We are reader-supported. Buying through any red colored link on our site may earn us commissions. Learn More.

Q&A: Checking out a Stone After Purchase for Eye-Cleanliness

By Mike Fried,

I like your website- I just wanted to get your opinion on this diamond.

https://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/G-SI2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1249023.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357

My only worry were the crystals on the table. I contacted James Allen, and they contacted the jeweler, who they say verified that the diamond is in fact “eye clean.” Given your experiences with James Allen, what do you think? Thank you

I just noticed this stone was purchased already. Was that you?


Yes it was- I thought I’d get your feedback before I wired my money to them. To my novice eye, it seemed like it could be a good deal, so I purchased it right away. I’m sold on James Allen, so if you steer me away from this stone, I will likely still purchase from them.

Thanks for your time- what are your thoughts?


I’ll check it out in a couple of hours once my kids are asleep (I’m in Israel)


Ah- I did not realize. Thank you- you provide a great service!


Hi. I was really hoping I was going to love the stone considering that you already purchased it. That would have been the smoother road for sure for everyone. But unfortunately, I don’t like it. That black inclusion in the center looks quite strong.

I took another look for you and here’s what I found:

https://www.jamesallen.com/diamonds/G-SI2-Ideal-Cut-Round-Diamond-1290511.asp?a_aid=dmnd1357

It’s a bit more expensive, but this stone is 100% eye clean. I wouldn’t worry about the fact that it’s VG/VG vs. Ex/Ex. You’d never be able to see the difference in a million years. Take a look at my articles on Polish and Symmetry.

All of the cheaper 1 ct G SI2s either also had black inclusions or had VG cut on the GIA cert (that’s why they’re cheaper).

Have a look and let me know your thoughts. Again, I’m sorry to bring bad news – I know it’s frustrating to go back to the drawing board when you thought you’ve finished your job.


I really appreciate the candid comments- I’ll be sure to look at the stone you recommended.

So- even though James Allen contacted the jeweler, and they said the jeweler pulled the diamond and stated that the black inclusion is “eye clean,” it might not be?

Maybe definitions vary on “eye clean,” although it seems straightforward to me. At any rate, that’s why I wanted your opinion.


Generally people define eye clean as about 12 inches away from your eyes. It’s very possible you wouldn’t be able to see it at a casual 12 inch glance. But if you held that stone close up, you’d definitely see it.


I really like the diamond that you picked out. I’d rather have a stone that is truly “eye clean.”

One question- Do I need to be concerned that there are feathers and other imperfections at the edge of the stone? Could this cause the stone to get damaged or crack?

If you definitely think the stone you picked is stronger, I will contact jamesallen and see if I can get them to switch stones.


Are you having JA set the stone, or are you getting it set yourself?


I am going to have JA set the stone- can I suggest something like they place one of the prongs over the area in question?


Yes, you should ask them to cover it with the prong. Also, if that’s the case, then I wouldn’t worry about the feather. If the stone cracks, it’ll only happen when the jeweler’s setting it, and if it happens at JA’s jeweler, they’re responsible, not you.

Btw, did you notice on my site the TAD0611 coupon? It’ll give you 10% off your setting.


Thanks for all of the advice- I will contact JA and request that they switch.

I did make sure to use the TAD0611 coupon code- thanks- I hope they reward you for the work you do!


They do 🙂  Thanks!


JamesAllen switched the order to the diamond you selected- easy process.

I made sure to let them know that you helped me out- hope that’s ok.

I should get the ring next week- I hope I did well. Thanks for the input, you probably saved me a lot of trouble!


Excellent! Please stay in touch and let me know what you think when it arrives.

James Allen James Allen is the leader in online diamond sales. Their imaging technology is the same as inspecting a diamond with a jeweler's loupe. They have the largest exclusive loose diamond inventory online and fantastic prices. They also have the nicest collection of lab-created diamonds online. Get 25% off sitewide at James Allen
What we love about them:
  • No questions asked returns within 30 days of shipment. James Allen will send you a paid shipping label to return the ring.
  • Lifetime Warranty
  • Free International Shipping
  • Free prong tightening, repolishing, rhodium plating and cleaning every 6 months
  • Provide insurance appraisals
  • One free resizing within 60 days of purchase
  • Free ring inscriptions
  • Best-in-class high quality imagery of all diamonds in stock
  • 24/7 Customer Service
  • Best-in-class packaging
Arrow down
Arrow up
Blue Nile Blue Nile is the largest and most well known internet jewelry seller. They have a very large exclusive online inventory. Their high quality images are catching up to James Allens' and their prices are amazing.Save 25% on settings at Blue Nile!

Please enter your email address to receive your 25% off coupon code:

What we love about them:
  • No questions asked returns within 30 days of shipment. Blue Nile will send you a paid shipping label to return the ring.
  • Lifetime Warranty
  • Free Shipping
  • Free prong tightening, repolishing, rhodium plating and cleaning every 6 months
  • Provide insurance appraisal
  • One free resizing within the first year of purchase
  • High quality images of about half of their diamonds
  • 24/7 Customer Service
  • 100% credit towards future upgrades (must be at least double in value)
  • Best in class fulfillment
Arrow down
Arrow up

Still afraid of getting ripped off?

Before you buy a diamond, get personal buying advice from industry veterans. We'll help you get the best diamond for the money.

Ask your diamond purchase question here

  • Hidden
  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

DISCLAIMER: We don't use your email for marketing. Period.

Please enter your email address to receive your 25% off coupon code:

Here is your coupon code: GFDSF3GF