Q&A: Trying to Buy Designer-style Diamond in NYC

First, thank you for this web site which is hugely informative.

I am looking to buy an engagement ring. I’ve been to Tiffany’s whose “quality” and service I respect but whose prices I don’t like. I do like the Lucida and classic Tiffany settings. Why buy Tiffany vs. another vendor is an age-old question. But it points out my fear: how do I know what I’m paying for and where can I buy the same diamond for less so I can buy more? (if that makes sense).

I’m looking for a 1+ carat diamond, and trying to decide between round, princess or asscher shapes because of the differences in “brilliance” and “wow” factor. I like the Asscher and Princess shapes (I think my girlfriend will like them too) but I understand finding a great diamond in these shapes is harder than in a round brilliant.

I understand color but the differences in size, cut, clarity and other factors like depth, polish and girdle are beyond me.

I am traveling to New York City and wish to ask you for a reputable diamond jeweler that you trust where I can buy the Tiffany ring without the Tiffany premium. Does this make sense? Do you know Frank Pollak & Sons? Who do you know so I can see the stones and trust what I am getting??

Any other advice?

Thank you for your reply. I am looking for a round brilliant stone (classic platinum solitaire setting) with characteristics as follows:

· Carat: 1.0 to 1.2

· Color: G, H, with low or no florescence
· Clarity: S1, S2 is ok (VS2 is preferred)
· Cut: Excellent to Ideal
· Table/Depth: “60/60” +/- 2%
· Girdle: thin as possible.

My budget is $8 to $11 depending on size and color, clarity etc.

Does this make sense?

Thank you!

Thank you for your help.
I was recently in New York to see some diamonds – from a high end jewelry store and from a 46th St. diamond jeweler. Here are two examples of what I found:

David Yurman solitaire, platinum setting included (at @ $3,000):

· 1.20ct H VVS2 — $17,900
· 1.20 ct G, SI1 – $15,000
Stone only, no setting:

· 1.28ct F, VS1, 60/60, EX – $13,000
Compare to James Allen (Stone only):

· 1.20 Carat H-SI1 Excellent Cut – $7,780

I understand David Yurman charges a premium for their “classic” cable design etc. (as would Tiffany and others), though that design is the preferred by my fiancée to be. But how much are they really ripping me off? Are their diamonds any different??

What do I do if I want David Yurman quality/design/standards at a James Allen price?

Thanks!