Choosing A Diamond From Blue Nile With Strong Blue Fluorescence

Q:

Hi Liz,

I stumbled upon this site one late night and it has been extremely helpful in my search for the perfect ring. While I personally would use a different site other than Blue Nile, my SO really likes one of the Monique Lhuiller setting offered there so my hands are tied. Nonetheless I need a little help choosing a diamond from Blue Nile. I narrowed it down to these two diamonds and I would love to hear your thoughts on them. It shows not available because I placed a hold on them.

http://www.bluenile.com/diamond-details/LD06903941

http://www.bluenile.com/diamond-details/LD06887600

Thank you,

David

A:

Hi David,

I’m happy to help. I am actually not keen on either diamond. The first 1.50ct has a very shallow crown angle, while the 1.56ct has a crown angle that is a bit large and a depth that is a bit too deep. Without pictures, this can translate to a diamond that doesn’t reflect light well.

Your budget is right on the cusp of being able to get a 1.50ct diamond with G+ color. You never want to compromise on cut quality, so the only diamonds with your requirements generally have fluorescence. I’ve broadened the search criteria to include 1.40ct + diamonds with better cut quality and therefore can recommend the following:

1.50ct E VS2 for $11,788.00: http://www.bluenile.com/diamond-details/LD06918518 (strong blue fluorescence, recent GIA report)

1.41ct F VS2 for $12,072.00: http://www.bluenile.com/diamond-details/LD06884804 (no fluorescence, recent GIA report)

1.40ct G VVS2 for $12,714.00: http://www.bluenile.com/diamond-details/LD02440211 (medium blue fluorescence, older GIA report)

All diamonds are graded GIA triple Excellent and have proportions that fall within known ideal proportion sets. These I can confidently recommend. The 1.50ct has scattered tiny crystals, so this VS2 is eye-clean. The 1.50ct has strong blue fluorescence which can sometimes affect overall translucence if the blue fluorescence appears milky/hazy. This is rare, but does happen with the combination of UV rays. Without images, we cannot confirm if this is the case, but you can always call Blue Nile and discuss this diamond with a representative and ask them to inquire on whether the fluorescence affects the brilliance or not.

The 1.41ct has a tiny cloud/crystal inclusion under the table facet, but is also eye-clean.

The 1.40ct has super clean clarity grade of VVS2 but an older GIA report. This generally means that this diamond was a trade-in. In this specific case, this diamond was last graded in Feb of 2012, so about 4 years ago. Not a big deal, just something to take note of. Might be worth it to you for the super clean clarity grade.

Please let me know if you have any questions. The links above include my affiliate links, so when you are ready to purchase please ensure you click the link ahead of time so that ODBA gets credit for your referral. I do appreciate it!

I look forward to hearing from you soon!

Best,

Liz

Q:

Hi Liz,

ASET and Hearts image for 1.50ct E VS2 diamond from Blue Nile.

Thank you for taking the time to respond and for the recommendations. I am definitely leaning toward the 1.50ct you recommended. I’ve asked Blue Nile for the accompanying ASET and H&A images for the 1.50ct. Please let me know what you think.

Thanks,

David

A:

Hi David,

Wow, that 1.50ct looks great! I’m very pleased with it. The ASET light performance is definitely ideal and the optical symmetry is near perfect. Doesn’t look like the fluorescence poses any issue with the transparency on this one.

Best,

Liz

Q:

Hi Liz,

I received the ring and attached some pictures. I am extremely happy with it.

David’s 1.50ct E VS2 set in Monique Lhuiller platinum setting from Blue Nile.

There is no indication of milkiness or haziness that I can see. Florescence is negligible under direct sunlight and none whatsoever indoors. Under UV it radiates.

Personally I think that’s a pretty neat feature. The pictures do not do it justice since I took it with my phone. I seriously cannot thank you enough for your help. Your website gave me the knowledge I needed to navigate the tricky 4Cs road and beyond. It has been a wonderful experience.

Thank you,

David