Help with color rating and price assessment on Asscher ring.

[scuzzlebuzzle]

I've done some research on color ratings for diamonds, and it seems everywhere they say the yellow color shows more the larger the diamond. All the charts seem to show an I colored diamond of having little to no yellow, however, the reputable store in our area seems to show more yellow. I'm wondering if it has to do with maybe the cut style, the size, or EGL. I just wanted to get your thoughts on this ring. It is an Asscher Cut 2.35 caret, "I" colored, VS1, excellent finish grade... (according to EGL). The surrounding diamonds comprise about 1 total caret of G colored diamonds, and the band is 18kt white gold. They quoted me $26,500 for the ring. I realize I can get it for less on the internet, but I would rather purchase it at a local reputable retail store. Any thoughts on the "I" rating for the color in the pics below? It seems a touch too yellow for an "I" but I'm a total rookie. Also what are your thoughts on the price? Thanks.

HIGH RESOLUTION IMAGES HERE:
http://postimg.org/image/h6jhbw8av/
http://postimg.org/image/5dyztz1o5/
http://postimg.org/image/i7r15f02b/
http://postimg.org/image/8ch3qeuvz/

 

[diamondseeker2006]

Re: Help with color rating and price assessment on Asscher r

If it's EGL, it is not a true I color. It is likely J-K-L color and probably VS2 in clarity. Is it EGL USA or International?

I hear you on wanting to buy local, but on the other hand, EGL stones don't have accurate grading, and in that respect, it is an attempt to deceive. That stone is way overpriced. Let me see if I can find comps for you.

 

[diamondseeker2006]

Re: Help with color rating and price assessment on Asscher r

Here's a 2.5 K VS1 GIA graded, for $12,910. Add $3000 for the setting and you are at $15,910. I think the diamond is showing enough yellow to be K. But even if it turned out to be J VS2, for example, it wouldn't be worth but a little more than this one. You may be at a reputable jeweler, but do you want to overpay by $10k?

http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/asscher-cut/2.50-carat-k-color-vs1-clarity-sku-258846

A true 2.5 ct I VS1 is $19,360 and with a $3000 setting you are at $22,360 and you have a diamond that is a couple of color grades higher at least, not to mention larger. I would not go lower than I color (GIA grading) in a step cut.

http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/asscher-cut/2.55-carat-i-color-vs1-clarity-sku-509893

 

[scuzzlebuzzle]

Re: Help with color rating and price assessment on Asscher r

It doesn't say whether EGL is USA or International. The certificate is dated 2005 (carried out using current gemological procedures of e.g.1)... it kind of throws a red flag for me because it is so long ago. If that diamond were actually a GIA "I" color, in that same ring, what would it normally cost in a retail store?