It is darker and the cut is no better. The cut issue is different; it has a fairly large window where light leaks right through instead of reflecting colour back to the eye.
Just wanted to share that I ended up getting the 2.82 ct unheated oval blue sapphire from Tan that Chrono had pointed out to me. Thanks Chrono! it will make a stunning ring that I am sure one of my 3 girls will wear down the line! Now the fun is in picking a goldsmith to make a 3 stone ring with the 0.5 diamonds and the sapphire! I am thinking Sally or Daniel M but am open to suggestions as I am truly a newbie.
I feel so honoured that you have been admiring it! Yes! After all that searching I was beginning to feel not very confident in my own judgement. I am getting it GIA certified so it will be a while unfortunately!