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Q&A: Help Finding a 1.7 Ct. Emerald Cut Diamond Within a $11k-$13.9k Budget

By Mike Fried,

Hello there – I am currently searching for an emerald cut engagement ring. My budget is between $11,000 – $13,900.

The biggest issue I’m having is what characteristics to give on – whether it be color or clarity. Most of the stones I’m between are in the 1.7-1.79 range and an F VS1 – F VVS2. I do not really want to go under 1.7 carats, so the biggest issue has been what combination is going to be the best. The settings are simple for the most part – pave or channel set with small diamonds on the band.

I do like L:W ratio to be closer to the 1.50 mark as well, in my opinion, it makes the stone look bigger. I have come across some 1.45 L:W ratio stones which I really like and think will look really great.

I appreciate your assistance and helping me narrow down what will look the best.

The color grade doesn’t have to be that high. You can drop down to an H and it is still going to look colorless.

I looked around and I like this option for you:
https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/emerald-cut/1.71-carat-h-color-vvs2-clarity-sku-3367502?a_aid=dmnd1357
It’s well cut, eye-clean and will make a beautiful ring.

What do you think?

This diamond looks great – the L:W ratio and clarity are fantastic.

I’ll be honest – I’m still skeptical about an H color. I’m just nervous it will not be completely colorless. Doesn’t sound like going to a G or an F will make too much difference from what you’re saying, but that’s where I’m hung up on at the moment.

Also – just for more info – the band will be platinum, not sure if that makes any difference in the selection.

I completely understand your concerns. The reason we recommend H color is that, based on our expertise, experiences and most importantly, od the feedback we receive from our readers, it looks perfectly colorless in any setting you choose.

However, I want you to feel confident and comfortable with the purchase, so how about something like this?
https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/emerald-cut/1.64-carat-f-color-vvs1-clarity-sku-3528696?a_aid=dmnd1357
The specs are very similar and the higher color grade should put you at ease.

I ended up doing a lot more reading and searching as well yesterday and felt comfortable with the one you sent first.

Ended up going with that one:www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/emerald-cut/1.71-carat-h-color-vvs2-clarity-sku-3367502?a_aid=dmnd1357&chan=je?a_aid=dmnd1357

Thanks for your help!

That’s great news! I really liked that diamond. Do you think you could let me know how you like it when you receive it? I’d appreciate that.

Happy to do so. Once it arrives I’ll follow up with you.

Per your request, just following up here. I received the ring and it looks absolutely amazing. I’m glad I upgraded on clarity to a VVS2 and went down to an H because you’re right, cannot even tell a difference at all.

Thanks again for the help. I know she’s going to love it.

That sounds amazing, I’m so glad you are happy with the ring!

See attached picture of the ring. She has been getting compliments on it almost every single day. It is SO clear.

The picture is beautiful! Thank you so much for sharing it with me.

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. They currently run a 10% discount on selected lab-grown diamonds!
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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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