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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 3.00 Ct. Emerald Cut Diamond for a White Gold Pave Setting

I am looking to buy a ~3 carat emerald cut diamond. Based on recommendations, I should go I or better on color, and VS1 or better on clarity. Is this correct? Expecting to pay around 30K at James Allen. What style setting (solitaire, pave/side stones/halo) and metal (yellow/white gold, platinum) do you want to use? …


Q&A: Choosing a Cushion Cut Diamond For a Rose Gold Halo Setting With Up to $4,000 Budget

Hello, I am interested in an engagement ring for my girlfriend. I enjoyed your site immensely and found it very helpful! However, I wanted your personal recommendation if you are willing to give it. I am looking for an engagement ring with the following characteristics: 14K or 18K rose gold halo setting cushion diamond eye-clean, …


Q&A: Help Finding a 0.50 Ct. Princess Cut Diamond

Hello, thank you for such an informative site. I’m looking at three diamonds. If you can please provide me your opinion to pick one. I will be very grateful. If you can suggest some other diamond, I will highly appreciate that too. I want to make her 0.50 carat engagement ring. I have posted the …


Q&A: Help Finding a 1.00 Ct. Round Diamond for a White Gold Setting

Q&A: Help Finding a 1.00 Ct. Round Diamond for a White Gold Setting

So this diamond has a needle inclusion across the middle when magnified but do you think that this inclusion is noticeable by the naked eye without magnification? Is this diamond a good buy? Budget is $5,500 for the diamond. Blue Nile LD09782956 That’s definitely not a good diamond. The specs are great, but the needle …



Q&A: Experience Shopping for Diamond Studs on a $35k Budget

Hello, I respectfully seek your assistance. After many hours, I have arrived at the following two stones on Blue Nile (diamond stud set): Blue Nile LD09185469-LD09961138 The price is a bit more than I wanted to pay. Further, the amount of needles in Stone 2 is worrisome to me since I’m not sure if that …


Q&A: Looking for a Grey Diamond for a $2,5k Budget

Hello, Can you suggest an online site for a gray diamond? I am looking for over a carat but under $2,500. Unfortunately, I didn’t find any gray diamonds over one carat for only $2,500. What were the prices you found? Thank you. These were the best prices I found for a 1ct+ diamond: Blue Nile …


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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