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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: Round or Oval, Best Deal for a 3 Carat Diamond

Q&A: Round or Oval, Best Deal for a 3 Carat Diamond

I have really enjoyed reading your site over the past few months. My boyfriend and I recently celebrated the 2-year anniversary of our relationship, and I expect that he will propose sometime in the next 6 months. I told him absolutely under no circumstances to buy a diamond in a store, or to do it …


Q&A: Best Round Diamond for $2500-$3000 Budget

Shopping for a diamond is not my idea of fun but a man does what a man has to do… I guess I am looking for a round diamond .75-.90 ct, G-H clarity with no visible inclusions for about $2,500-$3,000 (or slightly more if it is a good deal). Do you think any of these …


Q&A: Seeking Round Diamond 0.5-0.6 Carat

First of all – fantastic! That’s all I can say about your website and your information so thanks for this. I’d like to choose a diamond for an engagement ring. I have decided I want:- Diamond – Round – 0.5 carat Setting – Pave / Setting with Sidestones – Light/delicate design I’ve seen some in …


Q&A: Selecting a Round Brilliant 1.25-1.5 Carats for $6-7K Budget

Wow! Your website is amazing, and it is such a blessing to find. I really respect and appreciate your desire to use your knowledge for the benefit of others. I am looking for a round brilliant around 1.25ct to 1.50ct. My budget is $6,000 to $7,000 for the center diamond. I think your advice regarding …


Q&A: Looking for Second Opinion on Round 0.84 Carat Diamond

Great site; it’s been extraordinarily helpful in my diamond-selection process. I’m currently looking for a round engagement stone in the 6-6.5 mm size range with an upper price point of ~$5000. Being accustomed to regularly hitting these budgetary limits of mine, with your advice (and JamesAllen’s visual selection system) I think I’ve found a very …


Q&A: Looking for Diamond with Pizazz for College Graduation Present

Q&A: Looking for Diamond with Pizazz for College Graduation Present

I just want to say, first of all, that your website is fantastic and very informative. I’ve learned a lot from browsing the articles and Q and A sections. I am hoping you would be able to give me some advice. I am probably unlike many of your consultations in that I am not purchasing …


Q&A: Princess Diamond for Side Stone Setting and $2K Budget

I was hoping you could help me choose the right center diamond for the setting I have selected. The setting is from James Allen pictured here: https://www.jamesallen.com/engagement-rings/settings-with-sidestones/ring/item_58-4079_design.asp?module=setting My girlfriend has very slim fingers and does not want a diamond that is too large, so since the 2 side stones together are .34 carats, I was …


Q&A: Ideal Cut Round Diamond for $1500 Budget

I will soon be purchasing an engagement ring. Soon, as in the next week or so. I’ve been researching and learning for months though, through bluenile.com, jamesallen.com, and your wonderful website. I feel like a bit of an expert now, but thought I would solicit your advice before I make the final decision. I finally …


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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