The Hunt for a 15 Carat Oval Diamond: How One Client Discovered the Difference of Working with Mike Nekta

Finding a 15 carat oval diamond that meets exacting standards isn’t just a purchase, it’s a journey.

When Aigul (name changed for privacy), a long-time jewelry collector who divides her time between London and Dubai, began searching for an exceptional oval diamond, she didn’t expect to find her jeweler on eBay.

One evening, while browsing listings, she discovered a GIA certified 11.80 carat oval diamond offered by Mike Nekta New York. The ring wasn’t exactly what she was looking for, but the listing stood out for its detail and transparency.

“I could tell this seller knew what they were doing,” Aigul said. “Every detail was listed clearly — measurements, certification number, and light performance images. It looked nothing like the vague listings I had seen elsewhere.”

Intrigued, she reached out to the Mike Nekta team for a custom sourcing request. That message led to one of the most rewarding diamond searches of her life.


The Challenge

Over the past decade, demand for elongated oval diamonds has exploded. Once you pass the 10 carat mark, availability drops dramatically.

Aigul had already viewed several stones in Europe, but each had issues — visible bow tie shadows, uneven light return, or unwanted fluorescence. None matched her vision of an heirloom-quality diamond.


The Solution

Mike personally tapped into his private global sourcing network, built over decades in Antwerp, Tel Aviv, and New York’s Diamond District.

Within days, he presented three carefully selected GIA certified stones, each with high-resolution imaging and full light analysis for transparency.

“We believe in education first,” Mike explained. “Clients who discover us online often come in expecting uncertainty, but leave with confidence.”

Aigul ultimately chose a 14.21 carat F color SI1 clarity oval, perfectly proportioned and completely eye clean — a rare balance of size, sparkle, and structure.


The Result

The diamond was hand set in a platinum micro pavé basket, crafted in New York by Mike’s master artisans. When Aigul finally saw the finished ring, she knew it was the one she had been imagining all along.

“Mike didn’t just sell me a diamond. He turned my vision into something real,” she said.


Why Clients Trust Mike Nekta

• Experience built over three generations of hands-on diamond work
• Deep understanding of certification, proportion, and light performance
• Industry reputation for sourcing rare large diamonds
• Complete transparency from the first conversation to delivery


Schedule a Private Consultation

If you’re searching for a rare GIA certified diamond or exploring a custom engagement ring, you can book a private appointment with Mike in person, online, or by phone.

Book your consultation here ›

Every client receives one-on-one guidance, complete transparency, and access to the most exclusive diamond inventory in New York City.
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Our Customer Testimonials From Google Reviews

4.8 / 5.0

Nekta New York

I rarely write reviews but working with Mike has been a true pleasure! My fiancé and I flew from Austin to meet with him - and we left with the most exquisite engagement ring! His craftsmanship is impeccable and his true passion for what he does is clearly apparent…not to mention how wonderful his client service is! He sized the ring on the spot and made sure that all the documentation (and the ring) made it safely to Texas. We are now having him create the wedding band of my dreams. If you are looking for exceptional artistry, a lovely experience and a collaborative relationship to design your jewelry - look no further than Mike Nekta!

Elizabeth

Nekta New York

I had a fantastic experience with Mike who helped us choose our diamond. He was informative, passionate, and genuinely wanted us to be happy with our decision. His kindness and positive attitude made the process enjoyable. We don’t live in his area so he went above and beyond by texting us to keep us informed of the whole creation process. Highly recommend him!

Naina A.

Nekta New York

I just got my engagement ring through Mike Nekta and I can’t even begin to say how pleased I am! The entire experience has been wonderful from start to finish. First, the uniqueness and quality of the piece itself is outstanding. The pricing was surprisingly good considering all the factors involved. But most especially, Mike’s personal level of interest in pleasing us as his clients- you rarely find that level of personal service anymore! He cared about making my dream come true. He bent over backwards to make my dream ring possible for me! He clearly deals with elites who spend far more but it didn’t matter to him, he cared just as much about my purchase. I really appreciated that. I definitely plan to shop with Mike again!

Erin

Nekta New York

Mike is the best! I told him exactly the type of Diamond I wanted for my solitaire engagement ring and he helped my fiancé find the best diamond to not only fit his budget but one I would fall in love with! He really listens to what you like and want and really does exceed to help fit those desires in a ring. Definitely will be coming back to him for our wedding bands and all future jewelry purchases!

Zobeina M.

Nekta New York

This is my second big purchase with Mike Nekta and as always service education quality of the purchase has been nothing but fantastic! Surprise my wife with an upgrade for our seven year anniversary, Mike Nekta came through with flying colors! This place will always be my first & last stop! I could’ve easily spent more money but Mike made sure that what I was buying was the right ring not the most expensive and that’s what I love about shopping with him.You can find a jeweler that sells you anything you want to buy but when you find a jeweler that guide you in the right direction and builds trust with the customer then you’re not only have a jeweler you have an emotional connection same as you do a friend. Thanks Mike!!!

Ronald J.