologize in advance if you've already talked this thru with her, I just sense that her expectations could be pushing you into a financially challenging position. (... I will skulk away hanging my head in shame, for being so bold.... )

no prob.. i'm cool about it.. thanks for understanding my position... unfortunately, she's putting her emphasize on the size 1st.. so I just gotta comply..

spent many sleepless nites finding something that balances between budget and quality..

anyway, i have another piece by IGI... anybody can help see?

Description: Natural Diamond
Shape And Cut: Round Brilliant
Carat Weight: 1.50 Carat
Color Grade: G
Clarity Grade: SI 2
Cut Grade: Excellent
Polish: Excellent
Symmetry: Excellent
Measurements: 7.47 - 7.55 x 4.43 mm
Table: 60.5%
Crown Height - Angle: 12.5% - 32.5°
Pavilion Depth - Angle: 43.5% - 41°
Girdle Thickness: Medium (Faceted)
Culet: Pointed
Total Depth: 59.2%
Fluorescence: None

Can you see this one in person? Or is this through Blue Nile? This stone could be okay, depending on the length of the lower girdle facets, which should be listed on the GIA report, and is typically 75% or 80%; sometimes 85%. Just so you're clear,though -- an IGI G could be a GIA J or K. So you run the risk of overpaying for a stone that is graded a G but is really a J or a K.

 

[KeN3]

You're going to have to compromise on cut, and it sounds like your girlfriend will be okay on that. What I would do is look for the best 60-60 cut diamond you can find. Look for a GIA I or J, or IGI E - G, and try to stick with SI1 and SI2 clarity if possible. 60/60 cut diamonds tend to look larger for their carat weight (which is a plus in your situation) and there are some decent VG 60/60 cut diamonds out there. Better a 60/60 VG or G cut than a steep/deep VG or G cut, in my mind, if you've got to compromise on cut. You might want to give ID Jewelry a call and see what they can do for you. I'm not sure if the other vendors who are typically recommended here could get you the price you're looking for, even in a VG, and ID Jewelry is located in the diamond district in NY so they have easy access to diamond suppliers, and their prices are very competitive.

ETA: Here's one from James Allen that is a K color, SI2 clarity, with decent proportions, in your budget. You can see that something is going to have to give to get the carat weight she wants. This same stone could be graded 2 or 3 color grades higher by IGI, so you'd believe you'd be getting a H or an I. There are no bargains in diamonds. I'd actually consider taking a look at this one in person; JA has a good return policy. You'll know when you see it if it's too tinted or if the inclusions are eye-visible.
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/K-SI2-Good-Cut-Round-Diamond-1463368.asp

thanks Lula for your input & advice..

yup, that's what i'm focusing now the GIA I J & IGI F G... so far sticking to the SI1 & 2s, but i'm venturing out to the I1s for GIA... so far nothing good turned out yet..

unfortuantely, the return policy affects me quite abit as i'm based overseas, so shipping is gonna be quite a problem.. hoping to clear everything in the 1st try..

I'm consdering this piece now:

https://myapps.gia.edu/ReportCheckPortal/getReportData.do?&reportno=1146044305&weight=1.5

the feedback from the vender is as follows:

Diamond has green shade.
As a "J" color it is on weaker side.
Small black inclusion in the table as well as in the crown.
Few small white inclusions in the crown.
Inclusions are not easily visible with naked eyes.
Diamond is OK.

This piece has a HCA score of 1.4, so that really caught my eye...

 

[Lula]

You're going to have to compromise on cut, and it sounds like your girlfriend will be okay on that. What I would do is look for the best 60-60 cut diamond you can find. Look for a GIA I or J, or IGI E - G, and try to stick with SI1 and SI2 clarity if possible. 60/60 cut diamonds tend to look larger for their carat weight (which is a plus in your situation) and there are some decent VG 60/60 cut diamonds out there. Better a 60/60 VG or G cut than a steep/deep VG or G cut, in my mind, if you've got to compromise on cut. You might want to give ID Jewelry a call and see what they can do for you. I'm not sure if the other vendors who are typically recommended here could get you the price you're looking for, even in a VG, and ID Jewelry is located in the diamond district in NY so they have easy access to diamond suppliers, and their prices are very competitive.

ETA: Here's one from James Allen that is a K color, SI2 clarity, with decent proportions, in your budget. You can see that something is going to have to give to get the carat weight she wants. This same stone could be graded 2 or 3 color grades higher by IGI, so you'd believe you'd be getting a H or an I. There are no bargains in diamonds. I'd actually consider taking a look at this one in person; JA has a good return policy. You'll know when you see it if it's too tinted or if the inclusions are eye-visible.
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/K-SI2-Good-Cut-Round-Diamond-1463368.asp

thanks Lula for your input & advice..

yup, that's what i'm focusing now the GIA I J & IGI F G... so far sticking to the SI1 & 2s, but i'm venturing out to the I1s for GIA... so far nothing good turned out yet..

unfortuantely, the return policy affects me quite abit as i'm based overseas, so shipping is gonna be quite a problem.. hoping to clear everything in the 1st try..

