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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: “Best Budget Diamond” for $6K Budget

Hello, Ira. Thanks for your site, it’s very good. I’m a huge web surfer and I think you’ve got great info. I have settled on the setting: https://www.jamesallen.com/engagement-rings/channelset-rings/ring/item_57-171_design.asp?module=setting I am looking for the best budget diamond. In the past I’ve always (I was married before) been told to buy a D or an E, VVS2, …


Q&A: Help Finding Round Brilliant Diamond for $10K Budget

It probably goes without saying but I am looking to purchase the best diamond I can. I’m looking for a round cut that is at least 1.5 carats, color H maybe I (or better), and the best clarity I can get (maybe VS2 or SI1). I am very grateful for the site and would be …


Q&A: Looking for Ideal Princess for My Ideal Princess

Q&A: Looking for Ideal Princess for My Ideal Princess

I have the setting I want but can use some help picking out the main stone. Below is the setting. https://www.jamesallen.com/engagement-rings/settings-with-sidestones/-18k-White-Gold-Channel-Set-Diamond-Engagement-Ring.html Item #: 17152W I want don’t want a main stone that looks too small for the ring and I also want something that looks very clean. I looked at Kay’s and compared a regular …


Q&A: Looking for Best Deal on “Chunky Cushion” Cut Diamond for $1K Budget

Q&A: Looking for Best Deal on “Chunky Cushion” Cut Diamond for $1K Budget

Hi Ira..Before i begin, i would like to say that if it wasn’t for your blog, i would not have found James Allen. (I was super impressed with BlueNile initially and i decided to read up on reviews..Thats how i found your site :)) Ok here’s my story My boyfriend gave me a budget of …


Q&A: Searching for Round Diamond with Sparkle for $6500 Budget

Q&A: Searching for Round Diamond with Sparkle for $6500 Budget

I am currently educating myself and trying to find the best loose diamond that I can in my budget. Until I read your site, I was planning to purchase a diamond from www.uniondiamond.com….the price seemed fantastic but after reading about what you have to say about EGL I am now looking for possibly something different. …


Q&A: Recommendation for Round Diamond for $4-5K Budget

Q&A: Recommendation for Round Diamond for $4-5K Budget

Hi, great site! Quick question. I’m in the market for an engagement ring and am looking for a ~1 ct round diamond $4-5K USD. A local family-owned jeweler is recommending what they call an ”eighternity” 1.03 ct diamond with H color and SI2 clarity (GIA) for ~$6500. Obviously it’s over my budget but compared to …


Q&A: Help Buying Round Solitaire Pendant

I am looking for a round solitaire pendant Size – .65 to .75 – setting white gold Cut – Ideal Clarity VS2 or better Color – H or G Flourescence – None to Faint I usually wear diamond studs which are .50 each, and then in my left ear i wear two additional studs totaling …


Q&A: Seeking Round Diamond for $8-9K Budget

I’ve been reading your blog for the last few months, and I’m extremely impressed with all the information. I’m on the market for a round diamond for an engagement ring, and it would be wonderful if you could help me with some suggestions. I have a budget of $8000-$9000 and I’m looking for the best …


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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