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Q&A: Help finding a 1.20-1.35 Ct. Emerald Cut Diamond for $3,200 Budget

By Mike Fried,

Hello,
How about when it comes to color? I want an extra size for less clarity, I’m okay with that. But how about when it comes to color? I’m having a hard time choosing the perfect ring for my future fiancé. So at this point, any advice will be really appreciated.
Here’s a few specs- Emerald cut, 1.20-1.35ct. My price range is 3,200$ for just the diamond. And I’m also going to buy from James Allen.
Thank you!

Can you tell me what style setting and metal you are using? This may affect the colors that I recommend for the center diamond (as we explain in our post on color). Different settings suit different colors better.

Once I know this, I’ll be able to help you more.

Hello,

Thank you, for the quick reply. I’m debating whether a pave setting, side stone or three stone on 14k white gold. I guess anything with diamonds on the band. My Gf likes simple, yet nice. Also, it doesn’t have to be James Allen specifically, but I will like a reputable source. Thank you again!

For that type of setting (additional diamonds in the band), I color is what I’d recommend to make sure there won’t be any warmish tones. I’d stick with JA as having the high quality pictures (videos) of the diamond is very important for emeralds.

I looked around and this is the largest eye-clean diamond I could find within that price range:
www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/emerald-cut/1.00-carat-i-color-vs2-clarity-sku-2073233?a_aid=dmnd1357
It’s well cut and will make a beautiful ring.

What do you think?

Wow, it’s a beautiful diamond. I like it a lot. But would you say that there’s a noticeable difference in carat size in person? Also, what setting would you recommend for this diamond?

I’m glad you like it.

Well, the difference between a 1ct and, say. 1.20ct would be noticeable, but only if you put the diamonds, unmounted, next to each other. In the real world, when someone puts the diamond on their finger, it’s not that significant.

As for the setting, how about something like this?
www.jamesallen.com/engagement-rings/pave/14k-white-gold-thin-french-cut-pave-set-diamond-engagement-ring-item-7092?a_aid=dmnd1357

I was looking at a setting like this, but would this setting look small on a 7 ring finger. I like this type of setting because the emerald just sits at the top perfect.

Unfortunately, I can’t really help you with the question about size. It’s completely subjective.

Okay. Now for my last request. I like the diamond you recommend, but is there an emerald that’s a little warmer, like a j/k that’s bigger in size that you can recommend. For example, what do you think of- SKU 675123, 2016662 and 213367 all on James Allen.

You don’t mind the stone having a yellow tinge?

The first diamond is well cut, but it’s not eye-clean. The second one has a severe black windowing effect and the third one is no longer available.

I found this one that is larger, but I’m still concerned about the color:
www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/emerald-cut/1.12-carat-j-color-vs1-clarity-sku-2224030?a_aid=dmnd1357

I don’t mind it slightly warmer if the size is worth it. What do you mean when u say eye-clean?I’m really just debating on 2073233(You recommended) and 675123. In your personal opinion, is the .15ct worth it? Is 2073233 the best bang for my buck?

Eye-cleanliness means that there are no inclusions (imperfections) visible with the naked eye. When the diamond is not eye-clean, it means that the crystal will be very apparent (especially on an emerald cut diamond).

I’d go with the 2073233. The difference in size is negligible, its better color, the L:W ratio is also better there and it’s eye-clean. Personally, I think it’s much better to have a slightly smaller diamond that looks beautiful than a little larger unattractive one.

Okay, I’m going for that one. As far as setting goes what other bands do you recommend. Thank you again for the help.

Great.

Well, the setting style is all about fashion and style; this is uniquely personal and not an area we can really help with. I think its best to leave you to pick out the style.

I did it!! Such a relief.. I’ve been searching for 5 months now and thanks to you I was able to narrow it down and just go with my gut instinct. I wanted an emerald, and when I went to the jeweler they always wanted to push me to buy something else. And of course, everything looks beautiful in person. I can’t thank you enough. You guys helped my friend who recommended you guys to me. Please let me know if there is anything I have to do on my end to make sure you guys get credited. Thank you!

That’s great news! I’m glad I could help you decide on the diamond.

I hope you’ll love it when you receive it. If you could let me know how it looks when it arrives, I’d appreciate it.

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