We are reader-supported. Buying through any red colored link on our site may earn us commissions. Learn More.
I was hoping to get suggestions on diamonds. Previously I was looking at Blue Nile diamonds, but after reading and seeing the differences in the customer experience (actually being able to see the diamond), I’ve been leaning more towards James Allen.
Here’s what i’m looking for:
Budget: ~9k
Ct: 1.5 (roughly)
Cut: Ideal
Shape: Round
Color: D-I
Clarity: this one is the trickiest for me, I’ve been saying SI2 is the lowest, but what I really don’t want is any obvious inclusions dead on from the top. I’ve been seeing a few on James Allen, but from the Hi-Res images they provide a lot of the inclusions seem pretty stark for me (ie not around the edges). I’m wondering if these are less noticeable in real life or if they are going to be as noticeable in real life as they are on the website.
Ultimately I’m going to pair this one with 2 smaller diamonds (~.25 ct) to create a three stone engagement ring – but the smaller ones are easier for me to find.
Thanks for taking the time!
I love this diamond for you:
It’s bright, eye-clean and a fantastic value. You can ask JA to make sure they match the smaller diamonds to the center diamond.
What do you think?
Thanks so much for your suggestion, it does look very clean – I really like that the inclusion on the side (i’m assuming is why it got an SI2 rating). When I go to the link though, it says the price is not available – does this mean that the item is not for sale anymore? About how quickly do these things stay on the market?
The diamond shows available to me. If you find a great value like that, they move pretty quickly.
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.