I'm consdering this piece now:

https://myapps.gia.edu/ReportCheckPortal/getReportData.do?&reportno=1146044305&weight=1.5

the feedback from the vender is as follows:

Diamond has green shade.
As a "J" color it is on weaker side.
Small black inclusion in the table as well as in the crown.
Few small white inclusions in the crown.
Inclusions are not easily visible with naked eyes.
Diamond is OK.

This piece has a HCA score of 1.4, so that really caught my eye...

You're welcome. I can see that you are getting the hang of this! This stone has potential; cut looks good. I'm a bit concerned about what the vendor says about color -- diamonds can have a grey or brown or yellow tint to them. I owned a G color stone that looked grey to me and I did not like it at all. I have owned a J with a brown tint to it that was lovely. I've never seen a stone with a green tint to it, so I am not sure what effect that would have on the stone in various lighting conditions, e.g., fluorescent. Can you ask the vendor what he means by a "weak" J?

 

[KeN3]

no prob.. i'm cool about it.. thanks for understanding my position... unfortunately, she's putting her emphasize on the size 1st.. so I just gotta comply..

spent many sleepless nites finding something that balances between budget and quality..

anyway, i have another piece by IGI... anybody can help see?

Description: Natural Diamond
Shape And Cut: Round Brilliant
Carat Weight: 1.50 Carat
Color Grade: G
Clarity Grade: SI 2
Cut Grade: Excellent
Polish: Excellent
Symmetry: Excellent
Measurements: 7.47 - 7.55 x 4.43 mm
Table: 60.5%
Crown Height - Angle: 12.5% - 32.5°
Pavilion Depth - Angle: 43.5% - 41°
Girdle Thickness: Medium (Faceted)
Culet: Pointed
Total Depth: 59.2%
Fluorescence: None

Can you see this one in person? Or is this through Blue Nile? This stone could be okay, depending on the length of the lower girdle facets, which should be listed on the GIA report, and is typically 75% or 80%; sometimes 85%. Just so you're clear,though -- an IGI G could be a GIA J or K. So you run the risk of overpaying for a stone that is graded a G but is really a J or a K.

not able to see the actual diamond but the vendor gas gotten back to me on it:

1) Medium black inclusion in the center of the table,

2) Small white inclusion in the center of the table,

3) 2 to 3 small white feathers in the pavilion which reflect in the crown,


Conclusion:- Inclusions are prominent and diamond not recommended.

 

[Lula]

no prob.. i'm cool about it.. thanks for understanding my position... unfortunately, she's putting her emphasize on the size 1st.. so I just gotta comply..

spent many sleepless nites finding something that balances between budget and quality..

anyway, i have another piece by IGI... anybody can help see?

Description: Natural Diamond
Shape And Cut: Round Brilliant
Carat Weight: 1.50 Carat
Color Grade: G
Clarity Grade: SI 2
Cut Grade: Excellent
Polish: Excellent
Symmetry: Excellent
Measurements: 7.47 - 7.55 x 4.43 mm
Table: 60.5%
Crown Height - Angle: 12.5% - 32.5°
Pavilion Depth - Angle: 43.5% - 41°
Girdle Thickness: Medium (Faceted)
Culet: Pointed
Total Depth: 59.2%
Fluorescence: None

Can you see this one in person? Or is this through Blue Nile? This stone could be okay, depending on the length of the lower girdle facets, which should be listed on the GIA report, and is typically 75% or 80%; sometimes 85%. Just so you're clear,though -- an IGI G could be a GIA J or K. So you run the risk of overpaying for a stone that is graded a G but is really a J or a K.

not able to see the actual diamond but the vendor gas gotten back to me on it:

1) Medium black inclusion in the center of the table,

2) Small white inclusion in the center of the table,

3) 2 to 3 small white feathers in the pavilion which reflect in the crown,


Conclusion:- Inclusions are prominent and diamond not recommended.

Sounds like this vendor is looking out for you! I am confident that you can find a decent 60/60 cut stone. Finding an eye clean SI2 will take some work, but they are out there. I owned an eye clean I1, and several other people on this forum have found eye-clean SI2's and I1's. Going lower in clarity will save you quite a bit of cash.

 

[Lula]

If you're interested in learning more about how to choose a good 60/60, this thread has lots of examples and explanations:
https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/im-browsing-again-ps-army-welcome-to-help-me.122576/

 

[KeN3]

And this one's got potential, and a better color grade, if you can bump your budget up a bit.
http://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-I1-Very-Good-Cut-Round-Diamond-1482321.asp

haha... this piece also caught my eye esp with a very good HCA score of 1! & i asked with JA helpdesk too.. here's the reply from them:

My name is Chris. I am your customer service representative with James Allen, and I will be assisting you with your question about diamond #1482321. I have reviewed the image and GIA report. Unfortunately, I do not believe this diamond will be eye clean. It is possible to find I1 diamonds that have less obtrusive inclusions but if that is your primary concern you may want to focus on VS1 and above diamonds. You can also find diamonds in the SI1-2 range that will also be eye clean. If you would like to stay near the price of 1482321 you may want to consider going down in size and color. There will be very little difference between and H and I color diamond. The two diamo nds below, even though they are not as large as your original choice, the average diamond engagement ring is about .60ct, at 1.25ct they will still look quite large. Both are GIA triple excellent and should have fantastic fire and brilliance.

looking from the virtual loope on JA website, it looks ok... but an I1... so i'm not sure esp when it's also a little out of my budget...