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Q&A: Seeking 0.5-1 Ct. Diamond to Replace Cheap Engagement Ring

By Mike Fried,

Budget: $2,000

Q&A: Seeking 0.5-1 Ct. Diamond to Replace Cheap Engagement Ring

I have been looking around your site for a few months and finally decided to just ask my wife what ring she would like [to replace the cheap engagement ring I got her 9 years ago] … she settled upon this style: https://www.jamesallen.com/#!/engagement-rings/three-stone/14k-white-gold-round-shaped-three-stone-channel-set-diamond-engagement-ring-item-1800?a_aid=dmnd1357 I am now looking at a diamond to put in it and …


Q&A: Looking for 2nd Opinion on 0.8 Ct. Princess Cut

Could you let me know what you think of this? In a simple white gold ring. https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/princess-cut/0.80-carat-h-color-vs1-clarity-sku-190682?a_aid=dmnd1357 Thanks James Allen James Allen is the leader in online diamond sales. Their imaging technology is the same as inspecting a diamond with a jeweler’s loupe. They have the largest exclusive loose diamond inventory online and fantastic prices. …


Q&A: 2nd Opinion on Half Carat Round Cut

Hi, I’m looking for a ring that is around 0.5 carats, platinum knife edge, 6 prong setting. My budgets is $1800-2500. I like James Allen due to good reviews, especially around shipping to Canada. My top concern is brilliance and of course finding a great value. What are your thoughts on this diamond? Any suggestions? …


Q&A: Help! Shopping on a Budget and Would Welcome Direction!

First off, I have to thank you for putting together such a fantastic website to educate newbie diamond buyers on what to look for and what to avoid. When I first started my journey to buy an engagement ring, all I had was a brief article on the 4 C’s that emphasized doing cursory diamond …


Q&A: Looking for Cushion or Emerald for Tight Budget

I remember my girl mentioning square cut diamonds not princess cut. Like everyone I would like to get the biggest stone possible and still have a beautiful diamond as well. I have a $1800 – $2000 budget for the stone. Any advise would be very helpful and a reputable dealer to buy from. James Allen …


Q&A: Clarity Enhancement

Thank you so much for this website. I have been reading on it since yesterday for a few hours, and can appreciate the advice given. I am on the look-out for a loose marquise diamond. I want to build an e-ring for around 2500-3000. Any advice on which diamond to pick? Second question. According to …


Q&A: Looking for Princess Cut for $2K Budget

I’m trying to find an engagement ring to give to my girlfriend. The other day we were at Kay Jewelers and she loved the Leo brand princess cut diamonds, unfortunately the 3/4 ct. version sells for $4k+ and my current budget is roughly $2k. If you could recommend any diamonds that might have as much …


Q&A: Looking for Diamond Stud Earrings for $2K Budget

Thanks for such a useful resource that you have created here. I would like to get your advice for buying diamond stud earrings. Budget – $2k, I have liked the two below from James Allen True Hearts collection. https://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/J-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1542005.asp https://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/J-VS2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1542006.asp Do you think the H&A cut is worth it for earrings? I would rather go …


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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