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There are four factors that determine the value of a diamond, known as the 4Cs. The combination of the 4Cs determines each diamond's value. Master these important facts and you need to prepare in buying a diamonds.
Carat – This word for the measurement of a diamond's weight is derived from the carob seeds that were used to balance scales in ancient times. A carat is equivalent to 200 milligrams and there are 142 carats to an ounce.
Color – Diamonds come in every color of the spectrum, but the most popular gems are white. Truly colorless, icy-white diamonds are extremely rare and therefore the most expensive. Stones are graduated by color and given designations dependent on how far they deviate from the purest white.
Clarity – A diamond's clarity is affected by any external irregularities and internal imperfections created by nature when the diamond was formed. Imperfections such as spots, bubbles or lines are called inclusions.
Cut – Each diamond is cut according to an exact mathematical formula. The most common cut, the round brilliant, has 58 facets, or small, flat, polished planes designed to yield the maximum amount of light to be reflected back to the viewer.
1: Shape
Even before those infamous 4Cs (cut, color, clarity, and carat), you must know what shape your future fiancee loves. Shape indicates the actual geometry of the stone, as opposed to cut, which refers to the angles of the facets in the stone.
2: Settings
A quality setting – the metal framework in which your stone is mounted – can set the tone for a ring. A classic round gets a fresh and modern makeover in a bezel setting. A trendy oval can look more traditional in a four-prong setting. Getting the right combo of shape and setting is key.
3: Her Style
The trend these days is for couples to ring shop together, but if you're more of a traditionalist and looking to surprise her with a ring she'll love, be sure to do some reconnaissance. You can ask her best friend or sibling for help – and swear them to secrecy
4: Buy Loose Diamonds
Unless you're buying an estate ring, chances are, you'll be looking at loose stones as opposed to stones in a setting. The stone accounts for the vast majority of a ring's cost, so would not you want to get the most gorgeous one imaginable.
5: Work Your Budget
Throw out that old two-months salary myth; you should buy the best ring you can without going into major debt. If she's a size queen and your budget is not supersized, go for a ring with a slightly larger table, or surface, area. You will not get as much sparkle, but a one-carat ring will look much larger if the stone is not as deep.
6: Shop Safe
Always start your jeweler search with recommendations from friends and family. No leads? Check for industry organization affiliation. Stores accredited by the Jewelers of America or members of the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) are good starting places.
7: Give Yourself 6 Weeks
Remember that once ordered, a ring can take up to six weeks to arrive, potentially longer if you're having it custom designed. If you want to engrave the inside of the ring, be sure to request the inscription when you place your order.
8: Design Your Own
Diamonds one carat or larger should be accompanied by a diamond-grading report issued by an independent gemological association such as the GIA or the American Gem Society. You might also get a "fingerprint" of your ring on the bill of sale, which would include the stone's 4Cs, shape, dimensions, and any cosmetic enhancements.
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Source by Mayline Saya-Ang
