2ct Cushion Engagement Ring - trying to learn!

[c1224]

Greetings,

I have been saving up for an engagement ring and will need to make a choice on a diamond soon if I want to present it for when I have planned. I have been learning as much as I can about diamonds (which is partially how I ended up on this website) and would appreciate any opinions and knowledge you have to offer me.

I decided that I will be purchasing a lab grown diamond. I am looking for the following specifications:

Shape: Cushion
Cut: Ideal or better
Color: G or better
Carat Weight: 2.00 or heavier
Clarity: VS1 or clearer
Polish: Excellent
Symmetry: Excellent
Fluorescence: None
Eye Clean: Required
Price: $5300 or less

I would be willing to compromise a little bit on the color or clarity if needed. However, I read that H color might not be good for diamonds exceeding 2.00 carats, and considering that I was hoping for a three stone setting with H colored accents (average), was hoping for G or better for the center stone.

I continue to find diamonds from numerous sellers (Ritani, With Clarity, Rarecarat, James Allen) that meet these specifications but the price varies greatly.

For example, this diamond from James Allen is listed for $5,330 with G/VS2/Ideal/2.01

Lab-Created 2.01 Carat cushion diamond

This cushion cut 2.01 carat Lab-Created G color vs2 clarity has a diamond grading report from IGI

www.jamesallen.com

However, this diamond from Ritani is $2,000 cheaper with E/VS1/Very Good/2.03

2.03 Carat Cushion Lab Grown Diamond E Color VS1 Clarity Very Good Cut | Ritani

2.03 Carat Cushion Lab Diamond VG Cut E Color VS1 Clarity with diamond report number IGI #476186511

www.ritani.com

When I start to compare lab grown diamonds that have near identical specifications in terms of "the four Cs," what other things should I be looking for?

I know that, for one, the James Allen diamond used the HPHT method grown "as is" with no evidence of post-growth treatment.
The Ritani diamond, in contrast, used the CVD method that may include post-growth treatment.

Grown "as is" sounds more appealing to me, but I'm trying to be logical and understand beyond just these words.

From what I have read, for CVD diamonds, I want to know about brown/gray undertones, inclusions on the girdle, strain, graining, striations, and any straw color produced by post-growth treatment.

From what I have read, for HPHT diamonds, I want to know about blue nuance from boron, gray undertone, phosphorescence, zoning, and metal flux inclusions.

I don't know how I can look at the existence of any of these traits just by looking at an IGI/GIA report and some videos.

I figure, maybe the law of averages might assist. Maybe all things considered, purchasing from a reputable seller using a diamond made from a "superior" method (if that even exists) is the way to go. But I don't know.

Do you guys prefer to stick with one or the other regarding HPHT/CVD? What are some things that I can look for beyond "the four Cs?" Why are a ton of CVD diamonds on Ritani thousands of dollars cheaper than their HPHT counterparts listed on James Allen?

I know I'm asking a ton of questions here, I would just like to learn as much as possible about lab diamonds and understand why there are such drastic price differences so that I can feel confident and comfortable when it is time to make a purchase.

Here is a list of diamonds I have found that I like, but as you can see, the prices are all over the place. What else should I be looking for in these lab diamonds beyond the 4 cs?

Carat Weight	Cut	Color	Clarity	Method	Price	Certificate	URL
2.03	Very Good	E	VS1	CVD	$3378.00	IGI #476186511	2.03 Carat Cushion Lab Diamond | Ritani 2.03 Carat Cushion Lab Diamond VG Cut E Color VS1 Clarity with diamond report number IGI #LG476186511 www.ritani.com
2.03	Very Good	F	VVS2	CVD	$3503.00	IGI #LG480178068	2.03 Carat Cushion Lab Diamond | Ritani 2.03 Carat Cushion Lab Diamond VG Cut F Color VVS2 Clarity with diamond report number IGI #LG480178068 www.ritani.com
2.02	Very Good	G	VS2	HPHT	$3163.00	GIA #2407986782	2.02 Carat Cushion Lab Diamond | Ritani 2.02 Carat Cushion Lab Diamond VG Cut G Color VS2 Clarity with diamond report number GIA #2407986782 www.ritani.com
2.02	Excellent	G	VS1	CVD	$5036.00	IGI #LG508155156	https://www.rarecarat.com/diamond/97744195/202ct-g-vs1-excellent-cut-cushion-lab-grown-diamond
2.11	Excellent	G	VS1	CVD	$5259.00	IGI #LG508155150	https://www.rarecarat.com/diamond/97744202/211ct-g-vs1-excellent-cut-cushion-lab-grown-diamond
2.04	Excellent	F	VS1	CVD	$5422.00	IGI #LG508115617	https://www.rarecarat.com/diamond/97108707/204ct-f-vs1-excellent-cut-cushion-lab-grown-diamond
2.00	Excellent	G	VS1	CVD	$3441.00	IGI #LG497179693	2.00 Carat Cushion Diamond Excellent Cut G Color VS1 Clarity www.withclarity.com
2.07	Excellent	G	VVS2	CVD	$3481.00	IGI #LG512220319	2.07 Carat Cushion Diamond Excellent Cut G Color VVS2 Clarity www.withclarity.com
2.02	Excellent	F	VVS2	CVD	$3725.00	IGI #LG499106337	2.02 Carat Cushion Diamond Excellent Cut F Color VVS2 Clarity www.withclarity.com
2.00	Ideal	G	VS1	CVD	$6250.00	IGI #LG457079809	loose diamonds, cushion cut, 2.00 carat g color vs1 clarity sku 11187473 11187473 - This Cushion Cut 2.00 Carat G Color VS1 Clarity has a diamond grading report from IGI www.jamesallen.com
2.01	Ideal	G	VS2	HPHT	$5330.00	IGI #LG500134719	Lab-Created 2.01 Carat cushion diamond This cushion cut 2.01 carat Lab-Created G color vs2 clarity has a diamond grading report from IGI www.jamesallen.com
2.04	Ideal	G	VS2	HPHT	$5410.00	IGI #LG497167963	loose diamonds, cushion cut, 2.04 carat g color vs2 clarity sku 13374518 13374518 - This Cushion Modified Cut 2.04 Carat G Color VS2 Clarity has a diamond grading report from IGI www.jamesallen.com

