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Q&A: Choosing an Oval Diamond for a Pave Ring With $4,000 Total Budget

By Michael Fried,

Hi, I’m looking for an oval diamond. My budget is around $3,000. My maximum budget for the ring is $4,000 including the oval diamond and a pave setting. I’ve been searching in Blue Nile, and I’ve found some around .9 carats. But I don’t know how to choose the best for the money.

I didn’t find a recommendable 0.90ct diamond in your preferred price range, but I found these two 0.80cts that would look fantastic in a petite pave:
Blue Nile LD12221535
Blue Nile LD12396219
They are well cut and have a subtle bow-tie.

Thank you for the quick response. I loved both, I think I liked this one Blue Nile LD12396219 more. Personally, I like this setting Petite Micropavé Diamond Engagement Ring in 14k White Gold (1/10 ct. tw.), what do you think? Is it too small or is it the right size?

If we increase the budget by $500, can we find a little bit bigger diamond? Is there a big difference in size between a .8ct and a 1ct?

I’m glad you like it. I’m afraid I can’t advise on the “right size”, though, as it’s completely subjective. What some people find too small, others find too big. There is no norm.

I didn’t find anything significantly better for the extra $500. But don’t think the difference between a 0.8 and a 1ct oval diamond would be noticeable in person. Nobody usually knows what a 1ct diamond is supposed to look like.

I’ve bought the diamond.

Thanks for your help!!!!!

It was my pleasure helping you.

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. For a limited time Save 25% during James Allen Holiday Sale!
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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
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