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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: GIA vs. IGI

How is this diamond: www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/1.01-carat-h-color-vs2-clarity-excellent-cut-sku-7172413?a_aid=dmnd1357 It is IGI graded though, is it not as good as GIA graded? I had this reserved already but would like your opinion on this before place the order, thanks. We don’t recommend IGI certified stones. They are looser in grading than GIA or AGS (https://www.diamonds.pro/education/igi/). GIA and AGS are …


Q&A: Help Finding a Pair of Round Cut Earrings for Around $5k Budget

I was wondering if you would mind helping me look for some diamond earrings? I am looking to be in the range of $4-5k, hopefully a bit closer to 4k. Just to be sure we are on the same page, are you looking for round cut studs? What setting style do you prefer? Then I’ll …


Q&A: Experience Shopping for a Lab Diamond on a 5k Budget

Hi, I am about to purchase 1.5 carat lab diamond from James Allen. Can you help in choosing? Can you please tell me what setting style and metal you’re planning to go with? It will help me determine the right color as different settings suit different colors better. Then I’ll gladly recommend some options. I …



Q&A: Looking for an Oval-Shaped Diamond for a Solitaire Setting Within a $20k Budget

Looking to buy an engagement ring. 18k yellow gold solitaire oval diamond ring preferably around 2ct. After reading your article on ovals, I’m afraid I was about to spend too much money on diamond qualities that wouldn’t make a difference. I was looking at spending $20,000 on a ring, and after reading your article, I’m …



Q&A: Help Choosing a Princess Cut Diamond With a $3,500 Budget

I was looking at the following, which is a more ideal cut diamond with color as the main compromise. Which would you recommend? Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated. www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/princess-cut/1.04-carat-e-color-vs2-clarity-sku-7040223?a_aid=dmnd1357 www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/princess-cut/1.09-carat-i-color-vs2-clarity-sku-8071335?a_aid=dmnd1357 For additional background, the setting is an 18K yellow gold band width tapered baguettes on either side. For that setting, I would recommend sticking …



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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