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:
Hello Ira, I’ve been reading your site to get educated in this complicated market. Like any purchase, it is best to be informed as much as possible. Recently I have been looking to move to the next step in my relationship and propose. Trying to pick an engagement ring in the “mall stores” proved frustrating …
Apologies in advance for this extended question. My girlfriend wants a three stone engagement ring made of emerald cut diamonds, a centre stone of approx 0.9 carat with the long edge of the stone running parallel with the finger, the two side stone set with the long edge set perpendicular to the main stone all …
Can you find an ideal cut that has good value? Size? Budget? Size is tw of 2 carat or a bit less if I can save, my budget is open to up to $4500 to $9000. White gold/plat or yellow gold setting? And is your goal to pay the least amount for the size and …
This was an interesting one for many reasons. The stone is discussion is quite large. It’s an unusually low color. It turns out not to be certified. It’s two friends, one with money, one without. Lots of intrigue! Hi Ira. I found that your website is very helpful. Thank you. My friend ask me to …
I’m looking for an Oval cut in the 2.5ct range I’m flexible on color and clarity but want a very good cut. Generally speaking what % off the rap would you expect for wholesale? Thanks for your input… It looks like the “call stone” price for a stone like this is around 25% off rap. …
UPDATE: I just made a quick trip to secret shop the Dubai diamond market. Unfortunately, I found more of the same shenanigans you see in most diamond districts. I did find one great contact though. One company does a great job of sourcing legitimately certified diamonds directly from diamond manufacturers at excellent prices. Please contact …
What price range would you expect for: radiant cut 2.06cts, color F clarity vs2, polish and symmetry vg, table 68%, depth 70%, dimensions 8.63 x6.42 x 4.5 fluorescence: nil (or faint depending on which certificate you follow(!) thanks for your help I have checked for similar stones on an online industry wholesale trading site. I …
This question came from a reader of my article about Diamond Cut. that’s great, but what about fancy cuts? I am interested in a rectangular radiant cut diamond, and the amount of conflicting information on what angles and proportions are preferable is very confusing. Some sites say that to be a very good cut, the …
Ive just bought some earrings (multi stone GIA F/SI1 with very good cut/pol/symm) . I got f colour to match an uncertificated 5 stone ring thats been assessed (independently) as F/G SI1. I intend buying a pendant ( trilogy 0.33ct each or maybe graduated 1.5 ct total) and solitaire ring (1ct+) down the road. Do …
How about Dubai Gem Certification (DGS)? What do you think about certifcation from DGS? Unfortunately, the DGC lab really only came out just as I stopped traveling to Dubai. I have sent an inquiry to a former colleague still stationed in Dubai. When I have his answer, I will post it to the website and …
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