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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:

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Q&A: Help Finding a Radiant Cut Diamond for Around $2,700 Budget

Hello, My girlfriend really wants a particular solitaire setting from Blue Nile, so I was hoping to buy a square radiant diamond to go with it. I would like to spend less than $2700 for just the diamond and was hoping to get something in the ballpark of 0.7-0.85 carats. What do you think of …


Q&A: Experience Shopping For a Solitaire Ring on a $13k-$16k Budget

Hi Diamond Pro’s! I’m looking for some help with my engagement ring purchase. There are too many options! I’ve read through the tutorials, and have come up with the below requirements. How do I tell whether a diamond is “eye clean” when it comes to clarity? Can you help me find a good diamond for …


Q&A: Help Choosing an Oval Diamond With a $20,000 Budget

Hi – I am looking to purchase an oval diamond for my (cross-the-fingers to be) fiance. My budget for the diamond is up to ~$20,000, and after a bit of research, it seems like a higher quality 1.4-1.7 carat stone is appropriate to expect for this price range. The preferred setting will be a ~2MM …


Q&A: Help Finding a 2.23 Ct. Round Diamond for a Yellow Gold Solitaire Setting

Hi, my boyfriend and I are shopping for a round diamond around 2ct for as close to (or under) $15k as possible. It’ll be set as a solitaire with platinum head and yellow gold shank (think Tiffany). We found this one for $14,040 on James Allen, what do you think? www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/2.09-carat-g-color-si2-clarity-excellent-cut-sku-4441890?a_aid=dmnd1357 [/answer]I wouldn’t recommend that …


Q&A: Choosing a 1.30 Ct. Round Diamond for a Double Halo Setting With a $11k Budget

Q&A: Choosing a 1.30 Ct. Round Diamond for a Double Halo Setting With a $11k Budget

I currently am shopping for an engagement ring. I’m set on using Blue Nile, as I have a credit account with them already. Just to confirm: are you looking for a round diamond? I’m between round and cushion. I have really liked the look of the Double Halo ring. Thoughts on this diamond? Blue Nile …



Q&A: Help Finding a Non Traditional Pear-Shaped Diamond for Around $5,000 Budget

Hello, I’m in the market for an engagement ring for a girl that doesn’t like the traditional. I’m after a diamond with lots of character and inclusions. In a world where clarity is so important where do I find the opposite? Thank you. What shape diamond are you looking for? What style setting (solitaire, pave/side …


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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