Hi – I’m looking to purchase an oval diamond in the range of 2.5-3.0 carats. Looking for good value, so aiming for G-H color and VS2-SI1. Also targeting large table in order to find something that looks bigger than carats might suggest.
I found this diamond and would love to get your read on if it’s a good buy.
www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/oval-cut/2.71-carat-h-color-si1-clarity-sku-7823026?a_aid=dmnd1357
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.
Appreciate the feedback.
Question – are the inclusions here any concern?
Is the bowtie a product of shallower depth or otherwise?
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.
Would much appreciate you sharing other options that are perhaps better in your opinion.
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.
I hope you can give me a quick opinion on the two diamonds below. I have the first on hold, but am now also considering the second. Please let me know your thoughts!
2.71c is $26.8k; 3.02c is $30k. GIA reports for both are attached.
www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/oval-cut/2.71-carat-h-color-si1-clarity-sku-7823026?a_aid=dmnd1357
www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/oval-cut/3.02-carat-h-color-vs2-clarity-sku-7942636?a_aid=dmnd1357
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.
Thanks. That’s the one I hoped you’d vote for.
I have this on hold and plan to purchase.
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.
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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