Urgent please help me - need to decide today!

[Dididudu16]

Hello everyone,

I have posted a few days ago regarding my diamond selection since I’m looking to upgrade with bluenile. And really appreciate all the honest feedbacks. So I just came across one of their Astor collection and there is a price cut, I just don’t know if it’s a better bet to go with this one since I can’t obtain Aset images for both.

So this is the original diamond I was gonna go with

1) 2.53 e vs2 $39,930
Table 59
Crown angle 34
Pavilion angle 40.8
Depth 60.2

HCA 1.2 (scintillation very good, everyone else excellent






And this is the Astor one with a price cut down to $37,430
HCA 1.2 (spread very good everything else excellent)




If I were to pick the Astor will I have a better cut diamond with more fire and brilliance based on the given information? I’m willing to sacrifice the color and carat weight (not sure if the color and carat weight would have much difference either) for a better visual

Please please help me. Today is probably the last day they will let me update my order if I need to make the change. Thank you all so much!!!

 

[diamondseeker2006]

Do you have a link to the stone so we can see the video or magnified image? I do prefer the numbers on the F.

I just realized how much larger the E is. That's a huge difference in size. So you need to be very certain before you order because upgrading at BN would cost a LOT of money!!!

Just cancel the order and don't let them corner you into making a decision too quickly. I don't love the E, but if size is important, then the F might not be large enough. I would not rush at a vendor with this kind of upgrade policy.

 

[Dididudu16]

Do you have a link to the stone so we can see the video or magnified image? I do prefer the numbers on the F.

I just realized how much larger the E is. That's a huge difference in size. So you need to be very certain before you order because upgrading at BN would cost a LOT of money!!!

This is the link for the Astor

Classic Six-Prong Solitaire Engagement Ring in Platinum | Blue Nile

This platinum six-prong solitaire is the ultimate classic engagement ring style. Crafted to showcase your choice of diamond, six slim platinum prongs secure and support the center stone. The slender silhouette and polished finish of this solitaire exemplify timeless design, proving simple can be...

www.bluenile.com

And this is for the E

Classic Six-Prong Solitaire Engagement Ring in Platinum | Blue Nile

This platinum six-prong solitaire is the ultimate classic engagement ring style. Crafted to showcase your choice of diamond, six slim platinum prongs secure and support the center stone. The slender silhouette and polished finish of this solitaire exemplify timeless design, proving simple can be...

www.bluenile.com

@diamondseeker2006 yes! That’s why I’m so nervous especially without the diamond in hand, I really don’t want to make a bad choice there. Thank you so much for replying!

 

[Dididudu16]

Do you have a link to the stone so we can see the video or magnified image? I do prefer the numbers on the F.

I just realized how much larger the E is. That's a huge difference in size. So you need to be very certain before you order because upgrading at BN would cost a LOT of money!!!

Just cancel the order and don't let them corner you into making a decision too quickly. I don't love the E, but if size is important, then the F might not be large enough. I would not rush at a vendor with this kind of upgrade policy.

@diamondseeker2006 but I have already sent in my original diamond and started the process. So I’m kinda stuck here, either switch it now or probably never (or until the next upgrade, which most likely wouldn’t happen since it’s ALOT of money...)

 

[Dididudu16]

@diamondseeker2006 but I have already sent in my original diamond and started the process. So I’m kinda stuck here, either switch it now or probably never (or until the next upgrade, which most likely wouldn’t happen since it’s ALOT of money...)

So will there be visual difference between the two? Would the F have more fire and brilliance than the E?

 

[diamondseeker2006]

Yes, the F should have more fire because of the higher crown angle. I like it. The E looks nice, too.

What size is your diamond that you traded in? Did you have your heart set on 2.5 cts?

Right now I'd call them and tell them to hold off until Monday and you'll let them know then. I'll try to look at BN this evening and see if I see anything else worth considering.

 

[Dididudu16]

Yes, the F should have more fire because of the higher crown angle.

What size is your diamond that you traded in?

My original was a 1.08 d vvs1 Astor

 

[diamondseeker2006]

I promise I will look in just a bit to see if there are any other options. If you didn't see my additional edit above, I had added that you should tell them with the holidays you need to wait until Monday to give them a decision and see what they say. If not, definitely postpone until late tomorrow afternoon.

