We are reader-supported. Buying through any red colored link on our site may earn us commissions. Learn More.

Q&A: Choosing an Eye-Clean 2 Ct. Round Diamond for a Platinum Solitaire Setting for About $21,000

By Mike Fried,

 I am looking for an eye clean round diamond of approximately 2.0 ct. This will be set in a platinum solitaire. I am not looking for an “investment” diamond. I just want a quality diamond that looks very good to the eye.

I would spend up to $21,000 for the diamond if needed but would like to spend less to get a good looking diamond.

Any suggestions you have would be greatly appreciated.

I know you prefer James Allen since you can see the diamond online, and I get that. I don’t have any problem with James Allen. But if I was to purchase from BlueNile, what minimum clarity pretty much guarantees an eye clean diamond? 

 

I do not like BN for any purchases. We think JA is the best, but there are plenty of options between JA and BN that would be far better choices. Why did you not want to go with JA? This will give me an idea who to recommend instead. 

 Sorry, but maybe I have confused the question. I don’t have any problem buying from either JA or BN. In fact, those are the only 2 online diamond sellers that I would use. I don’t really have a preference between the two other than BN seems to have a larger selection of platinum solitaire settings that would accommodate a 2 ct. round diamond. Many of the solitaire settings on JA seems to indicate that they only accommodate smaller stones (i.e. less than 1.5 ct.). But maybe I am misunderstanding what the specs for each setting is saying on JA.

So my question is: Between JA and/or BN, can you recommend specific 2 ct. round diamonds that are eye clean and good quality? Again, I don’t see this as an investment diamond where I am seeking the highest quality possible. I am looking for a diamond that will look very nice for the least amount possible. 

Ok, I’m with you now. What you saw on JA is incorrect. I’m sure they can use any of the settings you find. They may need to put a different head on the setting, and that may cost about a hundred bucks, but that is no big deal at all.

Here are two diamonds I love for you:

www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/2.01-carat-i-color-vs2-clarity-excellent-cut-sku-228365?a_aid=dmnd1357
www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/2.10-carat-i-color-vs2-clarity-excellent-cut-sku-25693?a_aid=dmnd1357

Personally, I prefer the first one. I am not a big fan of 60% tables, but some people prefer them. It will make the diamond look slightly larger (and its slightly larger to begin with as well as being cheaper) so they are both great options.

Both diamonds are bright, eye-clean and will look great in a solitaire setting. What do you think? 

 Thanks for those references Mike. I appreciate it. They are great looking diamonds.

If I could ask you for one more piece of advice…

For a number of reasons, my criteria have changed slightly. I am still looking for a nice eye clean round diamond, but now in the 1.6 to 1.8 ct. range. Do you have any JA recommendations? 

Was it a money adjustment or you specifically want that size. I just want to make sure I make the best recommendation for you. 

It is more just wanting to explore that size. It is not really a money thing. Although I would obviously expect a smaller diamond of similar quality to cost less.

What is your opinion on this diamond? Is it eye clean?

https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/1.80-carat-i-color-vs2-clarity-excellent-cut-sku-234107?a_aid=dmnd1357

Or do you have any suggestions?

Any advice you can offer is much appreciated.

 That diamond is fantastic. It is eye-clean. You seem to have this process down pat on your own. 

I do not like the third one, but the first two are fantastic.

James Allen James Allen is the leader in online diamond sales. Their imaging technology is the same as inspecting a diamond with a jeweler's loupe. They have the largest exclusive loose diamond inventory online and fantastic prices. They also have the nicest collection of lab-created diamonds online. Get 30% off lab-grown diamonds during a limited time sale.
What we love about them:
  • No questions asked returns within 30 days of shipment. James Allen will send you a paid shipping label to return the ring.
  • Lifetime Warranty
  • Free International Shipping
  • Free prong tightening, repolishing, rhodium plating and cleaning every 6 months
  • Provide insurance appraisals
  • One free resizing within 60 days of purchase
  • Free ring inscriptions
  • Best-in-class high quality imagery of all diamonds in stock
  • 24/7 Customer Service
  • Best-in-class packaging
Arrow down
Arrow up
Blue Nile Blue Nile is the largest and most well-known internet jewelry seller. They have a very large exclusive online inventory. Their high-quality images are catching up to James Allens' and their prices are amazing. Save 25% on settings at Blue Nile!

Please enter your email address to receive your 25% off coupon code:

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
  • Free Shipping
  • 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
  • 24/7 Customer Service
  • 100% credit towards future upgrades (must be at least double in value)
  • Best in class fulfillment
Arrow down
Arrow up

Still afraid of getting ripped off?

Before you buy a diamond, get personal buying advice from industry veterans. We'll help you get the best diamond for the money.

Ask your diamond purchase question here

  • Hidden
  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

DISCLAIMER: We don't use your email for marketing. Period.

Please enter your email address to receive your 25% off coupon code:

Here is your coupon code: GFDSF3GF