How to Choose the Perfect Diamond - Our Diamond Buying Guide

Something as precious and expensive as a diamond usually goes hand-in-hand with a very special moment—a birthday, an anniversary, or even an engagement. The task of choosing the perfect rock can be intimidating, especially knowing that it will be one of the most significant investments in your lifetime, second to a car or a house. Don’t get us wrong—finding a beautiful diamond is easy. Finding one perfect for your tastes, budget, and preferences, on the other hand, is much more of a challenge. Since most of us aren’t skilled gemologists ourselves, we are limited in our ability to know whether the stone we’ve got our eye on is truly worth its cost. Diamonds are expensive, so it is only right to make sure you get what you paid for. 

The 4Cs of Diamond

Even non-gemologists can learn how to recognize the value of a diamond with the help of the 4Cs. The 4Cs are a few factors that play a hand in the value of a diamond—colour, cut, carat, and clarity. Every diamond is completely different from another. If you’re currently shopping for a diamond, be sure to inform yourself about the 4Cs as in doing so, you will better understand its value.

Cut

When buying a diamond, the cut is the most critical element to consider. Cut has the biggest influence on a diamond’s beauty and in creating its fire and sparkle. Even a diamond of the highest quality may appear lifeless and dull without a high-grade cut. A diamond cut poorly and too shallow or too deep can look smaller than it actually is. Meticulous workmanship is vital for yielding a diamond with symmetry, polish, and proportions that maximize its magnificence.  

Colour

A diamond’s appearance is greatly influenced by its colour, ranging from D (colourless) to Z (pale yellow). The highest and the rarest stones are colourless, while those of lower quality will appear to be pale yellow or any other noticeable colour.

Clarity

Diamonds can have external characteristics known as blemishes or internal characteristics known as inclusions. Determining a diamond’s clarity involves a close assessment to detect small imperfections internally or on the surface. Diamonds without any blemishes or inclusions are rare and more valuable. These inclusions and blemishes are microscopic and often have little-to-no effect on the beauty of the diamond. 

Carat Weight

Most people think carat refers to a diamond’s size when in reality, it refers to the measurement of a diamond’s physical weight. One carat is equivalent to 0.2 grams. Weights of gemstones and diamonds have been measured in carats since 1913.

How to Purchase the Perfect Diamond

Now that you know how to choose the perfect diamond, it’s time to go shopping. The three steps down below will ensure your diamond-shopping experience is stress-free!

1. Choose an experienced jeweller

Something as expensive as a diamond isn’t a purchase to be taken lightly. Choose a jeweller who has been in the business for quite some time. As with any other type of business, only the successful ones survive. A long-standing career is a good sign that the jeweller of your choice is reputable.

2. Check and verify a stone’s certification

Checking for a stone’s certification is important when investing in something as expensive as a diamond. The Gemmology Institute of America (GIA) is the most respected and reputable diamond grading board in the industry. A certification from them will hold the most value in a diamond. Another well-respected board is the HRD Antwerp or the Diamond High Council, which was created in 1973 as an alternative to the GIA.

3. Work with someone you trust

Buying a diamond, for whatever reason, is an important investment and must not be taken lightly. You have to make sure that you are putting your hard-earned money into something that is worth it. Seek recommendations from a friend or a colleague—good experiences will also guarantee yours. With so many factors involved in buying a diamond, working with someone you trust is key.

If you are looking for authentic and high-grade diamonds, get in touch with Pure Shore Jewellery today! We have a wide array of collections you can choose from.

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