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Q&A: Help Choosing a 2+ Ct. Square Cushion Cut Diamond for a White Gold Halo

By Mike Fried,

Hi, I’m looking to purchase engagement ring/diamond in the very near future. I would like something over 2 carat that would be set in white gold, most likely with a halo. Was thinking cushion cut, but would consider round with a cushion halo. My girlfriend is all about size, while I really appreciate quality. I’m looking to not go over $18,000 total for the diamond, ring and tax.

Thanks so much. Even though I’ve read tons of info online I feel so clueless looking. One thing that I do think is important to me is the symmetry of the cushion diamond. I definitely want it as close to “square” as possible. I think the first diamond you sent me looks amazing. I think I might go to some jewelry stores this weekend to get a better grasp of things and get some ideas.

Also, what are your thoughts on metals? Should stay with white gold or is platinum the way to go?

I appreciate all your help.

It’s a great idea. It’s always better to see some diamonds in person to make sure what to look for.

I prefer WG over PT. The reason is the huge disparity in upfront costs. As our article says, the WG has to be dipped every few years and the platinum needs to be polished as well because it scratches. So ultimately, platinum costs you more in the beginning and doesn’t end up saving you any money in the long run.

On the diamond that you sent from James Allen, should I worry about it having a very thin girdle? Also, I noticed the GIA certificate was from 2012. Is it normal for a diamond to sit that long?

Is there any other diamonds that you see that might be a little out of my budget, but are amazing deals that are worth spending another $1000-$2000?

I’ve also read some reviews on James Allen rings that were not very favorable. Have you heard any negatives? I’m considering possibly just purchasing the diamond, but I would prefer to have it all done at one place.

The girdle is fine. As long as it’s not extremely thin (thick), you don’t have to worry about it.

99.9% of our readers that purchased from JA are happy with the rings. I’m not saying that they can’t make a mistake, but as long as we know, there were a very few people that had any issue with them (and it wasn’t about the quality of their settings).

I can’t find anything significantly larger/better that would be worth the additional 2k.

I appreciate all your help. Just wanted you opinion on this diamond vs the one you sent.
www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/cushion-modified-cut/2.23-carat-h-color-vs1-clarity-sku-2369649?a_aid=dmnd1357

It’s a bit deeper, therefore smaller than the one I sent earlier. But it’s a nice option as well. Ideally, the depth should be close to 65% and never exceed 70%. Not only will the diamond be
less brilliant, it will look smaller: http://www.diamonds.pro/truth-about/diamond-carat-weight/.

That’s why I chose the previous one. I noticed that it’s no longer available. Have you put it on hold?

Hi, I did it, I bought the ring. Thank you again for your help.

Excellent! It was a pleasure to help you.

Let me know what it looks when you receive it.

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
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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
  • 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
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