Oval vs Radiant!

[rgh333]

So I went to a local diamond dealer in the city (Chicago) this past weekend to look at some stones.

I was shown a 2.5 carat EGL Israel oval that was F colored and SI2 clarity and 53%depth and 11.15x 8.07mm. I could see a feather in the table, sort of like a dull spot, when I looked from the top. The price I was quoted was $14,000. We were also shown an EGL radiant that was 2.5 carats and F color with VS1 and 69%depth, very pretty but for $15,800.

I sort of feel like I should go the online route, better value there than the diamond dealers in the city. Up until now, my girlfriend wanted an oval, but now she is torn between loving the shape of a rectangular radiant and loving the spread of an oval.

I have contacted someone at whiteflash stating my budget for the stone and that my gf is a ''spread'' girl. I am open to EGL stones, but prefer GIA as EGL negate the trade-up policy.

Any advice on what to do??? This is a joyous experience for me, but I want to make sure I get the right stone and from the good place! Thanks.

 

[Lorelei]

I would definitely recommend working with a good vendor such as Whiteflash! They will help you every step of the way, and also with the cut quality which is so important. I would consider GIA graded diamonds, as these might be eligible for trade up later if this is a consideration for you.

As to which shape...Personally I would prefer an oval out of that or a radiant, they are very different, but perhaps see what WF can come up with for you. So I think you are definitely on the right track to finding a gorgeous stone, you have a great vendor now!

 

[Burk]

I echo what Lorelei said regarding the vendor choice.

Also wanted to say if your GF is a spread girl go with an oval. When I was helping my future BIL pick my sister's ring we were looking at radiants and ovals and settled on an oval because of spread. My sisters 1.6 ct oval rivals the size of my 2 ct RB (in appearance). They typically look so big for the carat weight.

Good luck with your search!

 

[Lorelei]

Date: 5/30/2008 2:43:03 PM
Author: Burk
I echo what Lorelei said regarding the vendor choice.

Also wanted to say if your GF is a spread girl go with an oval. When I was helping my future BIL pick my sister''s ring we were looking at radiants and ovals and settled on an oval because of size. My sisters 1.6 ct oval rivals the size of my 2 ct RB. They just look so big for the carat weight.

Good luck with your search!

I forgot to mention as Burk did, the oval shape can sometimes be a good choice for spread depending on the dimensions, so that might be something to consider!

 

[rgh333]

Thanks for the advice...I feel more comfortable with a suggested vendor from all of you on here than I do with my friend''s suggestions!

I will attach pics of stones, etc. when I get a response back from Whiteflash.