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Q&A: Help Choosing a Round Diamond For a Solitaire With Around $5,500 Budget

By Mike Fried,

Hello,

I’ve read through your diamond education section and it’s been a huge help in trying to find a diamond for a solitaire engagement ring, thank you.

I’ve identified this diamond:
Blue Nile LD03008274

I was wondering if you could give me some advice to as if I am getting good value for money, taking into consideration the cut, colour, carat, clarity etc.

Thanks for your time, speak to you soon.

The cut is beautiful on that diamond. The only thing I’m afraid of is the cloud mentioned in the cert. We are always a bit cautious about clouds on SI diamonds when there is no clarity plot in the cert (that would show where the cloud is and how big it is).

Also, just want to make sure we’re on the same page, are you looking for a diamond for a solitaire setting? If so, then you can go much lower in color and still get a beautiful diamond (https://www.diamonds.pro/education/color/).

Many thanks for your help.

You are right in saying that it is for a solitaire setting, would the below diamond be a suitable alternative?
Blue Nile LD08964475

Is the lower quality in colour going to be noticeable on a white gold band?

Many thanks.

The I color is absolutely perfect for a solitaire. It’s a gorgeous diamond. Have you put the diamond on hold?

Unfortunately both diamonds have now gone!

I’ve identified a further two diamonds, unfortunately one does not have a 360 view and GIA report does not indicate the inclusions, but which of the two would you say is the better diamond based on the limited information?

Blue Nile LD08992105
Blue Nile LD03008274

Please let me know ASAP as I fear these will go quickly also!

Speak to you soon.

……

I’ve just realised that the bottom link is to the diamond that you first had a look at, so I guess it’s just a question of whether you think it’s worth taking a risk on the first of the two diamonds in my previous email, with there not being a 360 view or clarity pot on the GIA, but there being clouds, feathers and pinpoints identified in the clarity characteristics.

However with the fact that it’s a VS1 may this suggest that these will be very small and it will be eye clean?

Speak to you soon.

I’d go for the first one as well. Ask BN for the actual photo. They might be able to send it to you.

The second one isn’t good as the culet is small – it should always be none to get the best quality possible.

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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
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