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Q&A: Help Choosing a Round Diamond With a $14k to $16k Budget

By Mike Fried,

Thank you in advance for your time.

I am looking to spend between 10 and 12k on a 6 claw delicacy engagement ring from 77 diamonds. I want it everything about it to perfect.

My questions are:
*Is 77 Diamonds a legitimate and reputable seller?
*Is there any difference to the naked eye between colours D & E?
*Which clarity to go for when buying a 1.5 carat diamond of this colour grade?

Thank you so much.

Unfortunately, we have had zero experiences with 77diamonds so there’s no way for me to know the quality of their diamonds and service.

Color-wise, there’s usually no difference between those two grades, but we don’t think it makes sense to waste money on colorless diamonds: https://www.diamonds.pro/education/color/.

Clarity grade is not that important as long as the diamond is eye-clean.

I’m happy to search some websites and find some options for you if you like. What shape diamond are you looking for?

That would be great! I’m looking at round solitaires.

Best price I’ve found is on 77diamonds: £14,900 for 1.5 carat, colour: E, clarity: vvs2, cut: excellent.

Does this sound normal or underpriced?

I’d have to see its certificate to give you a more informative feedback, but as far as I can tell, it’s a little overpriced. See this fantastically cut E-VVS2 diamond as a comparison:
Blue Nile LD08815734

It is said to be GIA certified.

Hmm.. it seems priced accordingly in comparison to the one you sent because the cut you sent was “ideal” and also only 1.41 carat; the cut I mentioned was “excellent” and 1.51 carat.

I’ve read that the cut is the most important “C” of all, so I wouldn’t settle for any less than excellent or v.good. However, I am happy to take a small hit with regards to colour and clarity, as long as both aspects do not appear to the naked eye.

Thank you so much for helping me out.

My budget is £10,000 – £12,000.

……

I have since realized that ideal is better than good haha.

That’s true. Also, it’s not the color/clarity what makes the diamond beautiful and brilliant. It’s the cut. If I may, I’d recommend you adjust your parameters a bit. Even if you drop only a few grades you get a fantastic diamond.

Have a look at this one:
Blue Nile LD07783930

It’s gorgeously cut and will have a lot of added brilliance. Once the diamonds are set, the difference between a 1.4ct and a 1.5ct diamond is not noticeable.

What do you think?

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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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