Are you going to be happy with an 8.3 vs 8.8 mm stone? There's a big visual difference in those sizes.

I'll be back after I've had a chance to look at BN.

 

[Morenita21]

I like the F

 

[LLJsmom]

If color is really important to you, I would consider the E. Otherwise I think the F would provide more colored light return. Can you return it if you don't like it? Even if you were upgrading, you should be allowed to return correct???

 

[Dididudu16]

I promise I will look in just a bit to see if there are any other options. If you didn't see my additional edit above, I had added that you should tell them with the holidays you need to wait until Monday to give them a decision and see what they say. If not, definitely postpone until late tomorrow afternoon.

Are you going to be happy with an 8.3 vs 8.8 mm stone? There's a big visual difference in those sizes.

I'll be back after I've had a chance to look at BN.

thank you so much for your feedback, I truly appreciate it! I’m a size 5.75 finger so I was thinking between 2.25-2.5ct, 8.3 I should be happy with. I’d rather have a better cut diamond than just a bigger. Ive been checking their website everyday and the selections are very limited within my criteria. It has to be above 37k to double my original diamond. And I would prefer the colorless range.

I had already placed the order for the E color yesterday but saw this Astor price cut today. So I really don’t know if it’s a better call to make the switch before anything is done. If the additional fire is not worthy enough for me to sacrifice the carat weight and color, then I might just stick with the E. Thank you so much again for helping me out here. I really really appreciate it!

 

[Dididudu16]

If color is really important to you, I would consider the E. Otherwise I think the F would provide more colored light return. Can you return it if you don't like it? Even if you were upgrading, you should be allowed to return correct???

Thank you for your feedback. Yes I can, but as far as I know even exchange it has to be equal or high value since it’s an upgrade? So now the price of the f is lower than the e I won’t be able to go back to the f if I end up taking the e home. From the 360 video it all looks the same to me, but from reading the posts here, is there that much cut difference between these two diamonds? Like is it going to be a very noticeable difference or only when compared side by side? Thank you again I really appreciate it!

 

[diamondseeker2006]

I have the same ring size as you (5.5-5.75) and my current diamond is right at 8.4mm, so very close to the size of the F. I am looking at BN now to see if those are the only two options. Here's a picture to give you size perspective (on an old hand!).

 

[diamondseeker2006]

Okay, first of all, the price on that F stone is not a good deal. Because here is a 2.25 F VS1 that I like better and it is only $32k. So that turns me off of the Astor F.

Classic Six-Prong Solitaire Engagement Ring in Platinum | Blue Nile

This platinum six-prong solitaire is the ultimate classic engagement ring style. Crafted to showcase your choice of diamond, six slim platinum prongs secure and support the center stone. The slender silhouette and polished finish of this solitaire exemplify timeless design, proving simple can be...

www.bluenile.com

Also, here's an E VS1 less than that Astor F with great numbers. I know these aren't at your price point, but it's just to show you that F is not a good buy at all.

Classic Six-Prong Solitaire Engagement Ring in Platinum | Blue Nile

This platinum six-prong solitaire is the ultimate classic engagement ring style. Crafted to showcase your choice of diamond, six slim platinum prongs secure and support the center stone. The slender silhouette and polished finish of this solitaire exemplify timeless design, proving simple can be...

www.bluenile.com

I am still looking.

 

[Dididudu16]

I have the same ring size as you (5.5-5.75) and my current diamond is right at 8.4mm, so very close to the size of the F. I am looking at BN now to see if those are the only two options. Here's a picture to give you size perspective (on an old hand!).

I remember seeing your photo in the show me your bling forum! That size looks pretty lovely to me! (Until DSS sets in, something I learned through Pricescope lol) thank you for the reference!

 

[diamondseeker2006]

I looked at several diamonds which you likely had already checked out and there were none that got all excellent on light return, fire, and scintillation (other than the F). So I am of the opinion that the E is a better buy than the F even though I'd slightly favor the numbers on the F if the stones were equal in size. The E is a nice stone and should be bright and white. It's only downside is very good on scintillation, but let's face it, this diamond is likely in the top 10% as far as cut goes.

