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RB an I2, would you?

-Bella-

Rough_Rock
Joined
Jun 5, 2012
Messages
59
Ok so I know everyone here is very certified diamonds are the best but I'm just wondering if this is an ok deAl, it has a good payment terms at this place but the diamond is uncertified. It's a I2, M 1.59ct RB it was uber sparkly the inclusions were noticeable but it was hidden a little by the facets. It still had character and wasn't dull (may be the lights). And the price is $5k. Would you? I'm desperate for an upgrade (if you hadn't guessed lol)...
 
A few concerns:

A) I2 means that the inclusion substantially affects the performance or durability of the diamond.

B) M color is a beast to make it look right. If it has good performance, it will face up relatively white, but the sides will still be noticeably tinged yellow/gold. In essence, an M doesn't know who it wants to be. The character can be endearing, but it's hard to get under control, and you have to love it. Did you see the color in non-store lights?

C) (Almost) anything will sparkle in million-dollar lights that are designed to sell diamonds. Were you able to compare it to a known excellent performer?

If you're okay with the inclusions visually, get it evaluated by an independent party to make sure it won't be a durability concern.

And make sure there's a return policy. Big stones at attractive prices are recipes for buyers remorse.
 
To be really honest, I would either wear a stimulant or diamond band before I'd wear an uncertified M I2.
 
I'd never get an M in a MRB. I think they only look good in antique cuts. I also wouldn't put an I2 on my hand--- your hand gets banged around a lot. Most of the time, inclusions make the diamond more susceptible to being damaged. Also, agree with DS…. that low of color and clarity, without a GIA lab report, usually means it's even lower.

What about this as an alternative?
http://diamondbistro.com/category/2...educed-165-Ct-Old-European-Cut-Solitaire.html

O-P is lower than your "M", but considering it probably isn't actually an M, it might just be the same or better. This one is at least a VS2...
 
All that matters is if you would be happy and proud to you wear it. If you are asking the question, I don't think it is the right choice.
 
I know ALL ABOUT diamond desperation!!
Believe me!
So you have my full and complete sympathy,

bearing in mind we cannot see the diamond...
However, seeing as you are asking for honest advice, I would keep looking and saving unfortunately, especially if it is a modern RB.
That I2 grading without a photo is just a little too 'pique' for me...and I'm someone that's very happy with SI...
I wouldn't like to be able to see an inclusion by just looking carefully at the diamond without a loupe.

I go with SI, but I also go through a diamond merchant that I know and respect. He's a very fussy fellow!! :wink2: You need someone who stands behind the product. Would they offer a return period, for example?
Also, if it is not certified, how do you know what you are getting? How is the 'M' assigned? Some older cut diamonds have a 'certain something' at the warmer colours, it is true...

If it's not certified, I would be uncertain as to the quality of the cut, also. Have you run the numbers through the HCA (in tools menu, above) There's a lot of money in diamonds, the sales person could be telling you anything! I've wandered into some lower-end diamond stores from time to time, and I'm honestly shocked at what they pass off as 'quality' to their poor unsuspecting customers!

Actually it makes me pretty mad, as that's some girl or woman who is sold that, or worse, some husband who buys - attracted by the price - and tbh she deserves better if she's expected to wear it forever. ('You never wear the diamond earrings I bought you, so why should I get you anything else?') You might feel happy for a few days, and then...back to hunt for something better...and without certification, how can you recoup even a little of your money?

If I was in that situation - and I have been and will again, I can promise you - if I was stuck in a crappier price bracket, and couldn't climb out through patience and application due to current circumstance, I would DEFINITELY take a look at quality coloured stone instead!! Even a non-coloured version of a coloured stone!! Actually I personally want to get a coloured stone that I could wear instead of my engagement ring from time to time.

ETA: And how can we forget the most important sentence in any diamond lover's vocabulary: "What is your upgrade policy?"
 
You would be upgrading on the size but also 'downgrading' on durability and performance at the same time.
 
I would never buy an I2 diamond as an engagement ring diamond. Have you considered looking at old stones? You should be able to find one in that size, color and much higher clarity for that price. Heck, I have a certified 1.65 M VVS gorgeous transitional cut that I would be willing to part with.
 
CharmyPoo|1370783542|3462032 said:
I would never buy an I2 diamond as an engagement ring diamond. Have you considered looking at old stones? You should be able to find one in that size, color and much higher clarity for that price. Heck, I have a certified 1.65 M VVS gorgeous transitional cut that I would be willing to part with.
Hey good thinking!! Go antique! Antiques can wear warmer whites very well! ::)
 
No, I would not do a certed M, I2 stone so most certainly not an uncerted one. The price of 5k is low for a stone of that size but you only get what you pay for.

Explore other suggestions made here - you might find a winner!
 
I would look for a gorgeous old mine cut or old European cut in a lower color but a higher clarity OR a whiter RB, also with a higher clarity. You might regret any inclusions later.

Enjoy your diamond hunt!
 
Bella--what's an acceptable size upgrade for you?
 
What about a 1.33 L VS1
http://jewelsbyericagrace.smugmug.com/Jewelry/Loose-Diamonds/133ct-Old-European-Cut-Diamond/25698372_JJRjBh#!i=2123780709&k=h5bBgFd

or a 1.29 O/P SI1?

http://jewelsbyericagrace.smugmug.com/Jewelry/Loose-Diamonds/129ct-Old-European-Cut-Diamond/28368586_fTvxjL#!i=2401878171&k=3RwwGmc

I agree that lower colors are much more appealing in antique cuts as opposed to modern brilliant cuts. And I definitely don't think that an M I2 at $5K is a bargain!


Have you considered looking on the secondary market. I think that you are more likely to find something that will make you happy there. There are several posters that are very good at finding that 'one in a million' stone at a fabulous 'bargain' price. Charmy and Dreamer come to mind, and many many others!
 
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