Need help choosing a round brilliant in a halo setting

[Vacillator]

Hi all,

Glad I found this forum--Great info on here! I'd like some help choosing among 3 round diamonds I've selected at James Allen. All are .9 carats, to be put in a palladium or white gold halo setting with a 2mm band, most likely this one from Ritani http://www.ritani.com/engagement-rings/halo-micropave-diamond-band-engagement-ring-in-palladium/4806

I want a stone that is GIA excellent cut, eye clean, H-J in color and around 1 ct. Here are the ones I picked out:

1. Price: $4,320; HCA Score: 1.3
http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/0.90-carat-h-color-si2-clarity-excellent-cut-sku-357351

2. Price: $4,140; HCA Score: 2.0
http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/0.90-carat-g-color-si2-clarity-excellent-cut-sku-365755

3. Price: $3,590; HCA Score: 1.9
http://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/0.90-carat-j-color-vs2-clarity-excellent-cut-sku-316490

My one concern is over color. I'm interested in getting the most bang for my buck of course and therefore option 3 appeals to me. However, the setting I have in mind has a minimum sidestone color of H, I was told that the sidestones will make the J color center stone appear yellower by comparison.

That said, I'm interested to know what your overall preferences are, considering all factors.

Much appreciated!

 

[tyty333]

Did you ask JA how eye-clean the H/Si2 is? I would call them. I would try to stay higher than the J if you can.

 

[tyty333]

Since you are going with a ritani setting, I took a look over there. I found this...
http://www.ritani.com/diamonds/round-diamond-0-90-Carat-E-color-GIA-certified/D-M1H2QK

Its strong blue fluor so you would need to ask ritani if it has any affect on the stone in the sun.

Is also a tad deep at 62.4 but looks to be a nice stone. Ask ritani if they do idealscope images and request one if interested.

 

[Vacillator]

I've asked for a gemologist evaluation from JA, as well as the Idealscope images for all 3. Waiting to hear back.

Thanks for the Ritani recommendation. I didn't bother to look there b/c I figured the loose stone prices would be similar to brick and mortar.