Q&A: Looking for an Oval-Shaped Diamond Within a $30k Budget

www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/oval-cut/2.71-carat-h-color-si1-clarity-sku-7823026?a_aid=dmnd1357
This diamond is nicely cut, but to be perfectly honest, I’m not a huge fan of the bow-tie. It’s rather prominent and on a diamond this size, you should always make sure the bow-tie is as subtle as possible. But I didn’t find any good alternatives in the same size- and price range, so if size is your priority, you could give this diamond a try and worst case scenario, exchange it if you weren’t happy with it in person.

The inclusions should not be noticeable in person (and it might be even possible to cover them with prongs). The bow-tie concerns me more, to be honest.

Good question about the bow-tie. Every oval will have a small one. That is the nature of the shape. It’s a rather complicated thing that even we don’t fully understand. It’s a matter of the symmetry and reflection of the faceting. I’m pretty sure you can dig in and find it somewhere if you are interested.

I found this one that looks great with a very subtle bow-tie:
www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/oval-cut/2.20-carat-g-color-vs1-clarity-sku-7435899?a_aid=dmnd1357

It’s currently the largest alternative I was able to find.

www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/oval-cut/3.02-carat-h-color-vs2-clarity-sku-7942636?a_aid=dmnd1357
This one is definitely a no go. Not only it’s not eye-clean, but it also has strong fluorescence which would give it a dull and hazy look.

www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/oval-cut/2.71-carat-h-color-si1-clarity-sku-7823026?a_aid=dmnd1357
After much consideration, I think this one is worth the shot. The only issue there is the slightly stronger bow-tie, but it might look just fine in person. Ovals are tricky. If you weren’t happy with it, you can always return it.

I really hope it’ll turn out fine. If you could let me know how it looks when it arrives, I’d really appreciate it.