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

[coffeedonutcake]

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.

1.4ct: 7.25-7.27X4.49 mm
1.7ct: 7.68x7.71x4.77 mm

a month ago I saw a 1.68 ct H/SI in stock for 16k, it was a price point that I was happy with. It was labeled as eye-clean, but Becca examined it for me and she could see an inclusion under the table from the top at 6-inch. So I passed on it and that diamond was sold soon after that.
I kept checking WF's stock in the last month and didn't see any new diamonds, so I'm starting to lose patience .....

 

[coffeedonutcake]

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

I love lurking about the big rocks here on pricescope! But in reality I'm not sure if I will be able to rock a 2ct haha! I would be too self-conscious! The biggest I want to go now is probably 1.7ct, or maybe 1.8 ct to push the boundary a little bit.

 

[coffeedonutcake]

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.

Thanks for confirming the change will be noticeable!

 

[coffeedonutcake]

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?

my H doesn't bother me. It's white for me from the top, and occasionally I'm able to see slight tint from the side.
I've never seen an super-ideal I in real life! I'd love to but WF is only open on weekdays, and there is no HOF where I am.

 

[coffeedonutcake]

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.

I think my SO might not against me going with 1.8ct. But I'm a bit worried about it being too big and flashy...

 

[coffeedonutcake]

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.

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?

I'm not planning to eventually upgrade to 2 ct (wait for me to come back in 5 years wanting a 2ct haha), for now the biggest I want to go to is 1.7ct or maybe push it a little bit to 1.8 ct.

I asked my SO what's his opinion on whether I should spend the 6.5k, and his response was " do whatever makes you happy!" He is not helpful at all!

 

[coffeedonutcake]

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!

Thanks Kaycee2018! 1.7 ct is my current goal size and I'm not sure if I would want to ungrade again in the future. Never say never!

 

[HappyNewLife]

If your SO is on board and it will make you happy, go for it! I personally would notice the difference in size and I prefer the "sound" of 1.7 carats vs. 1.4 (lol). 1.7 is a really great size, I had one for years

 

[ohsomethingshiny]

My goal size is 2.5cts. (Maybe... one day.) So that plays into my situation and as to why I didn’t see enough of a change to go for the 1.8ct.

That said, 1.7 / 1.8 is your goal size. That makes a huge difference to me. If you don’t have a desire for 2+ carats, then the upgrade could definitely be worth pursuing, in my opinion.

 

[BlingDreams]

1.4ct: 7.25-7.27X4.49 mm
1.7ct: 7.68x7.71x4.77 mm

a month ago I saw a 1.68 ct H/SI in stock for 16k, it was a price point that I was happy with. It was labeled as eye-clean, but Becca examined it for me and she could see an inclusion under the table from the top at 6-inch. So I passed on it and that diamond was sold soon after that.
I kept checking WF's stock in the last month and didn't see any new diamonds, so I'm starting to lose patience .....

That's a nice size bump! Here are some photo comparisons:




Personally, I'd probably do it since you want it and can afford it. At the worst, you'll have even more money towards an upgrade in the future

 

[stonewell]

I agree - never say never... DSS is real and I don't think it would take long to get comfortable with a 2ct or higher, even. Ultimately, it depends on your area and your social circle.

While I would also notice a difference in size between the 1.4 and 1.7ct, I don't think it's just from the face-up perspective. These are 3D objects after all, so when I upgraded, it was noticeable all the way around.

If you're SO is supportive and it's well within your means, I say go for it.

 

[WinkHPD]

The price difference you are seeing is not just the size upgrade. It's the upgrade for color and clarity from your current stone.

As a trade member, I have no recommendation for our OP. I would like to share the fact that there is a substantial price increase per carat at the 1.50 ct mark. There is an even larger one at the 2 ct mark. This has a lot to do with the total difference in price. It is much more than just the difference in size, it is paying the higher price per carat for the entire diamond.

Wink

 

[sledge]

As a trade member, I have no recommendation for our OP. I would like to share the fact that there is a substantial price increase per carat at the 1.50 ct mark. There is an even larger one at the 2 ct mark. This has a lot to do with the total difference in price. It is much more than just the difference in size, it is paying the higher price per carat for the entire diamond.

Wink

Thank you for the clarification @Wink.

