Buying a Diamond

Diamonds. You know their beauty is undeniable. You know she'll flip over them. Now, how do you choose the right one? Like people, no two diamonds are alike. They come in all shapes and sizes... even different colors. With so much variety, how do you narrow it down?

You may have heard of the 4Cs. They are the characteristics that determine a diamond's beauty and quality. The Cut, Color, Clarity and Carat Weight vary from diamond to diamond, making each one unique, just like the special love you share. Knowing your 4Cs will give you the advantage in choosing the right diamond.

Diamond Cut
Of the 4Cs, a diamond's cut has the greatest influence on its fire, sparkle and brilliance. Cut refers to a diamond's proportions (how the diamond's angles and facets relate to one another), symmetry (the precision of its cut) and polish (the condition of your diamond's surface). It also includes a diamond's shape. Although choosing a diamond shape is truly a personal preference, the round brilliant cut is by far the most popular, while princess-cut diamonds offer a more contemporary look.

Diamond Color
When it comes to diamonds, the most beautiful color is no color at all. A diamond’s body color is determined by the Gemological Institute of America’s color scale, ranging from colorless (the most brilliant) to yellow. Like the other 4Cs, the color you prefer is up to you. Some people insist on colorless diamonds for their breathtaking purity and radiance, while others prefer slightly yellow diamonds for a warmer look.

Diamond Clarity
Clarity measures the flawlessness of a diamond. Similar to people, diamonds have natural birthmarks that vary in size, shape, position, quantity and color. Internal birthmarks are called inclusions, while those found on the external surface of a diamond are known as blemishes. Inclusions and blemishes are very common and add to the character of each diamond. Though rare, flawless diamonds are the most prized.

Diamond Carat Weight
A carat is a unit of measure for diamond weight. Although diamonds come in all sizes, one carat diamonds are found in nature less often than smaller diamonds and are therefore much more expensive. For this reason, a one carat diamond costs far more than two half-carat diamonds of the same cut, color and clarity. When choosing the right carat weight, you must take several factors into account. Remember that any diamond will look bigger when worn on a small hand. And, the type of setting can affect a diamond’s appearance.