Diamond Buying Guide

Your path to finding the perfect gem.

Buying a diamond is a significant and personal experience. It's often a once-in-a-lifetime purchase that reflects timeless beauty and value—just like the diamond itself.

To ensure you make an informed decision, it's essential to understand the 4Cs that determine a diamond’s quality and value. Here’s a quick guide to these four critical factors:

1. Carat (Weight)

  • Diamonds are measured in carats, where 1 carat = 0.2 grams or 100 points.
  • Example: A half-carat diamond is 50 points, and a quarter-carat diamond is 25 points.
  • Larger carat weight = higher value.
  • A 1-carat diamond typically has a diameter of 6.4–6.5 mm and a height of about 3.87 mm.

2. Clarity

  • Most diamonds have natural inclusions or blemishes formed during their creation, categorized as:
    • Internal flaws (inside the diamond)
    • External flaws (on the surface)
    • Combined flaws (both types)
  • Clarity Scale: Flawless (FL) to Included (I)
  • Popular grades: VS1 to SI2 – flaws not visible without magnification
Diamond Clarity Chart

3. Color

  • Diamonds naturally vary in color, from colorless (D, E, F) to light yellow or gray (N–Z).
  • The most valuable diamonds are colorless, referred to as "Top Collection."
  • Common grades G–H offer an excellent balance of quality and value.
Diamond Color Chart

4. Cut

  • A diamond’s cut determines its brilliance and how it reflects light.
  • Key elements of a good cut:
    • Proportions
    • Symmetry
    • Light reflection
  • Cut Scale: Excellent, Very Good, Good, Fair, Poor
  • Even a high-clarity, colorless diamond will look dull if poorly cut.

Pro Tip: Look for diamonds with certifications from trusted organizations such as:

  • GIA – Gemological Institute of America
  • IGI – International Gemological Institute
  • CGL – Central Gem Laboratory

These certifications guarantee your diamond’s quality and authenticity.

Your Forever Sparkle Awaits

Understanding the 4Cs ensures you’ll find a diamond that matches your style, budget, and occasion.

Remember: The true beauty of a diamond lies in its ability to make you or a loved one shine!