Some quick nerdery:

• $11,000 initial purchase / 1.4 carats = $7,857 per carat
• $17,500 upgrade purchase / 1.7 carats = $10,294 per carat
• Theoretical: 1.80 carats x $10,294 = $18,529
• Theoretical: 1.85 carats x $10,294 = $19,043
• Theoretical: 1.90 carats x $10,294 = $19,558
• Theoretical: 1.95 carats x $10,294 = $20,073
• Based on above information, anything over 2 carats > $10,294 by a substantial amount

This helps explain what feels like a "large" price premium to pay for a small size increase. Also, it would help me want to maximize the size as close to 2 carats as I could afford w/o breaking the $10,294 per carat barrier as that is what I like to call a "sweet spot".

I know some comments were made earlier about anything > 1.7ct not working in social settings. I don't agree with your logic. To most people a 1.7ct will have the same effect as a 1.8ct or 1.9ct stone. So if they are going to talk trash or not accept you for those larger sizes, it's probably going to happen with a 1.7ct as well. And my guess is those same people may have already had issues with the 1.4ct.

But honestly, who cares? It's your money and your life. You don't have to justify the size of your ring to anyone but you and your husband. I promise you, that with 100% accuracy every decision you make for OTHER PEOPLE will disappoint someone. The only sure bet is making the choice that makes YOU happy!

 

[diamondseeker2006]

You'd be upgrading both size and either color or clarity, so that is why you're seeing that much of a jump in price. I can absolutely see a difference in 1.4 and 1.7! When I first came here 12 years ago, I thought I wanted 1.4 but ended up with 1.63 (and did some upgrades after that!). That was definitely a visible difference. Prices are good right now, I'd buy now rather than being sorry later if prices should rise. Or I'd at least call WF and see if they have a list of what they are expecting to come in next.

I honestly think I'd pay $500 more and go ahead and get this:

https://www.whiteflash.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut-loose-diamond-3947722.htm

 

[skydiamond88]

I myself just upgraded my ring, (well, technically buying a new one since I could not upgrade my 1.2ct GIA XXX but non super ideal to a 2ct super ideal)
and what they say about DSS is completely true. The first time I saw a 2ct, it was HUGE!
When my ring was completed, I tried on my 2ct E and compared it against a 2.5ct G and the seller thought she could see the color difference between E and G more obvious than the size difference. So I went ahead with the 2ct E.

Merely a week later, I started to think that I probably should have got the 2.5ct (although I was a bit hesitant with the lower color)
So if I were to upgrade mine to a 2.5ct F I'd have to top up at least another $15k for an extra 0.6mm. I am actually very tempted to upgrade mine but thought maybe the money could be spent on a bag which is more noticeable than a mere 0.6mm upgrade on a diamond, or wait until next year and do another bigger upgrade to a 3+ ct

As explained above, increase in diamond sizes above certain point like 1ct,1.5ct, 2ct, 2.5ct, 3ct etc the jump would be huge.
If I were to upgrade it to a 3ct the top up would be even more for each extra mm.

I think in the end diamond purchase is almost always an emotional purchase that may or may not be justifiable but if the heart really wants what it wants then it becomes justifiable

So if you really think this upgrade is the final upgrade you need, and you do actually have the budget, why not?

 

[Krisking]

[QUOTE="Come on, now [/QUOTE]

Thank you, @elizabethess. It's true. Women have been using their own measuring devices for several years now.

 

[sledge]

Come on, now

Thank you, @elizabethess. It's true. Women have been using their own measuring devices for several years now.

Awww, sorry ladies. Didn't mean it in a sexist manner. More power to you if you have and can use a tape. Just most women I know can't.

 

[WinkHPD]

This helps explain what feels like a "large" price premium to pay for a small size increase. Also, it would help me want to maximize the size as close to 2 carats as I could afford w/o breaking the $10,294 per carat barrier as that is what I like to call a "sweet spot".

Don't forget though, that most cutters will swindle cut the diamonds that you mention in every one of those weights to weigh 2.00 or 2.01 or 2.03 by steep deeping them, or heavy girdling them as they can sell those poorly cut 2.xx carat diamonds for more than a real cutter can sell the smaller better cut diamonds for.

Sure, those heavy weight diamonds will not look anywhere near as good, but the vast majority of diamond buyers do not take the time to learn about diamonds and will never know what they are missing.

Wink

 

[sledge]

Don't forget though, that most cutters will swindle cut the diamonds that you mention in every one of those weights to weigh 2.00 or 2.01 or 2.03 by steep deeping them, or heavy girdling them as they can sell those poorly cut 2.xx carat diamonds for more than a real cutter can sell the smaller better cut diamonds for.

Sure, those heavy weight diamonds will not look anywhere near as good, but the vast majority of diamond buyers do not take the time to learn about diamonds and will never know what they are missing.

Wink

Totally agree @Wink. It's such a racket, and annoys me to no end.

