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Need expert advice on choosing the right diamond!!

D

d8440

Rough_Rock
Joined
Jan 28, 2014
Messages
3
I am in the market for an engagement ring, I am first looking for a loose diamond. I have been looking in the size range of 1.5-1.8, color range of G,H,I, clarity range of no less than SI2 and cut of no less than very good. I have found that the price range can vary a lot and I am hoping the experts can weigh in on what I should expect to pay and what is a scam and what is an actual deal.

I understand that the EGL-ISR can be very lenient on color and clarity grading but with one of the diamonds I found (color D) even if it was given a more lenient grade it would still be in the range of G,H,I am I correct? And with the second diamond I would not purchase unless I was given the option to return it once I had it GIA certified or appraised by a local jeweler and able to see it in person. I appreciate any and all advice on this topic! Thank you in advance for your time and advice! Here are two diamonds I have been considering using pricescope! Let me know what you think!

Stock Number:15472957
Certificate: EGLISR 340164625
Cut: CUSHION
Carat 1.63
Color D
Clarity SI2
Price $ 4142.24
Price per Carat $ 2541.25
Measurements 6.6 x 6.47 x 4.32 mm
Depth Percentage 66.8 %
Table Percentage 58 %
Crown Angle
Pavilion Percentage %
Pavilion Angle
Girdle
Culet
Polish VERY GOOD
Symmetry VERY GOOD
Fluorescence SLIGHT BLUE
Certificate Notes
Other Notes SQUARE100 EYE CLEAN&WHITE, STUNNING SPARKLE
Clarity-Enhanced NO

http://search.virtcert.com/cgi/u/1012/v.cgi?stock=15472957&_s=1012&_p=sdf348gd743&_c=&_fs=1&prestock=&_ln=ps


Stock Number: 15435266
Certificate
Cut RADIANT
Carat 1.73
Color G
Clarity SI2
Price $ 3531.28
Price per Carat $ 2041.20
Measurements 7.38 x 6.8 x 4.37 mm
Depth Percentage 64.3 %
Table Percentage 73 %
Crown Angle
Pavilion Percentage %
Pavilion Angle
Girdle THIN
Culet NONE
Polish EXCELLENT
Symmetry VERY GOOD
Fluorescence NONE
Certificate Notes
Other Notes Looks Eyeclean Beautiful Shape/Make
Clarity-Enhanced NO

http://search.virtcert.com/cgi/u/1012/v.cgi?stock=15435266&_s=1012&_p=sdf348gd743&_c=&_fs=1&prestock=&_ln=ps
 
As you stated, EGL may be way off. How far off? No idea, but rather than buying a stone with mystery specs, it may be worth your while to get what you pay for.

There are not many 'deals' in the retail diamond world (aside from a vendor special, PS discount, etc.), so if a stone seems too good to be true, it probably is. Diamond retailers know what they have, and you aren't going to find some secret chink in the armor that opens up a universe of 'good' deals.

Here is a realistic option for this price range. This stone has a top-notch cut, which you will find, is the most important feature:

1.01ct, J, VS2
http://www.goodoldgold.com/diamond/11179/


If you are trying to maximize size, you can drop to a lower color, still with a top-notch cut:

1.171ct, L, SI1
http://www.briangavindiamonds.com/diamonds/diamond-details/1.171-l-si1-cushion-diamond-ags-104066516006
 
I am not an expert, but I was considering a cushion cut for a while and ultimately decided on a round, here are my thoughts...

It's very important to see a cushion cut diamond before purchasing. This is because, unlike a round shape, there are no standards for the cut of a cushion. So, it could look very pretty or very ugly (think crushed ice). If you'd like some examples of the variety of cushion cuts, go to jamesallen.com and do a search. I would not believe a vendor's claim of a "good" vs "very good" cut for a cushion.

The only cushion cut diamond that I'd recommend is at Brian Gavin Diamonds - hearts and arrows cushion. It has a cut similar to a round brilliant and has great light performance, but it is has a cushion shape.
 
Thank you for your advice! I think the best and really only way to decide is to see it in person for yourself, and that is what I will do in the future. Thanks again!
 
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