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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: Buying Locally in Los Angeles vs. Buying Online

Hello Ira, First, thank you for your site. It’s proven quite helpful already. My question concerns potential vendors. I live in Los Angeles where we have a wholesale jewelry district downtown. An acquaintance, who actually picked out her own engagement ring, swears that I would be a fool to not use one of these local …




Q&A: Online vs. Local in Miami.  $8000 Budget. Radiant vs. Princess.

Q&A: Online vs. Local in Miami. $8000 Budget. Radiant vs. Princess.

I’m looking for a princess cut diamond around 1.25 ct (+- .25 ct) set into a channeled band with diamonds only going halfway down on either side. Have made my mind up on clarity, color, etc. My budget is 8000. I want a combination of quality and size. I live near Miami’s diamond district and …


Q&A: Best Asscher Cut under $8000. James Allen vs. Blue Nile vs. Bricks & Mortar

Dear Ira, I was wondering if you could give me your thoughts on the following Asscher Cut Diamonds from Bluenile: Blue Nile LD01788438 Blue Nile LD00439308 I am looking for the best Asscher Cut for less than $8,000 US. I would like a color grade of D-G I would like the best clarity possible and …


Q&A: Looking for Big and Beautiful Pear Shape for about $10,000

hey Ira, I’m looking to find a pear shaped diamond to fit in a pretty wide (6-8mm) setting. What is most important to look for in Pear shapes? Where can i make concessions since I obviously want to get the largest stone because of the wide setting. thanks have a great day James Allen James …


Q&A: Sometimes You Don’t Need My Help!  Guy Looking for 1.50 Emerald Cut Diamond Nails it on First Try.

Q&A: Sometimes You Don’t Need My Help! Guy Looking for 1.50 Emerald Cut Diamond Nails it on First Try.

Hi Ira, My goal is an emerald cut diamond in the 1.5 carat range. My parameters would be your suggested minimums including H and VS2. Eye clean is required. Should I assume an Emerald cut GIA VS2 or better should always be eye clean? My likely setting is this one: https://www.jamesallen.com/engagement-rings/settings-with-sidestones/ring/item_58-169.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357 I have located this …



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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