How can you accuratelty determine the cut if a diamond and the value?

[leeann212]

My fiance recently purchased a GIA certified round 1.4 carat, I color, SI2 clarity,62.3% depth,58% table, 35.8% crown angle, 41.2% pavillion angle, no flouresence, very good polish, very good symmetry, slightly thick to thick girdle with a very small cutlet that is supposed to be an ideal cut for $5140.00 from a reputable wholesaler/retailer in the 589 5th Ave building near 47th St in NYC. The measurements for the stone are 7.09-7.16 x 4.44mm. After I left the store I calculated the cut with the Holloway cut advisor and it only received a score of 5.4 with a good light return, fair fire, good scintillation and very good spread. I became concerned that the cut was not as good as I was told even though it did sparkle under flourescent lightening. I now regret not buying the other diamond that I was considering that received a 3.6 score, good light return, very good fire, good scintillation and very good spread on the Holloway cut adviser on this site. The specs for the second diamond that I did not purchase were as follows:

Price $4828.00
GIA certified round 1.36 carat, H color, SI2 clarity, 61% depth, 59% table, 33% crown angle,41.4% pavillion angle, very small cutlet, medium to slightly thick girdle, excellent polish, very good symmetry, no flourescence, 7.13-7.17 X 4.36mm.

Did I make the right decion to purchase the 1.4 carat versus the 1.36 carat? Is it bad that the crown angle for the 1.4 carat is 35.8% which is above the 33-35% range?
I can still get my money back and I would appreciate any guidance.

Thanks,

 

[magna2]

Lee Ann,

The first diamond is on the cusp of being ideal. That is, all the numbers posted are on the very upper scale of ideal range. But just having table/depth/crown/pavilion numbers that fall within the ideal range doesn't make it a good performer. It comes down to the relations of the major facets and the numbers just doesn't work for this diamond.

And since, by my estimation, you paid about $1000 more for that type of qualit, I would recommend that you return it for a full refund. As for the second diamond, I would pass on it also.

By your post, I get the distinct impression that your top priority is size follow by color and clarity. For the price range of $4500 - 5000 that you are looking at, you can find much better diamonds than the two you have identified.

 

[leeann212]

What calculations are you using to determine the relations of the major facets? All of tha data I read including the Holloway Cut Advisor uses depth %, table %, crown angle and pavillion angle and cutlet %.

If you think I paid $1000 more than I should have where do you recommend that I buy a comparable or better diamond for $3500- 4000 that is GIA certified?

Thanks,

 

[Rhino]

The truth of the matter is, is that for 4500-5k if you're looking for a 1.2xct - 1.4xct size and a decent clarity/color the diamond MUST take a hit in some arena and you have found out which one that is. You can't expect a 1.4xct diamond to shine or sparkle the same way a 1ct diamond for 5k will.




If you want to see some serious sizzle for you purchasing dollar consider dropping the size, clarity & color some and at least give your self the benefit of the doubt to make the comparison for yourself. In the end you may still choose for size over sparkle but at least you will have been able to make that comparison. You may be surprised with what you see. I'd have to add to magna2's comments concerning how the angles don't work in a stone like that. It is an "ideal cut" cut to the worst set of proportions possible with a guaranteed ring of leakage right under the table. I've seen AGS 5's - 10's with better reflective/refractive properties.




Whatever you do at least make the comparison. This way you will have been fair to yourself to *see* all your options.




Good luck!




Regards,


Rhino

 

[fire&ice]

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On 12/10/2003 11:37:02 AM leeann212 wrote:

The measurements for the stone are 7.09-7.16 x 4.44mmI can still get my money back and I would appreciate any guidance.

Thanks,----------------

Wow - that baby must be holding some serious weight in the girdle. Aljdewey just purchase a 1.24c diamond with close to your measurements.

I'd drop ten & punt. JMHO.