Clarity: SI1

Q&A: Looking for a 2-3 Ct. Cushion Cut Diamond for a Platinum Halo Ring Within a $25-30,000 Budget

Last Updated On: October 24, 2017

Hello, I am in the market for a 2-3 ct. cushion cut diamond that will be placed in a platinum, split shank with halo (I am looking at Sylvia CDRCZ01680) style or it may be listed at style sy453-0043. My budget is $25-30,000. I would like to get the biggest visual bang for my money. …

Diamond Q&A

Q&A: Choosing a 1.2 Ct. Diamond for a White Gold Pave Setting

Last Updated On: October 24, 2017

My BF and I are looking for the best value we can get for a round cut diamond around 1.2ct. It will be in a 14k white gold pave ring like this: http://gabrielny.com/amavida/style/ER7432W44JJ I found these 2 that seem like they would be eye clean. What do you think? Also, will a J color stone …

Diamond Q&A

Q&A: Choosing a Diamond for a Platinum Solitaire Setting for Between $6,000 and $7,500

Last Updated On: October 24, 2017

I am looking to spend between $6,000 and $7,500 on a diamond that will be in a platinum plain solitaire setting and purchase it from James Allen. Very much appreciate your advice! I’d be happy to help. What shape do you want? I am looking for a round diamond – guess I am torn …

Ring Gallery

1.51 Round Brilliant in Rose Gold setting.

Diamond Q&A

Q&A: Deciding Between the Round and the Cushion Cut for a Platinum Engagement Ring Within a $10k Budget

Last Updated On: October 24, 2017

I love this setting, but have been leaning towards a cushion cut. Do you think it would look better with a round or cushion? https://www.jamesallen.com/engagement-rings/solitaire/platinum-diamond-accented-sculpted-designer-engagement-ring-item-8020?a_aid=dmnd1357 Budget is approx. $10,000. I love this diamond for you: www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/cushion-cut/1.51-carat-h-color-vs2-clarity-sku-250057?a_aid=dmnd1357 Its bright, eye-clean and a great value. What do you think? It is very nice, but I …

Diamond Q&A

Q&A: Choosing a 0.75 to 0.90 Ct. Round Diamond for a White Gold Solitaire Setting for Under $3,600

Last Updated On: October 24, 2017

Thanks for all of the help you’re providing via your website. I now feel like a 100x more informed consumer than I was before. That said, I’m still hoping to cash in on some expert advice. Like most people who probably write you, I’m looking for the perfect diamond that meets the criteria for an …

Diamond Q&A

Q&A: Choosing a 1.0 – 1.2 Ct. Round Diamond for a 4-Prong Setting in the Range of $4500

Last Updated On: October 24, 2017

Thank you for all the great info on the site. I’m looking for a 1.0 – 1.2 ct round diamond to be set in traditional 4-prong setting, 18k gold band. The ring would be a size 5 or 5.5. Color can be anywhere from H-J as long as it is eye-clean. Looking for ideal setting …

Diamond Q&A

Q&A: Choosing Round Diamonds for a Three-Stone Platinum Setting for a ~10K Budget

Last Updated On: July 3, 2025

Thanks very much for the informative site. I have sworn for years that I would never support the De Beers diamond artificially-constrained-supply business model by purchasing diamonds. After nineteen years of marriage, though, and after she’s put up with 1,000 of my principled stands over the years, my wife wants a nice diamond ring and …

About the author

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.