Is it worth 6.5k to upgrade from 1.4ct to 1.7ct?

[coffeedonutcake]

Hello everyone!

I’ve been toying with the idea of upgrading my 1.4ct WF ACA H SI1 to ~1.7ct. It will cost about 6.5k to upgrade to 1.7ct H/VS2 or G/SI1. The 1.4ct cost a little over 11k. I’m having a hard time justifying paying 6.5k for 0.3 ct increase even though we can afford it.

WF has some I color diamonds in the size range that are a lot more affordable. But due to cultural reasons, I don’t want to go under H. I heard I is when you start to see tint.

Should I just bite the bullet and upgrade it?

 

[Athena10X]

Hi @coffeedonutcake, I’ve seen the following site listed on other threads.

https://www.diamdb.com/compare/1.4ct-round-7.27x7.27x4.38-vs-1.7ct-round/

It allows you to compare size differences of different carats by adjusting the stones’ dimensions, as well as your own finger size. If you feel that the 1.7 is significantly larger and what you’ve been looking for (comes down to personal preference), then I’m sure the PS experts can help chime in on the quality of the stone(s) you’re interested in and even provide alternatives within your budget. Am I correct in assuming that you want to upgrade/trade-in with WF only since your 1.4 is an ACA?

 

[ohsomethingshiny]

Personally, I don’t see a significant change as it’s only 0.5mm wider. Again my opinion, that wouldn’t justify the cost for me.

 

[BlingDreams]

Hello everyone!

I’ve been toying with the idea of upgrading my 1.4ct WF ACA H SI1 to ~1.7ct. It will cost about 6.5k to upgrade to 1.7ct H/VS2 or G/SI1. The 1.4ct cost a little over 11k. I’m having a hard time justifying paying 6.5k for 0.3 ct increase even though we can afford it.

WF has some I color diamonds in the size range that are a lot more affordable. But due to cultural reasons, I don’t want to go under H. I heard I is when you start to see tint.

Should I just bite the bullet and upgrade it?

I completely understand where you're coming from. You might want to wait for an H/SI1 to ease the pain of the cost, as the lower clarity should drop it 1K or so (I think, going off of memory) and if you can't see the inclusions does the SI1 really matter? That's a personal preference.

What is the difference in diameter of the diamonds? That's where my decision would ultimately lie.

 

[sledge]

I'd want more for my money. To put things in perspective 0.50mm is equal to 0.0196 inches. And 1/51th of an inch is equal to 0.0196 inches.

So you'd be gaining just slightly better than 1/64th of an inch. Ask your husband to show you that on his tape measurer. My guess is his only goes to 1/16 or 1/32. As you know 1/64th is half of 1/32 or 1/4 of 1/16th.

I'd save the money and invest in hope to get a better size and/or color bump

 

[Bron357]

Yes, it will be a barely noticeably increase in size. I’d save my $$$$ up and go for a 1.95 carat later on.

 

[gm89uk]

I'd want more for my money. To put things in perspective 0.50mm is equal to 0.0196 inches. And 1/51th of an inch is equal to 0.0196 inches.

So you'd be gaining just slightly better than 1/64th of an inch. Ask your husband to show you that on his tape measurer. My guess is his only goes to 1/16 or 1/32. As you know 1/64th is half of 1/32 or 1/4 of 1/16th.

I'd save the money and invest in hope to get a better size and/or color bump

This is so confusing, 0.5mm is 0.5mm!
In terms of diamond size, that's significant, and we'll noticeable. 17.5k for 1.7? I think waiting for an eye clean si1 will get you something more satiable.

 

[Dancing Fire]

Personally, I don’t see a significant change as it’s only 0.5mm wider. Again my opinion, that wouldn’t justify the cost for me.

You can easily see the difference in size.

 

[coda72]

When I was upgrading my diamond, I went from a 1.33 carat to a 1.73 carat, and I thought the difference was quite significant. I miss that 1.73 carat and somewhat regret selling it even though I have a wonderful diamond now. So, I think you will definitely notice the size difference between the 1.4 and 1.7 carats. You might want to wait around for another H, SI1 to come around so it won’t cost quite as much.

 

[icy_jade]

I think it’s a noticeable difference... plus if you can trade in it’s a case of enjoying a bigger diamond for a longer time? Guess it also depends on how long before you want to jump to a bigger size? If it’s a few months, probably not but if it will take years, then why not?

0.5 doesn’t sound like a lot but even a 0.1 mm bigger diamond is noticeably bigger imo based on what I saw...

