Buying the perfect diamond can be a little tricky, especially if you are a novice. There are many factors to consider, many things to check before you get your credit card swiped at the jewelers’. To start with, the whole process of choosing the right diamond can be overwhelming, with so many similar-looking diamonds to choose from.

In this post, we’ll see how you should go about choosing the ideal diamond for your diamond engagement ring, diamond wedding ring, or any other diamond jewelry.

We’ll help you choose, but first, let’s ask yourself these questions-

• Where are you going to use the diamond?
• Which type of diamond are you looking for?
• Do you have any specific design requirements for the diamond?
• How much can you stretch your budget?

Let’s answer these questions one-by-one

1. Where Are You Going To Use The Diamond?

Are you looking to buy a diamond for your ladylove’s engagement ring? Or do you need a set of diamonds for your wedding band? Whatever be the reason, you need to ask your jeweler the options you have for getting a customized diamond ring made. Usually, a heavier diamond is used in an engagement ring while smaller diamonds are used to line the rim of the wedding ring. If you are getting a diamond-encrusted necklace or a pair of earrings made, you will need diamonds in various shapes and weights. It is best to understand and note down what your jeweler says so that there aren’t any chances of making mistakes later.

2. Which Type Of Diamonds Are You Looking For?

Has your jeweler given you specific instructions for the shape of the diamond you need to buy? Besides the round, colorless diamonds we are used to seeing, some jewelry designs also have fancy shapes (cuts) like princess cut, Asscher cut, marquise cut, emerald cut, etc. If you want to take the path less taken, these diamond shapes are sure to stand out. 

You need to choose your diamonds based on their 4C features-

Cut

The cut (shape) of the diamond isn’t everything, the proportions of the diamond are what matter the most. For a diamond to sparkle, its cut should be symmetrical, to say the least. The quality of the diamond’s cut is measured by a GIA scale where each diamond is rated from excellent, very good, good, fair, or poor.

Color

Diamonds also receive a grading for their color. This ranges from colorless, near colorless, faint, very light to light (D to Z). This grading does not include fancy color diamonds which have a separate color scale.

Clarity

As diamonds are formed deep within the earth, certain natural inclusions or blemishes can form within the diamond. Many times, these aren’t visible to the naked eye. Most diamonds will contain at least some inclusions, it is okay to choose a diamond with a few inclusions. The diamond’s clarity is measured from Flawless (FL) to I1, I2, and I3 at the other end of the spectrum.

Carat Weight

The diamond’s weight is measured in carats, where 1 carat= 200 mg. Diamonds above 1 carat are weighed to their hundred’s place, a 1.58 carat is said to be one-carat and fifty-eight points.

Each diamond is unique, if one diamond ranks higher on inclusions while being slightly yellow, another might have more inclusions while being heavier in carat weight. This gives you a lot of flexibility to choose the right diamond as they are priced partly on their 4C features as well as the current market trends. Take your time when you are given a host of options to choose from- choose one that fits your jeweler’s requirements best.

3. Do You Have Any Specific Design Requirements For The Diamond?

Many jewelry pieces have one main diamond and a few smaller diamonds on their flanks. Based on the design you chose, you will need to choose from a set of diamonds. You could negotiate for a better price if you are buying more than one diamond. 

Some designer jewelry pieces may require diamonds within predetermined grades and weight. It is best to take all details from your jeweler for this.

4. How Much Can You Stretch Your Budget?

It is always advisable to set yourself a budget before you set out to purchase a diamond. Ask your jeweler how much the diamond would cost and budget accordingly. As your diamond would cost based on its features and the market conditions, you have a lot of room to negotiate. You can get a great deal if you do a little bit of a background check and take your time to choose the right diamond. Before closing the sale, check with your jeweler if the diamond you chose is the right fit for the design.