Here is a graphic to show you how much larger that E is than the F:

F (8.3mm) on left, E (8.8mm) on right

 

[Dididudu16]

I looked at several diamonds which you likely had already checked out and there were none that got all excellent on light return, fire, and scintillation (other than the F). So I am of the opinion that the E is a better buy than the F even though I'd slightly favor the numbers on the F if the stones were equal in size. The E is a nice stone and should be bright and white. It's only downside is very good on scintillation, but let's face it, this diamond is likely in the top 10% as far as cut goes.

Here is a graphic to show you how much larger that E is than the F:

F (8.3mm) on left, E (8.8mm) on right

Thank you once again for the thorough explanation and the picture illustrating size difference. I never though 0.5mm difference would have that much visual effect. Since I don’t know much about diamonds, would the scintillation be a big difference when wearing the ring, like would it still be fiery? Or is the difference only noticeable when compared side by side with a super ideal cut?

 

[diamondseeker2006]

Thank you once again for the thorough explanation and the picture illustrating size difference. I never though 0.5mm difference would have that much visual effect. Since I don’t know much about diamonds, would the scintillation be a big difference when wearing the ring, like would it still be fiery? Or is the difference only noticeable when compared side by side with a super ideal cut?

According to what you posted for the HCA, the E scored Excellent on light return, fire, and spread, and very good on scintillation. Fire is really only seen in particular lighting such as spotlighting or in the sun. I honestly cannot say whether a non-expert observer could detect the difference between excellent and very good on scintillation. I wish I could help more in that respect, but that's why I generally try to choose stones that have excellent on light return, fire, and scintillation (most ideal cuts score vg on spread) when we are buying a stone without actually seeing it. The scores at least help with the selection.

@Karl_K Are you able to help us with the very good scintillation aspect (on HCA) and whether you'd recommend buying a stone with vg as opposed to excellent??? This is probably a final upgrade, so it is a big decision.

GIA - Report Check

www.gia.edu

 

[Karl_K]

@Karl_K Are you able to help us with the very good scintillation aspect (on HCA) and whether you'd recommend buying a stone with vg as opposed to excellent??? This is probably a final upgrade, so it is a big decision.

GIA - Report Check

www.gia.edu

This is a tough question because the answer is it depends.
The hca is its best at telling you if the average(grossly rounded gia) crown and pavilion facet angles work together which is the number.
The other scores are much less reliable, it does not take in to account upper and lower girdle angles which has a huge impact.
Did you post the right link??
The one you linked to has a hca of 2.5 and that combo can go either way just fine or under table leakage depending on specifics.

 

[Dididudu16]

This is a tough question because the answer is it depends.
The hca is its best at telling you if the average(grossly rounded gia) crown and pavilion facet angles work together which is the number.
The other scores are much less reliable, it does not take in to account upper and lower girdle angles which has a huge impact.
Did you post the right link??
The one you linked to has a hca of 2.5 and that combo can go either way just fine or under table leakage depending on specifics.

@Karl_K thank you for your input, it’s this diamond right here.

 

[LLJsmom]

Nancy, can you call and ask BN whether you can return a diamond you picked? And that you don't need to choose another one that is higher in cost, provided it is already double the cost of the original stone? I think you should be allowed...

 

[Karl_K]

@Karl_K thank you for your input, it’s this diamond right here.

Good 60/60 combo.
scintillation should be in line with any other 60/60 diamond.
It is one of a few combos that can get ags0 in a 60/60 design.

 

[Dididudu16]

Nancy, can you call and ask BN whether you can return a diamond you picked? And that you don't need to choose another one that is higher in cost, provided it is already double the cost of the original stone? I think you should be allowed...

@LLJsmom i did confirm with them and was told I can exchange for another one as long as it’s still double of the original value. I guess the previous representative either misunderstood me or gave the incorrect info.

 

[Dididudu16]

Good 60/60 combo.
scintillation should be in line with any other 60/60 diamond.
It is one of a few combos that can get ags0 in a 60/60 design.

