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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:

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Q&A: Experience Shopping for a Diamond Ring in South East Asia

I’m planning buy an engagement ring from Blue Nile but is very hesitant on the security of doing it online. Would there be any physical store that I can visit? The one nearest to Philippines would be much appreciated. As to the budget, I can only afford up to 5k USD. I prefer a 6 …


Q&A: Strong Fluorescence On an E Color: Not A Good Choice

Hi, I’ve bought a ring that isn’t here yet, but would like to know if I made a mistake. Blue Nile LD12644263 It exhibits strong fluorescence which worries me a lot now! I thought I was being clever by diving deep into the table % and depth % but it sounds like that was the …


Q&A: The Lowest Color Grade That Looks Colorless: Round Solitaire

Hello, After reading and investigating about the choosing the right diamond I’m just not sure how to make the right choice. My budget is from $9,000 – $10,000 USD max. I’m looking at James Allen diamonds with round diamonds, depth between 58-62, table 54-59, True Hearts, GIA and still don’t know the best choice, because …


Q&A: Help Finding a Round Diamond for Around C$5,000 Budget

Dear Diamond Pros, I am writing to ask for your opinion on this Blue Nile ring, and whether it is a good price. Also, would you recommend a basket setting (such as BN’s trellis setting) over a tapered cathedral setting? I prefer the look of the cathedral setting but I have read that it is …


Q&A: Looking for a 2.00 Ct. Cushion Cut Diamond for a Platinum Halo Ring

I am looking for a cushion cut diamond for a halo ring (platinum), hopefully 2 carats, and around to $10 – $12,000. I didn’t find a full 2ct for up to $12k, but I found this beautiful 1.70ct diamond that would look amazing in a halo: Blue Nile LD12777995 The high clarity grade is just …



Q&A: Help Finding a 1.00 Ct. Round Diamond for a Platinum Halo Setting

Hi, I’m in the process of searching for a ring for my gf. Upon reading your site I’ve expanded my search to James Allen. I’ve tried to follow your guide as closely as possible but I think I need a little help picking out a stone, two of which I’ve attached below, along with the …


Q&A: Choosing a Center Diamond for a Platinum Pave Setting Within a $2,000 Budget

I am looking for an engagement ring. I am thinking about buying through James Allen website… PLATINUM CUT DOWN PAVE DIAMOND ENGAGEMENT RING And I found these diamonds: www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/princess-cut/1.02-carat-i-color-si1-clarity-sku-6434122?a_aid=dmnd1357 www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/0.71-carat-j-color-si1-clarity-excellent-cut-sku-6681984?a_aid=dmnd1357 What do you think? www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/0.71-carat-j-color-si1-clarity-excellent-cut-sku-6681984?a_aid=dmnd1357 Unfortunately, J color is too low of a color grade for a pave setting. I’d go with at least an …


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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