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Q&A: Choosing Between Two Beautiful Radiant Cut Diamonds with Around $4,000 Budget

By Mike Fried, Updated March 24, 2021

Hi there,

I recently ordered an engagement ring with a 1 ct radiant diamond: www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/radiant-cut/1.00-carat-h-color-vs1-clarity-sku-8786845?a_aid=dmnd1357 but I was considering spending some extra money for this diamond instead:
www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/radiant-cut/1.09-carat-h-color-vs2-clarity-sku-6517581

Is it worth the extra money? Thanks so much!

I cannot compare the cut parameters of both diamonds as the GIA report for the one you ordered is no longer available, but the 1.09ct is a beautifully cut eye-clean stone. It’s also considerably larger than the 1.00ct. May I ask what’s the price difference between those two?

Thanks for the response. Attached is the GIA certificate from the diamond I already bought!

The 1ct diamond cost $2,740.
The 1.09ct diamond costs $4,270

The diamond you went with was an excellent option as well, it looks amazing on paper (and in the video). It’s up to you, I don’t think the extra half a millimetr is worth the $$$, but the final decision is your of course.

I really appreciate the honest advice! I’ll stick with the diamond I have then.

Happy to help.

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 largest exclusive loose diamond inventory online and fantastic prices. They also have the nicest collection of lab-created diamonds online. They currently run a 10% discount on selected lab-grown diamonds!
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Blue Nile Blue Nile is the largest and most well-known internet jewelry seller. They have a very large exclusive online inventory. Their high-quality images are catching up to James Allens' and their prices are amazing. Right now, Blue Nile offers up to 50% savings on selected jewelry during a limited-time season sale.
Click to Visit
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
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  • High quality images of about half of their diamonds
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