Choosing a diamond is as important as learning how to buy a diamond. The most important rule is to choose one that appeals to you personally. The second rule is to make sure it is accompanied by a grading report.

While choosing a diamond you should consider its shape, cut and clarity. Remember it is not an exact science. For most people, the most important consideration when choosing a diamond is price. Although choosing a diamond is up to the buyer’s taste, an expert’s opinion definitely counts. The hardest part is not what you think – it’s the someone special you are buying it for. Find out what they like and, if unsure, get the person to come with you and get them to choose. Within, of course, the price range you can afford. A quiet word before hand on this to the salesperson is very wise.

Colourless diamonds don’t usually alter a diamond’s clarity. Clarity is an important factor that can be “stretched the farthest” when choosing a diamond. When looking at clarity, many diamonds have what are known as inclusions. Your objective is to find a diamond of the highest clarity possible. The 4Cs – Cut, Carat, Colour and Clarity play a very important role in choosing a diamond and determining its value. The fewer the inclusions the diamond has, the greater the clarity and the more valuable the diamond. Alternatively, a stone may be cut well, but have poor colour and clarity. Two diamonds can be of equal carat-weight, but if the cut, colour and clarity are different they can be less then a single cut diamond with better quality. The number, size and location of these inclusions determine the stone’s clarity. A cut that is poor will make the diamond look very dull even if the colour is of high level. If the clarity of a diamond is not good you will see carbon or inclusions in your diamond jewellery. A diamond with outstanding colour and clarity will not sparkle as it should if the stone is not cut to interact properly with light.

Many experts name colour as the number one consideration in choosing a diamond. The simple round cut diamond is better at hiding flaws or yellow colour. The best colour for a diamond is no colour at all. The most valuable diamonds will have very little colour. The method in which diamonds get there colour is when the diamond is compressed with a lot of pressure which creates a red, pink or purple hue. Diamonds with outstanding clarity and colour will not twinkle if the cut is not done to properly interact with light. But its variety and depth of colour still make it a unique piece of jewellery anywhere.

Shape refers to the overall outline of the diamond when viewed from the top. The most commonly purchased type of diamond is the round diamond. Once the diamond’s shape has been determined, facets are cut.

A diamond ring is a sign of commitment to the person you intend on spending the rest of your life with, so choosing a diamond is a momentous occasion.