Q&A: Cushion Cut Diamond for Halo Setting, under $17K

Thank you very much for all the great information on this website as I have spent a lot of time here for my research. I am ready to purchase an engagement ring and would appreciate your help.

It will be a cushion cut diamond in a halo pave setting on a single shank, platinum band. The diamonds on the band will go halfway-down the ring.

I figure the setting will cost me about $3K, so I would like to choose a cushion cut diamond under $17K, for a total budget of $20K.

Here are the parameters I have been using on James Allen to narrow down my search:

Cut: Ideal

Color: D-H (since color is very important on a cushion cut)

Clarity: IF-SI1 (This is where I will need the most help from you in selecting a diamond)

Carat: 1.5 and above

Fluor: None

Depth: 60-69

Table: 60-69

I know you say keep the depth and table under 70 and I figured you would know what looks best on a halo and a platinum band, so feel free to change the depth and table.

I would really appreciate your input based on the halo pave style and I especially need help on clarity.

Thank you in advance and I’m looking forward to your suggestions.

Thank you for your quick response Ira. Those both look like excellent diamonds.

A couple of follow up questions:

1) Regarding the table size, I’m guessing a 61 is ok? I’ve seen other sites where they suggest at least a 65. Is a 61 ok for a halo setting? Or is the difference insignificant to the naked eye?

2) I really like the 2nd one you showed me. Am I just fooled by the lighting of the photo because I like how it looks compared to a lot of the diamonds on this site? By that I mean the outer edges of the diamond seem to light up all around.

3) Also, the GIA Certificate on that 2nd diamond notes a cloud right in the middle. However, I can’t even tell where it is under the virtual loupe. I’m guessing that cloud is not a problem?

These both look great. I’m thinking of going towards the second, more square cushion, but the first one looks amazing as well. Still trying to decide.

Thanks

Thank you again for addressing my questions. You have given me the confidence to make a final decision.

I agree to go with the G, since you say that cloud is nothing on a VS1. I think my girlfriend would prefer a square cushion.

I have placed an order at James Allen for the G cushion and I can’t wait to see it in person.

I plan to propose at the end of September and I really hope she thinks this diamond looks amazing in the halo!

I will follow up with you once I receive it.

Thanks again for your personal time and the website!!

Hi Ira! I just wanted to follow up about the cushion cut diamond you helped me find about a month ago.

I have nothing but fantastic things to say about JamesAllen.com.

Everyone I worked with at James Allen was extremely helpful and they were able to provide my ring on the date promised.

I proposed last week on the beach in South Carolina.

The ring is just amazing. Everyone loves it and it looks fantastic in the halo pave setting.

My girlfriend was speechless at the site of her engagement ring.

She just got the ring appraised yesterday and the appraiser said it was a great find and one of the most beautiful rings she had ever seen.

All of my girlfriend’s family and friends were so happy and had nothing but the best compliments on this ring.

Attached is a picture to show you how it looks.

I can not thank you enough for the information and personal time you provide on both the website and taking the time to email me.

I would not have found such an amazing ring at this price if it was not for you.

Thank you so very much!!!

Hello Ira – Thank you for the kind comments in your previous email.

I would be more than happy to write a review about your website.

[LINK TO REVIEW ON IVOUCH]