Diamonds Knowledge Center >>
One of the most important issues to address when purchasing any expensive item is to know a little about what you are buying. When it comes to diamonds, the 4 C's; cut, color, clarity and carat weight represent the basic four characteristics of a diamond and therefore will determine its true value.
Beyond the 4 C's there are some small details that are worth paying attention to in order to save money, rather than find yourself out of pocket.
1. Tips for the 4 C's
It is highly recommended to choose the 4 C's in a balanced way in order to get the overall best diamond. Looking at the charts can be misleading with all of the parameter and therefore some care should be taken.
Carat Weight:
Remember: Carat weight is weight and not size.
A well cut diamond will mean that for example a 1.00 carat round diamond will have a diameter of approximately 6.4mm. A slightly deep cut diamond of the same carat weight can make the diameter smaller. "Under-sizes" are slightly less popular diamonds that are very close to very popular (and much more expensive carat weights). For example, you can save considerably choosing a 0.90 carat diamond over a 1.00 carat diamond, despite them looking exactly the same without measuring. In some cases, the diameter would be exactly the same. Over-sizes will have the reverse effect – you will be paying more in total for a diamond that is just a fraction heavier, but is not visibly larger.
Clarity:
When looking at the chart, one may think that a VS1 diamond is an average grade and therefore looks fairly average, when in fact it is approximately in the top 10% of all diamonds. VVS and Flawless diamonds are extremely rare and expensive, however to the naked eye will look exactly the same as a nice VS2-SI1 diamond. This range is recommended for the reason that it is a beautiful diamond at the lowest price.
Color:
D-F
- When you want the top quality.
- When your ring has high quality small diamonds.
- Usually best for white gold or platinum.
G-H
- When you want a white diamond.
- When you want the best value for money.
I-J
- Very well cut diamonds will have a completely white face, so recommended for jewelry where the face is shown more than the side.
- Best in yellow gold, also suitable in white gold or platinum solitaires.
- Recommended without high quality diamond accents.
- Recommended when on a budget and want a beautiful solitaire at the best price.
Cut:
The cut of the diamond will determine how much light is reflected and also the size of the spread of the stone. It is recommended to choose diamonds with GOOD cut grade and above.
2. Independent Certification
In order to guarantee accurate grading of the 4 C's it is recommended to ask for independent certification from an internationally recognized gemological laboratory. Diamonds purchased on shireeodiz.com come with GIA, AGS, HRD, EGL, IGI or IGL (usually for clarity enhanced diamonds) certification. These gemological labs are of the most reputable in the world and when comparing prices, similar certification should be compared only.
3. Buy Direct
If you are looking to purchase diamond jewelry online, you will probably already know that you are likely to save up to 50% when comparing to high street retail prices. However, by purchasing directly from the manufacturer of the diamonds (diamond cutter) and the jewelry (all in-house), you can expect to save considerably more. When buying directly from the designer, expect the price to be lower still. The reason for this is that when everything is produced in-house, there are no mark-ups between each stage of production and when marketed on-line directly to the end customer, there are also no mark-ups along the marketing and distribution chains.
4. Budget & Compare
In order to get the most out of your budget, you need to have one. Set a price range for your purchase and based on your preferences for the 4 C's, find and compare items in the same price range. Do not compare stones with difference certification, as the price difference may be due to the certification, rather than the 4 C's (although inter-related of course).
5. Clarity Enhanced Diamonds
Clarity enhanced diamonds are an excellent way to purchase a real diamond at a budget cost. If you choose this option, always ensure you are covered with a lifetime guarantee on the clarity enhancement and that the high grade enhancement is used so that your diamond does not fade or discolor.
6. Choosing a Setting
When choosing your setting, bear in mind that it can have an effect on how the diamond looks.
- It is recommended to set a lower color grade diamond in yellow gold.
- Make your diamond look larger by having it set in a bezel setting
- Choose a setting with small diamonds to make your diamond look larger, especially with diamonds surrounding the main solitaire.
- High quality jewelry will weigh up to 3 times as much as low quality jewelry. Rings less than 3 grams are not recommended as they can wear away over the years, they may lose their shape and diamonds can fall out.
7. Details to Watch
Fluorescence: Diamonds with Medium or Strong fluorescence are heavily discounted and therefore can be purchased relatively cheaply when compared to similar stones. Conflict Free Diamonds: Make sure your diamonds are not funding conflict in Africa or worldwide terrorism, by ensuring that the company you buy from is a member of the UN Kimberly Process and that the diamonds are certified conflict free.
