Hi, First, thank you for maintaining such a great resource. I am a material scientist with a PhD in the the field of nano-carbon; the knowledge that a more perfect diamond (viewed on an atomic scale) is now easily grown underscores the effort DeBeers must go through to maintain the “magic and emotion” of natural diamond. As such, I very much enjoy your practical discussion of the four “C”s.
Second–I could use your guidance towards a 0.75- 1.0 ct Asscher Cut diamond – best value.
Interesting you say that. I agree that the whole “magic and emotion” is overblown, but man made diamonds are far inferior value. They also do not grow more perfect diamonds (the qualities on man made diamonds are generally pretty low). I’d be happy to make recommendations for you, but they won’t be lab-created.
You are absolutely right that man-made diamonds do not represent a good value–I apologize if you read my tone as anything but reverential. I was in fact reaching out for help in what is a very stressful process–shopping for beautiful natural diamond. If you have time to make recommendations; they would be received gratefully.
Also, I am surprised that you find that the quality of man-made diamond is inferior. Are these just ones that are cut as gems? We occasionally have need for single crystal diamond (for high pressure physics experiments); the technology in that area has improved dramatically, even in the last few years. As a true single crystal, these diamonds (some time up to 1 ct.) have no inclusions or imperfections, even on the atomic scale.
They usually are cleaner, but by and large the majority of lab-made diamonds are lower in color. If you search the sites of legit labs, you’ll see most of the offerings are JKL color (well they use less strict certificates that claim they are IJK color).
I’d be happy to help. What is your ballpark budget for the diamond and what type of setting do you want to put it in?
My budget is in the neighborhood of $3000 for an asscher cut diamond. I’m looking at setting similar to this one:
https://www.jamesallen.com/engagement-rings/channel-set/18k-white-gold-thin-channel-set-princess-shaped-diamond-engagement-ring-item-7084?a_aid=dmnd1357
This would be my recommendation for you:
Thanks! I went ahead and bought it. I very much appreciate and trust your guidance. I hope my girlfriend likes it–especially having waited 8 years!
Please let me know how it looks when it arrives.
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What we love about them:
- No questions asked returns within 30 days of shipment. Blue Nile will send you a paid shipping label to return the ring.
- Lifetime Warranty
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- Free prong tightening, repolishing, rhodium plating and cleaning every 6 months
- Provide insurance appraisal
- One free resizing within the first year of purchase
- High quality images of about half of their diamonds
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