Size. This is always the biggest question when people are looking to buy a ring. Simply put the bigger the diamond, the more you will pay. But why then do stores advertise have different prices, for seemingly the same product? Let us tell you a small secret, when choosing a diamond, it is all in the details. Ask questions, do some research and make sure you are confirming the details of the diamond(s) you are purchasing.
Before the question is answered, we must first take a look at the characteristics of diamonds. When shopping for a diamond, how do you determine what size, cut, quality and colour. Yes, I said colour!
The first decision would be the cut (or shape); the most common are round and cushion cut. However, you can also get oval, emerald, asscher, pear, marquise and heart. Keep in mind that when you are looking at shapes, certain cuts will sparkle more than others. For example, a round diamond typically has more sparkle than a heart shaped.
Now some of these shapes aren’t for everyone, we know, however, if your significant other is looking for something different, browse the different shapes. One of our favorites is the emerald cut, still classic, yet unique enough to get people to take a second or third look.
After you have decided on the shape for your centre diamond, now here comes the question that may seem like a trick question but, how much do you want your diamond to sparkle? Now I know you are thinking of course I want my diamond to sparkle.
In order to assess sparkle, we are looking at the two factors quality and colour. First let us discuss diamond quality; also known as clarity. The diagram below shows difference between the different qualities. A stone with internally flawless quality will give you the brightest sparkle, however to the naked eye (also called eye-clean) you would be best to stick to slightly included (SI) 2 or better. This is why we advise that it is better to go with a smaller carat diamond with a higher quality, over a larger diamond in a lower quality. Now most people’s budget won’t allow for an internally flawless diamond, however, going with a very slightly included (VS1/2) or a slightly included 1 (SI 1) is a more cost-effective way to get a diamond ring.
Now onto the colour of a diamond. The word colour can seem contradictory but, the higher quality of diamond is the more colourless it becomes. Colour in diamonds is classified by letters, below shows the colour classification D-Z. Now similar to what was stated about the quality of a diamond, to the naked eye the difference between a colour D and an I is very minimal. If you are looking for a more value for your money, we suggest going with an G-H colour.
Finely looking at size, or carat (CT) of diamond. Diamonds to the average person seem to be measured by carat however, it is our opinion that choosing a higher clarity and colour diamond is more valuable then going for carat size. Next time you are out in town, take a peek at other rings people are wearing, you may just be surprised at how a smaller ring catches the eye vs a larger diamond.
In wrapping up, I can tell you I am so glad that my husband did research when he bought my engagement ring. While it is not the largest diamond, he choose to pick a higher quality and I can tell you that when it catches the light it sparkles like the sun.
We know at Princess Red Jewelry most people don’t have an unlimited budget. However, we can help you find your right cut, clarity, colour and size of a diamond that sticks within your budget.
Hope this helps clarifies selecting and buying diamonds.
From those of us at Princess Red Jewelry, happy hunting!