We are reader-supported. Buying through any red colored link on our site may earn us commissions. Learn More.
Hey guys, I’m so glad to find your site. I have a quandary that I’m hoping you can help me with. I am looking to buy a sort of pre-engagement ring, which means I am looking for a small diamond. Without regard to setting yet, I have been running between Brian Gavin, James Allen, and Blue Nile to try to find the right one. In the end, I have come upon three options, one from each.
Here are the links:
https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/0.24-carat-h-color-si1-clarity-excellent-cut-sku-266318?a_aid=dmnd1357
I do want to point out that, despite criticism of Blue Nile, their diamond is, based on the lab report, an ideal cut with less color and higher clarity than either the Gavin or the Allen, and less expensive to boot. If you wouldn’t mind offering your opinion, I would really appreciate it.
I am hoping to keep the price under $430 for the diamond itself. The Gavin JUST manages to do so, and the rest do so more comfortably. No idea about setting at this point. My plan is to make the diamond the Christmas surprise, and make the setting the anniversary (soon after) gift that we choose together, a sort of romantic finalization of the ring.
Thanks so much for any help you can provide.
It seems like you have this diamond buying process down pat. I love the James Allen diamond you selected.
Let me know how it looks when it arrives.
Thank you so much for your prompt reply!
About the diamond – can I ask how you came to that decision? I also love the James Allen (and I appreciate your affirming my hours of research!) but am curious how you chose that one over the other two. How do you make that call, what is the best value for the buck?
1) I can’t comment on the BN diamond. We do not recommend purchasing from them at all: https://www.diamonds.pro/reviews/blue-nile/
2) Can you tell me the price of the JA diamond? I thought both diamonds (the BGD) were similar and I think the price was a bit better.
No problem on the diamond – I went with the James Allen. You were definitely right. Can’t thank you enough for your recommendation.
Sound good. Let me know how it looks when it arrives.
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.
