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Q&A: Choosing a K Color Round Diamond for a Yellow Gold Solitaire Ring With a $7k – $8k Total Budget

By Michael Fried,

Hello.

I’d like a yellow gold ring with a solitaire diamond. From researching myself, I’d try to get a GIA certified diamond between 1.3-1.5 carat (ideally closer to 1.5), Round shape, Excellent cut, eye clean clarity (not under SI1 unless totally eye clean), with 4 prongs holding the diamond.

I’d be looking to spend between $7,000 and $8,000 total (diamond plus setting/ring).

For a YG solitaire ring, I’d recommend either a K-color center stone (if you and the wearer are not too color sensitive) or a J (if you want to be really sure there wouldn’t be any yellow hue).

I like the following options for you:
www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/1.60-carat-k-color-vvs2-clarity-excellent-cut-sku-8426248?a_aid=dmnd1357
www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/1.40-carat-j-color-vs1-clarity-excellent-cut-sku-7121665?a_aid=dmnd1357
They have a great cut and strong fluorescence on the 1.60ct stone would help it look a tad whiter.

The 1.6 carat looks pretty good. I found one diamond I wanted to get your opinion on, it is $6,600 and seems similar in specification. Do you know why this one is $1,000 less so I can understand?

www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/1.55-carat-k-color-vs2-clarity-true-hearts-cut-sku-8543405?a_aid=dmnd1357

www.jamesallen.com/loose-diamonds/round-cut/1.55-carat-k-color-vs2-clarity-true-hearts-cut-sku-8543405?a_aid=dmnd1357
I found this diamond as well, but it is not eye-clean and has a knot in the certificate which is a big problem, it might disrupt the stone’s integrity.

Ok great, I’m glad to hear that. Then I will go with the 1.6ct and likely buy it in the next few hours 🙂 I don’t want it to get bought up. Does that sound good?

Let me know how it goes!

You can reach out to their customer service and put the diamond on hold, they can hold it for you for 24 hours. You’re right, good diamonds move pretty quickly.

I bought it today. I am very satisfied overall with it!

It was an excellent choice.

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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
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  • Free prong tightening, repolishing, rhodium plating and cleaning every 6 months
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