Buying The Right Diamond

Understanding the Four C's is the first step in the journey of buying the perfect diamond.  Cut, Clarity, Color & Carat.

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Cut - A diamond should be cut in antwerp where you can find the best craftsmanship on the market.  It is the cut that makes a diamond sparkle.  Diamond shapes that reflect more light (i.e. have more sparkle), such as round or princess, can mask some color in a diamond.

Clarity - A diamond should be far better than just eye-clean but should not necessarily be internally flawless.  Most imperfections are so small they cannot be seen by the unaided eye.  Asscher - and emerald- shaped diamonds are designed with long facets that emphasize transparency over sparkle.  For these diamonds, Blue Nile gemologist recommend purchasing a diamond with a clarity grade of VS1 or better to ensure the imperfections will not be visible.

Color - A diamond should be more than just white not necessarily blue white.  The visible difference between diamonds of one color grade, for example G to H or I to J, is so minor it is difficult to detect with the unaided eye.  The cost savings, however, can be significant.  The type of metal in which a diamond is set can complement its color.  Consider setting diamonds graded I or J in yellow gold.  White gold or platinum best complement diamonds with a color grade of D through H.

Carat - Carat weight alone will not give you an accurate view of a diamond's size, but should be considered in conjunction with the measure in millimeters across the top of a diamond, and the diamond's cut grade.  The prices jump at full-carat and half-carat marks.  To get the best value, look for diamonds just below these sizes, for example purchase a .97-carat diamond instead of a one-carat.  Visually, you will not be able to see a difference in size, but your savings can be significant.

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