How to Pick a Diamond Birthstone

While much of the mystique of diamonds has been generated by media spin, their uniqueness cannot be denied. Diamonds are the hardest substance on earth, making them the perfect symbol of a long-lasting marriage, as well as a long-wearing piece of jewelry. If you were born in April, the diamond is your birthstone. Contrary to the sometimes-ostentatious display of diamonds, some say that wearing them preserves a person's innocence.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Reputable dealer
• Natural and synthetic light
• Documentation of authenticity

Select a Diamond by Carat Weight

1. Pick the size of diamond birthstone that suits your purpose. You can select a single large diamond for a simple setting or several smaller diamonds surrounding a larger stone for a display that is more eye-catching.

2. Pick the size of diamond that suits your budget.

3. While much of the value of a diamond results from its cut, carat weight can give you a broad idea of price.

Select a Diamond by Color and Cut

4. Inspect a diamond birthstone for color. Pick a stone that has even, clear white color. Pass on those that have dark streaks or spots that will impair reflective qualities.

5. Select a diamond that "speaks," not one that is "silent." A diamond's reflection and refraction of light should make it appear lively rather than dull and static.

6. View diamonds under varied light conditions for brilliance. A well-cut diamond should sparkle even under low light.

7. Assess the cut of a diamond by its brilliance. One that is cut too thin or too deep will be transparent and will not sparkle with reflected light.

Tips & Warnings

• Diamonds are carbon that has been crystallized by forces within the earth's core and brought to the surface by volcanic eruptions.
• Diamonds come in an array of colors, but the popular clear, white diamonds have the highest refracting qualities.
• A "carat" equals one-fifth of a gram, and the smaller "point" equals one one-hundredth of a carat. These tiny diamonds might become part of a larger jewelry setting.
• Cut diamonds may be indistinguishable from other stones, such as cubic zirconia. Rely on documentation, not the naked eye, to verify authenticity.
• Not all diamonds are gem quality. Buy from a dealer with a solid reputation to avoid getting stuck with diamonds used for drills and needles.
• The demand for expensive diamonds has formed black markets in some politically unstable countries, with dire consequences for ordinary citizens. Avoid these "conflict diamonds" by learning the history of the stones you view.

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