Searching for the ideal diamond can be intimidating and stressful. Diamonds are generally reserved for special occasions such as engagements or weddings not to mention a significant monetary investment. Here are a few tips to help you choose the ideal diamond for your budget and needs.
Shape
Shape is one of the most important factors when choosing a diamond ring. The most popular shape is round cut; this is the most popular choices for brides. Round diamond rings tend to be costlier compared to others because of their gorgeous brilliance, light and fire performance. They also have the most sparkle out of any diamond shape. Princess cut diamonds are perfectly square with 90 degree angles. Marquise diamonds are elongated and were originally designed or King Louis XIV of France. Other popular diamond shapes include oval, pear, heart cut and asscher.
Size
Diamond size is measured via carat which is a measurement of weight. The density and shape of a gemstone has a direct effect on its weight. This means that two diamonds of the same size can vary dramatically in price. Color, Cut and clarity also play a significant role in determining price. Larger diamonds are generally more rare and expensive.
Cut
Cut is a very important factor when choosing a diamond because it has a direct impact on brilliance and sparkle. A diamond with an ideal cut returns light at the top of the gemstone. Inferior cuts allow light to escape from the bottom or side. Jewelers recommend purchasing a diamond with the best cut you can afford since even those with ideal clarity and color can appear dull without a quality cut. The rating scale for cut includes; poor/fair, good, very good, ideal and signature. Approximately 35% of diamonds have a cut rating of poor/fair. Just 1% of diamonds meet the requirements for a signature cut.
Clarity
Diamonds with the least amount of imperfections (also known as inclusions) are deemed to have the highest clarity levels. The majority of these blemishes are microscopic and not visible to the naked eye. Less than 1% of diamonds are flawless with zero inclusions under 10x magnification. These are naturally extremely expensive. Clarity levels are generally disclosed when diamond shopping online. For example, this 0.90 carat eternity ring has a clarity level of VS2, which means that it has very minor inclusions.
Certification
Check that the diamond you’re purchasing is certified by a third party in order to guarantee authenticity.
Diamonds in the U.S are certified by the Gemological Institute of America and the American Gem Society Laboratories. The European Gemological Laboratories certify diamonds in Europe.
The Kimberly Process Scheme is a third party organization established in 2003 in order to prevent “conflict diamonds” from entering the market. The majority of diamonds on the U.S market are conflict free. Another way to ensure that your diamonds are conflict free are to purchase them from Canada. Your jeweler should be able to tell you the actual source of your gemstone.
