Help with 2.5-3CT Princess cut

[Manlye]

I'm in the market for a decent 2.5-3CT Princess cut for a halo engagement ring with a budget up to 30K. I've looked through all the sites and frankly am a bit overwhelmed. I understand 4C etc. What should be the most important with this type of setting, color and cut? Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Garry H (Cut Nut)]

Everyone here is going to tell you cut.

 

[diamondseeker2006]

Yes, cut is absolutely number 1. I would aim for G-H color unless your budget allows you to go higher. I'd go with VS clarity.

You are going to find more stones around the low 2 ct range than the 2.5-3, unfortunately.

Examples of some great cut stones would be:

http://www.whiteflash.com/loose-diamonds/princess-cut-loose-diamond-3633667.htm

http://www.whiteflash.com/loose-diamonds/princess-cut-loose-diamond-3712685.htm

Not seeing any at GOG or HIgh Performance Diamonds which also have ideal cut princess stones.

James Allen has a few possibilities but you will need to select the best three and ask for ASET images so we can see if they have great light return or not.

https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/princess-cut/2.82-carat-h-color-vvs2-clarity-sku-1962255

https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/princess-cut/2.48-carat-g-color-vs1-clarity-sku-2284742

https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/princess-cut/2.51-carat-f-color-vs2-clarity-sku-1871146

May I ask if the recipient has specifically requested a princess cut as first choice?

 

[Manlye]

Princess is not the absolute choice she likes the halo look of either a Princess or Cushion. So really I'm going back and forth between both cuts to see which one I can get the most value for around 30K.

Thank you for the help!

 

[valeria101]

Indeed !

 

[Diamond_Hawk]

Great advice by Diamond Seeker. I'm going to add to that:

If you stay with VS-range clarity you should have no worries, but particularly with a diamond in clarities of the SI variety, pay attention to the type and location the inclusions. Certain inclusion near the corners may increase the chances of chipping on a princess cut.

 

[spurnoff]

I think this one is worth considering
https://enchanteddiamonds.com/diamonds/search?carat_max=3.0&carat_min=2.5&shape=Princess#diamond=S257-8230Z1378

 

[LLJsmom]

Personally, if choosing between princess and cushion, I would go cushion. The square corners of a princess turn me off. I don't want to risk chipping the corners, and I like a softer look while maintaining a squarish outline, without the harshness of the sharp corners.

 

[Manlye]

I would agree cushion is the choice thanks for all the help on this thread, I have another going for cushion.