We are reader-supported. Buying through any red colored link on our site may earn us commissions. Learn More.
Hi,
Like most of your readers, I’m in the process of purchasing an engagement ring. I’ve been researching for months and feel like I have a good handle on the 4Cs and the tradeoffs with each. Where I’m struggling is on the tradeoffs between cut, carat, and clarity.
I’ve looked at James Allen, but can’t get a great read on *how much* I should prioritize cut. There is a significant premium applied to the cut, which reduces my ability to increase clarity and carat.
Is it possible for you to advice me on the following diamonds?
I appreciate any advice you can provide, as I seem to have reached analysis paralysis.
As for the cut, the highest grade is Excellent/Ideal. If you see anything ‘higher” than that, it’s just a mark of that jeweler/company and it’s completely subjective. The only “better” cut I would recommend would be Brian Gavin’s signature cut. He is known as one of the worlds experts when it comes to perfectly cut diamonds.
Both these diamonds are wonderful options:
www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/1.17-carat-e-color-vvs1-clarity-excellent-cut-sku-5888625?a_aid=dmnd1357
www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/1.23-carat-f-color-vvs2-clarity-true-hearts-cut-sku-8165558?a_aid=dmnd1357
Their cut is perfect.
You could also consider something like this:
www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/1.17-carat-g-color-vs1-clarity-excellent-cut-sku-8959514?a_aid=dmnd1357
www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/1.25-carat-g-color-vvs2-clarity-excellent-cut-sku-8644416?a_aid=dmnd1357
They would look identical to your original selection and either of these two diamonds would be a much better value.
I did end up buying an engagement ring from James Allen. I went with this diamond: www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/1.25-carat-g-color-vvs2-clarity-excellent-cut-sku-8644416?a_aid=dmnd1357
Many thanks!
You got yourself a gorgeous diamond!
What we love about them:
- No questions asked returns within 30 days of shipment. James Allen will send you a paid shipping label to return the ring.
- Lifetime Warranty
- Free International Shipping
- Free prong tightening, repolishing, rhodium plating and cleaning every 6 months
- Provide insurance appraisals
- One free resizing within 60 days of purchase
- Free ring inscriptions
- Best-in-class high quality imagery of all diamonds in stock
- 24/7 Customer Service
- Best-in-class packaging
What we love about them:
- No questions asked returns within 30 days of shipment. Blue Nile will send you a paid shipping label to return the ring.
- Lifetime Warranty
- Free Shipping
- Free prong tightening, repolishing, rhodium plating and cleaning every 6 months
- Provide insurance appraisal
- One free resizing within the first year of purchase
- High quality images of about half of their diamonds
- 24/7 Customer Service
- 100% credit towards future upgrades (must be at least double in value)
- Best in class fulfillment
Still afraid of getting ripped off?
Before you buy a diamond, get personal buying advice from industry veterans. We'll help you get the best diamond for the money.
Ask your diamond purchase question here
DISCLAIMER: We don't use your email for marketing. Period.
