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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:

  Returns results



Q&A: Best Princess Cut for $5000 to $7500 With F or Better Color

Hello, I am currently looking for the best engagement ring possible within the budget of $5000-$7500. Princess Cut D-F Best Clarity Possible Currently been looking on Bluenile.com and mondera.com, can you recommend any other sites? Also are you aware if they offer insurance? Thanks. James Allen James Allen is the leader in online diamond sales. Their …



Q&A: $4000 Max Budget for Woman with Large Fingers

Would appreciate your thoughts on getting a surprise engagement ring for Valentine’s Day. My max is $4,000 and my girlfriend has big hands–8 1/2 ring size. She likes round stones. Should I look for a setting with stones rather than a solitare. I was impressed with James Allan site–What do you think about their setting …


Q&A: Looking for GIA Certified Excellent Cut Round Diamond for Around $4000

Hi Ira, Thank you for putting together a great site. I’m just starting to look for a diamond engagement ring and had a few general questions for you. As I narrow down some of my parameters, I’ll likely have more for your later. I appreciate your help! 1) Most of what I’ve read (especially about …



Q&A: Looking for the Best 1 Carat Princess Cut for $4000 or Less

Hi there first want to thank you for this amazing site and hope that you can help me find the best diamond for the money I am looking to spend. I need your help in suggesting which diamond is best for me. With the price range I am looking at I figure I am looking …


Q&A: Three-Stone Ring Style Engagement Ring for $5000. Blue Nile or James Allen?

Dear Ira, My friend told me about your site and am very glad he did. I was hoping to glean some wisdom from you regarding topping this ring off with a real fireball: https://www.jamesallen.com/engagement-rings/settings-with-sidestones/ring/item_58-2115_design.asp?module=setting It’s a beautiful ring, but has taken a good chunk out of my $5,000 budget ($2,280 for 18k white gold). So, my …


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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