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Q&A: Looking for an Oval-Shaped Diamond Within a $25k-$35k Budget

By Mike Fried,

Hello, I am interested in buying an engagement ring and am hoping for some buying advice. This will be a big investment for me, so I want to make sure I am picking the ideal diamond and am not getting ripped off.

My budget is between $25K and $35K. My girlfriend has given me some details about what she wants. Specifically, I am looking for:

– An Oval cut diamond. I hear cut is most important for the four C’s, so I want a diamond that is cut well and will sparkle.
– Carat: 2.49 – 2.99. I think 3,0 carats is too large, so ideally closer to the lower end of this carat range.
– Color: Above G
– Clarity: Above VS2+

Can you help me pick the ideal diamond?

Thanks!

I looked around and I like these options for you:
https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/oval-cut/2.56-carat-g-color-vs1-clarity-sku-3448405?a_aid=dmnd1357
https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/oval-cut/2.50-carat-g-color-vs1-clarity-sku-1105395?a_aid=dmnd1357
https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/oval-cut/2.70-carat-g-color-vs2-clarity-sku-4369837?a_aid=dmnd1357
They are well cut, eye-clean and all of them will be very brilliant.

When we search for diamonds, we’re looking for the best balance of the overall specifications (carat weight, color – colorless look, clarity – eye-cleanliness, fluorescence, depth and table %, cut – brilliance). And we search for the best stone that’s currently available for your buck.

What do you think?

Thanks! I will look into these and will get back to you asap. Thanks for the help. Talk soon!

Sure. Keep me posted.

Thanks for all of the help.

I’ve purchased this diamond (https://www.jamesallen.com/mobile/loose-diamonds/oval-cut/2.56-carat-g-color-vs1-clarity-sku-3448405). Thank you so much!!!

My pleasure!

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.
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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
  • Free Shipping
  • Free prong tightening, repolishing, rhodium plating and cleaning every 6 months
  • Provide insurance appraisal
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