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Q&A: Looking for a 2+ Ct. Emerald Cut Diamond With a $20k Budget

By Mike Fried,

Radiant cut, F color, VS1, Ex/Ex, Strong Blue, 2.51ct. Looks great on JamesAllen.com, can’t see any haze or milkiness. Price is great. I have it on hold and am wondering what to do, I live in NY and jewelers in the diamond district all say strong blue is a definite no. They’re looking at it from the perspective of resale value and how hard it is to sell a strong blue which is of course the same reason why they say strong blue is a strong no. Seems to me a pretty clear self fulfilling loop-driving down value for no real perceptible reason. On the other hand I’ve only seen the stone online and won’t know what it looks like until I buy it. I’ve seen many other stones but at 22k for this stone everything comparable is another 5-6 more expensive.

Please advise as to what I should do please.

The strong fluorescence usually is an issue on I+ diamonds. There are exceptions where it doesn’t affect the diamond whatsoever. But unfortunately, it’s impossible to see it online. You have to view the diamond in daylight to make sure it won’t be hazy.

If you have time, you can order the stone and if you are not satisfied, return it. Now JA offers extended returns.

Can you send me the link so I can check the cut? Also, how much is it?

Thanks for your prompt response.

Here’s the link to the stone. Says “sold” but I’ve only reserved it.
www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/radiant-cut/2.52-carat-f-color-vs1-clarity-sku-2133827?a_aid=dmnd1357

Price is $22,030k.

Your thoughts please?

Once I hear your thoughts, I’ll let you know where I am in my search and how I might be able to enlist your services.

Thanks!!

The diamond’s specs great. As I said before, the fluorescence might be a problem. It’s up to you. If you want to risk it and return it in case you don’t like it, go for it. There is always a possibility for the diamond to appear great.

Thanks. I assume you’re saying the stone doesn’t appear milky in the video/link I sent you? Also you didn’t comment on the price. I know it’s a discounted price for those specs. Can you help me find something comparable at that price or less? I’d be willing to go down to an SI1 and a little on the carat size. Ideally I’d love to spend 20k.

……

I’m concerned about the strong blue. I’m wondering if you can help me find a stone.

Ideal budget is $20k or less, but I’d spend up to $23k.

Minimum specs:
ct: 2.3
color: G
clarity: SI1
cut: radiant

Can you find something that works?

……

Sorry, forgot to add the ratio must be 1.2 and higher. 1.3 would be great!

The reason why we don’t recommend strong fluorescent diamonds is that you can’t see the haziness/milkiness on the screen. You have to check the diamond in person to determine that.

The largest diamond I found within your budget and the ratio was this 2.11ct one:
www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/radiant-cut/2.11-carat-g-color-vs1-clarity-sku-519801?a_aid=dmnd135

Hi, your thoughts on this stone please (and on the price)?

cert: 2185030215
price: $17,800

Have you seen it in person? How’s the inclusion? It seems pretty large.

Also, the table is quite big, but that doesn’t have to be an issue.

I noticed that it’s an emerald cut. Emeralds, in general, don’t have as strong brilliance as radiants. Maybe you’re OK with it, but I just feel like it’s better to mention it.

Thanks. Have seen it in person and it’s eye clean. You’re right about the table but I didn’t notice any effect, what’s the effect of a larger than normal table?

Yes, emerald is what I’m now looking for. Radiant too much bling for her.
You didn’t mention pricing? Is that outside of your realm?

Thanks for your quick response.

Larger tables can make the crown flatter, which affects the light refraction and that affects the brilliance. Plus, it can look a bit flat which could be unpleasant. But you would notice that.

The price is great.

I found a similar one online:
Blue Nile LD08121517

It’s a bit smaller but I like the proportions better.

But the final decision is up to you.

Great find!

Looks super clean too. I don’t love the ratio and length for just .01 seems disproportionately smaller than the other stone but you’re right, much better dimensions. Also this is more than $1k cheaper, so I’m curious as to why you think the other stone is a great price.

FYI I’m looking for a somewhat elongated stone that’s 8.7 mm and longer. Ratio should be 1.35 and up preferably. Looking for a longer look because I’m going to be setting it east/west.

The diamond you found cost what I would expect for a similar diamond to cost. You can always find one for 1k more or less, but ~17k is a great balance.

I also found this diamond on JA:
www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/emerald-cut/2.16-carat-h-color-vs1-clarity-sku-2312381?a_aid=dmnd1357

Again, I like the proportions better and it’s elongated, as you wished.

Great looking stone. Let you know if I go with this one.

I’m glad you like it.

Keep me posted.

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