Diamonds have a way of capturing hearts and marking life's most precious moments. Perhaps it's how they sparkle, catching the light and symbolizing a love that shines just as brightly. Maybe it's their enduring brilliance, a timeless reminder of whispered promises and lasting commitments.
If you have ever dreamt of owning a dazzling diamond but felt overwhelmed by the selection process, you're not alone! With terms like "cut," "clarity," and "carat" thrown around, venturing into the world of diamonds can feel like deciphering a secret code.
Fear not! This comprehensive guide, brought to you by Sig Ward Jewelry, will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to find the perfect diamond, be it for a life-changing proposal, a celebratory gift, or a timeless personal indulgence.
How to Buy Diamonds: The 4Cs
Cut
The cut of a diamond refers to how well it has been shaped and faceted. A well-cut diamond reflects light beautifully, creating that coveted sparkle. The cut is often considered the most important of the 4 Cs because it has the greatest impact on a diamond's brilliance.
- Excellent/Ideal Cut: Maximizes the diamond's brilliance and sparkle.
- Very Good Cut: Reflects most of the light that enters the diamond.
- Good Cut: Reflects a good amount of light but not as much as Very Good or Excellent cuts.
- Fair Cut: A budget-friendly option, though it lacks brilliance.
- Poor Cut: Reflects very little light, resulting in a dull appearance.
Color
Although diamonds can have a variety of colors, colorless diamonds are the most prized. On a scale ranging from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow or brown), the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) assigns color grading to diamonds.
- D–F:Colorless; extremely expensive and rare.
- G-J:Almost colorless; great value as the color difference is often undetectable to the untrained eye.
- K-M:Easily noticeable color; frequently utilized in retro or antique environments.
- N–Z:Visible color; generally less preferred, but can be unique in certain settings.
Clarity
Clarity measures the presence of internal inclusions and external blemishes. Diamonds are graded from Included (blemishes and/or inclusions visible to the naked eye) to Flawless (no blemishes inclusions or evident under 10x magnification).
- FL/IF: Flawless/Internally Flawless; extremely rare and expensive.
- VVS1/VVS2: Very, Very Slightly Included; minute inclusions that are difficult to detect even under 10x magnification.
- VS1/VS2: Minor inclusions that are somewhat easy to detect under 10x magnification.
- SI1/SI2: Noticeable inclusions under 10x magnification but often invisible to the naked eye.
- I1/I2/I3: Inclusions visible to the naked eye, often affecting brilliance and transparency.
Carat Weight
Carat weight refers to the size of the diamond. One carat is equivalent to 200 milligrams. While larger diamonds are more expensive, carat weight should be considered alongside the other Cs to ensure the best value.
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Fun Fact: Carat weight generally dictates a diamond's size, but it's not the sole indicator of value. A well-cut 1-carat diamond will outshine a poorly-cut 2-carat diamond in terms of brilliance. |
Additional C: Certification
Diamond certification provides proof of a diamond’s quality and authenticity. Reputable certifications include:
- GIA (Gemological Institute of America):Known for its strict grading standards.
- AGS (American Gem Society):Provides detailed cut grades.
- IGI (International Gemological Institute):Widely recognized and respected.
- EGL (European Gemological Laboratory):Common in Europe, but standards may vary.
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Diamond Shapes: Top Favorites
Round Brilliant
The round brilliant cut is the most popular and traditional diamond shape, accounting for the majority of diamond sales. Known for its exceptional brilliance and fire, the round brilliant cut maximizes light reflection, making it sparkle the most compared to other shapes. This versatile shape suits all styles and settings, making it a perfect choice for engagement rings and classic jewelry pieces.
Princess
The princess cut is a modern, square-shaped diamond with pointed corners. It combines a contemporary look with excellent brilliance. The sharp, clean lines of the princess cut give it a sophisticated and stylish appearance. It’s particularly popular among those who appreciate a blend of tradition and modernity, making it ideal for engagement rings and modern designs.
Emerald
The emerald cut boasts a rectangular shape with step cuts along the pavilion, creating an effect the mimics a hall full of mirrors. This cut highlights the diamond’s depth and clarity, giving it a vintage and sophisticated appeal. The emerald cut is best for those who prefer a less fiery, more understated sparkle and is often chosen for its timeless and elegant look.
Asscher
The Asscher cut is square-shaped with step cuts but features larger facets. This shape offers a unique combination of vintage appeal and modern elegance, often producing a mesmerizing, geometric sparkle. The Asscher cut is a perfect choice for those who appreciate art deco styles and a sophisticated, retro look.
Oval
The oval cut combines the brilliance of the round cut with an elongated shape, creating a stunning and elegant appearance. Its elongated form also makes it appear larger than a round diamond of the same carat weight. The oval cut is suitable for those who seek a balance between classic and contemporary styles, offering both brilliance and uniqueness.
Pear
The pear cut, also known as the teardrop shape, combines the round and marquise cuts, with a rounded end on one side and a pointed tip on the other. This shape is unique and elegant, often chosen for its ability to make fingers appear slimmer. The pear cut is perfect for those who want a distinctive and graceful diamond.
Heart
The heart cut is the ultimate symbol of love and romance, featuring a heart shape with a cleft at the top. This shape is unique and requires skillful cutting to ensure symmetry and brilliance. The heart cut is ideal for special occasions like anniversaries and engagements, offering a romantic and personalized touch.
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Choosing the Perfect Setting
Selecting the right setting for your diamond is as crucial as choosing the diamond itself. The setting not only enhances the diamond's beauty but also reflects the wearer's personal style and ensures the stone is securely held in place.
Prong Setting
The prong setting is one of the most popular and classic choices for diamond rings. It features small metal claws that grip the diamond tightly, lifting it above the band.
Best For: Engagement rings and solitaires, where the focus is on the diamond.
Bezel Setting
The bezel setting encircles the diamond with a thin metal rim, providing excellent protection.
Best For: Engagement rings, earrings, and necklaces where durability is a priority.
Halo Setting
The halo setting features a central diamond surrounded by a circle of smaller diamonds, creating a halo effect.
Best For: Engagement rings and statement pieces where extra sparkle is desired.
Pavé Setting
In the pavé setting, the band of the ring is encrusted with small diamonds, held in place by tiny metal beads.
Best For: Engagement rings, wedding bands, and other rings where a sparkling band is desired.
Channel Setting
The channel setting features diamonds set closely together in a groove or channel within the band.
Best For: Wedding bands, anniversary bands, and rings with a contemporary design.
Bar Setting
The bar setting holds the diamonds between vertical metal bars, leaving the sides of the diamonds exposed.
Best For: Rings and bracelets where a contemporary and bold design is desired.
Cluster Setting
The cluster setting features multiple smaller diamonds grouped to create the appearance of a larger diamond.
Best For: Engagement rings, earrings, and pendants where a bold and sparkling look is desired.
Celebrate Your Moments, Big And Small, With Sig Ward Jewelry
Let Sig Ward Jewelry help you find the perfect diamond that speaks to your heart. From classic jewelry to statement cocktail pieces, we offer a stunning selection that perfectly complements any occasion and style, including cascade diamond earrings and a yellow gold and diamond horseshoe necklace.
Our knowledgeable team is here to answer your questions and guide you towards the perfect diamond that reflects your style and budget. Order online or visit leading stockists near you to find luxury jewelry bracelets online and high-end designer jewelry that makes life’s special moments unforgettable.