Does a H bother you? I mean color wise... if not, you may like to have a look at some nice bright I’s to see if can go even bigger with the same budget? It sounds like maybe you haven’t seen I’s in person? It will take some searching but I think it’s possible to find I’s that lean towards H rather than J color... at least no harm looking right?

 

[Austina]

I think it also depends on your finger size. Yes I can see a difference in the size, but I’m not sure I’d want to pay that much more for it. Of course, if you have tiny fingers (unlike my fat sausages), then the difference will probably be more noticeable.

 

[ohsomethingshiny]

You can easily see the difference in size.

Yeah? I didn’t notice a enough difference myself when I attempted to upgrade by 1/2 carat last month (1.25-1.8ct). It wasn’t until I went to 3/4 carat larger and higher (trying them on) that I personally felt it was a significant change, enough to justify the cost personally. But again, this is just my opinion in regards to spending the money for the size difference. Others’ opinions certainly can vary, and it seems do vary from mine.

 

[icy_jade]

Can you ask WF to pull a 1.4 vs 1.7 carat diamond and do a comparison video and some pics for you?

Either that or to take @Miki Moto advice (Or should I say her husband’s advice) from another thread and increase your budget a bit and just go for a bigger diamond if you can afford it...

If I may add one more comment here...

I do not know your financial situation nor am I suggesting you go in debt over a diamond (not a wise thing to do), but perhaps it might be possible to increase your budget a bit more to get what you truly want and are proud to have.

I have purchased pricey jewelry pieces in the past, and I was about to pass on them or settle for something less. My husband, who often tells me “get the bigger one because in 5 or 10 years, that additional amount is nothing yet you would have enjoyed that piece of jewelry for so many years”. I listened to that advice several times and “got the bigger one”. And you know what... I am so glad I did. The money was well spent, and years later, I still love it and the extra cost is long forgotten.

Every now and then when I admire my pieces, my husband says “see... aren’t you glad you got it?”

I want to share that with you as something to think about, looking at this purchase from the whole scope of life.

Good luck! I wish to and your fiancé much happiness!

 

[rockysalamander]

Would your budget allow this one? It gets you over 1.8 c...
https://www.whiteflash.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut-loose-diamond-3947722.htm

This looks visually clearly larger.


Or maybe see if they'll let you have a look of a I color in person.
https://www.whiteflash.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut-loose-diamond-3992317.htm

 

[OcnGypZ]

You're not really paying for more size.. but upgrade in color or clarity vs what you have now. One half of a millimeter is basically the width of a toothpick point.

 

[icy_jade]

I looked at a 1.8 vs 2 carat in person and I thought the size was pretty obviously different. Enough that I would pay a fair bit more for a 2 carat.

Using the tool, the difference between 1.8 and 2 carat is 7% by surface area, and 0.28mm



If you take a 1.4 vs 1.7 carat, the diff is 14% and 0.49mm...



Obviously everyone sees things differently, just like color perception or even cut perception so ultimately the question to OP is whether YOU see noticeable difference and is willing to pay for that? There is no right answer I guess.

 

[unsettled]

The price difference you are seeing is not just the size upgrade. It's the upgrade for color and clarity from your current stone. Are you happy with the H SI1? If so, then I would wait for another H SI1 larger stone. That seems like a pretty common combo. Then, it wouldn't be as expensive as the color/clarity upgrade. Or you can spend that same money and get a much larger upgrade in size. If it was my money, I would want a bigger size upgrade for that kind of money.

 

[Athena10X]

I’ll propose an alternative option to waiting for a bigger stone for less $$$: if you can afford the upgrade to the 1.7, you could go for it and eventually apply the new stone’s price towards yet a bigger stone in near future (1.8+, H/SI1 as recommended by a few on this thread). I’m only suggesting this because of WF’s generous upgrade policy. Only caveat is to consider price of potentially adjusting the setting to fit bigger stone with every size increase. Again, it boils down to your personal preference and what you’re comfortable with.

 

[marymm]

Hello everyone!

I’ve been toying with the idea of upgrading my 1.4ct WF ACA H SI1 to ~1.7ct. It will cost about 6.5k to upgrade to 1.7ct H/VS2 or G/SI1. The 1.4ct cost a little over 11k. I’m having a hard time justifying paying 6.5k for 0.3 ct increase even though we can afford it.

WF has some I color diamonds in the size range that are a lot more affordable. But due to cultural reasons, I don’t want to go under H. I heard I is when you start to see tint.

Should I just bite the bullet and upgrade it?

