Just some general advice

[mcilfone]

Obviously since I am asking for advice I am new to the whole diamond buying experience. I know pretty well what my soon to be is looking for in an engagement ring. However I would like to ask general opinions, advice and ideas when looking into purchasing a diamond whether it be loose, online, together with a band, and what is the best combination of the 4 C's. I am looking at an emerald cut diamond in the 1.2 to 1.5 carat range, color range is F-H, while I am a little unsure of what to look for in clarity (I do have it narrowed down a bit to VVS1-VS2), and cut is a unknown science to me. Overall I want something that is going to stand out and shine that people are going to admire, what is the best route? Look for clarity first, then color? Any information would be greatly appreciated. Thank you very much.

Marc

[Yosef]

Emerald Cut, 1.2-1.5cts, I would recommend G-H color and VS1 clarity as the best combination sight unseen, and graded by GIA if you want to be assured it is totally eye-clean and white.

If you want to push the envelope in the VS2-SI1 range or the I color range to save some money, or venture into getting say an EGLUSA graded H/I color or VS2-SI1, you'll need to work with a reputable jeweler who can inspect the stone on your behalf because when you get into that grey area it becomes more subjective and not all stones will be "white" or "eye-clean" in my opinion for 1+ct emeralds.

As for cut, I prefer the shorter and fatter emeralds but that is personal preference. But usually a Length to Width ratio of 1.25 to 2.00 is preferred. Also try to keep the table and depth both in the 60-65% range, and when you look from the top make sure there are no "dead" (read-"dark") spots in the stone. When looking in a bright diffuse light source (like outside on a sunny day or under bright fluorescent lighting), you should see a lot of white light reflecting back.

Please let me know if I can be of any more assistance.

Kindest Regards,
Yosef

[mcilfone]

Thank you so much for the advice. I will definately take that into considerations. One more question has come up as I continue to research. What are the pros and cons of buying online vs buying from a jewelry store? Again thanks in advance for the help.

Marc

[Yosef]

I posted this topic for you:
http://www.diamondinfo.org/forum/showthread.php?t=57

Let me know if I can help you further.

Yosef

[mcilfone]

Just to let everyone know, I enjoy coming back and reading the advice everyone has to offer. Following up on this post I think I have found the diamond that is right for me. If you recall I was looking for

"I am looking at an emerald cut diamond in the 1.2 to 1.5 carat range, color range is F-H, while I am a little unsure of what to look for in clarity (I do have it narrowed down a bit to VVS1-VS2), and cut is a unknown science to me."

Here is the info.
1.27 ct, F color, VS2 clarity (is this a little too risky?), Excellent cut, table 67, depth 65, a L/W of 1.29, Excellent polish and symmetry.

It definately fits within my price range and is a great combination of what I have been looking for. The only part that worries me is the VS2 clarity and not having seen the diamond. I have requested a copy of the GIA cert before I go any further. Does anyone have any thoughts, suggestions, or other ideas for me. Thanks to everyone in advance for your comments.

Marc

[Yosef]

How much is the stone being sold for? When you get a copy of the cert please post it.

Will you be happy if the diamond is totally clean face up but has a little something visible from the sides?

Kind Regards,
Yosef

[mcilfone]

Well there was a little problem with the diamond that they so easily forgot to post. It has a very strong blue fluorescence to it. So needless to say I have removed that stone from my list. Thanks for the inquiry. In regards to your last question Yosef, I would prefer no visible defects on either the face or the sides. I know I am being pretty particular but hey, this is something I want her to show off for the rest of our lives!

Marc

[Yosef]

Hi Marc, I'm sorry you're having trouble... I'd be happy to help you locate a nice emerald if you like, please send me off an email to admin@adde-inc.com. I have access to about 2 million diamonds, much more so then any website.

Or if you have any more specific questions I'd be deleted to help further.

Best luck,
Yosef