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Diamond Q&A

By Mike Fried,

Diamond Q&A

In this section of the site, I publish some interesting private exchanges I have had with readers of the site who have contacted me via the “Ask a Question” form. I believe you will find that the questions and answers are both interesting and educational. Of course, names have been removed to preserve privacy.

Use the filter below to find Q&As relevant to your diamond search:

  Returns results


Q&A: Choosing a Square Cushion Cut Diamond With Around $7,000 Budget

Great website. I found it very useful in researching the diamond buying process. I am looking to purchase a cushion cut diamond, around 1 carat and would like to keep the cost around $7,000 (USD). I have read your website and am thinking that the Signature series from Brian Gavin could be a good option. …



Q&A: Choosing a Center Diamond for an Art-Nouveau Pave Wedding Set With a $5500 – $6500 Budget

Want to purchase James Allen wedding set 1715614206614 with diamond 2239489. Would like to know if this is a good match. Thank you. The diamond you are looking at is well cut and eye-clean, but strong fluorescence on such a high color is an absolute no-go. It causes haziness: https://www.diamonds.pro/education/fluorescence/. I’m happy to help you …


Q&A: Looking for an Oval-Shaped Diamond or an Emerald Cut Diamond for Under $6k In Total

Q&A: Looking for an Oval-Shaped Diamond or an Emerald Cut Diamond for Under $6k In Total

Need help finding a great ring. If there are any sites you could recommend that would be awesome! Can you tell me what style of setting (solitaire, halo, pave or other), metal (platinum/white or yellow gold) and shape of diamond you’re looking for? Different settings suit certain colors better. One last question before I start …


Q&A: Help Finding a Classic Engagement Style Ring with Around $2,500 Budget

Q&A: Help Finding a Classic Engagement Style Ring with Around $2,500 Budget

I’m looking to buy an engagement ring for my girlfriend. After going into a couple of shops and feeling uncomfortable and completely out of my depth. I recalled a podcast I listened to a while back with Mike being interviewed. Thankfully you are not hard to find! I would very much appreciate the team’s expertise …


Q&A: Choosing a Round Brilliant for a White Gold Solitaire with a $5k Budget

I am looking for a round cut diamond that will be mounted in a simple white gold solitaire setting. The diamond must be really shiny to the naked eye so I am trying to find the right combination of color and cut. Can you help recommending the right “diameter” to allow the stone to shine …


Q&A: Looking for a Round Diamond for a White Gold Pavé/Channel Setting With Up to $10k

Can you help me find the best diamond on James Allen for the best value using your criteria for eye perfect color and clarity? I’m looking for a 1-1.5 carat weight. Thanks. Can you tell me what style of setting (solitaire, halo, pave or other), metal (platinum/white or yellow gold) and shape of diamond you’re …


Q&A: Help Finding a 2 Ct. Round Diamond for Around $12k Budget

Q&A: Help Finding a 2 Ct. Round Diamond for Around $12k Budget

Looking for a 1.85 carat or larger round diamond. Setting will be solitaire platinum 6 prong. 12k budget. My limited research and experience seems to lead me to James Allen since I can see the diamonds. I have found diamonds that are ideal cut, 1.85 carat, J color, vvs2 clarity for around 12k. I am …


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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