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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: Help Choosing an Oval Diamond With a $3,000 to $4,000 Budget

Hey, I would love your expertise. I’m going to go with an oval diamond. I think it’s classy and can get a bit more bang for my buck on my tight budget. I’m looking at around $3k-$4k for a .9 ish. H+ color. I have two possible choices from the James Allen website. I’m wondering …


Q&A: Help Finding an Eye-Clean SI2 Round Diamond with Around C$2,500 Budget

Hi, I’m looking into buying an engagement ring for my girlfriend and came across your website, I was initially going to go to a jeweler or Costco and have decided against it based on the advice of your website. I appreciate all the information presented and was wondering if you had any further advice on …


Q&A: Looking for an Oval Diamond With a $10,000 Budget

I am just now starting to look at diamonds for an engagement ring. My budget is about $10k. I’m looking for an oval shape with at least H color, SI2 or better clarity, and at least 1.7 carats. I’ve seen some decent options or James Allen but wanted to get your input. Here’s a couple …


Q&A: Looking for an Oval-Shaped Diamond Within a $5.5k-$7.5k Budget

Hi, I need help choosing the perfect oval diamond for an engagement ring. I want an earth-created oval shape diamond. Ideally color G or F, clarity VS2 or better, carat between 1.15 and 1.40. I am really interested in getting a great cut. As the oval diamonds guide mentioned, there is no grading for ovals, …





Q&A: Help Finding a Round Diamond for Around $5,000 Budget

I have a budget of about $5,000 and need help selecting a loose round diamond for that budget. If you want me to make some specific recommendations, can you please tell me what setting style (solitaire/pave/side stones/halo) and metal (white gold/platinum/yellow gold/rose gold) you’re planning to go with? Different settings suit different colors better (https://www.diamonds.pro/education/color/). …


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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