OPINIONS please..Think I found one worth checking out

[Stive85]

Again, before I start, I know you pay for what you get. I also am aware of EGL USA and the reputation it carries here. However, I also have read first hand the incredible amount of knowledge this forum has and value the people who take their time to provide insightful opinions and critic.

Found this stone for $3500, actually looked at a GIA ex/ex/ex from a jeweler my family deals with. He wanted 4000 but unfortunately the diamond was cloudy (I want medium blue fluorescence)

I am getting more pictures tomorrow before getting this one shipped. Here are specs

- I really wanted excellent polish and sym, but this diamond jumped out at me.
- I realize the color is likely a j


Primary Diamond Characteristics
Cut (Shape and Style)
ROUND BRILLIANT
Carat Weight
1.07 CT
Clarity Grade
SI2
Color Grade
H
Cut Grade
IDEAL
Proportions
Measurements
6.68 x 6.66 x 3.96 mm
Table
60%
Depth
59.4%
Crown Height
13.5%
Crown Angle
33.5°
Pavilion Depth
43%
Pavilion Angle
40.8°
Girdle
THIN TO MEDIUM FACETED
Culet
Observations
Finish

Polish
VERY GOOD
Symmetry
VERY GOOD
Fluorescence
MEDIUM BLUE
Comments

IDEAL CUT H & A


Now additionally, the vendor told me it was eye clean (grain of salt right?) ... pics suck, but just want your opinions regardless. Worst case a return the stone. the third pic worries me, because at 3 oclock looks like there might be a big black inclusion. Now I cant see in any other pics, although they are bad, but I can't tell for sure. I figure something in that place that big would have to bump the clarity to almost a I2-3? I have the dealer looking into it now.

Thanks so much everyone.

 

[Andelain]

Can you get IS imagaes and a look at it with a loupe? The numbers are promising, but I can't see much in the pics.

 

[Stive85]

Ya I realize I'm not giving much in way of you guys to go on.

I am requesting both. Worst case a send it back. Just trying to get an idea from what I can provide so far. Love reading peoples critics on this forum

 

[Stive85]

I talked directly to the dealer. He said there are pinpoints, but specifically said that black spot in the one picture was not present and that it was the lighting of the cushion it was on etc.

Said if I'm not pleased with the SI2 just send it back, no questions.

 

[Andelain]

I talked directly to the dealer. He said there are pinpoints, but specifically said that black spot in the one picture was not present and that it was the lighting of the cushion it was on etc.

Said if I'm not pleased with the SI2 just send it back, no questions.

Then you might have found a good one, especially if you like 60/60 stones. Ask for IS image, and post it here. Along with better pics if possible. You may have a winner on your first try.

 

[Stive85]

Any others? Will the vg polish and symmetry affect its brilliance given the hca Erc? Working on gettin IS

 

[Stive85]

Geez. Maybe I'm asking wrong questions. I can't seem to get many responses! Haha.

Anyways. Appreciate the input. Ill post pictures when I can

 

[ame]

Am I missing this--did you already buy it? Or is it on its way to you?

I would pass all around and keep looking. Besides not being so sure about the color and clarity grades, or the eyecleanliness, the numbers on this do not sound great at all. I don't like the crown angle with that pavilion angle, but I also don't care for that table number with that depth. It'll be spready, but it likely won't be as pretty as one with better numbers. To be fair, I am negatively biased against anything over a 57% table.

Do you have to keep working with this vendor?

 

[Stive85]

Am I missing this--did you already buy it? Or is it on its way to you?

I would pass all around and keep looking. Besides not being so sure about the color and clarity grades, or the eyecleanliness, the numbers on this do not sound great at all. I don't like the crown angle with that pavilion angle, but I also don't care for that table number with that depth. It'll be spready, but it likely won't be as pretty as one with better numbers. To be fair, I am negatively biased against anything over a 57% table.

Do you have to keep working with this vendor?

May I ask what turns you off about these numbers? From any other opinions I've asked they say that the numbers are the promising part of the stone? I looked at what a 60/60 diamond is at a few stores and likes the layout (but I guess they all look good under the lights!)

The HCA scores a 1.5, and I know that is a weeding out tool, but what I am a missing? What makes it bad and why do others like the numbers?


And nope, I don't have to deal with this vendor. The guy I am talking to directly I like though. Seems to be pretty straight.

For the record my experience with EGL USA has been good. My mom has a stone from them as well a good friend. Both were appraised independently and both matched the cert (sight unseen by appraiser, a family jeweler who deals mainly in GIA/AGS) Obviously not claiming every diamond is graded correctly, but EGL USA seems to be pretty decent compared to the others. I am more concerned with the SI2.

