Author: Mike Fried

Q&A: Choosing a Princess Cut Diamond for a Tapered Cathedral Setting With $6k Total Budget

Last Updated On: June 29, 2020

First off, THANK YOU for your site – your knowledge, references, and explanations have helped me a lot! I’m looking for a princess cut diamond + setting in the <$6000 range. I’ve narrowed down my search to prioritizing cut above all else (AGS Ideal/JA True Hearts/BN Sig Ideal). I’m looking in the D-I color range, …

Diamond Q&A

Q&A: Help Finding a 0.5 Ct. Round Diamond for a White Gold Solitaire With a $1,000 Budget

Last Updated On: June 29, 2020

Could you help me find a 0.5-0.55 carat round diamond below $1000? As long as it’s white and clean to the naked eye. Do you also still have a coupon for $100 off Blue Nile? Many thanks. Can you also tell me what style of setting (solitaire, halo, pave or other) and metal (white or …

Diamond Q&A

Q&A: Choosing an Emerald Cut Diamond for a Dantela Setting with Around $4-5k Diamond Budget

Last Updated On: February 24, 2018

Hello, I have started looking at rings and wanted to get some feedback. I am looking for a 1ct diamond either princess or emerald, VS1 or better G or better in color. I prefer to buy in person. Do you have any recommendations for a retailer in my area? I am also looking at Tacori …

Diamond Q&A

Q&A: Choosing a Round or Princess Cut Diamond for a Solitaire Ring With $3,000 Budget

Last Updated On: February 25, 2018

Hi, I would like a plain solitaire setting with a nicely cut (excellent or ideal) round diamond or princess cut. As colorless as possible. I try not to exceed $3000 overall so the stone will probably have to be less than 1 carat. Thanks! I found this amazing 0.91ct diamond: www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/princess-cut/0.91-carat-i-color-vs2-clarity-sku-2805656?a_aid=dmnd1357 It’s eye-clean, well cut …

Diamond Q&A

Q&A: Help Finding a 1.70 Ct. Cushion Cut Diamond for a White Gold Setting With Baguettes for Around $12k Budget

Last Updated On: February 25, 2018

Hi all, I’m in the preliminary phase of narrowing down what I’d like in a ring so I can give my boyfriend some guidance. My top favorite is the James Allen tapered baguette setting, but with a cushion cut in the center and a slightly larger stone than the 1.5 carat that that setting typically …

Diamond Q&A

Q&A: Help Finding a Round Diamond for a Petite Solitaire Setting With Around $4,200 Budget

Last Updated On: June 29, 2020

Thanks for creating such an informative website! I’ve really enjoyed reading through the posts – they’ve been a real eye-opener. I’m based in London, and probably would’ve looked for a ring in Hatton Garden had I not come across your website… I’m looking for an engagement ring for my partner. I was thinking of a …

Diamond Q&A

Q&A: Looking for a Round Diamond for a Platinum Solitaire Setting With Up to $6,500 Budget

Last Updated On: June 29, 2020

Hello. I’ve been browsing the Blue Nile site for quite some time now. My parameters have been: Ideal cut, F-I color, VS2 or better clarity and 1.0 to 1.24 carats. I’ve found many in the $5-6.5k price range. The hardest choice for me has been the compromise between color and price. I don’t have much …

Diamond Q&A

Q&A: Looking for a .30 Ct. Round Diamond for a Solitaire With a $2k Total Budget

Last Updated On: June 29, 2020

Glad to find your great website. I’m looking for a dupe of the Tiffany setting with platinum band and around 0.30ct, I have a budget of $2,000. Could you help me please? Thank you in advance! I looked around and I love this combination for you: Blue Nile Six-Prong Low Dome Comfort Fit Solitaire Ring …

About the author

Mike Fried Mike Fried has over 25 years experience in the diamond industry working with Leo Schachter Diamonds, Moshe Namdar Diamonds, and joining The Diamond Pro in 2007. He is recognized as an industry expert and has been quoted in publications such as Us, People, Page Six, The Next Web and more.