Q&A: Looking for Classic Round Cut…

Hello. First off, I came across your site from a close friend that swears his life on your site. Reading through it has been so enlightening. Thank you.

As for my diamond buying journey:

1) For me, I’m thinking about a purchasing a loose diamond, then getting it set together with my gf/to-be fiance. My goal is to be sensible (not over paying for qualities that will not be valued or looked at). I’m ok with paying for a quality diamond that will be appreciated (in the articles on the site, you mention things about color/cut/clarity that were very helpful).

2) My goal is to have a size that doesn’t have people talking about it, ie if it’s too small (or too big), people will notice. From my very rough looking around, I’m aiming for a diamond in the 1.3-1.7ct. range…I know that’s a big range, but at what size can you not really tell how big it is?

shape: classic round
ballpark budget: I’m open. I won’t go over 10k, but to be honest, I’d like to go much much much lower than that.

The key is for the diamond to be “not” noticeable :), either too big/too small, or flashy or dull. Just appreciated with the cost to match it’s appreciation.

Does that make sense? Or am I being too idealistic?

Many thanks!

Hi Mike – I think it’s great. Thanks again for your help.

Just want to make sure that you don’t think the color or clarity will have others think it’s a “bad” or “cheap” diamond.

And how does this compare with this one: https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/1.43-carat-i-color-si2-clarity-excellent-cut-sku-185109?a_aid=dmnd1357
Also, I’m planning on setting it in a very simple solitaire yellow gold. (if that helps for context).

Many thanks!

Thanks! I think I’m leaning towards the one you picked.

Final question. I’m planning on purchasing this week.
Could you compare the 1.38 that you recommended with this one?https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/1.40-carat-i-color-si1-clarity-excellent-cut-sku-215590?a_aid=dmnd1357

Here’s the original:
https://www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/1.38-carat-i-color-si1-clarity-excellent-cut-sku-74339?a_aid=dmnd1357

I currently have this on hold, and I just want to make sure it’s the right one 🙂

Thanks so much again! It really helps having someone to learn from in this process.

awesome, I just purchased it. I will let you know when it arrives.
Thanks so much!

Hi Michael, sorry for the delay, but wanted to loop back with you.

It took a while (logistics :), but I gave it to her over the weekend and she loved it. Though, apparently I didn’t know she wanted white gold, but I don’t think it’ll make a difference after we change the settings, I think it’ll still look great.

Thanks again for your advice.

Michael – One last question, the diamond shouldn’t look any worse/different with white gold than from yellow gold right?

Awesome. Thanks again. I recommend your site to all my friends 🙂