I did order it, but can return without hassle if it doesn't check out.

 

[Andelain]

60/60 stones are a different animal. It seems people here really like them, or dislike them. You'll have to see it for yourself, and compare it to the traditional ideal cut. You might prefer it, of you might not.

 

[Stive85]

60/60 stones are a different animal. It seems people here really like them, or dislike them. You'll have to see it for yourself, and compare it to the traditional ideal cut. You might prefer it, of you might not.

What aspects are not to like? Sorry I am still new at this, trying to soak it all in .. Reading about 60/60 at work as we speak haha.. I just don't understand the split?

Think of me (and the person wearing this diamond) as far from perfectionists, diamond experts or even enthusiasts (although I find it incredibly interesting). I'm just looking for a fiery piece that looks good to her and that other people appreciate. At no point to I expect someone to look at it 10 inches from their face to look for inclusions, colour, cut etc. I doubt I'm asked about the proportions...you get my point... I'm just interested in someone that is catchy, that performs well, like the rest of us. Think this does the trick.

I'm sorry about the questions, but still having trouble with the debate over 60/60.

Thanks for any/all the help.

 

[ame]

Am I missing this--did you already buy it? Or is it on its way to you?

I would pass all around and keep looking. Besides not being so sure about the color and clarity grades, or the eyecleanliness, the numbers on this do not sound great at all. I don't like the crown angle with that pavilion angle, but I also don't care for that table number with that depth. It'll be spready, but it likely won't be as pretty as one with better numbers. To be fair, I am negatively biased against anything over a 57% table.

Do you have to keep working with this vendor?

May I ask what turns you off about these numbers? From any other opinions I've asked they say that the numbers are the promising part of the stone? I looked at what a 60/60 diamond is at a few stores and likes the layout (but I guess they all look good under the lights!)

The HCA scores a 1.5, and I know that is a weeding out tool, but what I am a missing? What makes it bad and why do others like the numbers?


And nope, I don't have to deal with this vendor. The guy I am talking to directly I like though. Seems to be pretty straight.

For the record my experience with EGL USA has been good. My mom has a stone from them as well a good friend. Both were appraised independently and both matched the cert (sight unseen by appraiser, a family jeweler who deals mainly in GIA/AGS) Obviously not claiming every diamond is graded correctly, but EGL USA seems to be pretty decent compared to the others. I am more concerned with the SI2.

I did order it, but can return without hassle if it doesn't check out.

Just as long as it's a full refund, not a "you must exchange" kind of deal.

Regarding this diamond: I don't prefer 60/60 stones because I find them to be in some cases less brilliant and in most cases less firey than stones of "more ideal proportions." I'd rather have equal fire and brightness because of proper cutting than more of one or the other, in this case likely more brightness than fire (white return, vs firey rainbow sparkles.) Because of that, they don't appeal to my eyes. But I also didn't like that crown angle with that pavilion angle and feel that the light return might not be as good as it could be, and there could be a slight durability risk increase because of the lower crown angle.

As far as the HCA score: Just because it's within the 0-2 range doesn't always make it a known performer. It just makes it worth a second look. I've seen amazing stones just outside of the 0-2 range, and I've seen dogs within the 0-2 range. It's a weeding out tool, but don't hinge the bet on it.

I have owned more than one stone by EGL USA, and this latest one I sent in to have comparable grading done by AGS and GIA because I wanted to see just how far off it would be by comparison. It was SUPER tight, esp on clarity. I don't exactly knock the USA lab, however, you still should consider the fact that they're not AS tight as GIA and AGS will be on color and clarity.

 

[ame]

60/60 stones are a different animal. It seems people here really like them, or dislike them. You'll have to see it for yourself, and compare it to the traditional ideal cut. You might prefer it, of you might not.

What aspects are not to like? Sorry I am still new at this, trying to soak it all in .. Reading about 60/60 at work as we speak haha.. I just don't understand the split?

Think of me (and the person wearing this diamond) as far from perfectionists, diamond experts or even enthusiasts (although I find it incredibly interesting). I'm just looking for a fiery piece that looks good to her and that other people appreciate. At no point to I expect someone to look at it 10 inches from their face to look for inclusions, colour, cut etc. I doubt I'm asked about the proportions...you get my point... I'm just interested in someone that is catchy, that performs well, like the rest of us. Think this does the trick.

I'm sorry about the questions, but still having trouble with the debate over 60/60.

Thanks for any/all the help.

YOU might not expect that, but SHE WILL LIKELY DO IT.

60/60 is a personal preference. In this stone, I just think the CA could be better for this PA.

 

[Stive85]

60/60 stones are a different animal. It seems people here really like them, or dislike them. You'll have to see it for yourself, and compare it to the traditional ideal cut. You might prefer it, of you might not.

