Hi Joseph,
Thanks for all the insight you’ve provided through this website — especially your cost-efficiency frontier and cut estimator tools. They’ve been highly useful in my search for an engagement ring.
I’m writing for your quick thoughts on the following three options. All three hew close to the frontier line, and the cut for each seems by and large unassailable, at least according to the cut estimator. In particular, I’m wondering whether the Whiteflash diamond merits the extra $800 in price over the two from James Allen. I’m guessing not, but perhaps I’m missing something that your more discriminating eye might catch. Thanks in advance.
David
https://www.whiteflash.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut-loose-diamond-3916995.htm
https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/0.84-carat-h-color-vs1-clarity-excellent-cut-sku-3886270?a_aid=55f8cd4e21a11
https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/0.84-carat-h-color-vs1-clarity-excellent-cut-sku-2656977?a_aid=55f8cd4e21a11
Hi David,
Thanks for reaching out. I don’t think it’s worth paying the extra premium for White Flash – I think you can find a well-cut stone with no difference in light performance for far less.
The two diamonds from both JA have optimal proportions. I prefer 3886270 over 2656977 because I think the arrows are more distinct.
You might also consider the options below. I did a custom search of my database to find diamonds with average diameters >= 6mm, so they are the same size as the options you’ve chosen. All have optimal proportions that qualify as GIA Ex/AGS Ideal.
The 0.8 H VS2 reduces clarity while still being eye-clean and would save you $400. Alternatively, you could trade clarity to go up two color steps to an F and save $100. Finally, you could stay at the same price, but go up a grade in clarity. I think these options all good optical symmetry with sharp arrows.
Let me know what you think.
Best,
Joe
Diamond List – Generated by https://www.diamondscreener.com/diamond-prices/
Shape, Carat, Color, Clarity, Cut, Price (USD), Link
Round, 0.8, H, VS2, Excellent, 3250, https://www.diamondscreener.com/ja/loose-diamonds/round-cut/0.80-carat-h-color-vs2-clarity-excellent-cut-sku-4259600
Round, 0.8, F, VS2, Excellent, 3520, https://www.diamondscreener.com/ja/loose-diamonds/round-cut/0.80-carat-f-color-vs2-clarity-excellent-cut-sku-3889541
Round, 0.81, H, VVS2, Excellent, 3630, https://www.diamondscreener.com/ja/loose-diamonds/round-cut/0.81-carat-h-color-vvs2-clarity-excellent-cut-sku-3715473
Hi Joe, Would you mind sharing your thoughts on these two: https://www.bluenile.com/diamond-details/LD09700099 https://www.bluenile.com/diamond-details/LD09428966 Blue Nile has a really attractive setting, and I was wondering whether these diamonds were comparable to the three you sent me. Thanks again!
The three options you gave me all look great! I’m inclined to go with 4259600. As you noted, it’s eye-clean — it’s hard for me to see why the 3715473 is a full two grades higher . . . Thanks so much for your help, Joe! If you and your wife ever find yourself in DC, shoot me a line at dkim363@gmail.com. My soon-to-be fiancée and I would be happy to treat you guys to a meal. David