Which choice is better?

[MAIDEN_TZ]

Hi Guys,

I'm looking at the following two diamonds on Blue Nile.

1) 1.30 , H, VS2, Excellent Cut (GIA)
http://www.bluenile.com/au/round-di...ty_LD03872875?keyword_search_value=ld03872875




2) 1.41, H, SI1, Excellent Cut (GIA)
http://www.bluenile.com/au/round-di...ty_LD03838552?keyword_search_value=ld03838552



Both are pretty much the same in price - which do you think is the better option? Is it worth paying the same money for a 1.3 V2 or a 1.41 SI1 based on the photos?

Any advice would be much appreciated!

 

[JulieN]

The both look good but they have different characteristics you might notice.

 

[LLJsmom]

It depends on what your priorities are. My deciding factor would be the clarity. It bugs me to know that inclusions are there, and that you can potentially see them. Eye clean is not mind clean enough for me. Between the 2, I would go for the VS2, even if smaller. But lots of people would be happier with a larger diamond, and can live with eye-clean at an SI1. Figure out what matters most to you and buy accordingly.

And, did you run it through the HCA? Which one has the higher score? For me, if the VS2 has the higher score (under 2), I would definitely go for the VS2. If the VS2 exceeded 2, I would keep searching. BN should have a huge inventory, right? That is where I bought my stone, and I think I ran 30-40 stones through the HCA, eliminating lots of them.

 

[MAIDEN_TZ]

Thanks for your opinions guys! Much appreciated as this is all new to me so finding it hard to make a decision.

I'm leaning towards the 1.41 carat - do you think based on the GIA report and the image that this diamond would be eye-clean in your opinion?

Blue Nile have advised it is, but they just check what the vendor states I don't think they physically see the diamond so I'm not sure if I trust them!

 

[JulieN]

I think it should be eye clean.

 

[smilligan]

It looks eye clean to me. Keep in mind, however, that eye clean only means no visible inclusions from a certain distance (usually 6-12 inches) face up. You may still see inclusions from the side or underneath, depending on the setting. I prefer the second one, though. Just make sure to inspect it within the return period. I bought an SI1 and it is completely eye clean from 4-6 inches at all angles.