Q&A: Help Finding a Round Diamond for a Petite Solitaire Setting With Around $4,200 Budget

Thanks for creating such an informative website! I’ve really enjoyed reading through the posts – they’ve been a real eye-opener. I’m based in London, and probably would’ve looked for a ring in Hatton Garden had I not come across your website…

I’m looking for an engagement ring for my partner. I was thinking of a classic round diamond in a 14k white gold solitaire setting, like this:
Blue Nile Petite Solitaire Engagement Ring

My budget is £3000 and my understanding is that I should be looking for a decent cut quality, and be prepared to compromise on colour (down to GIA J), and to forgive any flaws not visible to the naked eye (or anything that can be covered with a prong). This way, I can maximize the number of carats in the diamond.

I’ve noticed that you tend to recommend James Allen firstly, and then Blue Nile. I’m a little wary of using James Allen as I fear the 20% VAT charge would have a big impact on what I can afford.

Please could I get some advice or possibly some diamond/ring suggestions?

Many thanks for getting back to me so quickly and for explaining how you work – that really helps to put my mind at ease.

Also, thanks for the recommendation. I’ve had a good look at the link. I’m a bit nervous because there is no picture. Is it the case that you can tell by the clarity/depth/table etc that the diamond will look great?

These are the diamonds I had previously saved in ‘my picks’:
Blue Nile LD08211611
Blue Nile LD08550945
Blue Nile LD08623497
Blue Nile LD08434071
Blue Nile LD06620318

Would you recommend the diamond you suggested over these?

Thanks for getting back to me.

I did some more research last night as I was curious about what I could get through James Allen.

I found this diamond:
www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/0.85-carat-j-color-vvs1-clarity-excellent-cut-sku-3007659?a_aid=dmnd1357

What do you think? It looks very similar to the one you recommended through Blue Nile, only the polish and symmetry have a higher rating. Plus I think it’s still within my original budget, even after factoring in the additional costs of import… I was feeling a bit impulsive so I went ahead and purchased it but I’d really like to get your opinion. Would you mind taking a look and letting me know what you think?

How does the James Allen diamond compare with this one?
Blue Nile LD06787704

Thanks again for all your assistance.

Thank you, I will do. Many thanks for all of your help.

I’m just letting you know the ring has arrived and we’re both very happy. Thanks again!