Based on your opening post, I'd say to you, "No, do not upgrade at this time."

Like others have suggested above, wait until WF has larger H/SI1 ACAs in stock, and then do the cost/size comparison to see if it is worthwhile for you.

And, FWIW, just because you can afford an upgrade and theoretically think a similar yet larger stone would be "better," sometimes the stone you already have on your finger is really your keeper stone. Upgrading a diamond often means changing a setting too, and I would never suggest an upgrade unless your heart and mind and budget (and that of your SO) deem it a real priority (i.e., something you yearn for, to the point where your present ring may be somewhat disappointing) because, let's face it, it is not a necessity, it is a want. From your post, it doesn't seem you are in that place.

Just my two cents.

 

[elizabethess]

So you'd be gaining just slightly better than 1/64th of an inch. Ask your husband to show you that on his tape measurer. My guess is his only goes to 1/16 or 1/32.

Come on, now

 

[Dancing Fire]

Yeah? I didn’t notice a enough difference myself when I attempted to upgrade by 1/2 carat last month (1.25-1.8ct). It wasn’t until I went to 3/4 carat larger and higher (trying them on) that I personally felt it was a significant change, enough to justify the cost personally. But again, this is just my opinion in regards to spending the money for the size difference. Others’ opinions certainly can vary, and it seems do vary from mine.

I can see the size difference if one stone is bigger by .20mm in diameter.

 

[sledge]

I'd want more for my money. To put things in perspective 0.50mm is equal to 0.0196 inches. And 1/51th of an inch is equal to 0.0196 inches.

So you'd be gaining just slightly better than 1/64th of an inch. Ask your husband to show you that on his tape measurer. My guess is his only goes to 1/16 or 1/32. As you know 1/64th is half of 1/32 or 1/4 of 1/16th.

I'd save the money and invest in hope to get a better size and/or color bump

This is so confusing, 0.5mm is 0.5mm!
In terms of diamond size, that's significant, and we'll noticeable. 17.5k for 1.7? I think waiting for an eye clean si1 will get you something more satiable.

LOL, agree. Just most Americans recognize imperial measurements over their metric equivalents. Below is a high accuracy ruler showing 32nds and 64ths of an inch.

0.5 doesn’t sound like a lot but even a 0.1 mm bigger diamond is noticeably bigger imo based on what I saw...

You must have eagle eyes. It takes about 0.20mm for the human eye to be able to tell a noticeable difference. Granted, this is subjective as each human has different levels of precision.

But to confuse everyone again....

0.10mm = 0.00393 inches
1/256th inch = 0.00396 inches

So in essence, you can see 1/4 of the difference between the 64ths mark shown above in the ruler image, and that is significant and noticeable? I think most will disagree with you.

For clarity purposes, I'm not saying I can't see a difference between a 1.7ct and 1.4ct stone. And the difference between the 1.8ct and 1.4ct @rockysalamander pointed out is even more noticeable. I'm just not sure I agree it's worth an additional $6,500. I would probably save and try to hit 2ct or above myself if I were you, or in this case if you were my girl.

Also, if you are happy with H SI1, I agree with several others that sticking in the same color/clarity will help you gain the size you seek while keeping the dollars under control. Extremely white I's might also work for you depending on your color sensitivity. Also, as size increases, I think sensitivity to color and clarity can become more of an issue as there is more diamond to focus on.

Just out of curiosity, if you are trying to gain more finger coverage and more kapow factor, have you considered coupling a larger stone with a halo setting as well?

 

[sledge]

And, FWIW, just because you can afford an upgrade and theoretically think a similar yet larger stone would be "better," sometimes the stone you already have on your finger is really your keeper stone. Upgrading a diamond often means changing a setting too, and I would never suggest an upgrade unless your heart and mind and budget (and that of your SO) deem it a real priority (i.e., something you yearn for, to the point where your present ring may be somewhat disappointing) because, let's face it, it is not a necessity, it is a want. From your post, it doesn't seem you are in that place.

Just my two cents.

Very well said. Basically my same thoughts, but I went down a rabbit hole explaining minor differences in dimensions.

I'm stepping out of this one. Good luck OP. I do wish you the best on whatever you decide.

 

[Kaycee2018]

Personally for me, the size difference alone is not enough of a factor to go from 1.4 to 1.7 for $6.5k. If size were the only motivating factor, I would wait until I could go up closer to at least .75 ct. However, if there were other factors about my existing diamond I wanted to improve, I might consider the upgrade to 1.7 ct for $6.5k. Or if 1.7 ct was my "goal size" and I don't think I'd want to upgrade thereafter, I would hold out for the perfect 1.7 ct diamond and upgrade then. GLD!

