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Diamond Q&A

By Mike Fried,

Diamond Q&A

In this section of the site, I publish some interesting private exchanges I have had with readers of the site who have contacted me via the “Ask a Question” form. I believe you will find that the questions and answers are both interesting and educational. Of course, names have been removed to preserve privacy.

Use the filter below to find Q&As relevant to your diamond search:

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Q&A: Looking for a Round Diamond for a Platinum Bezel Setting Within a $7k Budget

Hi! What do you think about this diamond with a platinum bezel setting (Blue Nile LD13345595)? Thank you in advance! Blue Nile LD13345595 This diamond is a fantastic example of an eye-clean SI2 stone. It’s beautiful and has a great cut. It would look amazing in a bezel setting. You did a great job finding …


Q&A: Choosing a Round Diamond for a Solitaire or Pave Setting Within a $4,000 Budget

I have a solitaire ring that I picked from James Allen that is approx. $4,200 CND. Is the diamond any good? www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/0.85-carat-h-color-si1-clarity-excellent-cut-sku-8959651?a_aid=dmnd1357 www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/0.85-carat-h-color-si1-clarity-excellent-cut-sku-8959651?a_aid=dmnd1357 This diamond has a nice cut, but the cloud listed in the clarity notes is very worrisome. Since the cert doesn’t have clarity plot that would show where the cloud is and …



Q&A: Help Finding a Cushion Cut Diamond for a Rose Gold Solitaire Setting for Under $5,000 Budget

Hello and good evening. I am currently shopping on James Allen and I am considering the diamond below and I need help evaluating the diamond. Thanks very much. www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/cushion-cut/1.41-carat-i-color-vs2-clarity-sku-6257385?a_aid=dmnd1357 I am looking at a solitaire ring in rose gold. www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/cushion-cut/1.41-carat-i-color-vs2-clarity-sku-6257385?a_aid=dmnd1357 We recommend avoiding IGI diamonds as much as possible. This lab is weaker than the …



Q&A: Choosing a Round Diamond for a Halo Setting Within a $16,000 Budget

I need help picking out a diamond for an engagement ring. I’m learning towards finding one on James Allen and have narrowed down my parameters. I even have a few picked out, but I’m not sure if it’s best to take a step back and let the professionals help me analyze some options Can you …


Q&A: Help Finding a Cushion or Emerald Cut Diamond With a $8k – $11k Budget

Hello. I intend to buy a solitaire ring, most likely with a cushion cut diamond. I will send a selection of diamonds in the next step and would appreciate your input. Feel free to link to the options you’re looking at and I’ll gladly give you my opinion on them. It looks like that my …


Q&A: Help Finding a 0.8 Ct. Cushion Cut Diamond for a Halo Setting

I’ve learned a lot on your site; thank you! I was working with a local jeweler but now considering James Allen. I wanted to reach out with a few questions. I assume I would have to mail the ring back for any repairs or resizing? How long usually without the ring? I want to buy …


About the author

Mike Fried Mike Fried Mike Fried has over 25 years experience in the diamond industry working with Leo Schachter Diamonds, Moshe Namdar Diamonds, and joining The Diamond Pro in 2007. He is recognized as an industry expert and has been quoted in publications such as Us, People, Page Six, The Next Web and more.

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