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This site has been such an incredible resource, hoping you can provide some much needed help.
My target budget for the ring is approximately $6000 total and am looking for the best available 1-1.25ct cushion in the $5000 range. Using the search parameters G-H and VS1-VS2, what do you think of these stones:
1.04 G VS1 – https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/cushion-cut/1.04-carat-g-color-vs1-clarity-sku-168384?a_aid=dmnd1357
1.08 H VS1 – https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/cushion-cut/1.08-carat-h-color-vs1-clarity-sku-132488?a_aid=dmnd1357
1.01 G VS1 – https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/cushion-cut/1.01-carat-g-color-vs1-clarity-sku-168372?a_aid=dmnd1357
If recommended, I’m willing to delve into I color, SI1 to SI2 territory if a quality larger diamond can be had. How is this as an example:
As far as settings go, I am looking at a number of halo pave options. Particularly this one in 18K for any of the above stones:
Any feedback would be much appreciated. Thanks!
Sorry for the delay. Would you still like our help? We are getting through the holiday rush of emails right now.
To bring you up to speed, I contacted JA and had them put these three diamonds on hold (all under $5k):
https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/cushion-cut/1.26-carat-j-color-vs1-clarity-sku-189239?a_aid=dmnd1357 (selected by JA representative)
I’m aware that your site recommends at least an H for cushions, but I’m curious to hear your thoughts. There seems to be a surplus of quality G-H options in the $4-5k range, so I figured it might be in my best interest to consider a lower color in favor of a larger surface area. Unfortunately I’m an untrained eye and could use any assistance I can get.
If an I-J color center being out-shined on the pave-halo setting is a concern, the JA rep said its possible to replace the smaller stones with H-I colors for a closer match. Just something to keep in mind.
Looking forward to your feedback, thoughts, and any other recommendations.
They are all well cut. I really wouldn’t drop to J, so if you are going to cheat on color I’d go with the I.
Thanks Michael…I will definitely take that into consideration. The frontrunner is the I/VS2 for $4990 (#206288) but I am still intrigued by the J/SI1 (#203090) for its proportions & price – 6.77 x 6.02 x 3.79 at $4790. My girlfriend is not opposed to some warmth if it means a bigger spread.
Thanks again for your help.
I still like the I VS2. I think you should stick with that one.
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
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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
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