 

[icy_jade]

You must have eagle eyes. It takes about 0.20mm for the human eye to be able to tell a noticeable difference. Granted, this is subjective as each human has different levels of precision.

But to confuse everyone again....

0.10mm = 0.00393 inches
1/256th inch = 0.00396 inches

So in essence, you can see 1/4 of the difference between the 64ths mark shown above in the ruler image, and that is significant and noticeable? I think most will disagree with you.

I know. It surprised me too as I also recall reading that 0.2 is when the difference is obvious but there was no denying that the slightly bigger diamond looked obviously bigger next to the other one that I saw.

If they are not side by side can I tell which one is bigger? Probably not but it is definitely noticeable side by side. It really doesn’t look like much, just 2% difference but here are the dimensions of the two I saw...



I agree that most people won’t be able to see the difference but I saw what I saw.

 

[msop04]

I start to notice a distinct difference around the 0.3mm mark... especially in stones 8 mm and under.

ETA: I know it sounds so tiny, but when you think about regarding the diameter, it appears a bit larger. The easiest way to see it is to go to the site (diamdb.com) and plug it in.

As the stones get substantially larger, say 10+mm or so, it takes a HUGE jump in carat WEIGHT to make a distinct difference in size... to me.

 

[ohsomethingshiny]

I can see the size difference if one stone is bigger by .20mm in diameter.

I can notice the difference. However, I couldn’t notice enough of a significant difference for me to pay $17k more (since I kept the original diamond) to upgrade from my 1.25 to the 1.8 was my point.

 

[nala]

If you can’t justify it, then don’t. I upgraded my stone several times and passed on it several times as well. Each time that I upgraded, it’s because I could justify it. It was obvious to me when I couldn’t justify it and I didn’t even think about it twice. Maybe you are thinking about it because part of you recognizes that it’s not crazy.
That said, my last upgrade was exactly for a .32 jump and a better cut, color and clarity stayed the same. It cost me 5000. I would have preferred a better color, but at that point, I couldn’t justify it. Premium is so much higher for color, it seems. So did I notice a size difference in size? At first, I did. But after a while, DSS sets in and it looks the same. But i do appreciate the better cut! I didn’t know all the rainbows that i was missing out on! But if I were going to upgrade again purely for size at this point, I’d have to go .50 at least. I’m at 2.52 now.

 

[shoechick]

I just recently upgraded from 1.01 to 1.24 WF ACA. Initially I was worried that wasn't a big enough size difference to justify the cost. Both hubby and I see the size difference. It's not a HUGE size difference but it is there.

My original 1.01 was not certified so no trade in. And I knew I would have a tough time trying to sell it on my own so it felt like I was in a sense starting over and buying the 1.24. But it was totally worth it to me because I was making the leap to a super ideal cut.

For now, my original 1.01 is set in a pendant. I may try to certify it and sell it at a later point (to help fund the next upgrade, lol )

You will have to decide if it's worth it to you to spend the money for the size increase. But consider also the cost of the new stone is impacted by the color and clarity.

Maybe wait until they have a larger stone in the same color and clarity you already have?

 

[coffeedonutcake]

Hi @coffeedonutcake, I’ve seen the following site listed on other threads.

https://www.diamdb.com/compare/1.4ct-round-7.27x7.27x4.38-vs-1.7ct-round/

It allows you to compare size differences of different carats by adjusting the stones’ dimensions, as well as your own finger size. If you feel that the 1.7 is significantly larger and what you’ve been looking for (comes down to personal preference), then I’m sure the PS experts can help chime in on the quality of the stone(s) you’re interested in and even provide alternatives within your budget. Am I correct in assuming that you want to upgrade/trade-in with WF only since your 1.4 is an ACA?

Hi @coffeedonutcake, I’ve seen the following site listed on other threads.

https://www.diamdb.com/compare/1.4ct-round-7.27x7.27x4.38-vs-1.7ct-round/

It allows you to compare size differences of different carats by adjusting the stones’ dimensions, as well as your own finger size. If you feel that the 1.7 is significantly larger and what you’ve been looking for (comes down to personal preference), then I’m sure the PS experts can help chime in on the quality of the stone(s) you’re interested in and even provide alternatives within your budget. Am I correct in assuming that you want to upgrade/trade-in with WF only since your 1.4 is an ACA?

Yes, I want to upgrade/trade-in with WF since I bought my original stone from WF.