The following is a reply from the anonymous member
I have started to look further to the four Cs. I find this calculator quite interesting... it maybe useful for other members as well.
Holloway Cut Advisor | HCA Tool | PriceScope
@Presto: The prices I wrote here are from local retailers. Spence and Lucinda. I also went to Tiffany's to see what the hype is about... It's just too expensive. $15k to start for a crappy 1ct with a bland design.
@Hamsup: I have looked at Bluenile, they seem to have much affordable prices and great selection. With my research, it appears that Bluenile is more like a broker than a retailer. It appers that Bluenile does not own the diamonds, do not handle the diamonds, they just take orders, send the orders to a third party factory, and then ship to the customer.
I have also looked at comparable sites. So far, James Allen seems to be the best option because they have actual gemologist to inspect the diamond before purchase. James Allen can also ship to a Fedex location in the states for pick up.
@mx703: I am looking for 1.0ct+ with two side stones. I understand 0.80-0.90 prices are much lower (e.g. 10-20%?), but I'd much rather have a 1.0ct minimum for center. For Bluenile, did you use their return service?
@freakshow: I know the design she likes. She mentioned it about 2-3 years ago. And I don't think that has changed since. How is Minichello? I am hesitant to shop in a mall... or chain stores because they don't seem to have good selection nor good prices.
mk1freak: Yup. I am also planning to check out local jewellers. Harlings is the next store I am going to check out.
extracrunhie: haha, not going to smuggle anything. Especially a diamond ring. Some also advised me to shop south of the border. Where would you guys recommend? I assume Ben Bridge in the mall is not really a good option...
westopher: I went to Spence as well. I should clarify that the prices I mentioned earlier for $13,500 including tax was from Spence - ideal/SI1/H/1.0ct with two side stones and 18k white gold. Also from Spence for $15,000 - ideal/VS2/H/1.0ct, same as above.
I also went to Lucinda on West Georgia, $13,500 including tax - ??? cut/SI1/H/1.0ct with no side stones, small diamonds throughout the band, Tacori.
hakkaboy: I have a coworker who has a three stone round cut. It looks amazing.. but I didn't want to ask her about her specs.