When I mentioned maximizing size, in my head I was thinking a super ideal and trusted vendor like yourself (HPD), WF or BGD where cut is critical and more scrutinized. As I recall, the OP is upgrading through WF so assuming they stay in the ACA line then they should avoid the weight game pitfalls, correct?

 

[WinkHPD]

When I mentioned maximizing size, in my head I was thinking a super ideal and trusted vendor like yourself (HPD), WF or BGD where cut is critical and more scrutinized. As I recall, the OP is upgrading through WF so assuming they stay in the ACA line then they should avoid the weight game pitfalls, correct?

I was speaking only of hypothetical diamonds, not a specific diamond, and yes, our friends at WF will not be playing any games.

Wink

 

[Crystal_Dreams]

Fwiw OP... I think it would be a noticible size difference. As someone else has said- it depends on your finger size. At size 4.5, I could easily see the difference between a 0.8 and 1ct... my next jump if it ever comes, would be from 1.5 to somewhere close to 2. Depends on how much that increase in size is worth to you, and what you are happy to pay for it!

 

[ac117]

I honestly think I'd pay $500 more and go ahead and get this:

https://www.whiteflash.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut-loose-diamond-3947722.htm

For only a $500 difference I would absolutely get this stone! Great suggestion DS!

 

[WinkHPD]

For anyone who wishes to see actual examples of what @sledge and I are talking about, actual diamonds which were forced to pass the 3.00 carat mark, for which (my opinion) consumers overpaid an insane amount, this is an illuminating article.

https://www.hpdiamonds.com/en-us/education/education-caratlimit

Wink

 

[sledge]

For anyone who wishes to see actual examples of what @sledge and I are talking about, actual diamonds which were forced to pass the 3.00 carat mark, for which (my opinion) consumers overpaid an insane amount, this is an illuminating article.

https://www.hpdiamonds.com/en-us/education/education-caratlimit

Wink

Excellent article @Wink and @John Pollard. Thank you for sharing!

It's information sharing and ethos of this magnitude that make me respect the hell out of you and your team. Thank you for choosing to operate in a performance orientated manner that is not driven by pure profit and greed. You make the diamond world a better place!

I wish everyone would take the time to read articles like this, and make careful evaluations before choosing to support other vendors that operate in nefarious methods. While my small dollar purchases may not put a dent in their operations, I am cognizant of these practices and feel good knowing I can direct my dollars so I get a high quality product for a fair price, and support the "good guys" while doing so. I hope others will take a similar path, but unfortunately we just have too many uneducated diamond buyers. I'm not proclaiming to be smart by any means, as I am still learning. I just wish others shared the same passion for diamonds that we all share here in this community.

 

[diamondseeker2006]

I've gotta say, though, Whiteflash has been incredibly fortunate to offer several ACA's in the 2.9 range and I have seen some in the 1.8-1.99 range, as well. Some members here have bought them. They are rare, and it shows that cut was more important to the cutter than reaching the next carat mark. I always recommend those kinds of stones when available, because they are rare!!!

 

[HappyNewLife]

I've gotta say, though, Whiteflash has been incredibly fortunate to offer several ACA's in the 2.9 range and I have seen some in the 1.8-1.99 range, as well. Some members here have bought them. They are rare, and it shows that cut was more important to the cutter than reaching the next carat mark. I always recommend those kinds of stones when available, because they are rare!!!

My 2.937ct ACA is the best thing I've ever seen in real life, lol.

 

[diamondseeker2006]

@HappyNewLife You were my first thought!

 

[sledge]

I've gotta say, though, Whiteflash has been incredibly fortunate to offer several ACA's in the 2.9 range and I have seen some in the 1.8-1.99 range, as well. Some members here have bought them. They are rare, and it shows that cut was more important to the cutter than reaching the next carat mark. I always recommend those kinds of stones when available, because they are rare!!!

My 2.937ct ACA is the best thing I've ever seen in real life, lol.

@HappyNewLife You were my first thought!

For clarification purposes, neither @Wink nor myself was indicating that these "unicorns" don't exist.

They do! They are just rare because of market demands and unethical diamond cutting practices by less awesome vendors. Coming from vendors such as HPD, WF or BGD that focus on cut quality and not carat weights & pure profit is a way to ensure you are getting a quality stone for a fair price.

Buyers just need to be cautious and aware of the potential pitfall.

 

[diamondseeker2006]

Oh, I realized you weren't saying that! I was just pointing out that it is very possible to get super-ideals just under a carat mark.

 

[lambskin]

My simple answer to the poster's question: No.