Which diamond would you go with, and why?

What else should I be looking for beyond the 4 Cs in a lab made diamond, and how can I tell?

Do HPHT "grown as is" methods tend to produce better quality diamonds (James Allen), or can I be getting the same (or better quality) for a fraction of the price with Ritani or With Clarity?

Any other recommendations, links/books for me to read, or videos for me to watch?

I appreciate your time. I wish there was something I can contribute back to the forum instead of just making an account and asking a question, but my knowledge of diamonds is limited. Still, if anyone thinks I might be able to contribute somehow, I would love to give back.

Thanks.

 

[vintageinjune]

Congratulations, you found the rabbit hole!

You've already figured out the primary issues that can go well beyond the 4Cs for lab diamonds - HPHT may have blue nuance (which, if minimal, really won't be noticeable in real life, if more than minima, will cause the diamond to look blue tinted), and CVD can be brown/gray undertone , with transparency/ light play issues if the striation is really bad.

This website has some good visuals on everything: https://www.diamondscreener.com/edu...o-look-for-when-buying-a-lab-created-diamond/

Prices are all over the place and I'm not sure any of us outside the trade really know why - some of the lower priced vendors have issues with actually securing the inventory they are offering, and some people have been incredibly disappointed when they purchased what was a killer deal, only to be told the diamond was already sold, and a (usually) more expensive alternative offered.

The best bet for feeling confident and comfortable is to find a diamond you like, from a reputable vendor, within your price range.

MY big questions are:
-Are you looking for a square or elongated cushion?
-Do you prefer a crushed ice look, splintery, or large faceted?

 

[vintageinjune]

So, we have
-Square antique cut cushion (this is an image of an August Vintage from Distinctive Gems)
- Square crushed ice
- Elongated crushed ice
- Square cushion brilliant

 

[Alybetter]

Agree with Vintageinjune - it helps to know what type of cushion cut you’re looking for as a starting point. Crushed ice, or cushion modified brilliants, will be the most common. X factor cushions, or cushion brilliants, the ones with clear, concise faceting patterns will be somewhat harder to come by. The beauty of a cushion is in the eye of the beholder.
Another thing - ensure you have plenty of time before you need present the ring AND ensure the vendor you buy from has a good returns policy. Some vendors will only allow you to return one time and your second purchase will be considered final. I’d avoid those, personally. Plenty of time so you can purchase and view the stone in hand, and return if necessary.
I’ve had both HPHT and CVD, and I’ve been happy with both. Keep an eye out for blue nuance, if that bothers you, and stria, if that bothers you. Despite having a CVD diamond with post growth treatment, and being happy with it, I would probably avoid that for my next purchase.

 

[c1224]

MY big questions are:
-Are you looking for a square or elongated cushion?
-Do you prefer a crushed ice look, splintery, or large faceted?

Hey, thanks for your reply! I truly appreciate it.

I think I am looking for better light performance, so I am leaning toward the brilliance and scintillation found in the traditional brilliant cushion. Square.

With something larger faceted, wouldn't there be more of a chance to see inclusions? Or is that not really an issue when we start talking a certain clarity level?

Thanks for reaffirming that I should look out for potential blue nuance or gray/brown undertones (depending). If I upgraded the color on my diamond to something that was classified as colorless, would I no longer need to worry about looking for potential blue nuance or gray/brown undertones?

Thank you for your reply, I just went and did a bit of reading on brilliant vs modified!

