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Diamond Q&A

By Mike Fried,

Diamond Q&A

In this section of the site, I publish some interesting private exchanges I have had with readers of the site who have contacted me via the “Ask a Question” form. I believe you will find that the questions and answers are both interesting and educational. Of course, names have been removed to preserve privacy.

Use the filter below to find Q&As relevant to your diamond search:

  Returns results


Q&A: Having Second Thoughts on Shane Co. Ring

Q&A: Having Second Thoughts on Shane Co. Ring

Hello, could you please find me a sparkly diamond? Would like 1ct…ish…. I loved reading your articles, but its making my head explode a bit. Ill want a solitaire w white gold band. Thanks much! James Allen James Allen is the leader in online diamond sales. Their imaging technology is the same as inspecting a …


Q&A: “My girlfriend has champagne taste for my beer budget”

I’m in the early process of shopping for an engagement ring and think jamesallen.com (especially with the updated site) is amazing. I’m trying to stay within a 8K total budget, but my girlfriend has champagne taste for my beer budget. I believe I will be getting a pave setting and notice you recommend staying above …


Q&A: Looking for 1 Ct.+ Asscher Cut

I’ve read through your site and appreciate all of the information you’ve made available to us diamond newbies. That said, I’m looking for a 1+ carat Asscher for around 5K (total ring budget of 7K). I’ve identified one candidate on James Allen, and I’d be curious to hear your thoughts and/or take a look at …


Q&A: Looking for Round Cut for YG Solitaire Setting

Hello, I am looking to buy a solitaire yellow gold engagement ring with a budget in the range of The wealth of information on your site has been extremely informative and has given me a rough idea what to look for. Most important would be the sparkling or brilliance of the diamond, would you be …


Q&A: Looking for 1/2 Ct. Round Cut for YG or WG Setting

I’m reaching out to you again because we’re almost ready to buy my ring. I’ve been looking at this setting on James Allen in either white gold or yellow gold (haven’t decided on that part yet). The 14K white gold setting is $700 and the yellow gold setting only comes in 18K gold at $875. …


Q&A: Question about Table % on 1 Ct. Round Cut

Hello, your website is so great. I learned a lot from you. What do you think of this diamond? https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/1.00-carat-i-color-si2-clarity-sku-183639?a_aid=dmnd1357 Why do you think the price is low? Is it because of the 60% table? What counts as an ideal cut on these websites? I thought it was 52.4% to 57.5% table. Do you think …


Q&A: Looking for 1 Ct. Cushion Cut for Pt Solitaire Setting

I’m looking for a 1 CT (no more than 1.1 CT since she has tall hands), cushion cut diamond. I’d also like a platinum solitaire setting. She says she wants the smallest, lowest profile setting that will adequately support the stone. Any advice or recommendations would be greatly appreciated! James Allen James Allen is the …


Q&A: Looking for 1.2+ Ct. Round Cut

First off, thanks for the info about the Blue Nile business model. I had a friend who is a very satisfied Blue Nile customer give me a recommendation to check them out. It seems like there’s a chance to get a good deal, but, in a purchase like this, chance should never be part of …


About the author

Mike Fried 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.

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