Q&A: Looking for an Emerald or Oval Diamond With a $5,500 Total Budget

Hi there. Could I please get the Blue Nile coupon? Thanks for your comparative review. Glad they have improved as most other reviews out there aren’t as great.

Thanks! That’d be great if you can review the diamond. I will share my BN wish list with you.

I was also considering a lab diamond from Quorri. What are your thoughts on lab diamonds? I saw an emerald cut at Spence Diamonds and it was gorgeous.

Looking forward to hearing back.

Thanks. I read your article when I was doing research. Perhaps it’s the Canadian (poor) exchange rate or higher duty rates, but Quorri is very well priced and much cheaper then Blue Nile. Their Aterna stone has a MOHs hardness of 9.5. I’m wondering if the lab diamonds hold up to everyday wear as well as real diamonds. For example, I go swimming a lot. Will the stone colour be affected? I am hesitant to trust the companies answer and of course they will say yes. Here’s an example ring pricing, it’s actually the one I’m considering.
https://www.quorri.com/collections/red-carpet-inspired/products/ciara-blake-lively-inspired-oval-halo-lab-diamond-ring#

I will add a couple more diamonds to my wish list on BN and email it to you.

Thank you so much for your help!!!

Thank you. I understand your position on lab diamonds. I work at a gold mining company so I feel like I’d be very hypocritical of me!

I just sent you my BN wish list. I am deciding between emerald and oval cuts. I love emerald cuts but have been told they need to be the best colour and clarity. I love oval halos but the setting is more so it means less money to go towards diamond. I think I’m willing to forgo the halo for a bigger diamond. My budget is ~$5400 pretax.

Thank you so much!

I don’t know BN’s website is not sending me the wishlist

Here are the direct links to the diamonds:

OVALS: I would want the oval diamond to be set in an halo setting ($2,200) but I’m unable to add the setting to my cart so I’ve just put it on other rings for now. My overall budget is $5,400 before taxes, maybe $5,500 max.
Blue Nile LD07929461
Blue Nile Petite Micropavé Diamond Engagement Ring

Blue Nile LD08248094
Blue Nile Petite Cathedral Pavé Diamond Engagement Ring

EMERALD CUTS: I would purchase the rings as you see them in their settings.
Blue Nile LD08210963
Blue Nile Petite Solitaire Engagement Ring

Blue Nile LD08302961
Blue Nile Riviera Pavé Diamond Engagement Ring

Thank you! Looking forward to hearing your feedback 🙂

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I was on James Allen tonight and now I see what you mean by the bowtie on ovals, the bowtie going the across the shorter length of the diamond?

The close up images on the diamonds are great and now I know why bloggers recommend them over BN. I saw an emerald cut that had a scratch on the top of the table.

Thanks!

Thank you so much!

That emerald cut on BN you mentioned that was not eye clean – I saw some kind of a ‘white’ line running through the diamond, is that what you mean by eye clean?

Unfortunately the second oval (0.75 ct) you recommended is no longer there.

I’ve made my decision to buy from Allen James, over BN. Will you receive referral fee from them too? I’d feel bad if you did not.

I will probably be putting my order in next week. If the two diamonds you recommended are no longer available, can I send you my final choice (or two) to review again?

Thank you!

I’ve asked for the ASET for the emerald diamond you suggested. I will be ready to order early next week once I see the report.

I was wondering if this diamond would look a lot bigger than the 0.91ct as it’s shallower. What do you think of this diamond?
www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/emerald-cut/0.97-carat-g-color-vvs1-clarity-sku-2608435?a_aid=dmnd1357

I’ve decided on emerald cut and I’m trying to get the best and biggest diamond I can within my budget. (~5600 pre tax Canadian) and I like this setting best:
www.jamesallen.com/engagement-rings/pave/14k-white-gold-petite-pave-engagement-ring-item-56255?a_aid=dmnd1357

This combo takes me over but I’m trying to work my magic! LOL

Thank you!

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I also meant to ask you if you think the 0.97ct would be worth the extra $700?

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I’ve decided today after I thought I had my heart set on the Emerald Cuts that I am going for the Oval. I feel like you need to go big with Emeralds. Ovals get you the appearance of more diamond for less money.

I have found this diamond and have asked the the ASET:
www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/oval-cut/0.74-carat-h-color-if-clarity-sku-2539403?a_aid=dmnd1357

The 0.77ct you found did not have the ASET but that’s still my first choice. I just wanted to see a comparable ASET report.

I really do appreciate your patience and help, I hope I am not driving you crazy!

Thank you!

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Thanks for your help! I put in my order today for the 0.77 ct oval you picked out 🙂

Here’s the ring I ended up ordering from James Allen. Thank you so much again for you help, it’s gorgeous! Much better than I expected 🙂