Urgent Help Needed - Cushion Cut

[PlanetOcean]

Hello All -

Im preparing to purchase a diamond in the next 7-10 days and frankly I feel clueless about the entire process. Below is what I’m looking for and what I’ve gathered. I’m not opposed to spending the money but my major concern is getting a beautiful stone and great value. I’m hoping the good folks of price scope can put me on the right track!

Wanted:
Cushion cut
2.2-2.99 carats
Yellow gold solitaire setting

What I’ve gathered:
Cut is paramount.
H color is acceptable
SI1-SI2 is acceptable

What I need help with:
Ratios
What specs are qualities do I look to for the best value.
Any recommendations for dealers in Chicago or online.

Thanks to all of you in advance.

 

[ringo865]

What budget do you have in mind? For the stone only, or also the setting? Is your 7 to 10 day timeline in which to "purchase" the diamond or to have the proposal?

 

[PlanetOcean]

What budget do you have in mind? For the stone only, or also the setting? Is your 7 to 10 day timeline in which to "purchase" the diamond or to have the proposal?

$15-$20k - lower the better.

Purchase timeline is 7-10 days.

 

[mrs-b]

There's a bunch of beautiful cushions on the James Allen web site, but I would suggest you try to stay in the SI1 - VS1 range. At SI2 inclusions are often noticeable, and it's a look I doubt you want. Personally, I would stay in the VS range, which you can afford, given your budget.

Cushions can look fabulous or hideous, depending on cut. Look for something with a definite pattern to its facets, rather than something with a lot of 'mush' or no obvious pattern.

Rather than overwhelm you with options and information, i found a couple I like. If you compare them to others in this range, you'll see that these three have a pronounced pattern and are all nice, clean stones in the middle of your size range.

1) 2.5ct H VS2 - $17,940
https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/cushion-cut/2.50-carat-h-color-vs2-clarity-sku-3736211
This one is graded by IGI, which some people dislike but which is fine in most circumstances. And this is a lovely looking stone.

2) 2.5ct H VS2 - $19,020 (this one is STUNNING)
https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/cushion-cut/2.50-carat-h-color-vs2-clarity-sku-3640828
This one is cut deep, so has a slightly smaller face up surface area (...but - hot damn! That faceting!!)

3) 2.5ct F VS2 - $20,740
https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/cushion-cut/2.50-carat-f-color-vs2-clarity-sku-5360475
This one is a good pick if you want bragging rights along the "it's colorless!" lines. If it has to be really WHITE, this one is a good option.

I hope these few suggestions help - I think any of these 3 would be an awesome choice.

Good luck!