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Q&A: Need 2nd Opinion on 1.22 Ct. Cushion Cut

By Mike Fried,

Clarity: SI1

Q&A: Need 2nd Opinion on 1.22 Ct. Cushion Cut

I’m interested in a cushion cut halo ring, like this one, http://www.hamiltonjewelers.com/blog/2011/06/15/molly-sims’-engagement-ring-looks-familiar/ I would like to stay under $6,500 for the diamond. I’ve found this stone and really like that it has a different look. https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/cushion-cut/1.22-carat-f-color-si2-clarity-sku-119077?a_aid=dmnd1357 The inclusions are noticeable on screen, so I’m wondering if they would be glaringly obvious in person/take away from …


Q&A: Looking for Fancy Yellow Diamond

I love your website!!! I looking to purchase a yellow diamond. I’m not sure if I should save $$ on the “fancy light yellow”or should I go with the “fancy yellow” I do plan to put it in a yellow gold basket to make it look more yellow. I’m open to the pear shape and …


Q&A: Need 2nd Opinion on 1.2+Ct. Round Cuts

I was hoping to get your opinion on these three candidates, for a solitaire 6-prong 18k white gold engagement ring 1.28 VS2 with large crystals on the edge – can those be hidden behind a prong? https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/1.28-carat-j-color-vs2-clarity-excellent-cut-sku-54952?a_aid=dmnd1357 1.40 SI1 with various wisps and needles https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/1.40-carat-j-color-si1-clarity-excellent-cut-sku-149838?a_aid=dmnd1357 1.51 VS2 with “only” a Very Good cut – Would …


Q&A: Looking for Round Cut for $4-5K Budget

I read that you are willing to help me find a diamond, and I’m looking specifically at James Allen so that I can see the diamond. I’d like to get the best looking round diamond for about 4000-5000. The setting is a solitaire 4 prong I hope you can help! Thanks James Allen James Allen …


Q&A: Looking for Pink Diamond for AUD $7-8K

I would like to buy a loose pink argyle diamond. My budget would be maximum about AUD 7-8K. It can be emerald or radiant or baguette cut or round. I will later set it to a ring for my own use. It will be used as central diamond & surrounded by white when I set …



Q&A: Looking for Oval Cut without “Bowtie Effect”

Hello! I love your website, it’s taught me a gajillion things I never would have known. So thank you thank you! My boyfriend recently started asking me for hints about diamond shapes I liked, and I said I loved ovals set east-west. He proposed to me yesterday (!) with a 1.5 carat G SI1 oval …


Q&A: Second Opinion on Blue Nile Diamond

First, let me say thank you for all the support you give to all of us who are seeking an unbiased opinion and some well needed advice – it is rare to find someone do things just for the sake of helping others. I also was hoping you could give me some advice regarding this …


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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