7 Steps To Picking Diamond Jewelry
Diamonds, diamonds everywhere. Diamond rings, diamond earrings,
diamond pendants, diamond bracelets. There is modern diamond jewelry
and there is heirloom diamond jewelry. The one thing you can be
certain of is that your diamond jewelry will last a life time,
and the life time of another, and who knows perhaps many more
lifetimes.
When you look at a diamond you instantly know whether you are
drawn to it. There is a diamond out there somewhere for every
person's lifestyle and tastes. The biggest problem is although
your eyes tell you it is beautiful, how do you know that you are
buying a quality diamond that will truly last a lifetime and how
can you tell if you are getting your moneys worth. A little knowledge
will go a long way so follow these 7 steps to be sure you pick
the right diamond.
1. The 4 C's - Clarity and Color
The clarity and color are usually graded. However, the scales
used to grade a diamond are not standardized in the industry
so the grading can vary. Make sure you have the jeweler show
the break down of the grading system they use.
2. The 4 C's - Carats
Diamond weight is stated in carats which can be described in
decimal or fractional parts. If diamond weight is stated as
fractional parts of a carat, the retailer should disclose two
things: that the weight is not exact, and the reasonable range
of weight for each fraction or the weight tolerance being used.
3. The 4 C's - Cut
A well cut diamond is referred to as ideal, excellent, or very
good. In a well cut diamond the light enters at the top and
forms a U shape and then exits back out at the top. With a deep
cut the light enters from the top and forms an L shape as it
exits out the side. With a shallow cut diamond the light enters
from the top and curves slightly back out at the bottom of the
diamond. Too deep of cut or too shallow both interfere with
the correct light reflection.
4. Treatments
Just as gem stones are treated, so can diamonds be treated.
These treatments improve the clarity of the diamond, fill fractures,
and conceal cracks. These treatments may not be permanent and
you should be cautious. A reputable jeweler will disclose if
a diamond has had any of these treatments. There is nothing
wrong with buying one of these diamonds but just don't pay too
much
5. Laser Treatments
Yes even a diamond can have a laser treatment. The laser beam
is used to improve the diamonds appearance by removing black
spots. The laser is aims at the inclusion then acid is forced
through a tiny tunnel to remove the inclusion. Laser treatment
is permanent but your jeweler should still disclose if a diamond
has had this treatment because it does affect value.
6. Imitation Diamonds
There are many names for imitation diamonds the most common
being cubic zirconias or cz diamonds. They very closely resemble
the look of a diamond but they are much less expensive. Cubic
zirconias are created in a lab just as other gem stones. Without
the proper testing equipment it is impossible to tell the difference
between a cubic zirconia and a real diamond. Make sure the diamond
you are looking at is certified.
7. Do your homework
If it sounds too good to be true, it most likely is too good
to be true. Do your homework. Know the company you are planning
to buy your diamond from, check with the BBB, find out about
their reputation. Use the internet to find information and referrals.
Find out about the jeweler's return policy. Be a smart shopper.
Your diamond is supposed to last a lifetime and
many more lifetimes. You are going to spend a large amount of
money for that perfect stone, so before you part with your money
be prepared by being an educated shopper. The 7 tips outlined
above will have you buying that diamond with confidence.
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