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Size and Quality When
Purchasing Gems
For those new to purchasing precious gems
the though of buying a diamond could be overwhelming.
The best advice we can give is to familiarize yourself with the four
Cs before heading out on your shopping expedition.
When shopping remember that your personal taste is just as important
as all the qualities of the stone. For some people size will be the
most important factor, while others will prefer a smaller stone with
dazzling white color. You need to know what four characteristics go
about determining the value of a diamond so that you are prepared to
make informed choices.
Different jewelers will give you different opinions about what is
the most important factor to look for in a stone. Some jewelers will
tell you that cut is most important, as a good quality cut can make
up from low color and clarity.
Other jewelers will say that cut is the least important thing to
consider, and that color is most important as it determines the
brilliance of the stone. With all these competing opinions your best
bet is to purchase the best stone you can afford in all four
categories.
Use the following tips to ensure that you get the best diamond for
your budget:
- When purchasing a diamond be sure that
you get a Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or American Gem
Society (AGS) Certificate. This is your assurance that what
you’re getting is really what you paid for.
- Look at a diamond on a white cloth or
piece of paper if you are purchasing it retail. Most jewelers
will display their stones against a black cloth to make them
appear whiter.
- The price of a diamond can be influenced
by almost half by the cut. When a diamond has been well cut it
will display unparalleled brilliance.
- Almost all diamonds have flaws, referred
to as inclusions. The more inclusions a diamond has the less
light it will emit, and the less brilliant it will appear. The
fewer the inclusions the more expensive the stone will be.
The more you know about the four
characteristics that go into determining a diamonds value the
more you will be able to get the best stone for the best value.
Diamonds are meant to last forever, so be sure to purchase the
best quality stone that meets your individual desires.
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