If this is the first time you are buying a diamond, you may be wondering where to even start.
If this is the first time you are buying a diamond, you may be wondering where to even start. With so many different diamonds on the market, it can be difficult to determine which one is right for your needs. However, with some basic knowledge of what makes these diamonds unique and how they compare to each other, finding the perfect diamond should be a breeze.
We’ll cover everything from what type of diamond to purchase (round vs princess cut) and how much you should budget for your new stone, all the way down to determining its size, clarity grade and color rating. We’ll also help clarify how cut affects brilliance and value so that no stone goes unappreciated by its owner!
Start with diamond size and clarity.
Before you can start shopping for the perfect diamond, there are a few things to consider. First is diamond size and clarity. Diamonds are measured in carats (ct) and fall into four categories:
- Very Lightweight: less than 0.20 ct
- Lightweight: 0.21-0.39 ct
- Medium/Standard Weight: 0.40-0.59 ct
- Heavyweight/Jumbo: 0.60+ ct
Check the certificate.
The most reputable labs are the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), the American Gem Society (AGS), and the Natural Color Diamond Association (NCDA). The certificates they issue should list a diamond’s size, shape, color, clarity, cut grade, and other information. If your jeweler can’t provide you with a GIA or AGS certificate—or if it has been determined by one of these labs that your diamond is not natural—then walk away.
Diamond color grades have a narrow range.
The reason the color grade scale has such a narrow range is that the diamond industry uses a standard set of letters. The letter D stands for “colorless,” and each letter after that adds some yellow to the diamond, making it appear more yellow in color.
For example, if you’re interested in buying a diamond with an actual hue (such as blue or pink), you’ll need to look at stones graded by other grading systems like the GIA’s Color Grading System or EGL Certified Diamonds’ Master Color Grading System.
There are many different types of diamond cuts on the market.
As you shop for a diamond, you’ll notice that there are many different types of diamond cuts on the market. This means that you can pick your own unique style.
Diamonds are cut to maximize their aesthetic value, which is why it is important to consider how each individual cut will look on your specific ring design. When choosing a diamond shape and size, make sure you think about how they will look with other various aspects of your wedding band—such as the metal type and its finish (brightness).
Selecting from all the different kinds of diamonds can be stressful, but you”ll make a great choice if you follow these tips.
- Selecting from all the different kinds of diamonds can be stressful, but you’ll make a great choice if you follow these tips.
- Look for a diamond with a good cut, color and clarity. The 4Cs are the main characteristics that determine how much your diamond will cost and how much it will sparkle.
- Make sure your diamond is certified by an independent third party organization like AGS or GIA (which are considered some of the most reputable certification agencies in the industry). If your diamond isn’t certified by one of these organizations, it may not have been graded correctly.
- Choose a setting that complements your ring instead of overpowering it—this is especially important if you’re purchasing engagement rings online where there’s no way to try it on first! A setting should complement the color and size of your stone; don’t choose something too large or small just because “it looks nice.” Make sure they match up well before committing any money at all so that once they are purchased together they look as beautiful in person as they do online!