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?
Since you’re located in London, BN is a great way to go.
Here’s a diamond with the quality I’d recommend:
Blue Nile LD06787704
It’s very well cut, eye-clean and going to look colorless.
What do you think?
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?
I’m afraid that the last two diamonds you sent have eye-visible inclusions. That’s why I don’t recommend purchasing them.
The other ones are eye-clean and with great overall specs. Since the diamond I suggested is VVS, there’s no need to worry about eye-cleanliness. It’s slightly bigger in measurements than the 0.81 stones you found and also slightly less expensive. That’s why I’d either stick with my suggestion or if you don’t mind spending the extra buck, I’d go with the 0.90 SI1 Blue Nile LD08623497.
Let me know what you decide.
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.
The stone you found on JA has great overall specifications. It’s very well cut, eye-clean and slightly bigger in measurements. If you like it and it’s still within your budget, keep it.
Let me know how you like the ring once it arrives.
Thank you, I will do. Many thanks for all of your help.
It was my pleasure helping you.
Keep me posted.
I’m just letting you know the ring has arrived and we’re both very happy. Thanks again!
I’m very pleased to hear that you love the stone.
It was my pleasure helping you. Feel free to contact me if there’s something I can do for you in the future.
What we love about them:
- No questions asked returns within 30 days of shipment. James Allen will send you a paid shipping label to return the ring.
- Lifetime Warranty
- Free International Shipping
- Free prong tightening, repolishing, rhodium plating and cleaning every 6 months
- Provide insurance appraisals
- One free resizing within 60 days of purchase
- Free ring inscriptions
- Best-in-class high quality imagery of all diamonds in stock
- 24/7 Customer Service
- Best-in-class packaging
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
- Free Shipping
- Free prong tightening, repolishing, rhodium plating and cleaning every 6 months
- Provide insurance appraisal
- One free resizing within the first year of purchase
- High quality images of about half of their diamonds
- 24/7 Customer Service
- 100% credit towards future upgrades (must be at least double in value)
- Best in class fulfillment
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