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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: Looking for 1.6 Ct. Round Brilliant Diamond for $15K Budget

I’m looking for round brilliant that is about 1.6 ct, and my budget is about $15,000. I like this one: https://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/H-VS2-Excellent-Cut-Round-Diamond-1452013.asp But this one seems about the same is significantly cheaper: Blue Nile LD02744175 Which would you go with? Or do you have any other suggestions? Thanks in advance for your advice! Love your website! …


Q&A: “I know my shortcomings, and one of those is choosing jewelry.”

I just want to take a sentence to say how genuinely helpful and informative your site is – a truly excellent resource. I know my shortcomings, and one of those is choosing jewelry. That said, I am still foolhardy enough to try choosing a diamond for an engagement ring on my own (for the surprise …


Q&A: Looking for Round 0.7 Ct. Diamond for Yellow Gold Solitaire Setting

I have been aiming for the sweet spot of around 0.70. She is a H1/2 I think that’s US 4.25. Looking for something in Round Brill. My budget has to include customs duty here in Australia of 10% So at the current exchange I can afford about 2700US total for ring and stone. Was on …


Q&A: Looking for 1.5Ct. Round Diamond for Side-stone Baguette Setting

Hi looking to buy a diamond of course. Is James Allen the only site you recommend? I was looking at brillance.com. Would you recommended them as well? James Allen James Allen is the leader in online diamond sales. Their imaging technology is the same as inspecting a diamond with a jeweler’s loupe. They have the …


Q&A: Second Opinion on Round Diamond, Please

Hello, I have used your website to help me pick out a brilliant cut round diamond. I found the below on James Allen and am waiting for it to come in. I wanted to get your opinion bc it seems like a really good price ($4580) for the size etc. It is definitely due to …


Q&A: “My girlfriend wants ‘big and sparkly’!

Love the site. Your website was exactly what I was looking for when I started researching engagement rings. I’m amazed there aren’t more resources like this site given the information asymmetries in the diamond ring market. Anyways, I’ve been reading and following the The Diamond Pro for several months and I’m ready to take the …


Q&A: Looking for Round Diamond for Platinum Pave Setting on $11K Budget

Q&A: Looking for Round Diamond for Platinum Pave Setting on $11K Budget

I know that’s a pretty detailed description, but I know you’re the guy for the job. I was wondering if you could help me pinpoint an 11k diamond that fits those specs on James Allen? I have a couple of weeks to make this purchase, so I’m willing to wait for the perfect stone. Also, …


Q&A: Looking for Advice: Buy Online or at Bricks & Mortar Store?

I’m looking for some quick and dirty advice. My budget is between $5-9k depending on the rock – I want to get either a round or cushion diamond in a cushion halo w/ platinum. The C’s are where it gets iffy – I don’t know whether to buy online vs. in store, and for that …


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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