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Q&A: Help choosing a 1 Ct. Oval Diamond for a White Metal Engagement Ring

By Mike Fried,

Saw an oval diamond online and it appears to be a great deal. Wondering what your thoughts are on this specific diamond. Like most guys, I know nothing about diamonds or what to look for. I’m reading through several articles on this site, but I’m not sure I’m going to be prepared just by reading a few articles.

1.01 Carat H VS1 Oval Cut Loose Diamond GIA
Product Code:QBE64236
http://www.jewelryexchange.com/diamonddetails.aspx?diamondID=277939

Thanks in advance for your help. 

Ahh a diamond factory special. They specialize in the worst of the worst. In this case they are selling an absolutely horrific cut. It is super deep so it will a) have no brilliance b) look lumpy and c) will look much smaller than a similar diamond of that size. 

 Do you think they sell anything worth buying? What ratio should I be looking for so I understand what too deep is? Everything appeared to be in good order when looking at the 5 C’s. Just shows you how naive I am. Any suggestions? 

 It should be around 60%. No, I have never seen a decent deal from them. 

 Thanks for helping me avoid this mistake. Where would you recommend that I look for a decent oval diamond around 1ct? I live in the northeast and would welcome any recommendations locally or online. Thanks in advance. 

www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/oval-cut/1.01-carat-h-color-si1-clarity-sku-259145?a_aid=dmnd1357
www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/oval-cut/1.00-carat-h-color-si2-clarity-sku-267772?a_aid=dmnd1357

The second one is an interesting choice. It is on the shallow end, but that also makes it look much bigger. If you compare the dimensions to the diamond you linked, it would look 10% larger.

Diamond factory: 7.24mm*5.35mm
JA SI2: 8.29mm*5.78mm 

Just getting around to making this purchase. I was looking to up my budget to about $5,000 for the diamond. Can you make recommendations on where that extra $$$ should be spent. I found this diamond and wanted your opinion. is it worth the extra money?

https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/oval-cut/1.03-carat-g-color-vs2-clarity-sku-269774?a_aid=dmnd1357

Thanks for all your help. 


I do not like the bowtie on that diamond (the ugly black reflections in the middle of the dimaond).

www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/oval-cut/1.03-carat-f-color-si2-clarity-sku-170937?a_aid=dmnd1357

This is a better option. 

 I’m going to be making this purchase next week. I’m actually selling a car that’s going to pay for this ring. I’m hoping it’s still here in the next few days. If you think there’s anything better than this one that’s popped up let me know.

You made this purchase much easier for me and have educated me considerably. Thanks again.

I actually pulled the trigger on this diamond and bought it this weekend. Would you recommend a platinum or white gold band for this? I’m getting a very thin band. Trying to replicate a picture of diamond that my gf really loves:

diamond ring
Thanks in advance for your help with selecting the appropriate band. 

Go with the White Gold. They are cheaper and platinum won’t look any better. 

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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.
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  • Free prong tightening, repolishing, rhodium plating and cleaning every 6 months
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