What aspects are not to like? Sorry I am still new at this, trying to soak it all in .. Reading about 60/60 at work as we speak haha.. I just don't understand the split?

Think of me (and the person wearing this diamond) as far from perfectionists, diamond experts or even enthusiasts (although I find it incredibly interesting). I'm just looking for a fiery piece that looks good to her and that other people appreciate. At no point to I expect someone to look at it 10 inches from their face to look for inclusions, colour, cut etc. I doubt I'm asked about the proportions...you get my point... I'm just interested in someone that is catchy, that performs well, like the rest of us. Think this does the trick.

I'm sorry about the questions, but still having trouble with the debate over 60/60.

Thanks for any/all the help.

YOU might not expect that, but SHE WILL LIKELY DO IT.

60/60 is a personal preference. In this stone, I just think the CA could be better for this PA.

hahaha ...good point! But to be honest I think she'd be thrilled with anything I gave her and wouldn't expect something to this degree. We just bought a cottage and are pretty together in terms of where our finances should be divided at this stage in our lives. She very well may look closely at it....likely will, but I don't think it will change any opinions or her level of satisfactory with the stone.... maybe I'm wrong, but I don't think so.


But you guys have me all worried now! I thought I did good hunting this stone down (blue fluor is a big plus for me). AT LEAST tell me it'll be a step up from any brick and mortar mall jewelry stores that all her friends and mine have gotten theirs? It's gotttta be! hah... I am legit concerned now.

appreciated again guys.

 

[ame]

If it's on it's way, look at it, you can return it for a refund and keep looking. We're just sharing our input so that you get the best for your money. I know most people aren't into the minutia, don't look AS closely at this stuff, but I feel like it's worth the effort and spending the money on the best you can for the budget (even if you go down a hair in size to get it) to get a stunner.

FWIW: Brian Gavin Diamonds has a whole line of stones with blue flourescence. Just something to consider. You might not get your size range for your budget, but it will blow you away.

Just a few, you might have to confirm eyeclean status with them. The SI2 I saw did not appear eyeclean:
http://www.briangavindiamonds.com/diamonds/diamond-details/1.051-i-si1-round-diamond-ags-bl-104064812008

http://www.briangavindiamonds.com/diamonds/diamond-details/1.087-i-si1-round-diamond-ags-bl-104066186007

http://www.briangavindiamonds.com/diamonds/diamond-details/0.803-h-si1-round-diamond-ags-bl-104069795036

http://www.briangavindiamonds.com/diamonds/diamond-details/0.821-g-vs2-round-diamond-ags-bl-104069795001

http://www.briangavindiamonds.com/diamonds/diamond-details/1.004-i-vs2-round-diamond-ags-bl-104066186020

 

[Stive85]

Thanks for the help guys.. Ill take pics when I see it and let everyone know/see..

Like I said I thought the proportions were good, but people here have me worried! oh well.

Last question if anyone wants to answer.. Would the VG for polish and symmetry have ill effects? What about it being IDeal cut and not ideal plus.. (EGL USA term)???

Thanks so much for the people who helped me.

 

[ame]

Thanks for the help guys.. Ill take pics when I see it and let everyone know/see..

Like I said I thought the proportions were good, but people here have me worried! oh well.

Last question if anyone wants to answer.. Would the VG for polish and symmetry have ill effects? What about it being IDeal cut and not ideal plus.. (EGL USA term)???

Thanks so much for the people who helped me.

EGL doesn't really grade for cut quality in the way that AGS does, so I would take that cut grade less seriously. AGS calls it ideal, and it's IDEAL when they do it. VG for polish isn't as big a deal as symmetry. You want a symmetrical stone.

 

[heididdl]

Again, before I start, I know you pay for what you get. I also am aware of EGL USA and the reputation it carries here. However, I also have read first hand the incredible amount of knowledge this forum has and value the people who take their time to provide insightful opinions and critic.

Found this stone for $3500, actually looked at a GIA ex/ex/ex from a jeweler my family deals with. He wanted 4000 but unfortunately the diamond was cloudy (I want medium blue fluorescence)

I am getting more pictures tomorrow before getting this one shipped. Here are specs

- I really wanted excellent polish and sym, but this diamond jumped out at me.
- I realize the color is likely a j


Primary Diamond Characteristics
Cut (Shape and Style)
ROUND BRILLIANT
Carat Weight
1.07 CT
Clarity Grade
SI2
Color Grade
H
Cut Grade
IDEAL
Proportions
Measurements
6.68 x 6.66 x 3.96 mm
Table
60%
Depth
59.4%
Crown Height
13.5%
Crown Angle
33.5°
Pavilion Depth
43%
Pavilion Angle
40.8°
Girdle
THIN TO MEDIUM FACETED
Culet
Observations
Finish

Polish
VERY GOOD
Symmetry
VERY GOOD
Fluorescence
MEDIUM BLUE
Comments

IDEAL CUT H & A


Now additionally, the vendor told me it was eye clean (grain of salt right?) ... pics suck, but just want your opinions regardless. Worst case a return the stone. the third pic worries me, because at 3 oclock looks like there might be a big black inclusion. Now I cant see in any other pics, although they are bad, but I can't tell for sure. I figure something in that place that big would have to bump the clarity to almost a I2-3? I have the dealer looking into it now.

