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Q&A: Round Brilliant Cut for $8K Budget

By Mike Fried,

Carat: 1.30

Q&A: Round Brilliant Cut for $8K Budget

Thanks for your site, I trust it a lot more than my buddies that have a ‘diamond guy’. Any ways, I’m looking to buy a round diamond for a white gold engagement ring. My budget is $8000. James Allen James Allen is the leader in online diamond sales. Their imaging technology is the same as …


Q&A: Looking for at Least 1.25 Cts. Round Cut

Hi there. I’m seeking your help in finding the best value for an ideal or excellent cut, eye clean, H color round diamond. My budget is around $ 7000 or slightly above. I plan to have it set on an antique style pave cathedral setting (of which I have not yet chosen) and desire something …


Q&A: Looking for 1.3 Ct. Round Cut

Can you give us some advice on what 1.30 ct round diamond you would buy for a 4 prong platinum solitaire (cartier 1895 style) or a platinum solitaire with tapered baguettes on the side of the center stone (classic Harry Winston style) ? looking for the best stone that would go with these classic settings …


Q&A: Looking for Classic Round Cut…

Q&A: Looking for Classic Round Cut…

Hello. First off, I came across your site from a close friend that swears his life on your site. Reading through it has been so enlightening. Thank you. As for my diamond buying journey: 1) For me, I’m thinking about a purchasing a loose diamond, then getting it set together with my gf/to-be fiance. My …


Q&A: Cushion Cut 1.2-1.5 Cts.

Thanks so much for all of your helpful information on this website! I am looking for the best value for a cushion cut between 1.2-1.5 ct, a l/w ratio closer to 1 (square), a beautiful cut between $4000-$6000. I have been looking at James Allen and have found some good stones, just would like your …


Q&A: Looking for Princess Cut for $6K Budget

What are your thoughts on this diamond? https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/princess-cut/1.37-carat-j-color-vs2-clarity-sku-149934?a_aid=dmnd1357 I have a $7K budget & found a ring on JA I like that costs $1K, so I have $6K budget for the diamond…..but if you think there are better choices, I’m all ears! Love you site! Thanks! James Allen James Allen is the leader in online …


Q&A: 2nd Opinion on Two Stones

Hello, your website has been my go-to diamond resource, thank you! I’m torn between two diamonds at James Allen and your experienced opinion will assist greatly. https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/princess-cut/1.50-carat-g-color-vs1-clarity-sku-204967?a_aid=dmnd1357 https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/princess-cut/1.36-carat-g-color-vvs2-clarity-sku-196648?a_aid=dmnd1357 One ring is slightly larger while the other is of better quality and they are within $1,000. Which, in your opinion represents the best value for that …


Q&A: Need 2nd Opinion on 1.2+Ct. Round Cuts

I was hoping to get your opinion on these three candidates, for a solitaire 6-prong 18k white gold engagement ring 1.28 VS2 with large crystals on the edge – can those be hidden behind a prong? https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/1.28-carat-j-color-vs2-clarity-excellent-cut-sku-54952?a_aid=dmnd1357 1.40 SI1 with various wisps and needles https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/1.40-carat-j-color-si1-clarity-excellent-cut-sku-149838?a_aid=dmnd1357 1.51 VS2 with “only” a Very Good cut – Would …


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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