Need help choosing a center stone!

[TexanInWisconsin]

Hi All --

I was hoping to get an opinion on two diamonds that I like from JamesAllen.com.

Both are cushion cut, one is larger at 2.54 ct, and the other is 'cleaner' but smaller at 2 ct. I'd like to spend less than $14,500 for the stone.

1) http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/cushion-cut/2.54-carat-j-color-si1-clarity-sku-385107

- It is a 2.54 ct GIA Cushion, J color SI1 $14,280
- L/W/D: 8.23x7.24x4.95
- L/W Ratio: 1.14

2) http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/cushion-cut/2.00-carat-h-color-vvs1-clarity-sku-411444

- It is a 2.00 ct GIA Cushion, H color VVS1 $14,030
- L/W/D: 7.55x6.57x4.59
- L/W Ratio: 1.15

If you were choosing between the two, would you go for better clarity and whiter color in the smaller stone, or go with the larger stone that is still seemingly eye clean and warmer? Or, am I completely off base, and both of these stones are not worth the price?

Thank you in advance!

 

[RockyRacoon]

At this price point, you should add this one to your short list:

2.00ct, I, VS2
http://www.goodoldgold.com/ecommerce/2ct-i-vs2-signature-modern-cushion.html

 

[diamondseeker2006]

Yeah, there is a lot of territory between H VVS and J SI1. I wouldn't choose either of those.

I suggest looking at H and I VS2. You should be able to get higher than J color but a little larger than 2 cts. I'll see if I see anything else.

 

[diamondseeker2006]

The best modern cushions are usually found at Good Old Gold and Brilliantly Engaged, and Rocky has already posted the best GOG option at 2 cts I VS2. BE does not have anything over 2 cts in your price range, but this would be the closest (I'd rather have the GOG I VS2, though).

http://www.brilliantlyengaged.com/2.20-carat-i-si1-x-factor-cushion-cut-diamond-gid-94045.html

I would eliminate J in modern cushions because I think you'll be able to see the tint. The H stone you linked would need a request for an ASET image to see how the light return is. You can request that for 3 stones at JA. They just don't have large selection of well cut cushions, unfortunately, but sometimes you can find a good one.