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Q&A: Looking for Round Brilliant for $10-11K Budget

By Mike Fried,

I was browsing around James Allen for a round brilliant diamond in the 10k-11k range. I was looking for something that would look eye clean and maximize carat weight.

What do you think about these 2 diamonds that I found?

https://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-VS2-Excellent-Cut-Round-Diamond-1537125.asp

https://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-VS2-Excellent-Cut-Round-Diamond-1522030.asp

Leaning towards the first one.

Thanks for your feedback.

That first diamond is very nice, but perhaps you can get better value.

I’d be happy to make some recommendations and guide you through the process. What type of setting are you considering? Yellow gold or white gold/platinum? Will it be a solitaire or does it have sidestones/pave? This may affect the colors that I recommend for the center diamond (as we explain in our post on color).

Let me know and I’d be happy to send you some suggestions.

Hey Mike, thanks for getting back to me.

I’m going with this setting in platinum.

Thanks!

Then I would go with the 1.40ct. It’s a beautiful diamond and will look great in that setting. Had it been a solitaire, I may have recommended an I color alternative. That is why I asked.

gotcha. thanks for the feedback!

…….

I found one other stone that seems like a contender. It’s 1.33ct

https://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-VS1-Excellent-Cut-Round-Diamond-1432453.asp

Can you give me your thoughts on it compared to the 1.40ct that I already showed you?

The 1.40ct is $300 more than the 1.33ct. Which do you think is better? Thanks a bunch!

I think it’s better, and the nominal price difference shouldn’t sway you to go cheaper.

…….

To clarify, I still recommend the 1.40

Understood. Thanks =)

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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
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  • Free prong tightening, repolishing, rhodium plating and cleaning every 6 months
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