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Q&A: Choosing a 1.5 – 2 Ct. Pear-Shaped Diamond for a Rose Gold Halo Engagement Ring with $9000 Budget

By Mike Fried,

Author: Mike Fried



Q&A: Looking for a ~1.25-1.5 ct. Princess Cut Diamond in the $12-15k range, Debating between Online and Brick and Mortar Store Purchase

Hello, While I’m skeptical about pretty much everything on the internet advertising itself as free I figured I’d give this a try. I’m looking for an engagement ring for my girlfriend and I live in the DC area. I’ve started looking around at the local stores and would like to get the process moving soon. From …



Q&A: Choosing a 2 Ct. Round Diamond for a $17k Budget

Hi, I’d like to find the best available 2 carat round loose stone for around $17,000. Please help! Thanks. I’d be happy to make some recommendations and guide you through the process. What type of setting are you considering? Yellow gold or white gold/platinum? Will it be a solitaire or does it have sidestones/pave? This may affect …



Q&A: Seeking a Second Opinion on an Emerald Cut Diamond

Hi, I was wondering what you thought about this diamond? It seems very large for its ct, but I’m worried about the inclusions that are right in the middle. https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/emerald-cut/0.90-carat-i-color-vs2-clarity-sku-243627?a_aid=dmnd1357 Thanks so much. That diamond is not eye-clean. I would recommend this one instead: www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/emerald-cut/0.90-carat-h-color-vs1-clarity-sku-251814?a_aid=dmnd1357 What do you think? What do you think about these? http://www.ritani.com/diamonds/emerald-diamond-1-13-Carat-I-color-GIA-certified/D-G5Q13J …


Q&A: Choosing a 2 Ct. Princess Cut Diamond for a White Gold Solitaire Setting Within a $18-21k Budget

Hi, could you please recommend the best available 2ct princess cut in the 18-21k range on Jamesallen.com? I would be using a platinum solitaire setting. Thanks for your time.  What do you think of this one? www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/princess-cut/2.07-carat-h-color-vs2-clarity-sku-199313?a_aid=dmnd1357 I really like it. Its bright, eye-clean and a great value. What do you think?  As far as …


About the author

Mike Fried 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.

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