Trade Offs

[claimsguy]

As my budget for the diamond will not exceed $3k, I will need to make some trade-offs on size v. quality.

I already know I will getting an ideal cut diamond w/ a F or G color. My problem lies in whether to go for a VS2 or SI1 clarity. As a general rule, will there be much differnce in how a diamond looks when all else is equal except clarity.

What are your opinions, slightly larger stone or slightly improved quality, thanks.

Btw this is for an engagement ring.

 

[jadeleaves]

Hi!

It depends on whether you are color sensitive - given that you've chosen to go for a F or G, I think u might be? I would go for E-G stones myself, but will be willing to sacrifice clarity (max SI1) as I have seen a lot of eyeclean SI1 stones, and some of the inclusions are hardly visible when you view it through a loupe.

That said, a lot of fellow pricescopers have found SI2 stones that are completely eyeclean, or are able to 'prong' the spots (inclusions?) so that it's not visible when the stone is mounted.

Hope that helps - I am slowly learning as well, hope I haven't given u the wrong info!

 

[claimsguy]

thanks

 

[hoorray]

Jadeleaves is spot on! If you are careful you can find an SI1 or possibly even an SI2 that is eye-clean and you won't be able to see the difference, so you can spend the difference on size.

The key is to understand the inclusions of the stones you consider. Most vendors will tell you if it is eye clean (which means face up form normal viewing distance, typically.) You should ask about the inclusion types, locations, color, and if any break the surface. I would also ask if they are visible from the sides so that you are not surprised if they are when you get it. It's not necessarily bad, but some people think eye clean means you will NEVER see anything without a loop. Most vendors can send you magnified pics of the inclusions also.

good luck!