I need help deciding on a diamond!

[shealy9887]

Hello,
I have been researching and searching for a diamond for an engagement ring. I am looking for a diamond around 1.15 to 1.25 ct and no more than $7,000 but I would prefer to be closer to $6,000.

I found this diamond which is 1.14 ct and looks beautiful.
https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/1.14-carat-i-color-si1-clarity-ideal-cut-sku-2359308

I also found this diamond which is 1.27 but it is not a "true hearts" diamond
https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/1.27-carat-i-color-si1-clarity-excellent-cut-sku-1920269

I really like the size of the 1.27 but don't want to sacrifice too much quality in the cut. Is the 1.27 ct a decent diamond? I would love to hear some opinions on the two diamonds? I really need help with this big decision.

Thanks in advance!

-Scott

 

[rainwood]

I hope some of our experts weigh in, but the first thing I would do is ask the folks at JA if either of these diamonds is "eye clean." The feather on the 1.14 is right in the middle of the table, and looks like it might be visible to the naked eye. The inclusions on the 1.27 look like they might be black and also might be visible to the naked eye. If they aren't eye clean, I'd probably pass on both of these diamonds.

 

[ac117]

I hope some of our experts weigh in, but the first thing I would do is ask the folks at JA if either of these diamonds is "eye clean." The feather on the 1.14 is right in the middle of the table, and looks like it might be visible to the naked eye. The inclusions on the 1.27 look like they might be black and also might be visible to the naked eye. If they aren't eye clean, I'd probably pass on both of these diamonds.

I *believe* JA only includes eye clean diamonds in their True Hearts line - however, their definition of eye clean may not line up with ours. The feather is light in color and may just blend in (especially at this size) but it's definitely worth double checking with the gemologist.

OP, I would NOT buy the 1.27 - it looks to have a grey undertone, which is not desirable.

This would be a nice option if eye clean: https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/1.26-carat-i-color-si1-clarity-excellent-cut-sku-2036331
Or: https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/1.21-carat-i-color-si1-clarity-excellent-cut-sku-2154597

Ask if they could provide idealscopes on either.

 

[tyty333]

I hope some of our experts weigh in, but the first thing I would do is ask the folks at JA if either of these diamonds is "eye clean." The feather on the 1.14 is right in the middle of the table, and looks like it might be visible to the naked eye. The inclusions on the 1.27 look like they might be black and also might be visible to the naked eye. If they aren't eye clean, I'd probably pass on both of these diamonds.

Ditto...ask JA if they are eye-clean. The 1.14 is very nice and has complimentary angles. I do not like the angles on the 1.27. I
prefer a higher crown. This stone also looks like it has a gray (or maybe brown) tint. It may not show in real life but I would
ask about it if you still like this stone (I much more prefer the 1.14).

 

[Jennifee]

From first appearances I like the 1.14. But like others said have JA bring it in and inspect it in house.

 

[shealy9887]

Thanks everyone for your replies. I appreciate all of your advice and steering me away from a potential bad purchase on the 1.27 ct. I am going to have JA's gemologist take a look at the 1.14 ct.

Thanks again!!