We are reader-supported. Buying through any red colored link on our site may earn us commissions. Learn More.

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 the Largest Possible Eye-Clean Round Brilliant under $11k

Hi, I’d love your input on the best solitaire round brilliant ring under $11,000. I’d like it to be as big as possible without sacrificing any of the other components as seen by the naked eye. What clarity/color/ and cut would you recommend? Thank you!  I’d be happy to make some recommendations and guide you through …



Q&A: Choosing a 0.7-0.8 Ct. Princess Cut Diamond for a White Gold Channel Setting

Hello, I ordered this diamond from JA: https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/princess-cut/0.71-carat-h-color-vvs1-clarity-sku-263330?a_aid=dmnd1357 Do you think this one would be a better purchase for the money since they are both right at my budget limit and this one is larger? https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/princess-cut/0.80-carat-i-color-vs1-clarity-sku-249849?a_aid=dmnd1357 The diamond will be set in this: https://www.jamesallen.com/engagement-rings/channel-set/14k-white-gold-0.25ct-channel-set-princess-shaped-diamond-engagement-ring-item-1061?a_aid=dmnd1357 Thank you for your help! I would stick with your original choice. …



Q&A: Choosing a Pair of Princess Cut Diamonds for Stud Earrings with Around $2000 Budget

First off, I want to say thank you. Discovered your site this morning having only known about Blue Nile during my research and have already learnt so much. In addition I was apparently focusing on all the important stuff that apparently doesn’t matter beyond a certain quality threshold. Now to my question: Which pair of …



Q&A: Choosing a 0.80 ct – 1.0ct Pear-Shaped Diamond for a Solitaire Engagement Ring

Hello, Im looking for a pear shaped diamond to be set as an engagement ring. Im looking for 0.80 ct – 1.0ct Colour: D,E,F Clarity: VS2 and above Symmetry and Polish: Excellent Wanting to have this set in either white gold or plantinum – simple plain band. Diamond to be set off centre – pointed end …


Q&A: Looking for a 0.4 to 0.5 Ct. Round Diamond with Around $2000 Budget

Hello there, First of, your site has been very informative and valuable in this exciting process. Our budget is about 2000 for a diamond and setting. I’ve been spending time on the James Allen site, Blue Nile and Brilliant Earth sites looking for a round diamond that is between .40 and .50 carat, with good colour …


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.

Please enter your email address to receive your 25% off coupon code:

Here is your coupon code: GFDSF3GF