Q&A: Help Finding a 1 Ct. Round or Oval Diamond for a White Gold Pave Setting with a $6k Budget

Hi, I am looking for a diamond in the $5,000 range(my girlfriend is partial to oval, but if there is a round diamond that is of much better quality for the price she would still love it). My preference is 1 ct. minimum.

I will likely be putting it in a yellow gold setting, but would like to see your recommendation for a white gold setting as well please.

Thanks in advance for your help! 

Hi, I failed to mention that I truly appreciate what you guys are doing. Your website has been an amazing resource for me as I’ve started to navigate the overwhelming world of diamond shopping. So thank you very much for your help through this process both via your website and this one on one consulting. Much appreciated!

I’ve got a couple updates to my initial request that I hope will make it easier to narrow down options for me.

1) The center stone — Initially I had said oval is preferred but would look at a round if there was a compelling reason to do so. I’m going to move from that position and say oval is 100% what she wants. My concern with the oval is brilliance and the bow tie effect. She has made reference to the importance of sparkle on multiple occasions. Still looking for something in the 1 carat range that is “eye clean” (I think that’s what you call it). As you point out on your site, James Allen seems to be the place to go for the diamond since you can view the stone.

2) The Setting — Below is an example of the setting type I’m looking for. Initially, I wasn’t sure if I would go yellow gold over white gold, but I can now confirm that I will 100% be purchasing white gold. From a style standpoint on the setting, I’m looking for somewhat of a “blended look” for the diamonds on the halo as well as down the sides so you can see as little of the metal between diamonds as possible(with the side diamonds ending about where they do in the ring below). Also, I know she does not like the scalloped look on a setting. How do I know if this is a fair price for the setting? Do you recommend another dealer for settings? Can you help me understand why I would or would not pay more for 18k vs 14k gold on the setting?

18K White Gold Cushion Outline Pave Engagement Ring

3) Budget — I’m really hoping to stay below $6,000 for the entire purchase, but would pay more if absolutely necessary to get what I want.

I hope this makes narrowing down the options a bit easier for you. Again, I appreciate your support through this process. 

Thank you for the response. Yes, there is room in the budget. I’d be willing to spend more (maybe in the $5,000 range) for the center stone to ensure I am getting something I will be happy with. If you do find something that is just under 1 carat that is a beauty, I would consider that as well.

Thanks again for your help! 

 Thank you for the recommendation.

I like that there appears to be now bow-tie on the diamond you recommended, but I feel like I’m not seeing as much brilliance on that diamond as I have seen on others. I was hoping to get a bit more detail about why you selected this diamond. Is spending a bit more going to get me something this diamond is lacking?

This was recommended from the JA chat rep (this appears to be more brilliant):
https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/oval-cut/1.07-carat-h-color-si1-clarity-sku-374247?a_aid=dmnd1357

Also, I’ve thought about having a custom setting made locally in Chicago at a jeweler in Chicago. A friend recommended a place called Joel Singer Jewelry in the diamond district. Any experience with this guy from your previous gigs?

Thanks!