 

[c1224]

Another thing - ensure you have plenty of time before you need present the ring AND ensure the vendor you buy from has a good returns policy. Some vendors will only allow you to return one time and your second purchase will be considered final. I’d avoid those, personally. Plenty of time so you can purchase and view the stone in hand, and return if necessary.
I’ve had both HPHT and CVD, and I’ve been happy with both. Keep an eye out for blue nuance, if that bothers you, and stria, if that bothers you. Despite having a CVD diamond with post growth treatment, and being happy with it, I would probably avoid that for my next purchase.

Thanks for the tip regarding return policy + having plenty of time. That's great information!

When I look for blue nuance / stria, is that something I can sometimes see on some vendor's sites via the "HD videos?" Or is it only really possible by looking in person?

 

[Kim N]

If I upgraded the color on my diamond to something that was classified as colorless, would I no longer need to worry about looking for potential blue nuance or gray/brown undertones?

When I look for blue nuance / stria, is that something I can sometimes see on some vendor's sites via the "HD videos?" Or is it only really possible by looking in person?

Unfortunately, even D color diamonds can sometimes have issues. You can usually see blue nuance or stria in the HD videos. Blue nuance is usually more readily apparent in the profile view, and often on the outer parts of the crown.

 

[vintageinjune]

Alright, options for fun!

This 2.07 ct, F, VS1 , $5004 cushion is *sliiiiiightly* elongated, but it was so pretty I had to share.

DreamStone Loose Diamonds | Ideal Cut Diamonds | Certified Diamonds | Diamond Engagement Rings - DreamStone

Shop diamond engagement rings, diamond stud earrings, diamond pendants, GIA diamonds online at dreamstone.com. DreamStone's comprehensive interactive education center will guide you through everything you need to know about diamonds.

dreamstone.com

This 2.03 ct, E , VS2 , $5,498 is about $200 over budget, but again with the pretty! The crystals would likely not be visible in real life viewing.

SOLD ITEM 2.03 CARAT Square Cushion | LAB-GROWN DIAMOND | E COLOR | VS2 CLARITY | Excellent CUT | IGI CERTIFIED | STOCK ID: 3222846 | The Art Of Jewels

2.03 CARAT Square Cushion | LAB-GROWN DIAMOND | E COLOR | VS2 CLARITY | Excellent CUT | IGI CERTIFIED | STOCK ID: 3222846

www.theartofjewels.com

1.91ct , E, VS1, $4,932 - again, crystal will likely not be visible in real life . https://www.withclarity.com/diamond...rce=stonealgo&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=lab

1.90 ct, D, VS1, $5,210 - faces up as large as a 2ct generally does - https://www.theartofjewels.com/buil...onealgo&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=stonealgo


1.90 ct, E, VVS2, $5,210 - again, great face up (even larger than the one above) - https://www.theartofjewels.com/buil...onealgo&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=stonealgo

 

[EClove]

Hey, thanks for your reply! I truly appreciate it.

I think I am looking for better light performance, so I am leaning toward the brilliance and scintillation found in the traditional brilliant cushion. Square.

With something larger faceted, wouldn't there be more of a chance to see inclusions? Or is that not really an issue when we start talking a certain clarity level?

Thanks for reaffirming that I should look out for potential blue nuance or gray/brown undertones (depending). If I upgraded the color on my diamond to something that was classified as colorless, would I no longer need to worry about looking for potential blue nuance or gray/brown undertones?

Thank you for your reply, I just went and did a bit of reading on brilliant vs modified!

Other posters have answered your other questions, but with something larger faceted once you get to a certain clarity level, you're right, it's usually not an issue. Emeralds and asschers show inclusions most and in my search in*most* VS1s I was unable to see any inclusions with the naked eye unless they were black or in certain spots. If that's a concern, I'd suggest looking at Vs1 and up!

 

[Alybetter]

Thanks for the tip regarding return policy + having plenty of time. That's great information!

When I look for blue nuance / stria, is that something I can sometimes see on some vendor's sites via the "HD videos?" Or is it only really possible by looking in person?

Blue nuance may be noted on the certificate, but not always. You’d have to use the imagery provided by the vendor, or use a vendor that will visually vet stones for you.
I’ve heard that all CVD diamonds have stria, some only visible at high magnification. I do not know if this is fact, but trust the folks who have stated it. There’s also some debate as to whether stria even effects a diamond’s performance. I’m not an expert so I’m afraid I don’t have any better answers. The anecdotes that I can offer are: that in my post-growth treated CVD stone, under 10x loupe or even 2x iPhone pro camera photos, I can see *something* in one of the larger facets when the light hits it right, some sort of streaky or filmy appearance there beneath the fire. I can’t see it with my naked eye and to me, it doesn’t diminish the beauty of the stone. I’m fine with inclusions provided they’re unobtrusive. Meanwhile, I didn’t see any of this phenomenon with my HPHT diamonds under 10x loupe or zoomed in photos. There were inclusions as expected, but no streaks of filmy appearance.
I’t doesn’t bother me, doesn’t detract from my experience with the diamond. It’s a VS2, I believe. I don’t believe stria are included on inclusion plotting metrics. Need to have it vetted by an expert if you want to be sure to avoid it with a CVD stone.