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:
As an extension of your post from June 24 titled, “What Makes a Fancy Shape have a nice Cut?”…. Does a cushion cut fall under the same rule (70/70) as the radiant does? Also, you say the rule is 60/60 for rounds, but I saw one website that recommended 63 table/69 depth, which falls into …
Dear Ira: I am searching for a new center stone for an heirloom setting with three small round stones on either side of the center. A friend of a friend of the family has shown me two round stones. The first weighs 1.02 carats and is GIA-certified triple excellent, H color, and SI2. I can …
Hello Ira, I’ve been reading your site to get educated in this complicated market. Like any purchase, it is best to be informed as much as possible. Recently I have been looking to move to the next step in my relationship and propose. Trying to pick an engagement ring in the “mall stores” proved frustrating …
Apologies in advance for this extended question. My girlfriend wants a three stone engagement ring made of emerald cut diamonds, a centre stone of approx 0.9 carat with the long edge of the stone running parallel with the finger, the two side stone set with the long edge set perpendicular to the main stone all …
Can you find an ideal cut that has good value? Size? Budget? Size is tw of 2 carat or a bit less if I can save, my budget is open to up to $4500 to $9000. White gold/plat or yellow gold setting? And is your goal to pay the least amount for the size and …
This was an interesting one for many reasons. The stone is discussion is quite large. It’s an unusually low color. It turns out not to be certified. It’s two friends, one with money, one without. Lots of intrigue! Hi Ira. I found that your website is very helpful. Thank you. My friend ask me to …
I’m looking for an Oval cut in the 2.5ct range I’m flexible on color and clarity but want a very good cut. Generally speaking what % off the rap would you expect for wholesale? Thanks for your input… It looks like the “call stone” price for a stone like this is around 25% off rap. …
UPDATE: I just made a quick trip to secret shop the Dubai diamond market. Unfortunately, I found more of the same shenanigans you see in most diamond districts. I did find one great contact though. One company does a great job of sourcing legitimately certified diamonds directly from diamond manufacturers at excellent prices. Please contact …