@Karl_K I’m sorry but could you please explain a little more what’s the scintillation like for 60/60 diamond comparing to those super ideals? I did read some previous posts on 60/60 but didn’t seem to quite get the whole picture yet. My biggest concern is if there will be much visual difference to the wearer and observer? And would you think this should be a good pick as well?? Thank you again!

 

[Dididudu16]

According to what you posted for the HCA, the E scored Excellent on light return, fire, and spread, and very good on scintillation. Fire is really only seen in particular lighting such as spotlighting or in the sun. I honestly cannot say whether a non-expert observer could detect the difference between excellent and very good on scintillation. I wish I could help more in that respect, but that's why I generally try to choose stones that have excellent on light return, fire, and scintillation (most ideal cuts score vg on spread) when we are buying a stone without actually seeing it. The scores at least help with the selection.

@Karl_K Are you able to help us with the very good scintillation aspect (on HCA) and whether you'd recommend buying a stone with vg as opposed to excellent??? This is probably a final upgrade, so it is a big decision.

GIA - Report Check

www.gia.edu

@diamondseeker2006 Thank you again for all of your help and advice, thank you thank you!!!

 

[diamondseeker2006]

This is a tough question because the answer is it depends......
Did you post the right link??
The one you linked to has a hca of 2.5 and that combo can go either way just fine or under table leakage depending on specifics.

Many apologies!!! I did post the wrong E because I had several stones open comparing reports! Glad Nancy saw your reply and gave you the correct one! Thank you for helping with the original stone! It sounds like it sound be good!

Sorry about that, Nancy! I hope you'll come back with pictures of your ring for us! Please tag me so I don't miss it! I was happy to be of any help!

 

[AllAboardTheBlingTrain]

I’m not an expert by any means, but I am biased in that I prefer 60/60 stones and an E colour will be beautifully icy white. The added spread is a really good bonus too. I don’t personally think you could tell the different between Ex and VG on scintillation in your daily life but that’s just my eyes. My non super ideal cut diamonds also sparkle like crazy! Good luck with your selection!

 

[Dididudu16]

I’m not an expert by any means, but I am biased in that I prefer 60/60 stones and an E colour will be beautifully icy white. The added spread is a really good bonus too. I don’t personally think you could tell the different between Ex and VG on scintillation in your daily life but that’s just my eyes. My non super ideal cut diamonds also sparkle like crazy! Good luck with your selection!

Thank you very much for the extra reassurance!!!

 

[uyalison]

I just want to point out, I notice pricescope lists a diamond concierge service:

Premier Diamond and Jewelry Community | PriceScope

PriceScope is the largest Diamond and Jewelry Community with Diamond Search and Comparison Tool, Diamond Consumer Forums and Diamond Guides

www.pricescope.com

I think what it basically is professionals help you pick out diamond(s). I haven't used it. I just noticed it is there.

my original diamond was a 1 ct from blueline as well. when I researched for an upgrade, I also came to the forum for help. people here are super helpful. So I am not discrediting the help that people here are giving, in fact I value them immeasurable. I am just listing some other options for you to consider.

While I was debating on my upgrade, I stumble on

Nice Ice Diamonds So Bright They'll Make Her Scream YES!!!

Experience the sparkle of Nice Ice Diamonds! Uncover the brilliance of ideal cut diamonds, get the inside track from our tutorials, and buy like a seasoned pro. Your journey to brilliance begins here.

niceice.com

I found many articles there to be very educational.
I noticed he also provides a similar service.

What Is a Diamond Concierge Service? Free Expert Advice

Let our Free Diamond Concierge Service search for diamonds or advise, eliminate the guesswork buying diamonds online, and tap into 35+ years of experience.

niceice.com

 

[Karl_K]

@Karl_K I’m sorry but could you please explain a little more what’s the scintillation like for 60/60 diamond comparing to those super ideals?

Its tough to explain and honestly I have not been able to do it justice.
Basically each part of the diamond shows scintillation different.
Some of them are:
pavilion mains aka arrows under the table.
off the lowers aka between the arrows under the table.
area under the crown main facets.
area under the star facets.
area under the upper girdle facets

The ratios of the area of each compared to each other is different between 60/60 diamonds and modern ideal cuts.
For example there is more area under the table with a 60% table than a 55% table.