Thanks so much everyone.

I prefer

Table to be 54-48
Depth 60-62.3
Crown angle 34-35

So this particular diamond would not work for my idea of an ideal cut diamond. Plus after purchasing diamond studs that are graded by EGL. that being a very long story. I will only guy GIA or AGS in the future.......

There are millions of diamonds out there....this only happens once in your life you will find the perfect diamond for you and your budget . So enjoy the process .....Just as easy to fall in love with GIA as it is a EGL diamond and you do get what you pay for because a G colored Si1 GIA is not the same as G si1 EGL diamond which is why EGL is less expensive. Keep this in mind.

 

[ame]

Again, before I start, I know you pay for what you get. I also am aware of EGL USA and the reputation it carries here. However, I also have read first hand the incredible amount of knowledge this forum has and value the people who take their time to provide insightful opinions and critic.

Found this stone for $3500, actually looked at a GIA ex/ex/ex from a jeweler my family deals with. He wanted 4000 but unfortunately the diamond was cloudy (I want medium blue fluorescence)

I am getting more pictures tomorrow before getting this one shipped. Here are specs

- I really wanted excellent polish and sym, but this diamond jumped out at me.
- I realize the color is likely a j


Primary Diamond Characteristics
Cut (Shape and Style)
ROUND BRILLIANT
Carat Weight
1.07 CT
Clarity Grade
SI2
Color Grade
H
Cut Grade
IDEAL
Proportions
Measurements
6.68 x 6.66 x 3.96 mm
Table
60%
Depth
59.4%
Crown Height
13.5%
Crown Angle
33.5°
Pavilion Depth
43%
Pavilion Angle
40.8°
Girdle
THIN TO MEDIUM FACETED
Culet
Observations
Finish

Polish
VERY GOOD
Symmetry
VERY GOOD
Fluorescence
MEDIUM BLUE
Comments

IDEAL CUT H & A


Now additionally, the vendor told me it was eye clean (grain of salt right?) ... pics suck, but just want your opinions regardless. Worst case a return the stone. the third pic worries me, because at 3 oclock looks like there might be a big black inclusion. Now I cant see in any other pics, although they are bad, but I can't tell for sure. I figure something in that place that big would have to bump the clarity to almost a I2-3? I have the dealer looking into it now.

Thanks so much everyone.

I prefer

Table to be 54-58
Depth 60-62.3
Crown angle 34-35

So this particular diamond would not work for my idea of an ideal cut diamond. Plus after purchasing diamond studs that are graded by EGL. that being a very long story. I will only guy GIA or AGS in the future.......

There are millions of diamonds out there....this only happens once in your life you will find the perfect diamond for you and your budget . So enjoy the process .....Just as easy to fall in love with GIA as it is a EGL diamond and you do get what you pay for because a G colored Si1 GIA is not the same as G si1 EGL diamond which is why EGL is less expensive. Keep this in mind.

Corrected her typo. I know she means 58.

My personal preference:
Total depth between 59 – 61.8% (I prefer around the lower end on this also.)
Table diameter between 54.8 – 57% (I prefer 55, maybe 56)
Crown angle between 34.3 – 34.9 degrees (ideally like 34.5)
Pavilion angle between 40.6 – 40.9 degrees (ideally like 40.
Girdle: thin to medium, faceted (though I don't totally discount bruted)
Culet: none

 

[Stive85]

Well I've decided I'm going to have this diamond shipped up here and check it out.. Ill let people know how it looks... Maybe pictures if I end up buying it.

Thanks for the help.

To be honest I'm looking forward to the 60/60 element.. Doesnt seem to be a popular choice on this threat though! haha

 

[krisjon]

60/60s are just a more traditional cut vs. the modern round brilliant.
They can be nice, bright stones, but they can also lack the more well-rounded personality (fire, scintillation, etc) of a cut with more modern ideal proportions. It just depends on what you're looking for and matters most.

 

[Gypsy]

I like 60/60's. Pavillion angle needs to be less than 41 (or 41.2 if you have to go there).