Hi, I’m currently trying to pick a ring on James Allen’s site and have a budget of around £3000 sterling. I’ve left it a little late and could do with it being shipped to the UK within 3 weeks as we go away for my partner’s birthday after.
I have narrowed it down to a 6 claw platinum solitaire set with a .7 carat VVS1 diamond colour
www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/0.70-carat-i-color-vvs1-clarity-excellent-cut-sku-2165168?a_aid=dmnd1357
The price comes in at £2706. I realise I have to pay import duty and VAT which will take it up to around £3400.
Do you think this sounds OK or should I reconsider a lesser clarity?
I’d really appreciate any advise.
The issue with the stone is its IGI report. You can search for diamonds with either GIA or AGS certification instead. https://www.diamonds.pro/education/igi/
Have a look at this diamond:
www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/0.70-carat-i-color-vs2-clarity-excellent-cut-sku-2557408?a_aid=dmnd1357
It’s very well cut, colorless and eye-clean. This clarity grade is great and it’s less expensive.
Let me know what you think.
Thanks for getting back so soon. I’ve had a look at the one you suggested and agree it’s a very nice diamond. I know it’s magnified on the website and can see the inclusion towards the edge.
So this wouldn’t be noticeable to the naked eye?
I’ve also been looking on Blue Nile at stones with pictures of the actual stone and they quote VAT on their prices but don’t mention import duty. I have a couple of favourites there too.
I understand that I’ll have to pay VAT and import duty bringing a ring in to the UK from James Allen.
So am I right to think that IGI diamonds should be avoided?
Thanks again!
The price listed on Blue Nile should be final. But I suggest contacting Blue Nile directly, they’ll be able to help you with this question better than me. If you found any stone on their site you like in particular, feel free to send me the links. I’ll be happy to comment on them, too.
And yes, you should search for stones with either GIA or AGS certification only (and avoid IGI or any other certs).
Hi, I’d appreciate your opinion on the following 4 at blue nile if that’s ok.
Blue Nile LD08288591
Blue Nile LD08147588
Blue Nile LD08080443
Blue Nile LD08144435
I was thinkinking of the 6 claw classic in platinum setting.
Thanks!
The issue with the first diamond is that it’s too deep. In our experience, stones with depth up to 62.6% and table up to 59% return light with the most brilliance.
We also don’t recommend I+ color stones with strong fluorescence. It can cause a hazy look.
This stone has great overall specifications. It’s almost the same as the one I sent from JA. Whichever is your favorite, go for it.
Let me know what you decide.
Thanks!
I’ll let you know.
……
Hi, just to let you know I ordered the diamond from Blue Nile you looked at for me.
I’ll let you know how it is when I get it.
Thanks for your help!
That’s fantastic news! It was my pleasure helping you.
Let me know how you like the stone once it arrives.
I took delivery of the ring yesterday and think it’s amazing!
Thanks again for your advice, it really helped!
Best Wishes.
I’m really happy to hear that you like the diamond ring so much! It was my pleasure. And if it’s not too much to ask, can you write a review about your experience with us?
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
Still afraid of getting ripped off?
Before you buy a diamond, get personal buying advice from industry veterans. We'll help you get the best diamond for the money.
Ask your diamond purchase question here
DISCLAIMER: We don't use your email for marketing. Period.
