It's almost time! Can you help me find "the one"? :-)

[ShineAndDine]

Hi All! I've been on here for months and just created an account. I have been saving for quite a while and I'm almost ready to make a diamond purchase. However, I'd like a little help in getting some recommendations. Here's what I am looking for, in order of importance:

Cut: Ideal
Carat: .95 - 1.15
Budget: I do have a number in mind. However, I am going to leave this criterion a little vague to see what you guys come up with. I will say that I can do no more than $9500, but obviously the lower the better while still meeting the remaining selection items, as I will be spending a considerable amount on the setting.
HCA: <2.0, but I would strongly prefer to be in the 1 - 1.5 range.
Color: H - F
Clarity: SI1 - VVS1 (I am extremely nervous going to an SI1. I would feel much more comfortable in the VS2 or above range.)

I have looked at a dozens of stones already, but I feel like I'm getting a little too emotional with the decision (ie: "I-want-the-absolute-BEST" Syndrome) and I would like to have a some fresh eyes take a look for me.

I do prefer WhiteFlash or Blue Nile, but I'm also open to others.

I will be setting the stone in a Mark Morell Petite Torchiere w/ crown diamonds.

If you have any questions, please feel free to ask. Depending on what everyone comes back with and the general opinions, I may be able to "pull the trigger" really soon!

 

[JulieN]

http://www.goodoldgold.com/diamond/10259/

http://www.goodoldgold.com/diamond/10016/

 

[mercoledi]

Heftier than you asked for, but runs in the HCA as a Fiery Ideal cut: http://www.jamesallen.com/#!/loose-diamonds/Round-cut/1.36-carat-I-color-VS2-clarity-sku-181281

I looked on WF, and they seem to have mostly virtual stones in your spec range, all of which were a bit pricier than the GOG/JA options. BN is tough since they don't provide the same amount of information as other online vendors.

 

[JulieN]

GOG works with Mark Morrell very often so that is why I suggested them.

 

[Christina...]

I like the second stone that JulieN posted and a bonus that they work with MM. I wish the table on the JA stone were a bit smaller because that would have been my first choice.