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Q&A: Round or Princess Cut for $10-15K Budget

By Mike Fried,

Color: I

Q&A: Round or Princess Cut for $10-15K Budget

I’ve read a lot of your Q&A responses and blogs and I have really liked your advice and the diamond recommendations that you have made over the years. Thanks for taking the time to read my email. Your help is much appreciated. Here’s my story: My budget is roughly $10-15K with the high end being …


Q&A: Looking for 2nd Opinion on 1 Ct. Round Cut

I am looking for a recommendation for a diamond for the following ring: https://www.jamesallen.com/engagement-rings/solitaire/platinum-tapered-six-prong-filigree-basket-solitaire-engagement-ring-item-551?a_aid=dmnd1357 For the diamond, I would like it to be around 1 carat with a round cut. Total ring/diamond budget is $6,000 – $7,000. I have found two diamonds that look good to me. https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/1.01-carat-i-color-vs1-clarity-excellent-cut-sku-169023?a_aid=dmnd1357 https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/1.00-carat-i-color-vs2-clarity-sku-185323?a_aid=dmnd1357 Of course, if there are lower …


Q&A: Looking for Best Cushion Cut Under $5K

This site has been such an incredible resource, hoping you can provide some much needed help. My target budget for the ring is approximately $6000 total and am looking for the best available 1-1.25ct cushion in the $5000 range. Using the search parameters G-H and VS1-VS2, what do you think of these stones: 1.04 G …


Q&A: Upgrading to 1.6-1.9 Ct. Round Cut

Hi. What an informative website! My husband is upgrading my current center diamond in celebration of our 25th Anniversary this September. We are looking for a 1.5-2 carat brilliant diamond (color up to and including I, ideal/excellent cut, SI2) . This is a very special day for us and I’m excited to be getting this …


Q&A: Looking for Round Cut for $5.5K Budget

I’m trying to figure out what would be the best/most beautiful diamond for a loose round diamond, GIA certified with a 5.5K budget. Does it make more sense to go F-D color and Very Good cut, or something like Excellent cut and G-H range? Also, what else do I need to consider? I don’t mind …


Q&A: Looking for Sparkly Bigger Diamond to Upgrade

Hello – I am looking to upgrade the small diamond on my wedding ring. I want 1+ carat, eye clean and mega watt sparkle. Looking for a round diamond. My budget is $3,500 – $5,000. I have looked at diamonds on www.jamesallen.com, but not sure what constitutes eye clean with the magnified pictures. I want …


Q&A: Looking for 1 Ct. Round Cut on JA

I’m looking on James Allen for a round 1 carat, H-I color, SI1, ideal cut, and price range $3,500.00-$4,500.00. I was recommended these two choices item#207017 and 207009. Both are 1.00 carat, SI1, Ideal or excellent cut. I have a white gold pave style setting. Do you think this is a good choice? James Allen …


Q&A: Synthetic Diamonds and Oval Cuts

Firstly, thanks for all the great information on your site. I’m currently in the market for an engagement ring. I want to buy a man-made diamond to avoid any potential conflict and environment related issues. I’ve been shopping at gemesis, but am concerned because all of their diamonds are IGI certified. I’d like to go …


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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