How to Buy Diamond Jewelry

The value of a diamond is determined with a universally recognized score system that measures the diamond’s cut, carats, color and clarity. Jewelers can guide you through the process of examining these four C’s of the diamond. Follow these steps to learn how the process works.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Select a reputable jeweler whether it’s a private jeweler or jewelry store in your local mall. A knowledgeable jeweler is your best resource when shopping for diamonds.

2. Determine the type of cut you would like for your diamond. Cut refers to the shape of the stone. Options include round, princess, emerald, asscher, oval, marquise, pear, radiant, cushion and heart-shaped.

3. Choose how many carats you want. The larger the carat, the larger the diamond.

4. Examine the diamond’s color. Diamond color is graded with letter designations D through Z, with D having no color and Z having a yellow color visible to the naked eye.

5. Determine the level of clarity. Use the jeweler’s loupe or microscope to examine the diamond’s clarity, looking for imperfections in the stone. There are two types of imperfections in diamonds: inclusions and blemishes. Inclusions are inside of the diamond and can be flaws, cracks or specks of color. Blemishes are flaws on the surface of the diamond. Clarity is also graded using a chart from flawless, meaning perfect, to included, meaning obvious flaws to the naked eye.

6. Have the jeweler give you a written price appraisal on the diamond that you purchase for your records.

Tips & Warnings

• The price of diamonds will be higher if you would like more carats, better color and little or no imperfections in clarity.
• The price of diamonds will be less if you are willing to accept fewer carats, some yellow in the color and some imperfections.
• Consider the location of a diamond’s flaw in relation to its cut. Some flaws are more noticeable than others. An experienced jeweler can offer advice about where flaws will be more noticeable.