Author: Mike Fried

Q&A: Looking for Yellow Diamond in White Halo Engagement Ring Setting. Not Sure if he can Afford Fancy Yellow. Budget of About $6000.

Last Updated On: October 24, 2017

Hello, First – I think your site is great. Very good information and non of the marketing ploys. Keep up the good work. On to the situation. My girlfriend is leaning towards a yellow diamond as the primary stone surrounded by white diamonds, similar to an antique style. She has mentioned that “fancy” diamonds are …

Diamond Q&A

Q&A: Checking out a Stone After Purchase for Eye-Cleanliness

Last Updated On: October 24, 2017

I like your website- I just wanted to get your opinion on this diamond. https://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/G-SI2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1249023.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357 My only worry were the crystals on the table. I contacted James Allen, and they contacted the jeweler, who they say verified that the diamond is in fact “eye clean.” Given your experiences with James Allen, what do you think? …

Diamond Q&A

Q&A: Searching for the Best Cushion Cut Diamond for $3000

Last Updated On: June 29, 2020

Greetings Ira, First, I must write that your site is a must-read for any diamond shopper! Having this wealth of information and your expertise all in one place is such a help – wish I had come across your site before I was already a month into my diamond search! I am looking for a …

Diamond Q&A

Q&A: Looking for 1.20 to 1.50 Carat Princess Cut for Around $8000

Last Updated On: October 24, 2017

I have been monitoring your site for a while now and have found it very informative. I do not know the first thing when it comes to diamonds except what I have read on your site. I am looking for a center stone, princess cut diamond for around $8000. I would like it to be …

Diamond Q&A

Q&A: Looking for 0.70-0.90 Carat Round Brilliant. Best Deal for Under $5000. GF Doesn’t Want Larger Diamond.

Last Updated On: October 20, 2020

I am looking for an engagement ring and happened to come across your site. Here is what I’m looking for: * Is your goal cheapest price for given parameters, or best diamond for fixed budget: Well, I’m looking for the best diamond that I need without overpaying for things that are not needed. * Shape: …

Diamond Q&A

Q&A: Looking for the Best Cushion Cut Diamond for $3000 to $4000. J Color in a Cushion Cut Good Enough?

Last Updated On: October 19, 2020

Hi, I am looking to find the best diamond in my price range (isn’t everyone? haha). I came across this website, which has been of great benefit to me, and was really hoping you could help me, as you have others. I have done some research and have found 4 I think are pretty good …

Diamond Q&A

Q&A: Biggest Ideal Cut Round Diamond for $3500 Including Setting. Blue Nile vs. James Allen. Looking for Biggest Stone within Tight Budget That’s Still Eye Clean and a Good Performer.

Last Updated On: June 29, 2020

Dear Ira, I hope this email finds you and your family doing well. I have really enjoyed reading about diamonds on your site and getting an unbiased perspective on diamond purchasing. I will be proposing to my girlfriend on an upcoming trip to South America. As a young guy with a non-profit career, my salary …

Diamond Q&A

Q&A: Wants a 2ct Princess Cut. Will an SI2 be Eye Clean? Blue Nile vs. James Allen? Many Issues Dealt with Below!

Last Updated On: June 29, 2020

Hi there, LOVE your site – very helpful. I am looking at 2 princess cut stones GIA certified from Blue Nile. 1) 2.01 carat H SI2 Cut VG 2) 2.12 carat I VS2 Cut G These are the same price. My questions: 1) SI2 for a stone of this size – will the flaws be …

About the author

Mike Fried Mike Fried has over 25 years experience in the diamond industry working with Leo Schachter Diamonds, Moshe Namdar Diamonds, and joining The Diamond Pro in 2007. He is recognized as an industry expert and has been quoted in publications such as Us, People, Page Six, The Next Web and more.