Searching For The Best Blue Nile Diamond

Q:

Liz,

I’m looking for a reasonably high quality diamond for a plain solitaire setting for $10,000. The best Blue Nile diamond I found was this: http://www.bluenile.com/diamond-details/LD07315035.

I know you have given them only 3 stars in your Blue Nile review, but they seem to have a great selection. I visited a brick & mortar jeweler but what he had was too limited and I found the in person experience stressful. What’s your opinion of this diamond given my budget?

Thank you!

Mike

A:

Hi Mike,

Blue Nile is a fantastic diamond and jewelry website and my biggest complaint has always been their lack of diamond and gemstone images/videos. However, my opinion will soon change as they are launching some exciting new technology in the weeks to come. Stay tuned…

With regard to that particular dimaond, unfortunately I do not recommend it. The proportions are not ideal and the diamond will not reflect light as well as it should.

Instead, you’ll need to compromise a little and go a little smaller in carat weight in order to ensure that the diamond you choose will sparkle and reflect optimum amounts of white light. Therefore, I recommend this 1.30ct H VS1 for $9,779.00: http://www.bluenile.com/diamond-details/LD07023109

This diamond has ideal cut proportions, is a Blue Nile ‘Signature’ and has a GCAL report that shows the actual diamond image and light reflection. I much prefer this diamond for you.

Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns.

Kind Regards,

Liz

Q:

Liz –

Thank you so much. I find this process very intimidating and a bit stressful.

I am a bit worried about the carat weight particularly because of the solitaire setting. If I was able to stretch my budget $2k-$3k , could I maintain the attributes you identified and get to the 1.40+ range?

I find your website very helpful.

Thanks!

Mike

A:

Hi Mike,

Absolutely no problem. Buying a diamond is very much a stressful experience, but luckily you found ODBA so you’re in good hands!

Ok, I did another search and opened it up to non-Signature diamonds. As long as we go for VS1/VS2 or better we’ll be in the clear of the stone being eye-clean.

I found the following:

1.40ct H VS1 for $9,709.00: http://www.bluenile.com/diamond-details/LD07299634

or if you wanted to go bigger, here’s a 1.52ct H VS2 for $12,943.00: http://www.bluenile.com/diamond-details/LD02119775

Let me know if you have any questions!

Best,

Liz

Q:

Thanks for these suggestions Liz –

One last question – you got me focused on the Signature Ideal cut and the GCAL report. How about this stone: http://www.bluenile.com/diamond-details/LD07275642? It seems highly rated/quality at the 1.40 cw.

Thanks!

Mike

A:

Hi Mike,

Yes, the 1.41ct H VVS2: http://www.bluenile.com/diamond-details/LD07275642 looks like a great diamond!

1.41ct Blue Nile Signature Round Diamond

I wasn’t sure if you wanted to spend that much on a 1.40ct, which is why I didn’t offer that as an option.

But, if you prefer this option that is perfectly fine. Let me know if I can help out any further!

Best,

Liz

Q:

Liz – I wanted to let you know that I received the ring today and it’s terrific. I ordered it through your link so wanted to make sure you get credit for the advice and guidance. Thanks for your help!

Best,

Mike